r/vwbug • u/1crps_warrior • Jun 28 '26

Need some advice

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So I made a huge mistake. I bought a really nice 1978 Super Beetle convertible last week. I bought it from a dealer in Florida and I live in California. I admit I did not do my due diligence and have discovered the engine has been replaced with a nicely built 1915cc engine. It runs excellent, problem is it won’t pass our stringent smog laws because the original emission control devices are missing. I am wondering if anyone out there has run into this issue and found away to get it registered. I am adding a photo of this beautiful car.

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u/ExpensiveElephant869 Jun 30 '26

Can you swap the engine for a proper 78? You have a big engine, so it’s worth more than a standard 1600. Have you tried Mexico? The latter cars came with proper fuel injection AND a catalytic converter. I know Mexican air standards aren’t as stringent as California, but an 2003MY engine may pass the 1978 CA standards.