I am moving to Coronado Cali and plan to ship my 2000xk8. She’s running great (after steady investments in tons of repairs over the years). I’m the original owner so it’s a special bond. My concern is I’ve heard horror stories about getting her through Cali emissions. Can anyone share or advise?

 

Don't clear codes, but do check for any.

Also, avoid disconnecting the battery (clears things like OBD monitors, which codes clear also does, but most smog places need them set not clear).

Check you have (pending) P1111 which is Jag's shorthand for all the OBD monitors being happy (aka set aka complete aka ready).

If instead you have P1000 look at which monitors are not set. I don't know CA rules (other than they're tough)...

Then look with OBD live data at fuel trims (parked, warmed up engine) at idle. You want LTFTs within about 5 of 0.

 

I have a 2002 XK8 in San Diego, CA and it passes the smog test no problem. FWIW I also have an 03 Tahoe, and when I moved from Texas 16 years ago it passed the test 1st time and every time since.

JagV8 advice about not disconnecting battery is good. It takes a few days to sort itself out after reconnecting.

HTH, Dave

 

CA doesn't do tailpipe emissions on OBD2 cars. They connect the computer and all of the monitors must be "set" and there can be no CEL. If these criteria are met the car will pass. This is assuming all of your equipment is stock. Most shops don't do a visual inspection of the car, but a few do. If they notice you have a bunch of non-approved mods then you either have to have CARB exemptions (usually on stickers provided with the product), or you won't pass.

You can get a cheapie OBD2 scanner and check you monitors to see if they're set and, if not, which ones need help.

 

I just had my AZ XK 8 smogged and registered in CA. No problem.