Buying Chevy Malibu LS from Out of State

The vehicle in question is a 2010 Chevy Malibu LS 2.4L gas from out of state. How do I know whether it is equipped for a California smog test? I just bought this car from someone who bought it at an auction. I was just reading some of the things on your website and it mentioned out of state cars. I used my OBDII on it and there were no codes so I think it's good to go but is it? What do I need to look for to make sure it is compliant? I also have a headlight out, does that matter?

Answer:

There is a difference with 49-state emissions legal systems and 50-state (California) emissions however a USED 49-state emissions equipped vehicle, such as in the case of an out-of-state Chevy Malibu, can pass the California smog test and receive registration.

The smog inspection for 2000 and newer vehicles consists of a visual and functional inspection of the vehicle's engine emissions system. So long as the engine's emission system has not been tampered with, the check engine light is not on, and the emission monitors are ready, your Malibu can pass the smog test without any emissions modification; no smog parts need to be added. A new vehicle, on the other hand, can not be registered (or pass smog) in California if it is not California emissions certified.

posted by SmogTips Support