How to Repair or Retire Your Vehicle with CAP
If your vehicle has failed a smog check or is nearing the end of its operational life, the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) offered by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) can provide financial support to help you repair or retire your vehicle. Here’s how the program works and how you can take advantage of its benefits.
What is the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP)?
CAP is designed to reduce air pollution by providing financial incentives to eligible California vehicle owners. The program has two main components:
Repair Assistance: For vehicles that fail a smog test, CAP offers up to $1,200 to help cover repair costs to bring the vehicle into compliance.
Vehicle Retirement: For vehicles that meet certain criteria, CAP offers $1,500 for low-income participants or $1,000 for other eligible owners to retire the vehicle permanently.
Who is Eligible for CAP?
To qualify for CAP, you must meet specific criteria:
Repair Assistance:
Your vehicle must have failed a recent biennial smog check inspection.
You must meet the income eligibility requirements, which are based on household size and income limits.
The vehicle must be registered and operational in California.
Vehicle Retirement:
The vehicle must be operational and registered in California for the past two years without a lapse exceeding 120 days.
The vehicle must not have a salvage title.
How to Apply for CAP
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Visit the BAR website at www.bar.ca.gov/cap to review the eligibility requirements for repair assistance or vehicle retirement.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the CAP application online or download a printable version from the BAR website. Ensure all required documents are included, such as:
Proof of income (for low-income participants).
Vehicle registration and insurance information.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit your application through the BAR website or mail it to the address provided on the form. You will receive a notification once your application is processed and approved.
Next Steps After Approval
For Repair Assistance:
Visit a participating STAR-certified smog check station.
Inform the station of your CAP approval.
The station will conduct the necessary repairs, with up to $1,200 covered by the program.
For Vehicle Retirement:
Schedule an appointment with a BAR-contracted dismantler.
Bring your approval letter and vehicle title to the appointment.
The dismantler will verify your vehicle’s eligibility, take possession of it, and provide payment.
Benefits of the CAP Program
Environmental Impact: Reducing high-emission vehicles improves California’s air quality.
Financial Relief: Assistance with costly repairs or financial compensation for retiring a vehicle.
Simplified Process: Clear guidelines and support from BAR-approved facilities and dismantlers.
Important Notes
Participation in CAP is voluntary.
Funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ensure your vehicle remains operational until the program process is completed.
For more information or to apply, visit the Consumer Assistance Program website or contact the BAR directly. Taking advantage of CAP can save you money while contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.
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