During a visual inspection, what should a technician do if they find a vehicle with a missing OEM part?

When a technician discovers that a vehicle is missing an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part during a visual inspection, it is crucial to document the finding and check for compliance. This approach ensures that the vehicle is evaluated appropriately according to emissions regulations and safety standards.

Documenting the missing part is essential because it provides a record of the vehicle's condition. This documentation can be valuable for both the technician and the vehicle owner, particularly if compliance issues arise or if future inspections are necessary. Checking for compliance involves assessing whether the absence of the OEM part affects the vehicle’s emissions performance or violates any regulations set forth by environmental agencies.

Proper protocol mandates that all findings during a smog check should be documented and addressed according to regulatory requirements. This not only helps in maintaining safe and environmentally friendly vehicles on the road but also safeguards the technician from liability for overlooking significant issues.