The vehicle must be operable and able to be driven to a BAR-contracted dismantler under its own power.
The vehicle must have failed its most recent biennial Smog Check inspection. california state car buy back program
You cannot have retired another vehicle as a sole owner (or more than two as a joint owner) within the last 12 months. How to Apply The vehicle must be operable and able to
The amount you receive depends primarily on your household income: How to Apply The amount you receive depends
It must have all major parts in place, including the hood, doors, dashboard, and at least one functional headlight and taillight. For the Owner:
California offers financial incentives to residents who voluntarily retire high-polluting vehicles through the , managed by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) . As of 2026, eligible participants can receive up to $2,000 for retiring a vehicle that fails a smog check. Incentive Amounts