Santa Rosa's Top Smog Inspection Station

Tristar Automotive is a licensed California Smog Check Station serving Santa Rosa and Sonoma County.

Why Choose Tristar Automotive for Smog Checks?

As a certified California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) station, we perform accurate emissions testing to help you meet state requirements. With over 30 years serving Santa Rosa and the North Bay, our ASE-certified technicians provide reliable inspections that protect both your vehicle and the environment.

Smog Inspections

We conduct thorough emissions testing on gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles. Our inspections follow California guidelines to ensure compliance and registration renewal. Drivers in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County trusts Tristar Automotive for accurate results with minimal wait times.

Emission System Diagnostics

If your vehicle fails its smog test, our team can perform diagnostics to identify issues with the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or exhaust system. We provide transparent repair recommendations to help you pass retesting and stay road legal in California.

Repair & Retest Services

Our technicians not only perform emissions testing but also carry out the necessary repairs to ensure your vehicle passes. With deep knowledge of state requirements, we make the process seamless for drivers across Santa Rosa and the North Bay.

We can perform Test-Only smog checks.
We are a full-service automotive repair shop in Santa Rosa.
Trustworthy. We are AAA approved.
Integrity. Substantiated by our BBB status.
Knowledge. Our technicians are ASE Certified.
Established. Providing smog checks in Sonoma County since 1991.

While we don’t claim to be the cheapest smog check station in Santa Rosa – only the best! We all know the old adage, “You get what you pay for.” And, it definitely applies to smog inspection stations in Sonoma County! Don’t be fooled by claims like “cheapest,” “fastest,” or “all we do is smog tests.” These smog check stations may very likely have to refer you out to another automotive repair shop in the event your vehicle requires some form of repair in order to meet smog check standards. What does this mean? It means you have wasted time and time is money! Not the case at Tristar Automotive!

       
 
 
 4.9 
   Top Rated Service 2026 
 verified by Trustindex 
 Trustindex verifies that the company has a review score above 4.5, based on reviews collected on Google over the past 12 months, qualifying it to receive the Top Rated Certificate.

More Auto Repair Services

Some of the car and truck repair services we offer at Tristar Automotive:

Be sure to read more about how our Factory Scheduled Maintenance services can save you money. And, be sure to view our complete line-up of Automotive Repair and Services available at Tristar Automotive in Santa Rosa, CA!

Why Drivers Trust Us as a Certified Smog Check Station

Licensed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair, recognized by the Better Business Bureau, and trusted in Sonoma County for over three decades, we’re a reliable choice for emissions compliance.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 274 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Harold Duncan 
 29 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very efficient and professional work…Staff is very kind and friendly as well…l had a Smog check…
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Fitzgerald 
 22 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service and communication, thank you Team TriStar! Reliable and always stand behind their work and dedication, delivered with kindness and customer satisfaction!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   julie berman 
 19 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Left the dealership where I purchased my car and became a new customer of TriStar.  They could not have been nicer, and their fees were very reasonable.  Color me very pleased with my overall experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   H P Mechanical 
 14 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have used tri star for many years, for service for our service fleet. We have found them to be honest, fair, efficient and they always keep you in the loop of your repair.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Jones 
 29 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There good and fast!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Stephen Riedel 
 28 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have had a couple recent repairs here including the catalytic converter and brake booster on my ‘98 Tacoma. I’ve been impressed by how responsive, timely, knowledgeable and professional the shop owners are! Thank you for all the high quality work you guys have done! It is much appreciated even though the issues have been unanticipated. It’s been a pricey last six months for me with all the vehicle repairs, but I’m trying to keep it running well for at least another 100K miles. 👍🏻 I hope I don’t have to come in anytime soon… :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   MaryLou Herrera 
 26 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I received good service. I felt comfortable and confident with the service I received.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Diane Castro 
 15 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My first experience was great! Ken was professional and fast. I needed a new catalytic converter in my 2014 Kia so it could pass the smog test - Ken was communicative and friendly. I love that they have a company Uber account so I could be taken home after I dropped my car off.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chip Smith 
 11 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ken & Zac got me in quickly, diagnosed my issues, and got me back on the road tootsweet - pardon my french. (They even laughed at my corny jokes!  Thanks, guys...😇) My problem turned out to be much less serious than I thought, and they were in contact with me the through the entire process. AND they got me a rideshare to and from! If you want a shop with friendly, reliable folks, you won't go wrong with  TriStar!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   William Keim 
 9 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. TriStar Automotive began with an oil change.  Most recently I received more service to my car.  It needed the attention and TriStar Automotive provided exceptional service.  I would highly recommend TriStar to anyone looking for quality, honesty, and integrity.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Theresa M. 
 6 July 2026
 
