I am selling my '85 Toyota 4x4 Pick-up to a relative in California. What all is involved with registering a vehicle in CA from out of state? I am trying to make this process as easy as possible for the relative buying the truck, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.

The truck has not needed a smog test in the past 15 years, but 15 years ago it did fine for the Seattle (King County) smog tests. The 22REC Engine is bone stock w/ 286,000 miles, and runs great. It gets regular tune-ups, but nothing else has been done to the engine or exhaust except:

1. The engine was overhauled about 86,000 miles ago.
2. Replaced the cat 3 years ago with a vehicle specific "50 state legal" cat.
3. The O2 sensor was replaced about 60,000 miles ago.

I am thinking about replacing the O2 sensor again for good measure, because it would be cheaper for me to do myself, rather than them have a dealership replace it.


Is there a visual inspection?
Again, almost everything is still bone stock (everything works, mud flaps are intact, stock bumpers, even stock wheels). The only visual thing different is the tires are now 30x9.5x15 (instead of the stock P225 75 15). It is less than a 2" difference, but technically it does not match the data plate in the door jamb. Is this going to be a problem?

Again, any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

In state vehicles require a smog test, and signed pink slip, then go to DMV and pay the fees. If you are a AAA member you can do it there without having to wait in line or make an appointment. Here is a DMV link for cars never before registered in California. http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/newvehicle.htm

 

There is a visual inspection, so everything needs to be hooked up and look stock or the smog Nazi`s will fail you.

 

It has to be a 50 state vehicle to start with if it is not the only way to register it here would be for you to move in with them.

 

Are they strict about tire size, is is there some leeway?

 

No. Your not going to fail with 30" tires on there.

Like stated, just make sure that every single little piece of emissions equipment is hooked up like it came from the factory.

I believe your relative will also have to get the truck weighed before they can register it.. think I remember reading that. Check out the Cal DMV site. All the info is there. If not, call someone.

 

Yes, you have to weigh it. I had to weigh my previous truck coming into CA from Nevada in 1997. I'm sure that remains the same.

 

I didn't have to weigh mine when I got it from Arizona in July. Different counties in California have different requirements. For example here in Imperial County we only have to smog cars when the title changes. Depending on how your relative is related to you the process can be a lot easier. Check here.

http://dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr1.htm

 

Thank you all. I think it will all be good. The 22REC engine runs great, with all emissions in tact.