EXFAN
Active Member
- Joined
- May 31, 2021
- Messages
- 59
- Reaction score
- 20
- City, State
- San Diego, CA
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2021 LTD 4WD
2009, XLT
Agree with the previous 4 posts that have brought this diagnosis back to center.
The mechanic is a "parts changer" and not a technician. Find another one. Low compression won't cause a lean code, but with the high mileage and cylinder specific misfire, I would have done a spot check for compression on that cylinder and one other to just to see if its lower. It could be a little low in compression and lean.
Smog techs are supposed look close at aftermarket parts. If its a CAT, they can use a mirror to check the CARB tag for compliance, however, they are NOT supposed to jack up the vehicle. Explorers have ground clearance so he/she can get on their back to check. Also, I have seen where the correct aftermarket CAT has the CARB tag ON TOP of the CAT or in a place not visible. If the smog tech follows protocol, you fail the visual and get sent to the CA BAR "referee" for another inspection. BTW, NOTHING is "grandfathered" in after 10 years. I'm in CA too and have never heard this. I would call the CA BAR to be sure (of course block your number and remain anonymous). 1976 and newer vehicles have to be equipped as original unless a part is replaced with a CARB approved part listed in a book and online for smog techs to refer to. Just to note: pre-76 vehicles are smog TESTING exempt but it is illegal to remove any emission control component regardless of the year. This means (technically) your hypothetical 73 Mustang with a crate engine and all smog parts gone is illegal and could be cited.
The mechanic is a "parts changer" and not a technician. Find another one. Low compression won't cause a lean code, but with the high mileage and cylinder specific misfire, I would have done a spot check for compression on that cylinder and one other to just to see if its lower. It could be a little low in compression and lean.
Smog techs are supposed look close at aftermarket parts. If its a CAT, they can use a mirror to check the CARB tag for compliance, however, they are NOT supposed to jack up the vehicle. Explorers have ground clearance so he/she can get on their back to check. Also, I have seen where the correct aftermarket CAT has the CARB tag ON TOP of the CAT or in a place not visible. If the smog tech follows protocol, you fail the visual and get sent to the CA BAR "referee" for another inspection. BTW, NOTHING is "grandfathered" in after 10 years. I'm in CA too and have never heard this. I would call the CA BAR to be sure (of course block your number and remain anonymous). 1976 and newer vehicles have to be equipped as original unless a part is replaced with a CARB approved part listed in a book and online for smog techs to refer to. Just to note: pre-76 vehicles are smog TESTING exempt but it is illegal to remove any emission control component regardless of the year. This means (technically) your hypothetical 73 Mustang with a crate engine and all smog parts gone is illegal and could be cited.