 
 Verified I needed to have my Exotic car's DMV exhaust certification renewed. The car is an 1988. I have quite a bit of angst when every two years the certification has to be renewed. I took the car to TRISTAR. They were WONDERFUL!! They felt my concern. The car passed with flying colors, twice at this time! The people who own/work at Tristar are master mechanics! They were kind enough to give me a referral for an excellent Exotic car repair shop. Since moving to Sonoma County eight years ago I have been in convulsions on where to take my car for engine repairs. Tristar's recommendation was another star on their rating. They should receive  10 stars!!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kathleen Austin 
 3 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service !!! As always, For years and years to come... Thank you 😊
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mollie Bruno 
 2 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fast and friendly service.  Very happy and have smog cert for DMV :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Richard Deacon 
 23 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Staff and mechanics were all great and first class Nothing was a problem and so helpful Would highly recommended Tristan at anyone Thanks again for your help⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Andrew 15 
 22 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was searching for mobile mechanics to help me inspect a vehicle that I was purchasing out of state. The quotes were high, and the reviews were mixed, And I really wanted to get the vehicle up on a lift. The shop was right down from the dealership, and the dealership offered to drive it for the inspection. Boy did everything work out great. Tristar was very easy to work with. They were fair priced, and even stuck with a miss quote That was advantageous to me. The vehicle got dropped off late, and they were still able to accommodate once the inspection was done, we got on the phone and talked about the vehicle. Everything went as we had hoped. I wish this shop was in state for me. Highly recommend them
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   greg 
 21 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. tristar did troubleshooting of my hard shifting transmission and faulty temp gauge. they fixed both problems. charges were fair and communication was great with ken, the service manager. definitely recommend this shop for their professionalism and knowledge. this is the shop my local mechanic recommends when he runs into a problem that he can't fix!

Certified Smog Check in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County

Tristar Automotive delivers accurate smog inspections and repairs backed by BAR licensing and ASE-certified expertise.

For a Certified Smog Check in Santa Rosa Today
Call (707) 571-8866

Increase the longevity of your vehicle with routine maintenance

Smog Checks – What to Expect

During a smog check at our Santa Rosa STAR Certified center, a certified technician will attach diagnostic equipment to your vehicle to measure emissions output. This data is transmitted to the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). The results of the smog check are referred to as Vehicle Inspection Report or VIR. If your vehicle passes the smog test, the BAR will transmit the Certificate directly to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

A smog check at Tristar Automotive, means you won’t have to worry about being referred out for repairs – we are a Certified Smog Check station. This means we have worked diligently to maintain an impeccable record with the State of California and have met rigid requirements, which allows us to perform any necessary repairs to your vehicle in our full-service automotive repair shop.

When you arrive at Tristar Automotive in Santa Rosa for your smog inspection, you won’t be treated like a widget in a production line. Instead, you will be greeted by friendly professionals that genuinely care about your automotive needs. An ASE Certified technician will assess your smog check requirements, perform your smog check and have you out the door in a timely manner!

If your vehicle is not capable of meeting smog test standards, the technician will be able to determine which component(s) are in need of repair or replacement. If you meet certain income eligibility requirements, you may choose to utilize the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) and receive up to $500 toward the cost of emission-related repairs. For additional details, please see our Smog Inspection FAQ page.

Smog checks are not required under certain circumstances (e.g. depending upon the age of your vehicle, type and physical location, etc.). Is your vehicle smog exempt? Refer to the Vehicle Exemptions pdf chart at the BAR website.

Our Customer Reviews

These are just a few reviews from our valued car service & repair customers throughout Sonoma County.

