Can we import U.S or Euro cars here, and register them?

i'm wondering because i see a lot of euro cars in the states and people drive them but without warranty, what is to stop canadians to do the same and import euro cars for cheap?

Anybody got an answer for me?

thanks

 

If you try to import a vehicle it is much easier to import a US market version. Depending on how the vehicle was built it may need new bumpers and certain technical changes-day time running lights, KM speedo, child safety seat fittings etc. This can be very expensive. Also certain models are restricted and not legal to import.
The real advantage over the Americans however is in vehicles that are 15 years old and older. Then all the restrictions are waived. It is OPEN SEASON and anything can be imported. The only requirement is that the vehicle must pass an emissions test level that is based on the 1980 standard. This figure is applied regardless of the year of manufacture once the vehicle is 15 years old. Also duty is paid based on the 'black book' value, not the buyers purchase price. The only disadvantage with this is that a Euro version automobile would be difficult to resell in the US.
ch

 

In Feb. 2003, I immigrated to Quebec from Michigan and imported a 1969 365 GT 2+2. Because it is more than 15 years old and because I owned it more than a year before I immigrated, I paid NO duties and was NOT required to pass a Federal inspection, normally required by the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV). I was, however, required to pass a "Verification Mecanique" in Quebec before being allowed to license it. NO emissions test was required - fortunately. It's a European model - the hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide are so thick, you can cut them with a knife.

 

I also imported a 15 year old Ferrari a few years back into Ontario. No big deal, just paid duty and GST. No tests, no nothing. If it is newer than 15 years olds, then there is work to do on your part, older than 15 years and it is just a matter of writing a cheque.

Regards,

JP

 

Ara,
There are threads on this subject within this section...try scrolling through. Also, try a "google" search of the subject. Here is what I found in a couple seconds of searching:

http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/mj/import.htm
http://www.mr2.com/TEXT/Import.html
http://www.riv.ca/english/html/how_to_import.html
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/menu.htm
http://www.canada-immigrationlaw.com/BFIS/carimport.php
http://www.mapsupport.com/thedatabase/impex/imprtgvehcan.htm