WOW ---- New cars from US up to 30% cheaper (cost to import under $200)

[djs5916]

Just a thought that probably many have had.

Why not compare one of the lucky post Sept-1-2007 manufactured vehicles that managed to be exported into Canada with the equivalent model off the dealership floor?

I've been looking for a 2008 Toyota Sienna and noted that a couple of posters had managed to get their new ones in before the deadline. I wonder if you could take a test drive with an automotive electrician/mechanic and a video camera and compare a Canadian model, supposedly with an approved immobilizer with the US model. Post the video on youtube.com and send memos with references to government agencies and the media, who would be very interested, I'm sure!

The same procedure could be used to compare anything on the inadmissibility list! There are probably a few lucky individuals who have frequented this forum and might be persuaded to compare their "inadmissible" vehicles with their Canadian counterparts. It would make for a brilliant documentary! Maybe someone in the CBC might be willing to expose the double-standards.

[diigii]

Thanks for the reply. May I ask where you got the information? The Dealer I'm currently talking to believed that It didn't have the electronic lock and immobilizer system but wasn't sure.

EDIT: I feel silly I just see your avatar now ;) Did you go through this process as well? Would you have any suggestions about dealers? I'm currently speaking with Koeppel nissan in the Bronx.

It should have the electronic lock and immobilizer system since the coupe shares the system with the sedan. I'm also surprised to see that the 2008 4-dr Altima is inadmissible.

I bought my 2007 Altima 4-dr in Maryland last Aug 27. I went thru the whole process, which was easy and no sweat at all.

[WalterQ]

It's true, I posted about this when they did the last update a couple of weeks ago.

It's really too bad, but I can't imagine what would be different!


Answer - nothing is different; in fact the high end Veracruz has the immobilizer.

Looks like Hyundai has opted for the most elegant means to cut off the cross border trade ... looks more effective than Toyota's "dealer just say no" and Honda's "warranty not valid" approaches.

[longdong]

I don't really understand people. Why do you bother to discuss with the saleman and try to argue with him the price discrepancy between Canada and US ? please don't try to put him in a situation that he couldn't answer. The answer is coming from Subaru Canada and Subaru America. At least Subaru does allow us to buy a subie from US. So if we put pressure on local dealers, the onlyway they can do is to put the pressure on Subaru Canada and then Subaru Canada will put the pressure on Subaru America. And then one day, Subaru will close the door as well.

Think twice, it doesn't help if you try to beat the saleman with price (he must earn his living too ... but unfortunely he will earn less because of pricing policy from Subaru canada)





Centaur Subaru here in Calgary told me the exact opposite. Gave me the usual BS when I asked about an '08 Legacy Spec B:

- The imported car will be "worthless" for trade-in
- Centaur doesn't take US trade-ins so that's what makes the trade-in worthless
- Subaru is now offering excellent incentives ($1500 off, LOL), so buy here in Canada

The deal offered was this on the '08 Legacy Spec B:

- $44,995 + freight/PDI (around 1,800 I think)
- Cash incentive was $1,500 off, plus he was confident he could get me 5% off MSRP, LOL
- Total was roughly 45,600 out the door if I paid cash

I pointed out I could get the same car for US$32,500 + GST and RIV fee in Seattle. And the above was the best they would do.

The best part was he claimed business was great since the incentives were announced, and that they'd sold 4 cars that day. Uh-huh. The showroom was dead when I went. Which 4 cars were those, base Imprezas???

I feel a little bad because the sales guy was otherwise very nice and courteous, but come on...

[ac328]

I don't really understand people. Why do you bother to discuss with the saleman and try to argue with him the price discrepancy between Canada and US ? please don't try to put him in a situation that he couldn't answer. The answer is coming from Subaru Canada and Subaru America. At least Subaru does allow us to buy a subie from US. So if we put pressure on local dealers, the onlyway they can do is to put the pressure on Subaru Canada and then Subaru Canada will put the pressure on Subaru America. And then one day, Subaru will close the door as well.

Think twice, it doesn't help if you try to beat the saleman with price (he must earn his living too ... but unfortunely he will earn less because of pricing policy from Subaru canada)

Huh? I don't think me mentioning the obvious to the salesman will somehow cause Subaru Canada to change its policies. They already changed their warranty policy for 2008 models, did I cause that as well?

If Subaru Canada manages to get Subaru of America to close the door, it will be because of flat sales in Canada, not people comparison shopping in showrooms.

Oh, and FWIW I think Subaru is insane in how they price the Legacy here vs. the US, they basically want BMW and Infiniti money whereas down there the MSRP is far more realistic...

My comments were partly in response to another poster pointing out that a Canadian Subaru salesperson told him to go and buy in the US...

[showMeAnImport]

Hi folks, I'm looking for a bit of help, I've already posted in the Guide to import thread thread.

I'm trying to import a 2008 3.5 SE Nissan Altima Coupe. I don't know how to obtain the exact list of modifications needed to pass the federal inspection. I've already contacted the RIV and they do not have the exact info about the car. They suggested contacting Nissan USA who don't know either, they knew what was needed to import a Canadian car to the states but not the other way around. They suggested contacting the Canadian side. Nissan Canada can't help they said they had no idea and to contact the RIV.

What do I need to do?

This just makes me further think that RIV is in bed with the manufacturers. How the F**k can RIV not know what needs to be changed for a vehicle?!?!?!? Surely to god they are telling Canadian Tire what needs to be present or not present for a given vehicle to pass "Import inspection". They're the Registry of Import Vehicles for God sake. If they won't enforce things who will??!?!? Something is really fishy here...My guess is that they were extremely busy when you called and you got a weiner on the phone that wasn't very helpful to you. If you look carefully at the admissibility list there is a legend that describes symbols located next cars in the list. Eg: "*" next to a vehicle means that the bumpers need to be changed etc....That was my understanding when I looked at it anyway...

[showMeAnImport]

I still cannot believe there is no protection in place for people who are getting royally screwed over. Based on my understanding people are getting their vehicles across the border (ie: vehicle was still admissible at time of border crossing) but then by the time they completed the importation process on the Canadian side of the border (inspection, forms, etc) it has become inadmissible. This is absolute ********. The only way to protect Canadians from the hardship, financial and otherwise, that goes along with this situation is to make it a rule that as long as it was admissible at the time you crossed the border you are allowed to complete the process and import the vehicle. This is absolutely crazy that the Canadian government is letting this happen to Canadians...What the hell are you supposed to do when you have paid for an expensive car that you can't drive or sell!?!?!?!?!?!

That is the ultimate problem here isn't it? Once you get the car over the border you can't take it back to the US to even have a chance of selling it, due to some other restrictions? Is my understanding correct? Anyone?

