Are you a current Michigan-based car shopper? A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/2 for details.
I'd like to add that Mercedes is a notable exception in that while they may drag their feet and charge some silly money for modifications, they 100% of the time will get them done and the car will comply. They've been dealing with wealthy owners importing or keeping their cars as they move around for decades and it's fairly common(same as say, importing a German model to the U.S. - there are firms that do nothing but handle cars like this).
And $9000+ savings is well worth the gouging Mercedes charges, IMO. You're still ahead what - 3-4 months salary at least?
I know there have been a few posts from folks who are trying to import Maximas.
I just got my 08 Maxima (Sept. 07 build with factory VIS) plated today (Ontario).
I took it to Canadian Tire (CT) for the RIV inspection. They told me Daytime Running Light (DRL) activation would have to be done by a Nissan dealer as the BCM (Body Control Module ?) had to be re-programmed and only Nissan have the scan tool to do it. Well, I wasn't about to do that even if they would do it for me.
I took the car to a more specialized auto shop. They installed a module that by-passes the Nissan wiring and activates DRLs through the fog lamps (at low intensity). Not only did it meet the requirements, but it looks way cooler too!
A way to save with DTL - Honda Dealers are looking to charge between 400 - 500 for DTL installed in my area, I went to CT and got them to rig up auto lights to the high beams, which technically qualifies as DRL according to Transport Canada legislation. It worked, passed the inspection and save about $400 - I used Importcar2canada to import, is a free site with tips and step by step instructions.
Good luck and hopefully you can save as much as I did
That's a good point. If Best Buy can match US prices with cameras, etc., what makes cars any different, at least not to the extent of the current huge price differences. It can't be transport costs, because that's passed on (and then some) to the consumer.
To our friend volvomax, here's the simple fact about why the prices here in Canada are higher with MB, BMW and all cars including the ones that are made here. The automakers are gouging Canadians because they can and our politicians have no balls to go after them them. Unlike in Europe where they charge the automakers with 'Antitrust' for doing the things that they are now doing in North America. All the excuses that you use to justify this 30 -40 percent mark-up does not make any sense even to a grade student. Only a fool can believe that...Sorry, I have to say something 'coz I had it with this BS.
I have to disagree, that BMW has not only a legal but a moral obligation to answer (for free) whether any recalls are outstanding on your car, whether you are the original new owner or a secondary owner.
Take for example the following recalls on the 2000 BMW 3 series: NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 00V048000 THE BRAKE LAMPS IN THESE VEHICLES ARE CONTROLLED BY A SWITCH ACTIVATED BY THE MOVEMENT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS SWITCH COULD FAIL INTERNALLY, CAUSING IT TO REMAIN EITHER IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS ON" POSITION.
NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 02V223000 Summary: ON CERTAIN 4-DOOR PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM COULD DEPLOY IN CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS WHEN CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEEDS. Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE SIDE AIR BAG AND HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM TO DEPLOY WITHOUT AN ACTUAL SIDE CRASH OR IMPACT SEVERE ENOUGH TO CAUSE SIGNIFICANT VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAG COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF THE OCCUPANT'S HEAD IS RESTING NEAR THE SIDE AIR BAG.
Do you honestly think BMW has any legal leg to stand on by withholding this information in this matter of safety, with the possible and real consequence of driver death? By charging $500 for this information, the court will deem the information to be effectively withheld, given the large cost being charged.
Have worked out a price on a new truck, the manufacturer won't let it dealers in the US sell to Canadians. The salesman wants me to get a US box to use on the invoice, then I would export the truck. Looking for advice on this situation, I am a little hestitant to go this way.
Joining this discussion kind of late but here is my $0.02:
volvomax - you are right in saying businesses have the freedom to charge whatever they want. What ever the market will bear. Demand and supply. I remember my basic economics and it does make sense to me. I also understand that the principal of any business is to make money. Some make it with honour and integrity, others don't but that's okay too.
What is *NOT* okay is for them to obstruct, and hinder me in doing what *I* want to do. What is *NOT* okay is for the government to assist them.
If I sell a rose for $100 and some guy next to me sells it for $1, that is fine. Nothing wrong with me setting my price at $100 and him at $1. If people buy my rose, great for me, if not, that is my problem. What is wrong is when someone buys it from the $1 guy and I say "sure, buy it, but I won't let you bring it to your girlfriend". Only my rose is allowed to be brought to your girlfriend. This is no longer freemarket. This is not "charging what the market will bear". This is monopolizing the supply and then fixing the price.
