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Summary of the Automotive Repair and Smog Check (ARSC) Newsletter - BAR Spring 2023 Updates

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Explore BAR's Spring 2023 updates, including Smog Check changes, new safety programs, industry regulations, and consumer protection initiatives.

BAR Spring 2023 Updates

The Spring 2023 edition of the Automotive Repair and Smog Check News, published by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), provides several important updates and initiatives:


Sunset Review Process

BAR commenced its 2023 sunset review by submitting the 2022 Sunset Review Report to legislative committees on January 3, 2023. This comprehensive report outlines BAR's operations, including its licensees, programs, and regulatory functions. On March 14, 2023, BAR leadership testified in a joint Sunset Review Oversight Hearing, discussing the report and addressing issues identified by the committees. Public comments supported BAR's continued oversight of the automotive repair industry. Legislation to extend BAR's sunset date is anticipated later this year.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


2023-2027 Strategic Plan

Released on January 3, 2023, BAR's 2023-2027 Strategic Plan establishes the organization's mission, vision, values, and key goals for the next five years. The plan was developed based on feedback from staff and stakeholders and is available digitally on BAR's website.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) New Logo

Effective January 3, 2023, the DCA introduced a new blue and gold logo featuring a shield, the outline of California, and a star, symbolizing its consumer protection mandate. The transition to the new logo will occur throughout 2023, with existing items bearing the previous logo remaining valid.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


Mandatory Use of Biometric Palm Scanners

Beginning May 1, 2023, Smog Check inspectors are required to use biometric palm scanners for the BAR On-Board Diagnostics Inspection System (BAR-OIS). This measure aims to prevent inspection fraud and ensure a fair marketplace, contributing to California's clean air objectives. As of March 30, over 97% of licensed inspectors have completed biometric enrollment, and more than 6,100 biometric palm scanner kits have been distributed to stations.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


New Diesel Smog Check Requirements

Starting in July 2023, BAR will implement updated Smog Check requirements for model year 2007 and newer light-duty diesel vehicles. The On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) readiness monitor standards will be revised to further reduce diesel emissions. The new standards will allow only the Diesel Particulate Filter and the Non-Methane Hydrocarbon Catalyst readiness monitors to be unset during inspections.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


CARB's Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) began the first phase of the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) program in January 2023. This program targets heavy-duty diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 pounds, requiring periodic emissions testing to ensure proper functioning of emission control systems. Full implementation, including biannual compliance testing, is expected by 2024.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


AB 471 Implementation Update

BAR is progressing with the implementation of Assembly Bill 471, which includes:

  • Citation and Remedial Training Program: Expanding BAR's citation program to address violations by automotive repair dealers (ARDs). The program includes an informal citation review process and a remedial training option to prevent public disclosure of eligible citations. Implementation is projected for July 1, 2023.

    Bureau of Automotive Repair


  • Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection Program: Developing a new program to consolidate current brake and lamp inspection programs and add other safety systems. Implementation is expected no sooner than January 1, 2024.

    Bureau of Automotive Repair


BAR Expands Disciplinary Measures for Unlicensed Activity

To enhance consumer protection, BAR has expanded disciplinary options for unlicensed automotive repair and Smog Check activities. Measures include issuing citations with orders of abatement, imposing monetary fines up to $5,000, and pursuing civil injunctions through the Office of the Attorney General. These efforts aim to ensure timely and effective enforcement against unlicensed operations.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


New Webpage on Accepted Trade Standards

BAR has launched a new webpage providing quick-reference information on accepted trade standards to assist automotive repair dealers in complying with California regulations. The webpage covers various services and repairs, including air conditioning, auto body and frame repairs, and ignition interlock devices. Licensees are encouraged to bookmark this resource for up-to-date information.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


Legislation and Regulations Update

Several legislative proposals affecting the automotive repair industry have been introduced, including measures to address catalytic converter thefts. BAR recommends stakeholders stay informed through trade associations or the California Legislature's official website. Additionally, BAR has filed for approval of regulations related to Citation and Remedial Training Programs and Automotive Repair Dealer Registration Application Requirements, with adoption expected on July 1, 2023.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


BAR Career Opportunities

BAR is actively recruiting automotive professionals for positions such as Program Representatives. These roles involve mediating consumer complaints, investigating violations, and conducting inspections. Interested individuals can find current job openings and application information on BAR's Career Opportunities webpage.

Bureau of Automotive Repair


BAR Spring 2023 Updates - This newsletter underscores BAR's commitment to consumer protection, industry compliance, and environmental stewardship through strategic initiatives and regulatory updates.



 

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