Smogging of Diesels

[Peter4]

I own an MB 87 300SDL which needs no yearly smog test in California. I am considering a 1999 E300, or a 2005-06 E320 CDI, but a mechanic recently told me the later Diesels do require smogging in CA. Can any CA diesel owner clarify this?

Thanks

[tjts1]

Up model year 1997, no diesel smog check. 1998+ has diesel smog check.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/smogfaq.htm

http://www.bar.ca.gov/80_BARResources/05_Legislative/RegulatoryActions/DieselWorkInf.html

Guess why I bought a 97?

[uberwasser]

From the California DMV site -

Does my vehicle qualify for a smog exemption?

Smog inspections are required unless your vehicle is:

Hybrid
Gasoline powered 1975 year model or older
Diesel powered 1997 year model and older or with a Gross Vehicle Weight rating (GVWR) of more than 14,000 lbs
Electric
Natural gas powered with a GVWR rating of more than 14,000 lbs.
Motorcycle
Trailer

Any other questions, see the link:

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/smog.htm

[Peter4]

Thanks for the fast response. So a 1997 E300 would be smog free. I wonder if it has the same engine as the 98-99?

[tjts1]

Originally Posted by Peter4

Thanks for the fast response. So a 1997 E300 would be smog free. I wonder if it has the same engine as the 98-99?

97 has non turbo om606.912 engine and 722.6 5spd auto. 96 had 4spd 722.4.

[TMAllison]

Just had my 2009 Bluetec done last month. Guy opened the hood, looked around for a moment, closed it and took my money. Is a visual inspection only, the sniffer doesn't like diesel apparently.