Hi,

Has anyone registered an out of state car that had a swapped motor? Did you have any hassles with the DMV Vin check?

Although the car I'm looking at has all the smog equipment on it, minus the air pump - I'm worried that the vin verification will be an issue since the car has a swapped motor.

Any input or advice?

Thanks

 

Only the VIN is verified, so engine/trans/diff swaps don't matter. But you will need a smog inspection (unless exempt as too old,for example),so engine swaps have to meet California's laws.

 

they usually just look at the VIN on your dash. However, they will look for the engine smog/CA/whatever tag on the engine that says its legal in CA.

When I first brought my Subaru into CA from OR, they inspected that sticker...it was under the hood. then you'll still have to get smogged.

 

its either the vin on the dash or door, so you should be ok, but not having that air pump could cause you fail

 

The best way to get a VTN verification is from your local police officer. At a DMV or CHP office,the official is hip to the tricks and will often want to look under the hood for any issues.

Your car doesn't need to have a CA emissions sticker unless it is "new" (under 7500 miles).

 

i believe that is wrong.

 

Hey, so I don't intend to do the BAR referee yet - I just want to get the car titled and registered within the state.

The car currently has an Accessport V2 to eliminate the codes. If I'm not mistaken, I can disconnect the AP and run with the map with stock dp without issues.

Once I have the smog in hand, I was thinking of having AAA check it out instead of the DMV, since they can perform the check without as many headaches (i hope).

Once I have them check out the car, I can get registered and insured... right?

I guess another issue is:
- Would it pass emissions with a cobb catted tbe (passed before on 04 WRX with Vishnu SS TBE)?

 

Yeah, If it is below 7,500 mi, YOU need that CA Emissions Cert, otherwise you need to wait until you have more than 7500mi.

 

Go to dmv.ca.gov to get the answers that you need.

 

Well walt I went to the website and got my answer... if you read the thread im not asking about the process. i am asking about experiences that others have had to see if I should go through the trouble of buying this particular car.

thanks

 

AAA would be a mellow place for a VIN verification,but AAA's NorCal offices don't do it. SoCal offices,yes.

 

Thanks! I decided to pass on the car - it just became a logistical nightmare, but I'll keep that in mind for next time.

 

Adam at LIC does alot of legal swaps and know EVERYTHING about getting them registered, shoot him a call!