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   shannon stegner 
 11 September 2026
 
 
  I had to tow my vehicle into Tristar at 4pm the Friday before a holiday weekend. I was stranded in the side of the road and didn’t know who to call so, after a brief google search, I called Tristar. They let me know I’d could have my car towed over and it could stay over the long weekend but that they’d get back to me with an update as quickly as possible upon return from the holiday. As promised they did get back to me and let me know that the situation with my car was something that was actually covered by the maker of my vehicle via a class action lawsuit / extended warranty fix (my car is 1.5 yrs out of manufacture warranty). They told me to go ahead and make an appt with a local dealership and let me know exactly what to ask for re: this extended warranty. Additionally, they didn’t charge me for the diagnostic time it took them to identify the situation. I’m incredibly appreciative of their responsiveness and honesty in a moment that was very unexpected and stressful. They absolutely have my business from here out!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Harold Duncan 
 29 August 2026
 
 
  Very efficient and professional work…Staff is very kind and friendly as well…l had a Smog check…
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Fitzgerald 
 22 August 2026
 
 
  Great service and communication, thank you Team TriStar! Reliable and always stand behind their work and dedication, delivered with kindness and customer satisfaction!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   julie berman 
 19 August 2026
 
 
  Left the dealership where I purchased my car and became a new customer of TriStar.  They could not have been nicer, and their fees were very reasonable.  Color me very pleased with my overall experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   H P Mechanical 
 14 August 2026
 
 
  We have used tri star for many years, for service for our service fleet. We have found them to be honest, fair, efficient and they always keep you in the loop of your repair.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Jones 
 29 July 2026
 
 
  There good and fast!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Stephen Riedel 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  I have had a couple recent repairs here including the catalytic converter and brake booster on my ‘98 Tacoma. I’ve been impressed by how responsive, timely, knowledgeable and professional the shop owners are! Thank you for all the high quality work you guys have done! It is much appreciated even though the issues have been unanticipated. It’s been a pricey last six months for me with all the vehicle repairs, but I’m trying to keep it running well for at least another 100K miles. 👍🏻 I hope I don’t have to come in anytime soon… :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   MaryLou Herrera 
 26 July 2026
 
 
  I received good service. I felt comfortable and confident with the service I received.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Diane Castro 
 15 July 2026
 
 
  My first experience was great! Ken was professional and fast. I needed a new catalytic converter in my 2014 Kia so it could pass the smog test - Ken was communicative and friendly. I love that they have a company Uber account so I could be taken home after I dropped my car off.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chip Smith 
 11 July 2026
 
 
  Ken & Zac got me in quickly, diagnosed my issues, and got me back on the road tootsweet - pardon my french. (They even laughed at my corny jokes!  Thanks, guys...😇) My problem turned out to be much less serious than I thought, and they were in contact with me the through the entire process. AND they got me a rideshare to and from! If you want a shop with friendly, reliable folks, you won't go wrong with  TriStar!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   William Keim 
 9 July 2026
 
 
  TriStar Automotive began with an oil change.  Most recently I received more service to my car.  It needed the attention and TriStar Automotive provided exceptional service.  I would highly recommend TriStar to anyone looking for quality, honesty, and integrity.
  
 
     Posted on Yelp  
   
   Theresa M. 
 6 July 2026
 
 
  I needed to have my Exotic car's DMV exhaust certification renewed. The car is an 1988. I have quite a bit of angst when every two years the certification has to be renewed. I took the car to TRISTAR. They were WONDERFUL!! They felt my concern. The car passed with flying colors, twice at this time! The people who own/work at Tristar are master mechanics! They were kind enough to give me a referral for an excellent Exotic car repair shop. Since moving to Sonoma County eight years ago I have been in convulsions on where to take my car for engine repairs. Tristar's recommendation was another star on their rating. They should receive  10 stars!!!

707-571-8866

Santa Rosa's Top Smog Inspection Station

Why Choose Tristar Automotive for Smog Checks?

Smog Inspections

Emission System Diagnostics

Repair & Retest Services

More Auto Repair Services

Why Drivers Trust Us as a Certified Smog Check Station

Certified Smog Check in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County

Increase the longevity of your vehicle with routine maintenance

Smog Checks – What to Expect

Request services

Call us now

Contact us

Our Customer Reviews

Santa Rosa's Top Smog Inspection Station

Why Choose Tristar Automotive for Smog Checks?

Smog Inspections

Emission System Diagnostics

Repair & Retest Services

More Auto Repair Services

Why Drivers Trust Us as a Certified Smog Check Station

Certified Smog Check in Santa Rosa & Sonoma County

Increase the longevity of your vehicle with routine maintenance

Smog Checks – What to Expect

Request services

Call us now

Contact us

Our Customer Reviews

Schedule Service with Tristar Automotive