What should an inspector check for in the exhaust system?

An inspector should check for leaks, damage, and all required components in the exhaust system because these factors directly influence the vehicle's emissions performance and overall safety.

Leaks in the exhaust system can result in unfiltered exhaust gases escaping before they pass through the catalytic converter, significantly increasing harmful emissions. Damage to the system could lead to similar issues, as well as potentially dangerous exhaust fumes entering the vehicle cabin. Furthermore, ensuring that all required components are present—such as the catalytic converter and muffler—is essential for optimal operation and regulatory compliance.

While aspects like the sound quality, frequency of emissions, and color of the exhaust can provide some insights into the exhaust system's condition, the priority during a smog check is to identify any physical issues and confirm that the system is complete and functioning as intended to mitigate environmental impact.