Registering a used out of state cobra in CA

[mrmustang]

Originally Posted by grybrd123

Hi:

If a CA resident bought a used (more than 7500 miles) Cobra out of state and wanted to register it in CA, how would that work? Would an SB100 number be required for a high mileage used car with a registration history in another state? Would the way it was titled affect registration - that is (for instance) if it was titled as a 200X assembly vs a 1965 replica?



Thanks!
Grybrd123

Believe it or not, it is actually easier to register/title a car in California if it has a state issued VIN and proper title (IE: 200X specialty constructed or whatever). Where people get into trouble is when a builder uses a VIN from another vehicle (say a 1966 Mustang VIN for instance) and under reports the purchase price to reduce the sales tax paid to the state. As for SB100, yes, you will most likely need a SB100 certification. I do remember the old laws stated emissions were based on the year of the engine, but I do not know if this is still the case. If so, then look for a vintage powered replica with a 65 or earlier engine block.......Also with a vintage motor, you may not need an SB100......Again your best bet is to call your local motor vehicle agency and speak with a knowledgeable supervisor just to play it safe......


Hope you find this helpful.


Bill S.

[David Biele]

Bill,

My Cobra was register as a 1965 Cobra. I checked it out and everything was titled correctly in Florida and CA honered the out of state title and no SB100 or smog was needed. I was told that CA must honer a legally titled car from out of state. I was very clear with the DMV that it was a replica car and they had no heartburn.

David

[kurtmart]

You can't register or smog on the year of the block anymore.

If it ends up titled as a 65 Ford then it could be considered a fraud. All this is in flux right now and you can get a different story from any given DMV, so be careful, getting the SB 100 is the way go.

I'd recommend taking the time to go carefully through all the CC "Morgester" postings. He's with the DA's office and is handling these cases.

My 2 cents are up.

Kurt