What must a technician do if they are unable to find service manuals for a vehicle being inspected?

In the context of a smog check inspection, if a technician is unable to locate service manuals for the vehicle they are inspecting, the appropriate course of action is to notify the customer that repairs cannot be performed if the vehicle fails the inspection. This is critical because it ensures transparency and maintains clear communication with the customer regarding the inspection process and what to expect.

Understanding service manuals is essential for accurate inspections, as they provide necessary specifications and guidance on how to evaluate a vehicle's emissions systems correctly. If these manuals are not available, the technician may not have all the required information to perform the inspection to regulated standards, which can lead to improper assessments or missed issues.

By informing the customer about the inability to proceed due to missing manuals, the technician displays professionalism and adheres to ethical practices, ensuring the customer is aware of the limitations faced during the inspection. This response protects both the technician from potential liability issues and the customer by ensuring they are not misled about the inspection results or the vehicle’s condition.