Join the community and post your question. Use our Ask-A-Tech for free now! ASE experts standing by.

Forum > Out of State Vehicle > Question

1999 Subaru Legacy Outback Relocating to California

Hello. I have a '99 Subaru Legacy Outback and I will be making the trek from Michigan to the San Francisco Bay area in a couple months for relocation. Since MI doesn't have stringent emissions standards I want to make sure I'm ready to go when I arrive in CA. I have to replace the catalytic convertor as it is, since the flanges holding it in place have rusted away. I'm wondering if there is anything I need to alert my mechanic to (parts, sensors etc.) when they do the repairs so that I'm sure to pass the smog and any other emissions tests. I'd rather repairs be done by the mechanic I know and trust, and quite frankly pay a lower sales tax! Thanks for any help.

Answer:

It's true, there is a difference with California legal and Federal legal emission requirements. And, for the most part California is stricter. However, a USED vehicle (such as your 1999 Subaru Legacy) which has all the Federal required emission components, can pass the California smog inspection process and be legally registered in this state. Now if you want to make sure your Subaru Legacy's emissions will pass California emission cutscores, we recommend obtaining an emissions test in your State before moving to California and checking those scores with California's Emission Limits. The emissions which will be tested are HC, CO, and NO. The website you want to access in order to find out your Subaru Legacy Outback's current California emission cut scores is below: California Emission Cut Scores posted by SmogTips Support

Related questions and answers you might find useful:

How Do I Get a Smog Check Waiver? by Margaret

Do I Need a Smog Check This Year? by Joy

Mini Cooper DMV Registration Due in 5 Day Won't Pass Smog by anne

2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with K&N Air Filter by David

1995 BMW M3 Gross Polluter High HC & NO @ 15MPH by Jared

View SmogTips.com in: Desktop / Mobile