I am in the market for a F355. One of the examples I've come across apparntly had its Approved Permit misplaced. This particular car was brought in by Next Car (official importer at the time) on a Used AP. Current owner was able to secure a loan and I have been assured that I will be able to as well. I have heard that pre-2000 awareness of AP issues weren't as pronounced as it is these days. Back then it was apparently more common to hear of misplaced APs. In fact I know a F355 owner who purchased his car without the AP. The seller signed a waiver to guarantee that in the event of any AP / Customs issues, he (the seller) would take full responsibility for any losses / penalties. If anyone has experience related to an AP-less purchase, or can verify with either Next Car, MITI or Pekema that this particular car is straight, your advice / help is much appreciated. Also, where would be a good place for a PPI / background search on a Ferrari? Many thanks!
Me to..was having this problem about AP thing while I am searching for my F355....came accross 2 F355 without AP.....Finally at the after 1 year of searching found the right F355 and with AP as well .I think without AP is also ok..but with AP I guess is easier for you sell if off in the future..Good luck for your search
AlexC, You got PM. Also...try to get ones with APs intact. Back in the old days of yore, many a 'hanky-panky' importation of vehicles. Kereta baru di title-kan 'used' and so forth and so on. If said Seller don't have/misplaced the AP docs...they can get a new copy for a very small fee from the authorities anytime.... Walk away if they say they can't do it, waiver or no waiver... JMHO. Best, Isk
According to a source APs are usually stored for up to 5 years after the car's registration. Since F355s are mostly over 10 years old, it is unlikely that JPJ (or Customs?) still have the records intact. I would be happy and grateful if somebody could prove me wrong and point me in the direction of a reliable runner. Again, thanks for the replies and PM.
Hi AlexC, I bought my F355 4 and 1/2 years ago without AP. I was told AP was not a concern for an old car. Also not an issue in the early to mid 90s. My car registration card says 'Kereta Impot Baru'. So not imported used. My car was imported by then Ferrari (M) Sdn. Bhd. Though 2 years ago I hired a runner to get my AP copy from govt but runner said not found. I guess you are right that they discarded this record after 5 years. I would suggest you get a car with as good condtion as you can find with the least owners possible. What's good with all the records when the car is in poor condition? Accident free F355s are getting fewer and far between. As my supercar friend once told me those F355s which are accident free are never driven by their owners...
- was told the same thing too when looking at 348s. - that waiver is (ahem) only as good as the person offering it. - therefore , better ask for the AP , or as Isk said , walk away. .
