What should a technician do if the VIN on the DMV registration document does not match the VIN on the vehicle?

In a situation where the VIN on the DMV registration document does not match the VIN on the vehicle, the best course of action is to not proceed with the smog check and to discuss the discrepancy with the customer. This is crucial for several reasons.

First, the VIN is a unique identifier for the vehicle, and it is essential that the VIN on the registration matches the VIN on the vehicle to ensure that the correct vehicle is being assessed for its emissions compliance. A mismatch could indicate issues such as stolen vehicles, registration errors, or modifications that have not been properly documented. By addressing the discrepancy with the customer, the technician helps ensure transparency and provides an opportunity for the customer to clarify the situation, which could involve looking into the vehicle's history or registration status.

Proceeding with the smog check despite the mismatch could lead to incorrect records being maintained, potential legal consequences, and an overall lack of accountability for the inspection process. It's essential for technicians to establish the correct identity of the vehicle before conducting any tests.