You are completely missing the mark. The example was Walmart undercutting the local drugstore. The man who owns the local drugstore,who cannot compete at the lower price would say that Walmart is exploiting the situation for its own gain and to harm the drug store owner. The consumer that shops at Walmart benefits, hence the smart shopping, at the expense of the local shopowner.
volvomax - clearly you understand that businesses are here to make money. If you are too small to compete, too bad. If walmart comes in with a better price, it is because they have the buying power to do so. If the local villagers appreciate the local drugstore, they will continue to buy from them. Alternatively, the local drugstore can try to provide something that walmart can't. If not, like all bad businesses, you should close your doors.
If you let market conditions determine things - there is no exploitation. Everyone is free to do what they want. The problem is *this* local drugstore called MB/BMW Canada provides *nothing* better than walmart. Their solution is to team up with the town mayor called TC/RIV and put razor wire around the entrance to Walmart. Want to get in? Entrance fee. Want to bring drugs out? Exit fee. Also that paper bag doesn't meet standards. You need to buy my tissue paper bag before I'll let you out. Don't feel like letting you in? Don't have to. Justification? Don't need that.
Why don't you start with some consistency in what you are saying...
One minute you are saying their prices are ruthlessly lower in the US because "they can spread the costs around more" and then in the next breath you are saying they are doing it because they can ie: (business is business)...etc....
So which is it? In any cases...you can't get your story straight because you do not have an argument and you know it deep down. I don't know what your background or motivations are and I don't care....and frankly it doesn't matter....it won't change anything...facts are facts....
It is true that it is more expensive to do business in Canada....taxes are certainly higher etc. but the justification is not meeting the level of disparity in pricing....keep on yapping...We are on the end of a spear that hurts....
For your theory on how good business practices are not required....
In your words..."Good luck with that"....
Just to be clear....I do not have as much of a problem with their Cnd pricing as I do with their interference in my right to choose as a consumer....these are the bad business practices I am referring to...charge what you want in Canada but get the bleep out of my way when it comes to my right to choose to go across the border and purchase a vehicle in this supposed "free market" environment we have here...
Quite frankly you sound like you are being paid to come in here and spread garbage BS....
The problem is they are artificially shaping what the Canadian market will bear by attempting to box us Canadians in a corner. If more people in Canada continue to realize that we are second class citizens and start crossing the border the prices in Canada should be forced down, the US prices forced up, or both.....
This is the essence of the problem...these manufacturers are bordering on price fixing with some of their tactics...
Supply and demand? Not exactly....Supply and forced demand....
I am trying to import a post sept 1st manufactured Cadillac Escalade. The amendment applies to me. I have an immobilizer, just not CMVSS 114. According to the law, at the time of the RIV inspection I need to prove that the vehicle has an immobilizer one of three ways. 1)purchase agreement showing immobilizer 2) window sticker showing immobilizer 3) letter from manufacturer.
RIV will not release my form 2 until I provide them with a letter from the manufacturer stating that the vehicle has an immobilizer. Apparently, RIV is disregarding the law that we fought to get and have made their own rules which put me back to square one.
I have asked three operators to tell me where in the new law it says that I have to provide them with a letter from the manufacturer. Of course they cannot tell me, they just keep saying that I need the letter.
The incompetence and sheer ignorance is mind boggling.
Can you please give me your case number and some other info by e-mail - Bob or I will see what we can do. We now have a few people we know at the RIV. serge@bergeron.ca www.carswithoutborders.com
One of our members has got their plates for a Sept. 07 build Escalade with factory VIS..
We have heard that some at RIV think the recent Motor Vehicles Regulations amendment and clarified VAFUS Explanations re VIS apply only to vehicles that are in Canada or have a Form 1 Case No. started with RIV. THAT IS NOT CORRECT. I can't believe they are saying this even with the Dec. 21 dated VAFUS.
No much will happen with this until after the New Year but it is a key priority after that.
