I live in Southern Cal, but I will be relocating to the Midwest at the end of 2004. I want to buy a new F150, but I want to know what is the difference between a California Emission equipped F150 and a "49 State" version. Is the difference worth waiting for my relocation?

 

Since about 2000, there is NO difference.

Look at the VECI label under the hood on any late model vehicle. It will say, "meets California emissions".

 

The only reason I can think of to wait is that even though there is no equipment diff. between the two models, the manu. still charges for "california emmissions" to cover the cost of certifying the vehicles in CA. Last time I looked it was the better part of $500 bucks. Then there is the price of registration in CA. Even with the VLF rebate they have been giving it is still around $600 bucks. Don't forget sales tax. I would check out the state you are moving too to find out what the tax rate is and how much registration will be. Then there is the milage you will need to put on to get it to your new place. Just some food for thought.

 

Vehicles bought in CA will have a different emmisions warranty coverage. I think it's 7/70 or 8/80.

 

Might want to double check that warranty info. They had a mandatory 5/50 in the early 90's but haven't heard anything about them changing it. They sure didn't mention it to me in july when I bought mine.

 

My '97 has Cali emmissions (prev. owner). Is there a performance difference?

If so, what do I do to get it back?

 

mostly EGR stuff and uses less fuel...a tune can fix that and also gettin different cats

 

Tune as in computer?

Sweet.

 

yeah computer tune most of the cams will say if u need to upgrade the computer tune but anytime u get a cam its best for a retune