Seeking mechanic in 707

I recently bought a 2005 Tacoma the seller was located in San Jose and the truck had Oregon plates. Soon after buying said truck I realized the check engine light wasn’t turning on in accessory. It turns out he had ripped out the check engine light so I couldn’t see it never passed Cali smog and had clogged cats. So now I have a 2005 1GR FE with 138,000 and yesterday I confirmed there was HG leak by having a shop run a leak down test which I had to request because they were trying tell me it was the radiator. I’m looking for any recommendations for a solid mechanic anywhere near Cloverdale CA. I’m 19 and tried to do my diligence when buying this truck what this seller pulled a really screwed me out of my learn to earn mentality. Any suggestions or help is appreciated.

 

On man, really sorry. Maybe contaccting B.A.R. for direction. When was the last smog? Are the tags due? Technically the past owner is responsible for the smog. Registered in Oragon and sold in San Jose is a big red flag, was it was in "Jose's" name? If it's not in his name, it most likely was "hot smogged". If you bought it with no smog cert or not in his name, the title was "floated". Thats technically big illegal, go after him. Title floating is defined as when a non dealer doesn't registering the car in his name and sells (usually when it needs tags or other issues).

Wish you the best. Dont be disheartened, Take away here can be expanded mechanical knowlge and the above buying look outs. Contact the B.A.R.