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Importing an SL from Canada, Japan Version, into USA

477 Views 4 Replies 3 Participants Last post by  khomer2, 
waybomb
Looking at an 04 r230 SL600, Vin WDB2304761F082116.
It's a Japan version, with license plate holder for Mexico.Asia, according to the build for the VIN. Not very USA.

How do I determine if this car can be imported into the US. I would not want to modify anything to meet EPA regs.
Are all later model Mercedes such as this one EPA compliant?
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khomer2
waybomb said:
Looking at an 04 r230 SL600, Vin WDB2304761F082116.
It's a Japan version, with license plate holder for Mexico.Asia, according to the build for the VIN. Not very USA.

How do I determine if this car can be imported into the US. I would not want to modify anything to meet EPA regs.
Are all later model Mercedes such as this one EPA compliant?
Click to expand...
Have you done some additional homework to clarify importing into the US?
usacustomsclearance.com

Your Ultimate Guide to Importing Cars to USA | USA Customs Clearance

The process for importing cars to USA comes wrought with emission testing, regulations and manufacturer issues. A customs broker can be your driving coach.
usacustomsclearance.com usacustomsclearance.com

I think you're going to run into issues even if the Japanese version comes into USA, indirectly.
The first hurdle is age requirement issue, which I dont believe your SL600 even qualifies for. (Only 16 years, possibly 15 only, depending on the month day of manufacture)
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khomer2
Kajtek1 said:
You have to call your state offices as this is what will be applied.
Each car has a label, either on the engine valve cover on in the engine compartment that will say "compliant with Federal (state emission laws) "
If it doesn't have it, you need to contact MB representative and get a letter that it does.
If you don't get such letter- the car will be part donor.
I was considering importing Canadian Smart diesel to California and I had to deal with 3 government agencies that don't communicate between themselves.
Refusal from any of them would stop me from registering the car. That can easy turn into nightmare.
Click to expand...
Kajtek1,
All of this is true, however, if it doesnt meet the first criteria (age requirement), you're SOL.
No department will sign-off.
If you want to bring it in, parted (in piece meal), that's another story.
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