Question: California Smog & Registration on a Euro? | FerrariChat
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Question: California Smog & Registration on a Euro?

Discussion in '456/550/575' started by riozilla, Nov 12, 2006.

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  1. riozilla

    riozilla Formula Junior

    Jan 25, 2006
    596
    Austin, TX
    #1 riozilla, Nov 12, 2006
    I have used search extensively and not found a definitive answer, so I have a question for the board.

    I'm looking at a 2000 550 Euro that was federalized by Amerispec.

    I am trying to investigate whether I will have any difficulties registering or passing smog inspection in California.

    I'm told (by the dealer) that if I can do the emissions test WITHOUT the OBDII and by having the smog tester insert the sensor in the exhaust pipes, it will pass fine.

    Does anybody have any experience on this matter? I cannot find information at the DMV site about whether this is how smog checks can be conducted..

    Anybody here have a Euro that has passed smog and registered OK in California? I've even written to Dick @ Amerispec to inquire for his thoughts on this.

    If I can find another car that is US spec where I don't have to deal with these hassles, believe me - I will take it - but this one is the right price, miles and condition (subject to PPI of course!).

    Thanks in advance,

    Rio
     
  2. GCalo

    GCalo F1 Veteran

    Sep 15, 2004
    7,645
    Northern California
    Full Name:
    Greg Calo
    #2 GCalo, Nov 12, 2006
    Contact Skidkid.

    He went through the process and beautifully detailed Calif requirements in the 360 section.

    It's all there and well documented.
     
  3. riozilla

    riozilla Formula Junior

    Jan 25, 2006
    596
    Austin, TX
    #3 riozilla, Nov 12, 2006
  4. ze_shark

    ze_shark Formula 3

    Jul 13, 2003
    1,274
    Switzerland (NW)
    #4 ze_shark, Nov 19, 2006
    If I were you, I'd take a pass unless the car is an incredible bargain. Considering importing my own Euro 2001 into the US (NorCal) for personal use, I've reviewed all the petitions filed to the NHTSA to prove that '01 550s are "substantially similar" to US-spec cars. My findings are here.
    This plus countless horror stories about getting cars through CA DMV plus pretty hefty shipping costs made it look like a VERY bad idea. The car is staying in Europe.
     
  5. riozilla

    riozilla Formula Junior

    Jan 25, 2006
    596
    Austin, TX
    #5 riozilla, Nov 20, 2006
    Thanks - I've decided to pass on Euros and focus on US spec cars.
     

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