Cheers

[Vidman]

I think they almost need to post a 30 day notice of any changes to admissability.
A car purchase can take a better part of a week (at least) especially with the 72 hour export law. If I agree to buy from a dealer on Monday, it would likely be 10 days until I can bring the car into Canada (give or take a few days) What If I drop my bank draft in the mail and the next day they change the admissability? Unless I have a really nice, understanding dealer, I am SOL...

[Luds]

This just makes me further think that RIV is in bed with the manufacturers. How the F**k can RIV not know what needs to be changed for a vehicle?!?!?!? Surely to god they are telling Canadian Tire what needs to be present or not present for a given vehicle to pass "Import inspection". They're the Registry of Import Vehicles for God sake. If they won't enforce things who will??!?!? Something is really fishy here...My guess is that they were extremely busy when you called and you got a weiner on the phone that wasn't very helpful to you. If you look carefully at the admissibility list there is a legend that describes symbols located next cars in the list. Eg: "*" next to a vehicle means that the bumpers need to be changed etc....That was my understanding when I looked at it anyway...

I called twice, got a similar answer both times. Either they don't know what needs to be done for 2008 cars as they both told me that they usually have a list of changes needed for any given model and year, or they are simply incompetent.

The problem with the RIV list for NISSAN is that it only lists a few INADMISSIBLE cars including the 2008 Sentra and Altima Sedan. It simply states that all other cars than the ones in the INADMISSIBLE list are admissible, therefore no info like ** or >.

[showMeAnImport]

Came accross a tool that will enable you to readily diff changes between a pair of PDF docs..

http://www.softinterface.com/MD%5CCompare-PDF-File.htm

Cheers

[MsDarkDiva]

I'm trying to import a 2008 3.5 SE Nissan Altima Coupe.

Luds... I'm trying to do the same with a 2008 Nissan Rogue. Since you're also from QC, let me ask you- will you be going with a 3rd party warranty? If so with whom? I'm having some trouble finding a company that covers Quebec (a couple of Canadian companies that I have found exclude Quebec and the only one I did find (so far) in the province, only works through dealerships. *sigh*).

[showMeAnImport]

I called twice, got a similar answer both times. Either they don't know what needs to be done for 2008 cars as they both told me that they usually have a list of changes needed for any given model and year, or they are simply incompetent.

The problem with the RIV list for NISSAN is that it only lists a few INADMISSIBLE cars including the 2008 Sentra and Altima Sedan. It simply states that all other cars than the ones in the INADMISSIBLE list are admissible, therefore no info like ** or >.

To be honest I just assumed that this meant that "all other cars" needed no changes. They usually seem to point out specifically any odd ball cars and tell you to read the notes section etc....

[showMeAnImport]

Am my understanding correct? --->

As long as your car is on the "admissible list", regardless of whether it is a 2008 or 2007 (or whether it was manufacturer before or after Sept 1), you only need a recall letter from the manufacturer right? You only need to provide an admissibility letter if the car is on the admissible list and it has a special note in the notes section that tells you you need proof of admission, correct?

Thanks

[Raikkonen]

Please post up examples of *Canadian Honda Dealers selling American cars. Thanks.

[Rocha70]

Hey everybody.

My mom is looking at getting a 2008 Toyota Camry and she's having a bit of a problem getting a dealer that doesn't tell her that she has to pay the state tax.

Does anyone have any leads on a Toyota dealership?

Thanks.

[Luds]

Luds... I'm trying to do the same with a 2008 Nissan Rogue. Since you're also from QC, let me ask you- will you be going with a 3rd party warranty? If so with whom? I'm having some trouble finding a company that covers Quebec (a couple of Canadian companies that I have found exclude Quebec and the only one I did find (so far) in the province, only works through dealerships. *sigh*).

I will go with www.ensurall.com they have en extended 5 year warranty for 1000$.

Have you found a dealer? I'm going through every dealer in NY state, Vermont, and the Detroit area and going through their inventory to find the specific color and all. I also emailed dealers as close as Watertown to see how long it takes to order a new one.

[J233]

Unfortunately, you are probably out of luck. Technically, I believe you would be able to import if you got a letter from the manufacturer but your chances of getting that are probably zero. The reason it's inadmissible is that the manufacturer didn't supply it to RIV so why would you be able to get it. Also you'd probably be required to show that it's admissible for all other things RIV checks for (bumpers, child seats, ...) since there's nothing stating that it's inadmissible simply because of 114 (from the date, we all assume that you are correct and that it's because of the immobilizer but on paper there's probably nothing to support that).

Right. Any 2008 Enclave model, pre or post Sept 2007 is inadmissible.

[Bullseye]

Unfortunately, our rising CND$, hasn't corresponded to lower gas prices. In January 07, crude oil was at about $110CND barrel while gas was at under $0.90L. Now oil prices are about $80CND barrel (i.e. 25% cheaper) but we're paying about $1.05L (i.e. 15% more) !!!

Basically we should be paying $0.70L or less for gas companies in Canada to be making the same profit they were making in January !!! (obviously there's more to making gas than just crude oil prices but those costs haven't really changed since January so if the oil companies could sell at $0.90 and make a profit, there is no reason we are paying $1.05 now other then lining their already very deep pockets)

You've actually got it backwards, Canadians are getting a great deal on gas right now because of our strong dollar. Not sure where your numbers came from, but oil was $54/barrel in Jan 07, and it's $94/barrel right now*. So while oil had risen a whopping 74% in that period, gas prices are only up 10-15%.

The reason for this is that oil is priced in USD, even though we're making it here. So when the dollar goes up, gas gets cheaper for us. If it weren't for the dollar skyrocketing, we'd be seeing $1.30-1.50 at the pumps right now, and the high prices being featured in news articles every day.

* Source;

http://www.limperiale.ca/Canada-English/Files/Investors_Refsup/cruprices.pdf

[shopper-X]

Please post up examples of Honda Dealers selling American cars. Thanks.

Dealer: HAMBURG HONDA @ (905)357-2471
Model: 2007 Ridgeline (http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/details.aspx?vlotid=117124&adid=6359066)
Click on the 4th photo and you will see the outer speedometer is MPH
The photo of the compliance label is missing the Maple Leaf making this Canadian made vehicle an American vehicle.
Also a 2006 Ridgeline (http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/details.aspx?vlotid=117124&adid=6359050&m=1)

[Raikkonen]

Dealer: HAMBURG HONDA @ (905)357-2471
Model: 2007 Ridgeline (http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/details.aspx?vlotid=117124&adid=6359066)
Click on the 4th photo and you will see the outer speedometer is MPH
The photo of the compliance label is missing the Maple Leaf making this Canadian made vehicle an American vehicle.
Also a 2006 Ridgeline (http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/details.aspx?vlotid=117124&adid=6359050&m=1)

Yes, thank you, saw that one. Are there others please? ;) I'm writing another letter.

