hello. im in okinawa japan and was interested in shipping my r32 back stateside...i read a few other posts about removing the eng and tranny and titling it as a kit car. of course it would depend on the state (KS if it helps), but would it be that simple after getting it imported? also, any updates on a company that would ship out of japan at a reasonable price?thanks in advance-eli

 

There are a lot of rules for importing non-US spec cars. Here are a few basics:

- Non-spec cars can only be imported by a Registered Importer.

- Cars that don't meet US Safety or Emissions specs must be modified to meet us standards after entry.

- Only certain cars are on the current approved list for mods. Its called the Eligible Non-Compliant Vehicles list and it is maintained by the NHTSA.

- Cars that aren't on the list must be destroyed or re-exported.

Here are some links with a lot more info.

http://japan-used-car-exporting.info...used-cars.html
http://www.importexporthelp.com/importing-cars.htm
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import/
http://www.money-zine.com/Financial-...mporting-Cars/

Read through them and make an informed decision. I did a lot of online research because I wanted to import a Daihatsu Copen or Ginowhen I go back to the states. I checked with several RIs and all of them said no way will I get a non eligible vehicle into the States. Even eligible vehicles cost big bucks to modify to US spec (4x-6x the cost of the vehicle in many cases). I'vereadthe kit car thing before too. I've heard that the NHTSA is wise to that now and you run a risk of getting your car crushed or sent back. If you get it in, many states will still register it if you have a title in english (also a problem). But registered and legal are different. Itwould still not bea legal US vehicle and can be destroyed or reexported if you get nabbed. Many shippers want the car driveable so they can roll-on and roll-off (RORO) into the containers or ships. I suspect it will cost more money if it is just a rolling shell. Talk to a car exporter in your area who also deals in parts and he can probably give you abetter idea.

Just so this isn't all discouraging news, 96-98 Skyline GT-Rs are on the eligible list. I heard the guys that first imported them bought 5 and paid big bucks to crash test them.

Good luck and let us know if you find out anything promising.

 

any info on what all needs to bestructurally changed to meet safety requirements in the states?

 

Not really. My guess is maybe the windshield, possibly the bumpers to meet the 5 MPH rating and maybe some stiffeners in certain portions of the chassis. An RI could probably tell you for a specific model if it's something they deal with.

 

It all sounds like too much work for me.