Like the title said I failes my smog and registration is due on sunday. The guys didnt complete the test because they said the car was running hot. but I got a print out of the emission and at Idle the HC (hydrocarbons?) was way off the chart.
I just replace the radiator with an all metal one, top and bottom hoses. The water pump was replaced in March. Last week on a really hot day I got a "service engine" light I immediatly checked the codes and I got knock sensor. The car is also idling lower than normal.
I took it to my friend and from the smog print out he said it might be my catalytic converter. Any help would be greatly appreciated thank you
Terrence

 

When the catalytic converter starts to go out it makes a rattling noise. Right before I had mine replaced my car sounded like dryer. That will definitely affect emissions.

-Anthony Helton

 

High HC means that the air fuel ratio is not correct, too much air in the mixture and the engine will produce a lean misfire, too much fuel and the engine will foul the plugs and O2 sensor.

First do a complete tune up: cap, rotor, plugs, wires air filter, oil filter and oil change.

Next, you might want to change the Knock Sensor since it came up on the code scan and also, change the O2 sensor since it could've been damaged.

Last, go ahead and pay the registration fee even though you haven't passed the smog test so you won't have to pay a penalty. You can always get the car to pass later and DMV will send you the new sticker then.