[giaotze]

I have a question for the old Subaru owner. I know a lot of people are like me, never really look deep into Subaru car until recent time. I always had an impression that Subaru cars have high maintenance cost, ie. expensive parts and labour. Is that true? Subaru Tribeca seems very impressive and good value, so I just want to make sure that they are fair with their after service.
Thanks for all the helps! :D :D :!:

[bluemule999]

I had my heart set on a 2008 Altima 3.5 sedan. I waited for the RIV list to change, but given the dollar drop, possible drop in used car prices (loosing money on my current Jetta), I decided to by my Subaru Legacy GT Limited. I pick it up on Fri from NH. No regrets and happy that I will have AWD. Nissan's lose, Subaru's gain!!!

It should have the electronic lock and immobilizer system since the coupe shares the system with the sedan. I'm also surprised to see that the 2008 4-dr Altima is inadmissible.

I bought my 2007 Altima 4-dr in Maryland last Aug 27. I went thru the whole process, which was easy and no sweat at all.

[mapoitras]

After doing some research, I have found that the CMVSS 114 rule is based on a ULC standard called ULC-S338

see below
http://www.ulc.ca/downloads/Connections_Quarterly_Q1_2004.pdf

This site explains that ULC-S338 certified systems can be installed after market
http://www.ibc.ca/en/Insurance_Crime/Prevention_Investigation/Immobilizers/FAQs_CSTDS.asp

Or ig you read here the brag about how some manufacturers already support this standard AND you can also get it after-market.

According to this article, we should be able to buy a third party system that meets this requirement. There are companies in Ottawa that make them and install them.
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/pw/theft.htm

So why is this such a problem and why can't we just install it after market like the running day lights?

[EZ2Import]

Yes, thank you, saw that one. Are there others please? ;) I'm writing another letter.


Found this one:

http://www.mcfaddenhonda.ca/usedautos/searchresult.asp?selecttype=Truck&selectmake=Honda&selectyear=%25&selectdollar=100000&selectsort=Category&Submit=Filter

[mapoitras]

I'm looking for a US based BMW or Lexus dealer that is willing to sell to Canadians.

[EZ2Import]

I had my heart set on a 2008 Altima 3.5 sedan. I waited for the RIV list to change, but given the dollar drop, possible drop in used car prices (loosing money on my current Jetta), I decided to by my Subaru Legacy GT Limited. I pick it up on Fri from NH. No regrets and happy that I will have AWD. Nissan's lose, Subaru's gain!!!

Congrats on your purchase!

I'm waiting for Honda to smarten up, but doesn't look like that will happen anytime soon. I'll be jumping onto the Subaru bandwagon too - they're great products. Honda's loss, Subaru's gain.

[Raikkonen]

Found this one:

http://www.mcfaddenhonda.ca/usedautos/searchresult.asp?selecttype=Truck&selectmake=Honda&selectyear=%25&selectdollar=100000&selectsort=Category&Submit=Filter

Thanks very much.

[tweetie]

so the temporary transit is only required from the USA side, nothing is needed on the canadian side?

Depends on the province I think. I bought a US state permit and when I came back to BC, I was told to stop at teh first ICBC agent across the border and purchase a temporary BC permit since the US one was no longer valid.

[baboo]

I would appriecate a correction article placed in your next “Wheels” section to make sure that people are not pushed into the wrong path for no reason. Also Next time you should get your FULL facts and figures before publishing a article with such an impact on society.

I know...i got so mad when I read that article. It was so misleading that is unreal...:mad:

Well, let's see if they correct that in the next publication...which should be out tomorrow.....

[baboo]

I just called GM and they verified that the "Recall clearances letter" which cost only $26.50 two weeks ago, is now $250!!!
This is for a piece of paper which in reality they should provide free of charge to owners of their vehicles.

Shame on them.There is no other explanation but to call this for what it is, "highway robbery".Apparently the cost of a simple click on the keyboard has been raised ten folds.
I am enraged,GM is simply stealing my money.
If I ever hear someone defrauding GM,they'll have my full blessing.

Amazing how they just pull any tricks they can to try to screw consumers....Like how BMW charges you $500 for that letter.

On the other hand, when I called Subaru America for the recall letter, the girl on the phone was so polite and nice, and even assigned me a case number so I can call back if I don't get it the next day.....:cheesygri

[collector]

This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.

Here are some pictures of my new Tribeca:


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1653/111307tribeca25001ia5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[michelb]

You've actually got it backwards, Canadians are getting a great deal on gas right now because of our strong dollar. Not sure where your numbers came from, but oil was $54/barrel in Jan 07, and it's $94/barrel right now*. So while oil had risen a whopping 74% in that period, gas prices are only up 10-15%.

The reason for this is that oil is priced in USD, even though we're making it here. So when the dollar goes up, gas gets cheaper for us. If it weren't for the dollar skyrocketing, we'd be seeing $1.30-1.50 at the pumps right now, and the high prices being featured in news articles every day.

* Source;

http://www.limperiale.ca/Canada-English/Files/Investors_Refsup/cruprices.pdf

I stand corrected (I was repeating an article I saw - not sure where they got their figures but you are right, they are incorrect). Last December (one year ago), crude oil was about $63US while the CND$ was about $0.87US making crude approx. $72.50CND and gas prices were about $0.92/L. Now it's $95US while the dollar is about $1.04US making crude approx $91CND and gas prices are about $1.06/L so crude's gone up approx 25% (after the CND$ gain is factored in) and gas price have only gone up 15%. (data from http://www.gasbuddy.com/gb_retail_price_chart.aspx?time=12 and http://ca.finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=CADUSD=X&t=1y)

Sorry for the misinformation (yet another sign that you can't always believe what you read on the internet >:( ).

[mingler]

Just a thought that probably many have had.

Why not compare one of the lucky post Sept-1-2007 manufactured vehicles that managed to be exported into Canada with the equivalent model off the dealership floor?

I've been looking for a 2008 Toyota Sienna and noted that a couple of posters had managed to get their new ones in before the deadline. I wonder if you could take a test drive with an automotive electrician/mechanic and a video camera and compare a Canadian model, supposedly with an approved immobilizer with the US model. Post the video on youtube.com and send memos with references to government agencies and the media, who would be very interested, I'm sure!

The same procedure could be used to compare anything on the inadmissibility list! There are probably a few lucky individuals who have frequented this forum and might be persuaded to compare their "inadmissible" vehicles with their Canadian counterparts. It would make for a brilliant documentary! Maybe someone in the CBC might be willing to expose the double-standards.

I agree. Maybe Michael Moore can make a documentary about this. :cheesygri

[Sentinels]

Anyone have any more input regarding exporting from US a vehicle with MSO that is not under your name but under your friend/relative? And then being able to import and register the vehicle in Canada? This is currently the situation which I am facing, I've heard it can be done by indicating yourself as a transporter during the US export process and then once you get to the Canadian customs you can show a private bill of sale to you.

