Bringing used cars into CA

[steveb@newkla.kla.com (Steven Buchholz)]

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CA Audi fans:

How much of a hassle is it to bring a non-CA Audi into CA?  I have an 86 
5000CS TQ that I'm thinking of selling here in the east to prevent a hassle 
out there.  Should I even worry about this?

Any help is welcome.

...bill

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There shouldn't be any problem bringing a used car into California if it has 
not been modified.  Both my ur-Q and the 5kCSQ were originally sold in other 
states.  If you've got a car that you know well and would like to keep ... 
bring it along!  I'd recommend talking to the CA DMV to get the particulars.  
Don't have a number in Sacramento, but a number of a local field office is 
(408) 224-4511.  Find out how much they are going to charge you for the 
original registration ... I hear those fees are getting outrageous.

Things that can cause problems:
- Bringing in brand new cars to the state (especially if you are a resident).  
  My brother had to return a car to MN for sale when he tried to buy it there 
  & bring it in.  The reason I mentioned it is because he had contacted the 
  DMV, and they said it was OK.  Get anything from the DMV in writing!  Since
  you are not a resident you shouldn't have any similar problems.

- Modifications that would affect emissions.  My cars pass the inspections 
  with little more than a tune-up (check the hoses are hooked up, etc.).

Steve Buchholz
s_buchho@kla.com