Well put. They are manipulating demand thru questionable business tactics. They are hindering people from buying from Walmart and Real Canadian Superstore by using loopholes in the law that Ottawa has enpowered them with. They are trying to create a monopoly, to keep prices artificially high, to restrict competition. How any or all of these is not in violation of anti-trust laws is beyond me. (Perhaps the reason is that the parent corporation is not a Canadian company and therefore beyond the reach of Canadian laws? If that is the reason, then it is a bleeping shame!)
Cars that are built to meet the US Motor Vehicle Standards are admissible into Canada. The RIV assist us by publishing the list of vehicles. I noticed from the current list that the big guys Toyota, Honda, GM, Nissan etc all have now been adjusted correctly on the RIV lists. We can import those provided that we have some things called DRL, Immobilizers etc. But why would someone have to call BMW to see if a BMW car is admissible? If it is good for the US it is good for Canada. I know we are talking about common sense but can someone tell me why the BMW car is not on the list - Is the car accepted for the US - yes - no - if yes - you can Go to Canada - Go directly to Canada - if BMW do not smarten up it will be Go to Jail - Go directly to Jail - and you do not pass GO.
Best to get a broker involved. A US box number won't work because you'll need a US drivers license and a US insurance card. You'll also have to pay tax in the state you buy it in..up to 8%. I do this every week, buy vehicles from US dealers and then help with import documents etc. I'm a licensed independent dealer so I can sell in Canada. Let me know if you have further questions. Russ@russbrowning.com Thanks, Russ
Yes that's good to avoid the tax but franchise dealers still can't sell a new car to a Canadian unless it's first sold to an independent dealer... I do it every week !
Hello b75, unfortunately, we all have to pay our super high taxes here. This is another reason why our government are not in a rush to address this price issue. Imagine 25 to 50 percent price reduction on all cars sold here..that means 20-45% less taxes. But if our government look at the big picture, lower prices means that we have more money to spend in other things which means that they will still get that tax from another source which is better for our economy because other businesses can flourish.
Don't be in such a hurry to pay the devil his due. Check out other forums Check out Carburners.com or carstoimport. There are legit ways around the tax. I did it!
I just imported a Highlander from New York on Wednesday. I was able to get an in-transit permit and paid no state tax. I did have to pay the 6.1 duty tax for cars built in Japan and of course the GST and PST and air conditioning tax. My time across both borders was about 20 minutes. Time at the RIV centre in etobicoke about 45 minutes to complete paperwork. Time at Canadian Tire and Licensing bureau = about 20 minutes in total. Altogether the prospect was much worse than the reality for this first time importer.
Has anyone who imported a post sept 1st manufactured vehicle (with an immobilizer but not CMVSS114 compliant) since the new amendment became law gotten a form 2. Is anyone else having trouble getting their form 2?
Are there any Canadians out there who were unable to buy a new Mercedes in the U.S. becasue they refuse to sell to Canadians? Did anyone end up buying a new Mercedes in Canada instead because they couldn't get one in the U.S.?
The new car stores can't sell direct to a Canadian buyer. You have to get an independent dealer to purchase and title the car in the US and then he can transfer the car to you. I do it several times a week. - Russ Browning
To be more specific, I have no choice but to register the vehicle in FL and pay state tax as I need a vehicle now. We don't return to Canada until July.
My question now is:
When I register my vehicle in NS will I have to pay PST on a vehicle that has already been registered in FL for 6 months?
When I moved from BC to NS four years ago, I didn't have to pay PST on a vehicle I purchased and registered in BC when I had it re-registered in NS.
Why should it be any different that my vehicle was previously registered in a State vice a province?
Has anyone had any experience with this? I'm hoping to find out, in this case, I don't have to pay the PST.
Because I have to register the new vehicle in Florida, I'll have to pay state tax.
I don't know whether it is possible, but as a Canadian citizen serving military duty temporarily in Florida on an exchange program, you may qualify for an exemption on the state sales tax.
I''ve been following this forum and others for some time now. I'm looking at importing a Toyota Tundra and have completed some of the legwork. What I would like to know is what is the deal with the Title (Certificate of Origin)? Some of the larger dealers are asking where would the vehicle be titled and when I respond with Canada they email me back and say we will only sell to U.S. I find this odd since I explained up front the vehicle would be exported to Canada. This being the case I get the feeling that they are hinting to say that if I would title in the U.S. then they would begin to deal. What do the dealers actually require other than a promise to title in another state? How do they have control of what you do with it after they sell it to you? Wouldn't you just need a U.S. address for administration purposes and that's about it?