Is there some type of form or documentation required to be a transporter to export vehicle if you have the MSO but under a different name? Thx in advance.

[Beradon]

Luds... I'm trying to do the same with a 2008 Nissan Rogue. Don't mean to intrude but the last time I checked, the RIV listed the Rogue as Inadmissable.

I'm having some trouble finding a company that covers Quebec (a couple of Canadian companies that I have found exclude Quebec and the only one I did find (so far) in the province, only works through dealerships. *sigh*).Lubrico is a good company to check out. Failing that, get a mebership with the APA and they'll find you a reputable 3rd party warranty company. BTW; some here have stated Nissan Canada does provide warranty on imported US vehicles.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Maybe what some say that it would be great to have one currency in North America is good. At least the stinking car manufacturers woudln't have any more excuses about the pricing schemes between the USA and Canada....

Hmmm, nah, come to think of it, they'd probably invent some new BS to cover their gouging.

I'm sure idiotic BMW would still use the stupid excuse that Florida sells more BMW's than all of Canada :) haha

[Luds]

Don't mean to intrude but the last time I checked, the RIV listed the Rogue as Inadmissable.

Lubrico is a good company to check out. Failing that, get a mebership with the APA and they'll find you a reputable 3rd party warranty company. BTW; some here have stated Nissan Canada does provide warranty on imported US vehicles.

The 2008 Rogue is not listed as inadmissible. The NISSAN inadmissible list has the following:

2008 Mazima, Altima 4 doors Sedan, Sentra SER, 350Z
1992-93 Sentra with passive restraint system
1992 240X convertible

[Rehan]

The 2008 Rogue is not listed as inadmissible. The NISSAN inadmissible list has the following:

2008 Mazima, Altima 4 doors Sedan, Sentra SER, 350Z
1992-93 Sentra with passive restraint system
1992 240X convertible But look in Section 5.4...
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/Section5_4.htm

[Luds]

But look in Section 5.4...
http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/Section5_4.htm

:eek:
I stand corrected.

Any idea where I can get the information on specific ports needed to be modified for an 2008 Altima Coupe? RIV and Nissan Canada & USA didn't know.

[jzy]

Does anyone know the hours of operation for the RIV office at Etobicoke? Thank you very much!:)

[spdztr]

CONGRATS! I love the colour!

This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.

Here are some pictures of my new Tribeca:


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1653/111307tribeca25001ia5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[elmst200]

how long did you drive from Ajax ontario to NH? 15hours one way?

This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.

Here are some pictures of my new Tribeca:


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1653/111307tribeca25001ia5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Luds]

Does anyone know the hours of operation for the RIV office at Etobicoke? Thank you very much!:)

There are offices outside of Toronto?

[leseuldaniel]

Nice, I am looking for the same car!

If you don't mind telling, how much did you pay from Manchester? And what was your actual fuel consumption for the return trip?

Thanks and congratulations!


This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.

Here are some pictures of my new Tribeca:


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1653/111307tribeca25001ia5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[elmst200]

how much change of U.S. gas price during the same period of time when oil price changed from $54/barrel to $94/barrel?


You've actually got it backwards, Canadians are getting a great deal on gas right now because of our strong dollar. Not sure where your numbers came from, but oil was $54/barrel in Jan 07, and it's $94/barrel right now*. So while oil had risen a whopping 74% in that period, gas prices are only up 10-15%.

The reason for this is that oil is priced in USD, even though we're making it here. So when the dollar goes up, gas gets cheaper for us. If it weren't for the dollar skyrocketing, we'd be seeing $1.30-1.50 at the pumps right now, and the high prices being featured in news articles every day.

* Source;

http://www.limperiale.ca/Canada-English/Files/Investors_Refsup/cruprices.pdf

[Bullseye]

Come on, people, this thread is massive enough without multiple quotes with pictures duplicated! We don't need to see the black Tribeca four times on this one page.

[Bullseye]

how much change of U.S. gas price during the same period of time when oil price changed from $54/barrel to $94/barrel?

A much bigger percentage increase than here in Canada. I filled up in the US a couple weeks ago, and it was barely even worth doing, I saved maybe $5 on a 50l fill.

US media is filled with 'high gas prices' articles, where as it's not even an issue here in Canada right now.

[heavychemist]

I'm surprised that people still want to give Toyota and Honda money. Sure they are nice vehicles, but the manufacturers are screwing us over. They aren't lowering prices to match the US and they never will. They would rather offer cash back incentives, which may help sales, but all it does is allow them to protect their inflated Canadian prices. It's bad enough that they government is deep into our pockets but it seems like everyone else is as well. And for manufacturers to claim that their 2008 vehicles are inadmissable into Canada when they are identical to the 2007 model year is downright criminal. Nope, not giving any more money to Toyota or Honda.

So, that is why we are buying a 2008 Subaru Tribeca 5-seat Limited with NAV from Xan at Manchester Subaru. We are saving about $20,000 over what we would pay in Canada and I don't think the local Subaru dealership is going to suffer because of our purchase. We will get it serviced at the dealer. That's money they would not get from us normally. The more Subaru's on the road the better for the dealerships I say. If we bought from a Canadian dealer we could not normally afford a Tribeca and would probably end up buying a "Honda CR-V" or "Toyota Rav4". And the thought of doing that makes me want to vomit.

Force the Canadian car manufacturers to act. Don't buy their vehicles. Stay away from the dealerships. The Canadian dollar won't go down for a while and it's time for car prices to normalize across the border.

[jzy]

There are offices outside of Toronto?

No, this is the office in Toronto -- Etobicoke is a suburb of Toronto, and that is where the RIV office is located.

Anyone knows the hours of operations for them? Thanks!

[gsuperman]

The RIV office closes at 4:30. Not sure what time they open in the morning though.

When I imported my car I made it just in time before they closed, got there around 4:15 ish.

[scouzi]

Maybe what some say that it would be great to have one currency in North America is good. At least the stinking car manufacturers woudln't have any more excuses about the pricing schemes between the USA and Canada....

Hmmm, nah, come to think of it, they'd probably invent some new BS to cover their gouging.

I'm sure idiotic BMW would still use the stupid excuse that Florida sells more BMW's than all of Canada :) haha

They would still sell it at a higher price with the same currency. It wouldn't be any different.

[scope11]

:eek:
I stand corrected.

Any idea where I can get the information on specific ports needed to be modified for an 2008 Altima Coupe? RIV and Nissan Canada & USA didn't know.

Not sure about the Altima, but on my 08 Versa I only needed Daytime Running Lights. Got it done for $175 at Derands Auto here in Ottawa, which I believe is close to where you are. They also have a shop in Gatineau. Website is www.derand.com.

Good luck.

