The Air District continues to take steps to ensure air quality and public health are protected while the Bay Area adjusts to the latest phases of the COVID pandemic. Permits for businesses adjusting operations to aid in the public health response will continue to be expedited. Read more... | en Español
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Frequently Asked Questions - Vehicle Buy Back Program
The Air District currently operates a completely voluntary Vehicle Buy Back program that pays $1,200 for an operating and registered 1997 or older vehicle that has passed smog check. Vehicle dismantlers contracted by the Air District will qualify and scrap the vehicles.
The purpose of the Vehicle Buy Back program is to reduce air pollution by taking older, more highly polluting vehicles off the road. If a vehicle can’t be driven because it isn’t registered or doesn’t pass smog check, it isn’t on the road emitting air pollution.
The dismantlers who coordinate the program on behalf of the Air District will answer all general questions, verify your vehicle’s eligibility, and schedule eligible vehicles to be brought to one of their sites.
If you have additional questions or a complaint about the dismantlers, you may contact the Air District Vehicle Buy Back Program staff at 415-749-8775.
If your vehicle does not meet the Vehicle Buy Back program requirements, you can contact the California Bureau of Automotive Repair Consumer Assistance Program at1-866-272-9642.
The Consumer Assistance Program provides financial assistance for people who would like to retire their vehicle or repair their vehicle when it fails the smog check inspection.
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Last Updated: 7/15/2015