Defender 110 in California?
 

I really want a D110 but am worried about a lot of the things I've read about importing/buying them. Are there any different rules for California? I got an email from a guy at Land Rovers UK that said they can't import them into CA, although I've seen them on eBay occasionally, seemingly registered here. Anyone know for sure? Is the-landrovers.com a legit outfit for importation? Any help or pointers appreciated!

Thanks,
Glenn Reid
Woodside, CA

Land Rover Defender Forum - Defender & Series Owners Community and hit the search

Oh and move out of Cali :D

I've been searching till I'm blue in the face but can't convince myself one way or the other. So many anecdotes and opinions, but so few facts and very little CA-specific info. And ... I'll be in Cali for a while, but thanks for the suggestion :) I live in the mountains in northern California, kind of Land Rover country.

The only real issue 110's I've seen are of 2 types. Diesel, and illegal to import anyways. The old legal to import gas versions have been fine. In Cali of course

Defenders are legal to import if all applicable laws and regulations are followed. All of the import laws are federal so CA law cannot trump federal import regs. The issue people probably run into are CA smog laws which would prevent the diesel Defenders from being registered in CA.

I have imported Defenders for customers in CA before and I would be more than happy to discuss the process with you if you are interested.

Regards,
Mike

I live in the Bay Area and am selling my Alpine White 1995 Defender 90 with 65,000 miles. great condition. Not a 110 but awesome machine. Went on the market two days ago. let me know if interested.

Yes and No
 

Diesel or gas may cause you problems in California. It is true that since the vehicle is older than 21 years, you are exempt from EPA requirements. HOWEVER, and this is a big however, living in the wonderful granola bar State of California you will be subject to CA Direct Import Laws. This law requires that vehicles 1975 or newer (notice it is a year, not a time span) are subject to direct import laws in California and must be brought into compliance with air quality laws, which is about $1000 for testing and no guarantee of passing. I've encountered this with JDM Skylines and its not fun, nor cheap. Unless the vehicle was produced before 1975, you will have to pass Smog Check and a 2.5, 200TDI, 300TDI and TD5 will not pass. Silver lining - you allegedly, could do an engine swap with a modern cleaner burning diesel engine that is EPA certified (say out of an Isuzu NPR), and have not only a compliant vehicle but an improved engine as well. But this bring you back to the "not cheap" aspect of life in the Golden State.