Titling a used Cobra in California

[grybrd123]

Useful info! Next question: will CA just use the existing title description and VIN? Or will they require them to be changed?

I'm just wondering what actually has to be done when someone in CA wants to "import" and register an older out of state Cobra. Of course, this would also apply to any used replica.

grybrd123

[Ron61]

In one case that I know of Calif. did use the VIN assigned in another state but that is the only one that I am aware of. Otherwise you have to go through the whole SB-1578 process to get a SB-100 number, but even that varies from DMV to DMV. Per the law, Calif. won't register any vehicle as a 1960s Cobra or whatever it is. No special construction vehicle is exempt from the SB-100 process. Just pick your DMV with care as some of them are very good and will help while others don't want to be bothered and refuse to do anything but make it miserable to get through the process. This has been covered in several threads so just do some looking to find the best DMVs to use.

Ron

[jhv48]

In other words. No one knows anything for sure right now.

California has chosen to redefine certain terms and we are all just guessing at this point.

If you are considering the sb100 process, you better be damn careful. One mistake and your car could be worthless in this State.

If it were me, i would install the drivetrain myself. If incapable of self installation, then find your own shop (not one the dealer recomends) that has other business besides just installing drivetrains in replica cars. It appears that there can be no hint of a relationship between the dealer and the installer.

And the circus goes on!

[wrogers55]

I'm not on a bandwagon here, just providing information (actually I'm not smart enough to even find the wagon).

The car discussed below as originally registered in Virginia as a 2006 year - 1965 Ford Cobra. The word "Replica' was not on the title but date of manufacture was, as 2006. Model description on the Virginia title was "Manufacturer which I'm not going to list" and "1965 Ford Cobra". No one at the Gilroy DMV was known personally and everyone involved was ready for a long battle and probable failure to transfer the title as is. Then it just happened as stated below. The new CA title looks nothing like the old Virginia title and all mouths were just kept shut on the owners side, out of sheer fear at that time. Did ask about any future inspections (smog) and was told none would be required. Later, holding breath, personal plates were ordered and no problems at all. Been years now, including insurance and no issues. So, this one worked well, but it's starting to sound like one mis-step and you may never find your way back. What a shame we have let our "car guys" state come to this. Vote when you can, as many times as you can!

The original post:

Someone I know very "closely" bought just such a car, Virginia registration as a 1965 Ford Cobra, listed one of the South Africa manufacturer's VIN numbers and such, and was in and out of Ca DMV in 20 minutes. Car is now registered as a SPCN, 1st Year Sold as 0000 on the title......and so on. Lady smiled and said you are all set and you will only be required to renew you tags as necessary.

My "friend" was stupid enough to ask, what about smog and such, and she said you are not required to do anything else now or in the future. For several tag cycles, no requirements of any kind.

My "friend" used the Gilroy, Ca DMV.