2002 Chevy Prizm

Greetings. My vehicle's registration was up for renewal and besides paying the annual fee, this year required a smog check (I am a CA resident). The vehicle did not pass the smog check, and further is classified as a "gross polluter." The vehicle has not had a muffler replacement, but I always have the required preventive maintenance done when the time comes.

One important question I have is that it was not necessary to drive the car for seven months; I only started the engine (usually once a month), but the car leave the parking structure from August until the smog check. Could driving the vehicle regularly affected the outcome of the smog check and its current status as a gross polluter?

Thanks!
-Vince