[googz]

Congrats!! I thought I had the only Diamond Gray Tribeca in the Durham region! And I also got mine from Xan at Manchester...enjoy!

This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.

Here are some pictures of my new Tribeca:


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1653/111307tribeca25001ia5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Jay-c]

Congrats!! I thought I had the only Diamond Gray Tribeca in the Durham region! And I also got mine from Xan at Manchester...enjoy!

it's a wicked colour isn't it... I got my outback in that colour and it's gorgeous!!

[Luds]

Not sure about the Altima, but on my 08 Versa I only needed Daytime Running Lights. Got it done for $175 at Derands Auto here in Ottawa, which I believe is close to where you are. They also have a shop in Gatineau. Website is www.derand.com.

Good luck.

Thanks again. Did you go to CT first to know it was all you needed or did you manage to get help from RIV?

[HighFlyer]

US media is filled with 'high gas prices' articles, where as it's not even an issue here in Canada right now.
It's certainly not an issue in Canada given that many Canadians have reverted back to their old wasteful driving habits.

[larman2001]

Just thought some would like to see what CNET (http://reviews.cnet.com/4326-13249_7-6577145.html?tag=feat.1) felt were the 10 ugliest cars this year..

[jwstewart]

I figured out what Toyota is doing with all the cash they gouge out of Canadians.

They are using it to put some stupid fish popup on RFD!

[PaulieScatone]

Please post up examples of Honda Dealers selling American cars. Thanks.

This is an acura example. Not exactly Honda, but I believe this happened before the most recent RIV list which now excludes 2008 acura mdx

http://borderdeals.ca/2007/11/04/my-border-purcahse2008-acura-mdx/


Acura passenger cars are on the admissable list for now. Acura's are a good example of huge savings. They tend to have a huge markup in the U.S.

[EL820]

Just thought some would like to see what CNET (http://reviews.cnet.com/4326-13249_7-6577145.html?tag=feat.1) felt were the 10 ugliest cars this year..

IMO I don't think the 2007 Audi Q7 belongs on that list.

[grappos13]

Hi all,

I was planning on buying a 2008 Ford Fusion from Van Bortel ford near rochester but I just have a couple questions I wanted to ask you guys.

First, the thing that I want from the car, well, they dont have one with it at the dealership and would need to order it, which will take up to 8 weeks, meaning i wouldnt be gettign the car until mid to late January. Do you think I would have trouble brining the car over here back to toronto then? Is there anyway I can find out because I want to make sure I wont get stuck with the car and not be able to bring it over.

Second, Will the warranty end up not transferring becuase its going to be at a later date. I have tried to get through to ford canada to find out the warranty issue with buying from the US but I havent gotten through.

any details on these issue would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Raikkonen]

Thank you. I actually meant

Please post up examples of *Canadian Honda Dealers selling American cars. Thanks.


Sorry. I modified my original posting to clarify. But thank you. :)




This is an acura example. Not exactly Honda, but I believe this happened before the most recent RIV list which now excludes 2008 acura mdx

http://borderdeals.ca/2007/11/04/my-border-purcahse2008-acura-mdx/


Acura passenger cars are on the admissable list for now. Acura's are a good example of huge savings. They tend to have a huge markup in the U.S.

[thelefteyeguy]

Just thought some would like to see what CNET (http://reviews.cnet.com/4326-13249_7-6577145.html?tag=feat.1) felt were the 10 ugliest cars this year..

if you are referring to the tribeca...it's been redesigned for 2008

[neo1973]

Just thought some would like to see what CNET (http://reviews.cnet.com/4326-13249_7-6577145.html?tag=feat.1) felt were the 10 ugliest cars this year..
2008 Subaru Tribeca is SO much better looking than the 2007 one.


2008 Subaru Tribeca
http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg

2007 Subaru Tribeca
http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/sc/32027762-2-440-front-2.gif

[larman2001]

2008 Subaru Tribeca is SO much better looking than the 2007 one.


2008 Subaru Tribeca
http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/8478/111307tribeca19001yb4.jpg

2007 Subaru Tribeca
http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/sc/32027762-2-440-front-2.gif

Agreed!

[TheZodiac]

What is the gas mileage like on the 08 Tribeca's?

[Tender]

2008 Subaru Tribeca is SO much better looking than the 2007 one.

The interior design is even better. It had won the "Interior Design of Year" award.

[thelefteyeguy]

What is the gas mileage like on the 08 Tribeca's?

that's just being lazy

[larman2001]

What is the gas mileage like on the 08 Tribeca's?

Is it raining outside now? ;)

[accorder]

"Canadian consumers are a second-class citizenry" -- The catered life of the American consumer ....

this article was orginally from http://www.cbc.ca/news/reportsfromabroad/macdonald/20071114.html

To bring this ugly reality to the awarenewss of all Canadians, I collected similar articles/news and put them into a dedicated location.
if interested, read here http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/8.aspx

[TheZodiac]

that's just being lazy

I wanted someone who actually owns one to respond with their insight. I have already googled the answer but I don't trust the EPA numbers. :cool:

[jzy]

The RIV office closes at 4:30. Not sure what time they open in the morning though.

When I imported my car I made it just in time before they closed, got there around 4:15 ish.

Thank you!:)

[shopper-X]

I wanted someone who actually owns one to respond with their insight. I have already googled the answer but I don't trust the EPA numbers. :cool:

Check Edmunds forums.

[longdong]

Nopppp not for me , I like to see these pictures all over ... at least to kick Honda ass out of new buyers




Come on, people, this thread is massive enough without multiple quotes with pictures duplicated! We don't need to see the black Tribeca four times on this one page.

[EL820]

I wanted someone who actually owns one to respond with their insight. I have already googled the answer but I don't trust the EPA numbers. :cool:

From what I have read so far (posts from real owners), the numbers are pretty close the the EPA numbers.

[cyber007]

IMO I don't think the 2007 Audi Q7 belongs on that list.

:lol: +1

[vim]

"Canadian consumers are a second-class citizenry" -- The catered life of the American consumer ....

this article was orginally from http://www.cbc.ca/news/reportsfromabroad/macdonald/20071114.html



Might I suggest to all of you to send a feedback to this author (link at the bottom of the article) and tell him if you agree. Also, suggest your ideas what else he can write about in this area. If author will get our support, I am sure he'll write more - and that is what auto manufacturers don't want. It is quite hard for these authors to stand against big corporations - they might decide to pull advertisings from them and that is why you dont' see too many of such good articles.

[SPaulS]

Hi All,
This is a very informative Forum i have ever seen, even though i have been reading this forum for past some time this is my first post.

I am intrested in Importing 2008 Toyota Camry, did any one successfully imported.
How about the Immobilizer thing .
Toyota USA i called yesterday, has still not decided if they will issue CMVSS 114 compatability letter or not.


Thanks!!

