Anyone know how to distinguish by VIN number if my car has California emissions?

 

It's my understanding that the VIN number has nothing to do with whether your vehicle has California emissions. I pulled this exerpt from the 2001 Nissan Product Guide:

All 2001 Maximas have 50-state engine emissions compliance whereas

All 2000 Maximas had separate Federal and California emissions compliance

The change happened between 2000 and 2001 which lead to ALL Nissan vehicles being certified to comply with low emissions states' regulations, permitting their sale and registration in any of the 50 states.

I'm not sure what year your 5th Gen is, but the 50-state emissions compliance applied to all Maximas from model year 2001 up.

Respectfully.

 

Thanks for the info. Actually, after reading my warranty it doesnt matter since the cat is covered for 8/80 for both types.

 

It should say something under your hood.