Smog question

If the car is older than 1975, or was smogged within the 90 days prior to the sale, no smog is required. Otherwise a smog is required in order for the car registration to be transferred by the DMV. I suppose your son could try to sell the car "as-is" but the buyer would not be able to register the car in CA. I don't know if the buyer could later seek recourse for the smog failure.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vr/smogfaq

Maybe sell to an out of state buyer or donate the car? I don't know what Nevada's rules are.

Good luck.

 

I sold a few cars that is not able to pass smog in CA. I make sure in writing that the buyer is aware of the conditions of the vehicle and that I'm selling the car AS-IS, for parts only.

 

I think that pre-1975 cars are only exempt from the biannual smog check. They still have to be smogged if sold to a California buyer. Correct me if things have changed.

 

^^
I've purchased several pre-1975 cars recently and neither the seller nor I had to submit to smog. Its been awhile since I've sold a pre-1975 car, but my recollection is that I didn't have to smog it. The DMV wording at the link I posted seems to indicate pre-1975 cars are exempt from all smog. YMMV.

 

That is great news from a state government that hates cars.

 

'a slight, but noteworthy, correction: "1975 and older" (pre-1976) gasoline powered vehicles don't require smog inspections. Every little bit helps!

 

I've done this as well. Was taken to court by one rather bone-headed buyer, the judge saw the papers I had the buyer sign, tossed the case out... but still a hassle.

This is to say the law isn't clear on how to sell an inoperable car. Better safe than sorry, be very clear in writing about the sale, keep signed copies of everything, and don't let the buyer drive the car... make sure it doesn't start, and make him tow it away. At least, that's what I'm doing next time I sell an inop car.