[EL820]

OMG...the C$ is at only U$1.019 spot!!!! :(

[hotgo]

OMG...the C$ is at only U$1.019 spot!!!! :(

I'm not too happy about this either... still another 3 weeks for my car to arrive.

[Bullseye]

$1.02 was what it was at when I bought my car a few weeks ago, still a great deal.

I bought in the US to get a better price, not to speculate on currency.

[endura]

I wanted someone who actually owns one to respond with their insight. I have already googled the answer but I don't trust the EPA numbers. :cool:

the EPA numbers are to be used as a comparison between different vehicles only.

with my ridgeline, my mpg is different than if my wife drives it.

which one do you want to know?

[reddy54]

Hi All,
This is a very informative Forum i have ever seen, even though i have been reading this forum for past some time this is my first post.

I am intrested in Importing 2008 Toyota Camry, did any one successfully imported.
How about the Immobilizer thing .
Toyota USA i called yesterday, has still not decided if they will issue CMVSS 114 compatability letter or not.


Thanks!!

You do not need the compatability letter only a recall letter which should not be hard to get.

[cavuu]

What is the gas mileage like on the 08 Tribeca's?

The 'new' EPA from Subaru US site says
-16/21 mpg US gals,

=19.2/25.2 mpg Imperial

or 14.7/11.2 L/100km
http://www.tdiclub.com/misc/conversions.html
If you drive 95% on the highway without a lead foot with cruise control you will likely see the 'new' (approx 2 mpg less than old rating for most cars) US EPA rating.
City mpg in my opinion are useless and only good for comparison. All city driving is different. Start a car on a cold winter day and drive 3 km and the mileage will be atrocious as the car is not even warm. Others may drive on empty city street while thousands sit on the Don Valley for hours hardly moving.

Highway mpg reports are more consistent with less variables due to traffic.
The last 3 vehicles we have owned were able to get within 2 mpg of the old ratings on the highway.

[Peteman222]

Great thread - put the Alberta plates on my 05 Volvo XC70 (from Salt Lake City) this week. And still have 2 years/24,000mi of warranty and roadside protection remaining on the fully-transferred warranty.
Thanks again Monsiermaggot (and all other contributors)!!!!! This thread and the www.carburner.com wiki are all you need (with the riv.ca website). Happy car purchasing everyone
:)

[accorder]

"Canadian consumers are a second-class citizenry" -- The catered life of the American consumer ....

this article was orginally from http://www.cbc.ca/news/reportsfromabroad/macdonald/20071114.html

To bring this ugly reality to the awarenewss of all Canadians, I collected similar articles/news and put them into a dedicated location.
if interested, read here http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/8.aspx

Canada is a free market yet there is no real competition among auto companies. Let's write to our MPs and ask why Canadians deserve unfarily high auto prices. English is not my native language. Who will volunteer to write a sample letter?

[eastsidesubaru]

I have a question for the old Subaru owner. I know a lot of people are like me, never really look deep into Subaru car until recent time. I always had an impression that Subaru cars have high maintenance cost, ie. expensive parts and labour. Is that true? Subaru Tribeca seems very impressive and good value, so I just want to make sure that they are fair with their after service.
Thanks for all the helps! :D :D :!:

In my opinion, they are not the worst and not the best.
The labour should not be any more expensive than any other mfgr, the parts are not super cheap but I don't think they are super expensive, either.
My mother has a 97 Legacy Outback with a ton of miles on it and longterm her maintenance cost on that car has been pretty low. 99-01 outbacks had some head gasket problems that skewed the overall numbers down a bit but those were resolved. They are now rated #2 for reliability by consumer reports, if that helps (Better than Toyota!)

[showMeAnImport]

Hi All,
This is a very informative Forum i have ever seen, even though i have been reading this forum for past some time this is my first post.

I am intrested in Importing 2008 Toyota Camry, did any one successfully imported.
How about the Immobilizer thing .
Toyota USA i called yesterday, has still not decided if they will issue CMVSS 114 compatability letter or not.


Thanks!!

Could you or someone else explain to me why this is an issue with the 2008 Toyota Camry?!?!?!? This is unbelievably confusing to me...

Why are you even worrying about this issue with respect to the 2008 Camry? If I look at the admissibility list for Toyota --> In the admissible column is says "1992 to 2008 All passenger vehicles accept those list as inadmissible". Up and above this the only other thing stated in the admissible column for Toyota passenger cars is "2008 Yaris sedan (see notes)". If you look in the notes is says that for the 2008 Yaris sedan you will need a letter from Toyota stating that it meets CMVSS 114". The 2008 Camry is not listed in the inadmissible column and there are no notes in the notes section stating that it would need a CMVSS 114 compliance letter from Toyota.

Why are you worrying about this for this particular car? Am I missing something? I personally am not interested in a Camry specifically...I am just trying to make heads or tails of how to read this admissibility list...

Thanks

[sb_tor]

Could you or someone else explain to me why this is an issue with the 2008 Toyota Camry?!?!?!? This is unbelievably confusing to me...

Why are you even worrying about this issue with respect to the 2008 Camry? If I look at the admissibility list for Toyota --> In the admissible column is says "1992 to 2008 All passenger vehicles accept those list as inadmissible". Up and above this the only other thing stated in the admissible column for Toyota passenger cars is "2008 Yaris sedan (see notes)". If you look in the notes is says that for the 2008 Yaris sedan you will need a letter from Toyota stating that it meets CMVSS 114". The 2008 Camry is not listed in the inadmissible column and there are no notes in the notes section stating that it would need a CMVSS 114 compliance letter from Toyota.

Why are you worrying about this for this particular car? Am I missing something? I personally am not interested in a Camry specifically...I am just trying to make heads or tails of how to read this admissibility list...

Thanks

+1

The 2008 Camry is admissible. Just get Recall letter and import it.

[Monsieurmaggot]

The 'new' EPA from Subaru US site says
-16/21 mpg US gals,

=19.2/25.2 mpg Imperial

or 14.7/11.2 L/100km
http://www.tdiclub.com/misc/conversions.html
If you drive 95% on the highway without a lead foot with cruise control you will likely see the 'new' (approx 2 mpg less than old rating for most cars) US EPA rating.
City mpg in my opinion are useless and only good for comparison. All city driving is different. Start a car on a cold winter day and drive 3 km and the mileage will be atrocious as the car is not even warm. Others may drive on empty city street while thousands sit on the Don Valley for hours hardly moving.

Highway mpg reports are more consistent with less variables due to traffic.
The last 3 vehicles we have owned were able to get within 2 mpg of the old ratings on the highway.

That sounds low to me. I heard the 2008 has a bigger engine that apparantly is more efficient and now runs on regular. (source drivingtv.ca).

In comparison, in my 3.0R LLBean Outback, I got as high as 31 MPG on long highway stretches (using 89 octane fuel), about 18.5 city and 23 combined. The average mileage increased remarkedly after the first 5000 miles.

