I have a 98 Civic Lx 4dr with a D16y7 motor. I'm not really familiar with the whole legal engine swap issue. Could I legally upgrade to a D16y8?

 

yes.

 

Yes. You can Bar it.

 

So after the swap.....I would have to BAR it? Where at?

 

of course

 

you don't necessary have to BAR it, i know a few people who dont even have to swap out the motor when it comes down to smog, because since ek 4-door also came ex, shops just think is another ex. but if you want to BAR it, it should be that hard if you wire up everything right.

 

im from iowa what do you mean "bar it"?

 

In California they have really strict emissions and laws regarding what you can and can't do to your vehicle regarding swaps. I'm not sure exactly how they work because I'm not from California but I'd assume BAR is some sort of safety/emissions exception.

 

Bureau of Automotive Repair.