So I'll be moving to California soon, and just needed some advice when it comes time to register my car there. I drive a '96 Integra RS. A couple years ago, I swapped out the original motor for a jdm imported B18B. So it's still a B18B, and I swapped my original USDM intake manifold (with all gaskets, o-rings, and vac lines replaced) onto the new motor. So it's a JDM B18B but still has all of the cars original emissions equipment along with the original, uncut, harness and ecu. I also replaced my o2 sensors. I know everything emissions works, as it passed emissions here in Maryland. My question is, will I have trouble registering it in Cali? It doesn't have a VIN tag on the block cus it's a JDM import motor but I do have the sales receipt to show that it was legally purchased. Also, block stamp is B18B, not B18B1 of course. Other then that, the set up is identical to the original stock configuration.

 

You have to make an appointment and go see a Referee. The Refs out here are very knowledgeable when it comes to Hondas and swapping, so dont try to pull a fast one,you'll just fail.

Couple of pointers:

1. The engine must be of the same year or newer than your car.
2. All emissions components must be functioning the same as a California emissions vehicle

 

If it's stock then don't worry about it. If they want to fail you for it then you contact the ref, show receipt, usdm manifold etc and you're fine. It's just a stock replacement engine, read the information on the BAR website. Year is important, must be same as chassis or newer.

 

First off, welcome to California. There are horror stories of the stringent vehicle inspections here are pretty true, but in your situation it's a much lower risk than you think. The JDM B18B will be considered an "engine replacement" instead of an "engine change" due to being a matching displacement to the original engine. As long as all the original emissions and ECU matches your chassis you are totally fine.

Being a 1996, I believe your car is OBD2 if memory serves me correct. This means the vehicle will still be 'plugged in' to the system to make sure all emissions readiness codes are good. More information here: https://www.smogcheck.ca.gov/Consumer/index.html?3. There could be a chance that the car will also need undergo a tailpipe sniffer test with 15 and 25MPH check points I believe. The smog requirements also depend on where you live in California as well - so this isn't going to be a clear cut answer.

I recently went through this myself with a 1994 Acura Integra RS. The steps I recall were:

• Get your license, proof of residency, etc. etc. all that good stuff after you've relocated.
• Obtain insurance in the state of California (minimum coverage of some amount is required, I don't recall the actual number)
• Successfully pass smog with the car > the certification is good for 60 days I believe
• Get the VIN number verified along with mileage. You can either go to the DMV and get this done OR go through a certified second party source that can be found on Yelp. I paid a person to come by and do all the documentation for this instead of waiting at the DMV for ever.
• Gather all of your paperwork, bring your old title or registration, and go to the DMV and register the car.

Now, my advice is to get AAA in California. They offer SOME DMV services at a MUCH faster speed than going to the actual DMV. I've registered two cars here so far and with AAA I was in and out in 15 minutes, on a Saturday morning, with brand new plates in hand.

Good luck