BAR Consumer Assistance Program Vehicle Retirement
by California Bureau of Automotive Repair
Cash to retire an eligible vehicle at a BAR-contracted dismantler after you receive a letter of eligibility.
Potential cash benefit
$1,350–$2,000
One-time
What you can get
$1,350 to $2,000 to retire an eligible vehicle
Up to $2,000 in potential benefit
Published range: $1,350 to $2,000
BAR pays $1,350 without an income test if the vehicle failed its most recent Smog Check, or $1,500 / $2,000 for income-eligible households depending on pass/fail status. Income-qualified awards use 225% of the federal poverty level; BAR publishes a calculator rather than a dollar table on the retirement page. Do not retire the vehicle before the letter of eligibility. Funds depend on each fiscal year.
Overview
Cash to retire an eligible vehicle at a BAR-contracted dismantler after you receive a letter of eligibility.
Who may qualify
- You must be the registered owner.
- The award is paid only if you retire the vehicle after approval.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
How to apply
Use the official application or program page. Confirm current instructions with the administrator before you apply.
Preapproval required
Important things to know
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Related programs
Cannot be combined with
Bay Area Clean Cars for AllDo not treat BAR retirement and a Clean Cars 4 All scrap-and-replace award as additive for the same surrendered vehicle.
Cannot be combined with
San Diego Clean Cars 4 AllDo not treat BAR retirement and a Clean Cars 4 All scrap-and-replace award as additive for the same surrendered vehicle.
Cannot be combined with
Driving Clean Assistance ProgramDo not treat BAR retirement and DCAP scrap-and-replace as additive for the same surrendered vehicle.
Not sure what you qualify for?
Check your eligibility. We’ll compare your answers with published program rules.
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.