If your relative purchase a new Toyota and resale it to you. You import to Canada. Will Toyota Canada honer the warranty even it is still in warranty period? They can say because you are not the original owner, you are not covered.
Thanks for the tip about getting around taxes. However, the website Carburners.com does not seem to exist, and a search for carstoimport does not result in anything associated with this subject. Can you please check these website names and post them with correct spelling ? I've been searching for some means around state sales taxes and how to drive a vehicle home to Canada from the US without any hassels about license plates or tags. RIV, Canada Customs, nor my provincial motor vehicle department can give me any useful info about getting any kind of permit to drive a vehicle from US to Canada.
Canada Customs did tell me that it is illegal for a Canadian resident to drive a US plated vehicle in Canada, so a US plate will only get me in trouble at the border. Not sure is this also applies to a US temp permit. A few years ago, I did get home on an Alabama temp permit, but later found out that it was only good in Alabama and illegal everywhere else.
Sorry for the worong addresses. Try www.carburner.com and www.importcarcanada.com These should get you where you want to be. The customs people are wrong. It is not illegal for a canadian to drive an american vehicle in canada. All you need as I explained earlier is to get to the border then quickly go to the DVM and get a temp permit. I have known some to drive simply with their form 2 on the dash. m.
Looks like RIV has figured out how the amendment works, very glad for that. Just received my Form 2. I can't wait to drive my new Cadillac Escalade. It is amazing.
If you buy the new Toyota under your name in the MSO, there should be no problem for the warranty. My question is since no Toyota dealer want to sell you a new car, you ask a relative to buy it for you and resell to you as a "used" car. Will Toyota Canada honer the warranty after you bring the car back to Canada as a second hand car?
Yes. You don't have to title it in a private buyers name from the MSO. The car could have 10 owners or more and as long as it's under the warranty period, your covered. Factory warranty is good for anyone that owns the car at the time of warranty request. Just a reminder, your private buyer in the states will have to pay sales tax. Go through a broker.
Last week went down to pick up my new Escalade in Great Falls Montana (savings of 30K). My father came with me; he was looking to purchase a slightly used mini-van, a slightly used truck and a new boat. We went around and priced out all three. When we got back to Alberta he went around and compared prices and found that there was absolutely no savings on all three. Not even a couple of thousand. Looks like there might be some price goudging going on south of the border as well. People are going to have to start going farther south for the deals.
Totally agree with you roned - prospect is much worse than reality. The problem is just the uncertainty caused by RIV with their constantly shifting rules to protect Canadian auto.
My experience in taking a car back to Toronto, ontario: US customs - Totally polite and the agents had a sense of humor. Time= ~10min wait, 5min processing.
Canadian customs - Also polite. You have to fill in Form 1 before you go to the agent. There are clipboards with pens and Form 1 floating near the front. Just grab one before you line up. The form itself is a bit big and overwhelming. Problem I had was the first section was for official use without really specifying, I'm reading the questions thinking - I have no idea... crap! The subsequent sections (separated by big black lines) were okay - Vehicle/Importer info. If *non*-RIV section (think very few people would be using this). If need to go througe RIV section. Payment info. The agent finishes with a official invoice which you then take to another area to pay. Total time = ~30mins. Heart was pounding when I was filling the form but the agent was really okay. My import was a BMW and they did *NOT* ask for a letter of Admissibility - This is more RIV BS.
RIV centre - had to hand in my paperwork. Cannot emphasize enough - make sure you have Vehicle Warranty Inquiry printout with stamp from dealer. RIV will not take dealership letters. Only Canadian Auto letters or the US Vehicle Warranty Inquiry. If you are buying a car make sure your sales agreement includes providing a dealer stamped warranty inquiry. If it is a private sale, make sure you get the seller to get one for you it is much easier for a US citizen to get it. RIV asked for my BMW letter of Admissibility even though it's not mentioned in their description. It's Canadian customs not them. But we all know RIV is the Canadian Auto police force with summary judgment powers (thanks Transport Canada!) Wait time = 30mins. Nervous as hell going through this part.
