Buying a car in Canada (vehicle, manual transmission, truck, buy)

[banger]

Does anyone know if it is possible to buy a vehicle in Canada, and bring it back into the U.S.?

I guess what I really want to know is if it can be done without TOO MUCH difficulty.

By way of explanation, Mercedes Benz of Canada lists manual transmissions on vehicles and engines that Mercedes Benz USA refuses to import. If it can be done, I am only a few hours from Canada.

[golfgod]

I know a few years ago when the US$ was stronger than the CDN$ the manufacturers would warn the dealers against losing their franchise if selling into the US market. I'd call the CDN dealer and ask them, they may not be willing to sell it to you.

golfgod

[Bydand]

It can be a nightmare if EVERYTHING on the vehicle does not conform to US standards. The duty you have to pay can be quite high and then the vehicle must be made to comply with US safety standards. Here are a couple of links about importing a car into the US.
Automotive Imports Facts Manual | Importing Vehicles and Engines | US EPA
U.S. Residents Importing and Exporting Vehicles - CBP.gov (http://www.customs.gov/xp/cgov/travel/clearing/automobiles.xml - broken link)
Importing Your Car into the US - Import a Car, Bring a Car, Import Your Car, US Customs

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by banger

Does anyone know if it is possible to buy a vehicle in Canada, and bring it back into the U.S.?

I guess what I really want to know is if it can be done without TOO MUCH difficulty.

By way of explanation, Mercedes Benz of Canada lists manual transmissions on vehicles and engines that Mercedes Benz USA refuses to import. If it can be done, I am only a few hours from Canada.

Definitely, NOT worth the grief, Banger.

That is, unless the vehicle was produced adhering to U.S. specifications as well as those of Canada.

[banger]

Thanks guys, This is EXACTLY the kind of things i wanted to know.

[Drover]

With cars selling for about 20% more in Canadian than American dollars, and with the Canadian dollar now worth as much or more than the U.S. dollar, I just don't see any value in buying a car in Canada.

[lsamint]

Hi,

I am wondering about the flip side of this question. I am looking to purchase a car in the states but in a few months i will be moving up to british columbia. what can someone tell me about that. thanks for the tips on buying a car in canada.

[Tennesseestorm]

Also if bringing a car from Canada, PLEASE check for rust... some real rust buckets up there!


Not sure lsamint... maybe someone will have more info on this.

[scuba steve]

If it's older than a certain age it's no big deal at all. It might be 25 years or so. Might as well find a transmission and the other parts at a boneyard and convert it yourself.

[jgclark]

Hey just found a truck I wanted to buy that was made in the US but someone bought originally from canada and the second owner bought from him and its now back here in the states. It seems like there are some red flags but im not for sure. Any thoughts?