Moving from TX to CA and I need to buy a car soon...?

Question

Is it better to buy the car here in TX or wait until I get to CA (given the CA smog requirements, tax, etc.)? If I buy the car in TX and immediately take it to CA will I be able register the car if I don't have a permanent residence there (staying with friends until I get settled)?

Answer 1

If you purchase a car outside of California, when you bring it into California it must pass the smog regulations or California won't let you register the vehicle.

So if you're planning on purchasing a used car, my recommendations are to wait, or you may find out the car you bought in TX, and is perfectly good to drive in TX, doesn't pass smog in CA and you'll have to pay what ever to get the car to meet the smog requirements. Used cars purchased inside CA must meet California smog emissions requirements before they are sold.

However if you are purchasing new, you may be able to save a few $$$ purchasing out of state and bringing the vehicle to CA. Especially if you're looking at a Diesel vehicle. Diesel cars are not legal to be sold new in CA for the past 3 years, so if you're planning to purchase a Diesel Jetta, Diesel Jeep Liberty or such, buy from out of state and import it into california. It's the only way to get one of those vehicles legally in CA. If you bring in a diesel, CA will allow you to register the vehicle.

Typically where California get's expensive though isn't the actual initial cost of the car. Typically things like car insurance and fuel costs are where you'll be hit in the pocket book. Just part of life living in California.

Answer 2

I'd love to listen to that cellphone name to the police. The auto is offered as is whilst 2 members do a deal. Unless you are a trader, you haven't any responsibilities as opposed to to give the auto and the name. Now, they would take you to court docket and sue you however have little risk of profitable. As lengthy as you did not say something dull like "I assurance this auto is not going to provide you any issues for the following 10 years" or some thing an identical, you will have to be OK. Hopefully the purchaser isn't a psycho who begins stalking you. This is one more intent I'd as a substitute exchange a auto in and lose cash than manage idiots who revel in purchaser's regret.