My non-op 1976 BMW 530I did not pass smog several years ago so I stored it

I put another engine in my BMW 530I back then and I do not know the year of the engine. Some of the connections of the water outlet do not apply to 1976, so know one will I suppose help me to get the exemption so I can drive or sell it. They will say it is not original. I do not have the failed smog report from a few years ago. I rebuilt the trans, painted the car, installed a used engine, so I have lots of money tied up in the vehicle. So what do I do now?

Answer:

The only thing you can do at this point is the have your BMW 530I inspected by the state's smog check referee's office. Any time an engine change is conducted the vehicle must be smog checked by the California smog check referee's office. While installing the new engine, you will need to install all the emission components for that engine as well. After the swap is complete, the vehicle will have to be inspected by a California State Referee. The Referee will ensure that the job was done properly and that the new engine does not pollute. If all is well they will issue you a BAR label which will be placed somewhere on your vehicles chassis which will be an indication that the vehicle is California legal. You may then legally sell your BMW 530I. You may contact the state referee's office at (800) 622-7733.

posted by SmogTips Support