California DMV: Can't Renew Registration Online

I am going to get screwed on my '66. Sold it a few years ago, out of state, BUT he never changed ownership. Well, I bought it back, And now it looks like I just did not register it for 4 years!!! Going to be a battle...

Put it in a different family members name. Then transfer it to you after the new title arrives. I still get past due notices from them for cars that were sold more than 5 years ago looking for registration money and yes, a liability release was sent in at the time of sale. I send a copy with the request on occasion, still doesn't stop them. LOL