The days of finding parts for your old car are numbered. Why? CARB (California Air Resources Board) wants to crush old cars in California rather than allow old car enthusiasts and people with low incomes who drive old cars to bring their cars within compliance of pollution laws. (Read the press release from SEMA to learn more) The frustrating aspect of this regulation is that alternative programs, such as San Diego's Air Pollution Control District pilot "Repair/Upgrade" program, achieves emissions reductions at half the cost of typical scrappage programs.
This means no spare parts from salvaged autos coming from California. Bad news for old car enthusiasts, not only those of us in California but also for enthusiasts in other parts of the US and abroad. Since so many cars in California have extended road careers without the ravages of rust, salted roads and extreme temperatures they are plentiful and are often sought after by collectors, enthusiasts or parts dealers. This supply will be cut off if CARB has its way.
For 2002 owners this is tragic. If you don't live within a days shipping of East Coast parts houses California dealers are where you usually turn to. If you are on the East Coast you may be looking for that rust free 02 to restore, turn into a racer or just use as a daily driver. And, who wants to turn to Europe for parts and pay the huge cost of shipping when there is an ample supply here? The Bay Area is a virtual Mecca for 2002s. We have several parts dealers within an hour drive from where ever you are, 2002s are everywhere you look. What will happen if the supply dries up prematurely? Cannibalism? With the CARB regulation the only way a hobbyist or low-income individual can obtain a necessary part would be to buy an entire car before it's crushed. Who has extra space for parts cars? Not many of us.
How can you help? If you live in California you should contact your state assembly person and your state senator. You will find links at the bottom of this page to obtain the email addresses of your representatives. Also, contact CARB and let them know how you feel. If you live outside of California, contact SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) to find out how you can take action. Also, check out SEMA's red hot state legislation page for information on what may be occurring in your state. The time to act is now so email these representatives and SEMA today. Bay Area 02 is not opposed to smog legislation per se however, we feel this regulation enacted unilaterally by CARB is misguided given the alternatives.
CARB California Air Resources Board
California State Senate email addresses
California State Assembly email addresses
SEMA Specialty Equipment Market Association
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