Canadian Tire - Inspection was short and sweet. Worried about my speed/odometer (speedometer = big mph, small kph. odo = miles) but it passed okay. Not mentioned in RIV, but for ontario there is a Standards Safety Certificate that you also need to get before getting your plates. CanTire can do the inspection for $74.99. RIV inspection ~10mins. SSC inspection ~30mins. Huge sigh of relief when I had my Form2 stamped.
Ontario licensing centre - handed in Title, Form 1, SSC, showed license, insurance. Paid my PST. Got my plates! Total time = ~20mins.
Total savings including hotel, food, gas, two plane tickets, taxes ~CN$16000. Yes the Canadian auto industry *really* wants your business. $5000 rebate! Wow thanks! Thanks for only overcharging me $11000 (including tax).
What..? All 2008 Lexus passenger cars are now INADMISSIBLE now.. All 2008 Lexus WERE admissible on Nov 1st 2007 - Dec 7. 2007 based on the List, until Dec 21, 2007. What in the world is going on at Transport Canada. Why are the manufacturing dictating the list? First it was admissible now it's not!
Since all pre-Sep 1 Lexus are admissible it has to be the immobilizer that has caused them to become inadmissible. That would be caused by Lexus telling Transport Canada something. I wonder what the safety issue is post-Sep 1.
When Transport Canada updated their list it was on Nov 1, 2007 (after the post Sept 1 deadline) is when all the Lexus passenger vehicles was admissible, it was Dec 21, 2007 when all became inadmissible. Not only that.. Lexus is the high end division of Toyota... how could some of their low-end Toyota be admissible and their high end Lexus not. I HIGHLY doubt it has anything to do with safety and the immobilizer. I have phone riv.ca several times before this to confirm if the 2008 Lexus was admissible - they always said YES until now. I have already fired off an email to Transport Canada.. what a mess this importable list is.
www.carswithoutborders.com please update your list about riv.ca. I know you read this forum.
I'm glad your experience was positive as well. I'm a little confused about the safety check as that is not needed with a new car. Did you buy yours used?
Look, this boils down to a simple reason. Its not JUST a line on a map. It's not the line between Washington and Oregon. It is 2 completely different soverign nations. With different currencies, taxes tariffs, etc.
Take a look at Europe. There, cars can be VERY different in price and their economies are more intertwined than the US and Canada. Canadians ARE NOT Americans. You guys simply aren't. I would not go into Canada and expect to do business like I do in America. Different rules and a different playing field.
I suspect that if the selling price in Canada for a model you wanted were half the price of exactly the same model in the U.S. you would be less inclined to draw such sharp distinctions. Just a thought.
A few years ago when the dollar was in reverse "Americans" were coming to Canada by the thousands and DID expect to do business like in America. No, Americans WERE NOT Canadians "they simply wern't"....but they sure expected to be able to buy our Canadian cars and save some $$$ doing so.
If I want to walk into your country to buy a car I am going to do so. End of story.
Why don't we all do ourselves a favor and literally stop responding to this guy. He is obviously on a mission to just tee people off...very counterproductive conversations are going on in here because of him...
This is going to sound very unCanadian but here goes...There are many advantages to being Canadian (read between the lines) but buying cars is not one of them...
Comments
And $9000+ savings is well worth the gouging Mercedes charges, IMO. You're still ahead what - 3-4 months salary at least?
I just got my 08 Maxima (Sept. 07 build with factory VIS) plated today (Ontario).
I took it to Canadian Tire (CT) for the RIV inspection. They told me Daytime Running Light (DRL) activation would have to be done by a Nissan dealer as the BCM (Body Control Module ?) had to be re-programmed and only Nissan have the scan tool to do it. Well, I wasn't about to do that even if they would do it for me.
I took the car to a more specialized auto shop. They installed a module that by-passes the Nissan wiring and activates DRLs through the fog lamps (at low intensity). Not only did it meet the requirements, but it looks way cooler too!
Cheers.
Good luck and hopefully you can save as much as I did
I hope it's reduced-power high beam!
Take for example the following recalls on the 2000 BMW 3 series:
NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 00V048000
THE BRAKE LAMPS IN THESE VEHICLES ARE CONTROLLED BY A SWITCH ACTIVATED BY THE MOVEMENT OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. THIS SWITCH COULD FAIL INTERNALLY, CAUSING IT TO REMAIN EITHER IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS OFF" POSITION OR IN THE "BRAKE LAMPS ON" POSITION.
NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 02V223000
Summary:
ON CERTAIN 4-DOOR PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SIDE AIR BAG SYSTEM COULD DEPLOY IN CERTAIN NON-CRASH IMPACTS, SUCH AS WHEN CONTACTING LARGE POTHOLES OR CURBS AT SUBSTANTIAL SPEEDS.
Consequence:
THIS COULD CAUSE THE SIDE AIR BAG AND HEAD PROTECTION SYSTEM TO DEPLOY WITHOUT AN ACTUAL SIDE CRASH OR IMPACT SEVERE ENOUGH TO CAUSE SIGNIFICANT VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAG COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IF THE OCCUPANT'S HEAD IS RESTING NEAR THE SIDE AIR BAG.
Do you honestly think BMW has any legal leg to stand on by withholding this information in this matter of safety, with the possible and real consequence of driver death? By charging $500 for this information, the court will deem the information to be effectively withheld, given the large cost being charged.
Have worked out a price on a new truck, the manufacturer won't let it dealers in the US sell to Canadians. The salesman wants me to get a US box to use on the invoice, then I would export the truck. Looking for advice on this situation, I am a little hestitant to go this way.
volvomax - you are right in saying businesses have the freedom to charge whatever they want. What ever the market will bear. Demand and supply. I remember my basic economics and it does make sense to me. I also understand that the principal of any business is to make money. Some make it with honour and integrity, others don't but that's okay too.
What is *NOT* okay is for them to obstruct, and hinder me in doing what *I* want to do. What is *NOT* okay is for the government to assist them.
If I sell a rose for $100 and some guy next to me sells it for $1, that is fine. Nothing wrong with me setting my price at $100 and him at $1. If people buy my rose, great for me, if not, that is my problem. What is wrong is when someone buys it from the $1 guy and I say "sure, buy it, but I won't let you bring it to your girlfriend". Only my rose is allowed to be brought to your girlfriend. This is no longer freemarket. This is not "charging what the market will bear". This is monopolizing the supply and then fixing the price.
The example was Walmart undercutting the local drugstore.
The man who owns the local drugstore,who cannot compete at the lower price would say that Walmart is exploiting the situation for its own gain and to harm the drug store owner.
The consumer that shops at Walmart benefits, hence the smart shopping, at the expense of the local shopowner.
volvomax - clearly you understand that businesses are here to make money. If you are too small to compete, too bad. If walmart comes in with a better price, it is because they have the buying power to do so. If the local villagers appreciate the local drugstore, they will continue to buy from them. Alternatively, the local drugstore can try to provide something that walmart can't. If not, like all bad businesses, you should close your doors.
If you let market conditions determine things - there is no exploitation. Everyone is free to do what they want. The problem is *this* local drugstore called MB/BMW Canada provides *nothing* better than walmart. Their solution is to team up with the town mayor called TC/RIV and put razor wire around the entrance to Walmart. Want to get in? Entrance fee. Want to bring drugs out? Exit fee. Also that paper bag doesn't meet standards. You need to buy my tissue paper bag before I'll let you out. Don't feel like letting you in? Don't have to. Justification? Don't need that.
One minute you are saying their prices are ruthlessly lower in the US because "they can spread the costs around more" and then in the next breath you are saying they are doing it because they can ie: (business is business)...etc....
So which is it? In any cases...you can't get your story straight because you do not have an argument and you know it deep down. I don't know what your background or motivations are and I don't care....and frankly it doesn't matter....it won't change anything...facts are facts....
It is true that it is more expensive to do business in Canada....taxes are certainly higher etc. but the justification is not meeting the level of disparity in pricing....keep on yapping...We are on the end of a spear that hurts....
For your theory on how good business practices are not required....
In your words..."Good luck with that"....
Just to be clear....I do not have as much of a problem with their Cnd pricing as I do with their interference in my right to choose as a consumer....these are the bad business practices I am referring to...charge what you want in Canada but get the bleep out of my way when it comes to my right to choose to go across the border and purchase a vehicle in this supposed "free market" environment we have here...
Quite frankly you sound like you are being paid to come in here and spread garbage BS....
Cheers
This is the essence of the problem...these manufacturers are bordering on price fixing with some of their tactics...
