Hello Jeepguy:
There are lots of diesels in So California. My brother drives his 240D out to Ft.Irwin and to Tucson with no problems, even to Edwards AFB - these things are used in North Africa as well, where there are REAL big time deserts.

You can probably get away without registration for a while, but the DMV has a "we tip" program for people that turn in people who are here for over a certain time period without registering there cars. I don't know all the details but one of the campus security officers used to write down out of state license numbers while he cruised the parking lots of the University. He claimed he got donut money that way.

CA also has a 1(800)CUT-SMOG number where people can phone in polluting vehicle license #s for official attention.
Welcome to the BANANA (Build Absolutely Nothing Anywhere Near Anyone) republic of California, home of cleaner environments through increased regulation - you know, like with electricity !

__________________
John

2003 Firemist Red/grey leather SL 500
2015 Palladium Silver/black mbtex GLK 350
1987 Smoke Silver/burgundy mbtex 300E Sportline (SOLD)

Click to see 87 300E