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

Forum > General Smog Check > Question

1983 VW Diesel Smog Test in California

I'm considering purchasing a well maintained 1983 VW Rabbit Diesel. By all accounts the car is in excellent shape, mechanically and cosmetically. The car is currently titled out-of-state. According to edmonds.com, diesel vehicles older than 1997 are exempt from emissions inspection. Is that correct? Other than the typical surcharge to 'import' a vehicle into CA, will there be any problem title/register for this vehicle?

Answer:

You are correct. As of this time California is not requiring smog inspections on diesel cars 1997 and older, so you should not need a smog check when attempting to register this diesel 1983 VW Rabbit. We recommend contacting the Bureau of Automotive Repairs at (800) 952-5210 prior to purchasing this diesel VW in order to ensure regulations have not changed. We are currently undergoing major smog inspection law changes in California. The BAR reserves the right to implement into the smog check program any vehicle it deems necessary for air pollution reduction. Typically notice is given in advance however the public may not learn of new policies until they experience the change themselves. 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