Supply and demand? Not exactly....Supply and forced demand....
Cheers
RIV will not release my form 2 until I provide them with a letter from the manufacturer stating that the vehicle has an immobilizer. Apparently, RIV is disregarding the law that we fought to get and have made their own rules which put me back to square one.
I have asked three operators to tell me where in the new law it says that I have to provide them with a letter from the manufacturer. Of course they cannot tell me, they just keep saying that I need the letter.
The incompetence and sheer ignorance is mind boggling.
Anyone else having this problem.
Post a note on this at carswithoutborders.com
One of our members has got their plates for a Sept. 07 build Escalade with factory VIS..
We have heard that some at RIV think the recent Motor Vehicles Regulations amendment and clarified VAFUS Explanations re VIS apply only to vehicles that are in Canada or have a Form 1 Case No. started with RIV. THAT IS NOT CORRECT. I can't believe they are saying this even with the Dec. 21 dated VAFUS.
No much will happen with this until after the New Year but it is a key priority after that.
Well put. They are manipulating demand thru questionable business tactics. They are hindering people from buying from Walmart and Real Canadian Superstore by using loopholes in the law that Ottawa has enpowered them with. They are trying to create a monopoly, to keep prices artificially high, to restrict competition. How any or all of these is not in violation of anti-trust laws is beyond me. (Perhaps the reason is that the parent corporation is not a Canadian company and therefore beyond the reach of Canadian laws? If that is the reason, then it is a bleeping shame!)
But why would someone have to call BMW to see if a BMW car is admissible? If it is good for the US it is good for Canada. I know we are talking about common sense but can someone tell me why the BMW car is not on the list - Is the car accepted for the US - yes - no - if yes - you can Go to Canada - Go directly to Canada -
if BMW do not smarten up it will be Go to Jail - Go directly to Jail - and you do not pass GO.
Best to get a broker involved. A US box number won't work because you'll need a US drivers license and a US insurance card. You'll also have to pay tax in the state you buy it in..up to 8%. I do this every week, buy vehicles from US dealers and then help with import documents etc. I'm a licensed independent dealer so I can sell in Canada. Let me know if you have further questions. Russ@russbrowning.com
Thanks,
Russ
Cheers
I'm not looking for sympathy here but I think I have an interesting case:
I'm in the Canadian military and serving in Florida on an exchange. I've been here for 2.5 years and return to Canada in July.
I need a new vehicle.
Because I have to register the new vehicle in Florida, I'll have to pay state tax.
When I bring the vehicle across the border I'll have to pay GST.
When I register the vehicle in NS, I'll have to pay PST.
On a $30,000 vehicle, I'll be paying $6400 in taxes.
How's that for a welcome home to the "Great" white north?
At least since we're being gouged on prices in Canada, I'm still saving money...
Cheers
To be more specific, I have no choice but to register the vehicle in FL and pay state tax as I need a vehicle now. We don't return to Canada until July.
My question now is:
When I register my vehicle in NS will I have to pay PST on a vehicle that has already been registered in FL for 6 months?
When I moved from BC to NS four years ago, I didn't have to pay PST on a vehicle I purchased and registered in BC when I had it re-registered in NS.
Why should it be any different that my vehicle was previously registered in a State vice a province?
Has anyone had any experience with this? I'm hoping to find out, in this case, I don't have to pay the PST.
Thanks
I don't know whether it is possible, but as a Canadian citizen serving military duty temporarily in Florida on an exchange program, you may qualify for an exemption on the state sales tax.
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
Russ
Thanks for the tip about getting around taxes. However, the website Carburners.com does not seem to exist, and a search for carstoimport does not result in anything associated with this subject. Can you please check these website names and post them with correct spelling ? I've been searching for some means around state sales taxes and how to drive a vehicle home to Canada from the US without any hassels about license plates or tags. RIV, Canada Customs, nor my provincial motor vehicle department can give me any useful info about getting any kind of permit to drive a vehicle from US to Canada.
Canada Customs did tell me that it is illegal for a Canadian resident to drive a US plated vehicle in Canada, so a US plate will only get me in trouble at the border. Not sure is this also applies to a US temp permit. A few years ago, I did get home on an Alabama temp permit, but later found out that it was only good in Alabama and illegal everywhere else.
These should get you where you want to be.