I've been messing around checking the mileage between 87, 89 and 91 octane as well.

[showMeAnImport]

This is a direct quote of a post I just saw on another forum...

"Just got a call from my MP. He says that I and a whole bunch of others caught up in this admissible prior to Nov 1 and now inadmissible problem will be allowed to import our vehicles. I am supposed to hear from TC tomorrow. You will need to have proof of purchase in Oct. "

This sounds promising that they might bail people out who are currently in this predicament....

The ultimate other 2 questions are:

1) What the hell is TC going to do to hold these manufacturers to task in terms of ensuring that they are not going to be arbitrarily adding vehicles as inadmissible moving forward?

2) What protection will there be in place to ensure this does not happen to more Canadians moving forward? For example, are they going to implement some kind of rule that states if the vehicle was admissible at border crossing time that people will still be able to complete the process even if the vehicle goes on the inadmissible list before they have an opportunity to complete the process on the Canadian side? Or some kind of rule that says a particular admissibility list stays static for at least a 30 to 45 day window before manufacturers can add changes? Or a Deadline atleast --> Something like the manufacturers need to have all their changes in by Jan 1 2009....or something....anything!!!!

Something has to give...this is just silly and unbelievable...

Cheers

[collector]

how long did you drive from Ajax ontario to NH? 15hours one way?

No, you can make it in 9 hours. It is approx 600-650 miles. I took off from Manchester at 1:00PM on Sunday and arrived in Rochester before 9:00PM. Spent a night in the hotel and crossed the border on Monday morning.

[collector]

I wanted someone who actually owns one to respond with their insight. I have already googled the answer but I don't trust the EPA numbers. :cool:

For the trip from Manchester to Toronto (approx 650-700 miles) my average was 21.9 mpg. That is slightly better than in the specs. The average speed was 75 miles/hour.

[Alaric]

Thanks to everyone for posting here.

I was able to successfully import a 2005 BMW 330CI ZHP. I just had her registered today with the plates, so now all I have to do is wait for the sticker to attach.

The RIV fee you can pay online (no longer at the border). Also, you must show the recall clearance letter to the RIV, before they will give you FORM 2.

[norm07]

:eek:
I stand corrected.

Any idea where I can get the information on specific ports needed to be modified for an 2008 Altima Coupe? RIV and Nissan Canada & USA didn't know.

Direct call to RIV, they will give you the info...The DRL's have to be done (my dealer did them $150 and RIV will tell you that if the vehicle was built after the 1st of September 07 in will have to have an imobilizer...and the 08 Altima Coupe has it.

[fulrach]

Hey Guys,

I had Manchester Subaru fax over my MSO to the border today around 5pm... do you think I'll be able to cross Monday morning?

Thanks!

[flatman]

Thanks to everyone for posting here.

I was able to successfully import a 2005 BMW 330CI ZHP. I just had her registered today with the plates, so now all I have to do is wait for the sticker to attach.

The RIV fee you can pay online (no longer at the border). Also, you must show the recall clearance letter to the RIV, before they will give you FORM 2.

Did you have to buy the $500 letter?

[overboost]

I also imported a BMW 2 weeks ago, and I obtained a printout from the dealer and it was accepted by RIV and avoided the $500 extortion fee.


Did you have to buy the $500 letter?

[googz]

Hey Guys,

I had Manchester Subaru fax over my MSO to the border today around 5pm... do you think I'll be able to cross Monday morning?

Thanks!

You'll want to call the border Customs that you faxed it to anyway to verify they received it, so I'd say you're best to check with them. Nobody here will be able to say 100% that you can cross as that's really only 2-2.5 business days. You're safest asking them.

[baboo]

Hello Guys,

First of all, thanks to everyone here who have posted and provided information. After few weeks of reading and researching, my wife and I will be flying down to Manchester to pick up our new Tribeca this Saturday...:D

Our plan is to drive back and cross the lewiston bridge on Monday morning. I will like to cross the border first thing in the morning, hit the RIV office, and CT and MTO...

So my question to all of you who imported in GTA...which CT did you guys go? Any comments? I have a few choices I can think of

- Woodbridge
- Maple
- Concord
- Richmond Hill
- Richmond Hill North
- Aurora

Any experience with any of these stores? Any comments will be much appreciated!!..thanks...:)

[Luds]

Direct call to RIV, they will give you the info...The DRL's have to be done (my dealer did them $150 and RIV will tell you that if the vehicle was built after the 1st of September 07 in will have to have an imobilizer...and the 08 Altima Coupe has it.


That's my problem norm, I've called them twice already and both times they told me that they didn't know and just check the list. They don't seemt o have a clue :>:(

May I ask how you know that the coupe has the imobiliser? I asked the dealer and he thought it didn't have it.

[Kamloops]

You dont need a recall letter for a dodge riv gets it right from dodge.com

you can as well.

http://www.dodge.com/en/owners/

Under where it says start here enter the vin

[J233]

I've been reading about all these long trips from NH to Ontario in your new AWD Subarus. From the break in perspective...is it OK for a brand new vehicle to go 75mph for 9 hrs ? Just curious...

[baboo]

I've been reading about all these long trips from NH to Ontario in your new AWD Subarus. From the break in perspective...is it OK for a brand new vehicle to go 75mph for 9 hrs ? Just curious...

Good point, that is why I am taking two days to drive back. I will be varying speed and try not to go pass 3k rpm

[newlegacyowner]

Good point, that is why I am taking two days to drive back. I will be varying speed and try not to go pass 3k rpm

Same thing here. I was speeding and slowing and speeding and slowing. I would pass people, and then I would slow and let them pass me, and then repeat. I am sure people thought I had too much to drink.

[yklivan]

Hello Guys,

First of all, thanks to everyone here who have posted and provided information. After few weeks of reading and researching, my wife and I will be flying down to Manchester to pick up our new Tribeca this Saturday...:D

Our plan is to drive back and cross the lewiston bridge on Monday morning. I will like to cross the border first thing in the morning, hit the RIV office, and CT and MTO...

So my question to all of you who imported in GTA...which CT did you guys go? Any comments? I have a few choices I can think of

- Woodbridge
- Maple
- Concord
- Richmond Hill
- Richmond Hill North
- Aurora

Any experience with any of these stores? Any comments will be much appreciated!!..thanks...:)

Hi,
I am calling Xan tomorrow for a quote on Tribeca 7-passenger limited. At what price range you get yours?

[Alaric]

Did you have to buy the $500 letter?

Like overboost said, No I did not. I simply had the US dealer print me off a couple of a "warranty Vehicle Inquiry" screen, exactly as he saw it on his PC.

[baboo]

Hi,
I am calling Xan tomorrow for a quote on Tribeca 7-passenger limited. At what price range you get yours?

you got pm.

