Buying a 2008-2009 Hummer H2 From Out of State

And if a 49 State vehicle doesn't pass CA smog and is in otherwise excellent mechanical condition, what would be needed to pass CA smog. A new catalytic converter? Or is it more complicated than that? Can I buy a Hummer H2 from 'any' state and be reasonably confident it will pass a CA smog check and receive its CA registration?

There is a difference with California legal and Federal legal emission requirements. However if the Hummer H2 you are planning on purchasing is equipped with all the Federal required emission components (which is originally equipped with) it can pass the California smog check and register with the CA DMV. The rule is any USED vehicle (2008 or 2009 Hummer H2 qualifies as used) which is equipped with the necessary Federal Emission Components is eligible for California registration as long as the vehicle's exhaust emissions fall within California's limits and the vehicle's emission system has not been tampered with. posted by SmogTips Support 04-08-2013 11:38 AM

Answer:

The answer from SmogTips Support in 2013 is still valid except that as of 2015, 2000 and newer gasoline powered vehicles no longer need to undergo the tailpipe (exhaust) portion of the smog inspection.

If the Hummer you are considering buying does not have its emissions system tampered, the check engine light is not illuminated and all its emission monitors are "ready" (the EVAP monitor is the only monitor allowed not to be ready; as of this post), the vehicle can pass the California smog check without any emissions system modification/upgrade.

posted by SmogTips Support