The customs people are wrong. It is not illegal for a canadian to drive an american vehicle in canada.
All you need as I explained earlier is to get to the border then quickly go to the DVM and get a temp permit. I have known some to drive simply with their form 2 on the dash.
m.
Cheers
Factory warranty is good for anyone that owns the car at the time of warranty request. Just a reminder, your private buyer in the states will have to pay sales tax. Go through a broker.
all Toyota models made after Sept 1 are admissible in the latest riv list (p23-24)
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf
BTW, could you tell me if your US dealer is still selling to Canadians? If so could you send dealer info to cawxy@yahoo.com? thx.
My experience in taking a car back to Toronto, ontario:
US customs - Totally polite and the agents had a sense of humor. Time= ~10min wait, 5min processing.
Canadian customs - Also polite. You have to fill in Form 1 before you go to the agent. There are clipboards with pens and Form 1 floating near the front. Just grab one before you line up. The form itself is a bit big and overwhelming. Problem I had was the first section was for official use without really specifying, I'm reading the questions thinking - I have no idea... crap! The subsequent sections (separated by big black lines) were okay - Vehicle/Importer info. If *non*-RIV section (think very few people would be using this). If need to go througe RIV section. Payment info. The agent finishes with a official invoice which you then take to another area to pay. Total time = ~30mins. Heart was pounding when I was filling the form but the agent was really okay. My import was a BMW and they did *NOT* ask for a letter of Admissibility - This is more RIV BS.
RIV centre - had to hand in my paperwork. Cannot emphasize enough - make sure you have Vehicle Warranty Inquiry printout with stamp from dealer. RIV will not take dealership letters. Only Canadian Auto letters or the US Vehicle Warranty Inquiry. If you are buying a car make sure your sales agreement includes providing a dealer stamped warranty inquiry. If it is a private sale, make sure you get the seller to get one for you it is much easier for a US citizen to get it. RIV asked for my BMW letter of Admissibility even though it's not mentioned in their description. It's Canadian customs not them. But we all know RIV is the Canadian Auto police force with summary judgment powers (thanks Transport Canada!) Wait time = 30mins. Nervous as hell going through this part.
Canadian Tire - Inspection was short and sweet. Worried about my speed/odometer (speedometer = big mph, small kph. odo = miles) but it passed okay. Not mentioned in RIV, but for ontario there is a Standards Safety Certificate that you also need to get before getting your plates. CanTire can do the inspection for $74.99. RIV inspection ~10mins. SSC inspection ~30mins. Huge sigh of relief when I had my Form2 stamped.
Ontario licensing centre - handed in Title, Form 1, SSC, showed license, insurance. Paid my PST. Got my plates! Total time = ~20mins.
Total savings including hotel, food, gas, two plane tickets, taxes ~CN$16000. Yes the Canadian auto industry *really* wants your business. $5000 rebate! Wow thanks! Thanks for only overcharging me $11000 (including tax).
www.carswithoutborders.com please update your list about riv.ca. I know you read this forum.
Its not JUST a line on a map.
It's not the line between Washington and Oregon.
It is 2 completely different soverign nations.
With different currencies, taxes tariffs, etc.
Take a look at Europe.
There, cars can be VERY different in price and their economies are more intertwined than the US and Canada.
Canadians ARE NOT Americans.
You guys simply aren't.
I would not go into Canada and expect to do business like I do in America.
Different rules and a different playing field.
I suspect that if the selling price in Canada for a model you wanted were half the price of exactly the same model in the U.S. you would be less inclined to draw such sharp distinctions. Just a thought.
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
Have you heard of NAFTA? and in Europe the auto maker are doing the same thing right now as in North America except they got sue and lose.
This is just one case:
VW Is Fined $111 Million in Antitrust Case
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C00EFDA173AF93AA15752C0A96E95826- - - - - 0
And currently there are 2 class action lawsuit, one in the US and one in Canada on the same topic. Toyota has settled in the US for $35 Millions.
If I want to walk into your country to buy a car I am going to do so. End of story.
Why don't we all do ourselves a favor and literally stop responding to this guy. He is obviously on a mission to just tee people off...very counterproductive conversations are going on in here because of him...
This is going to sound very unCanadian but here goes...There are many advantages to being Canadian (read between the lines) but buying cars is not one of them...
Cheers