Hi,
I'm moving to the US and I'd like to take my car with me. Is a VW Touran from 2016.
I know that to be able to legaly stay in the US I should certify that it complies with emissions and safety standards (FMVSS). is there any web to check brands and models of cars that, although manufactured in Europe, do also comply with FMVSS? If modifications are needed, do you know about any expert doing the service?
AC
Did you mean UK to US ?
I'm in Spain, but It could be any european country.
From what I understand it's almost impossible for an individual to bring in a vehicle less than 25 years old. From what I'm reading you would need a registered importer to bring it in and federalize it, which would probably cost a fortune. Some info here:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/importing-vehicle
In particular see this section:
Thank you, Chuck Tobias.
Yes, I know that 25+ years old car would be easier. I also have this refference ( https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/importing-car) but what I'd like is some kind of database to check if my car could be elegible for FMVSS compliance with no or small modifications.
It needs to meet DOT & EPA requirements. You need to reach out to VW and get a letter of compliance for the US. If it's not compliant the letter will list everything that doesn't meet US requirements. To bring a non-compliant vehicle into compliance can only be done at certain "registered importers". I'd reach out to them to see if your vehicle is able to be brought into compliance and the cost associated to get it road legal. You may find its cost prohibitive to try and bring your Touran with you.
https://www.nhtsa.gov/importing-vehicle/registered-importers
Unless you have access to an endless supply of $$$ and a specialist VW mechanic in your location in the US, who can source parts for the vehicle, I think this is going to be one hell of a bad idea.
Think again about what you’re getting yourself into. And I’m not even talking about the potential damage a vehicle can suffer out on the open ocean, let alone a sophisticated VW that’s full of electronics.
Unless you have a special attachment to it, you might consider selling your car at home and buying a new one here. Money is easier to transport trans-Atlantic than a VW.
Welcome to the US, hope you enjoy your time here!