[HighFlyer]

Our plan is to drive back and cross the lewiston bridge on Monday morning. I will like to cross the border first thing in the morning, hit the RIV office, and CT and MTO...

So my question to all of you who imported in GTA...which CT did you guys go? Any comments? I have a few choices I can think of

- Woodbridge
- Maple
- Concord
- Richmond Hill
- Richmond Hill North
- Aurora

Any experience with any of these stores? Any comments will be much appreciated!!..thanks...:)
I just took it to the CT on Queensway & 427.... spitting distance from the RIV office and the MTO (Cloverdale). Both times it only took less than 10 mins at CT.

[HighFlyer]

I've been reading about all these long trips from NH to Ontario in your new AWD Subarus. From the break in perspective...is it OK for a brand new vehicle to go 75mph for 9 hrs ? Just curious...
My trip was only 3 hrs.... I varied between 40-65 mph.

[sockhead]

I also imported a BMW 2 weeks ago, and I obtained a printout from the dealer and it was accepted by RIV and avoided the $500 extortion fee.

New/used?

[jmlleung]

Hello Guys,

First of all, thanks to everyone here who have posted and provided information. After few weeks of reading and researching, my wife and I will be flying down to Manchester to pick up our new Tribeca this Saturday...:D

Our plan is to drive back and cross the lewiston bridge on Monday morning. I will like to cross the border first thing in the morning, hit the RIV office, and CT and MTO...

So my question to all of you who imported in GTA...which CT did you guys go? Any comments? I have a few choices I can think of

- Woodbridge
- Maple
- Concord
- Richmond Hill
- Richmond Hill North
- Aurora

Any experience with any of these stores? Any comments will be much appreciated!!..thanks...:)

Hi baboo,

Congratulations on your new Tribeca. I am getting one from Jack (Manchester) too. I haven't decided whether I should fly there to pick it up, or ask them to transport to the border.

How much is your air ticket? Where did you get it from?

[baboo]

Hi baboo,

Congratulations on your new Tribeca. I am getting one from Jack (Manchester) too. I haven't decided whether I should fly there to pick it up, or ask them to transport to the border.

How much is your air ticket? Where did you get it from?

I purchased my ticket online from Air Canada. One way to Logan costs me around $180/person.

Cut and paste from Air Canada site

Mon,19-Nov,$98
Tue,20-Nov,$341
Wed,21-Nov,$377
Thu,22-Nov,$98
Fri,23-Nov,$98
Sat,24-Nov,$128
Sun,25-Nov,$377
Mon,26-Nov,$377
Tue,27-Nov,$113
Wed,28-Nov,$98
Thu,29-Nov,$139

[bolec59700]

Of course it doesn't make any sense, look you're buying from a Canadian dealership who swindle the regular car buying public at both end of the stick.

I bought 2008 Sienna LE with Option package#2 and 16" alloy wheels
- power driver & passenger sliding door
- electronic locking system
- trip computer w/Homelink transceiver (garage door opener)
- 8-way power driver seat
- daytime running lights
- auto dimming mirror
- carpet floor mats

All in I paid USD $26,414.50 compared to CDN $37,600 + $1300 freight

Saved well over $12,000

[newatthis]

I bought 2008 Sienna LE with Option package#2 and 16" alloy wheels
- power driver & passenger sliding door
- electronic locking system
- trip computer w/Homelink transceiver (garage door opener)
- 8-way power driver seat
- daytime running lights
- auto dimming mirror
- carpet floor mats

All in I paid USD $26,414.50 compared to CDN $37,600 + $1300 freight

Saved well over $12,000
so we can still buy Toyotas from the states? The dealers are willing to sell to Canadians? How about warranty?

[baz5]

yes, I believe warranty is good.

[jmlleung]

I purchased my ticket online from Air Canada. One way to Logan costs me around $180/person.

Cut and paste from Air Canada site

Mon,19-Nov,$98
Tue,20-Nov,$341
Wed,21-Nov,$377
Thu,22-Nov,$98
Fri,23-Nov,$98
Sat,24-Nov,$128
Sun,25-Nov,$377
Mon,26-Nov,$377
Tue,27-Nov,$113
Wed,28-Nov,$98
Thu,29-Nov,$139

So you are flying to Boston Logan instead of Manchester, NH? Is Jack going to pick you up at the airport? Thanks.

[Fonzy]

Will canadian prices ever fall in line with American prices?
Would it be better to wait?

[scrolllock]

Just hot off Canadian Press this morning. I wonder if those Legacys, Tribecas, and LL Beans are to blame for Ontario's and Alberta's lion share of the decline? :cheesygri

How come when sales are down, DesRosiers The Mathematician is mysteriously quiet and nowhere to be heard from?

Here's the article. Just ignore and have sympathy for Honda's pop up ad. They're desperate for attention right now!

http://money.canoe.ca/News/Economy/2007/11/14/4655161-cp.html

OTTAWA - Sales of new motor vehicles declined in September, almost completely offsetting the gains made in August.

Statistics Canada reports that 140,263 new vehicles were sold in September, down 2.1 per cent from August.

The agency attributed the decline mainly to a slip in truck sales (minivans, sport-utility vehicles, light and heavy trucks, vans and buses).

Declines were widespread across Canada, but Ontario and Alberta accounted for the lion's share.

Decreases in sales in July and September spawned a 2.6 per cent decline in the number of new motor vehicles sold in the third quarter from the second quarter of 2007.

This did not completely offset the gains made in the second quarter - when sales were up four per cent, the strongest quarterly growth in almost four years.

Preliminary industry data for the month of October indicate new motor vehicle sales declined two per cent due to a decrease in passenger car sales.

Anyone know where I can find the stat for new car sales in Canada by Month by year by company.... I figure with that information and a table indicating the various rates of exchange over the years ... we could determine how much the car companies have been gouging Canadians over the last 4 years.......

This amount would probably be more than all the tax cuts Harper gave us last week....

Why can't our govt just mandate equal pricing across North America..... or at least peg it to the diff in currency..

[reddy54]

I bought 2008 Sienna LE with Option package#2 and 16" alloy wheels
- power driver & passenger sliding door
- electronic locking system
- trip computer w/Homelink transceiver (garage door opener)
- 8-way power driver seat
- daytime running lights
- auto dimming mirror
- carpet floor mats

All in I paid USD $26,414.50 compared to CDN $37,600 + $1300 freight

Saved well over $12,000

Congrats

How did you avoid paying the state taxes?

[joejack]

Hi,

I faxed copy of my title (for a used car) to US Customs Wednesday Nov 14th at around 8:00pm. I called them the next morning Thursday Nov 15th @ 8:15 am to see if they got my fax. I called the Lewiston office @ 716.282.1500 and pressed option 3 and then option 6. I was asked to leave a message along with VIN # and phone # for a call back. Since I left message yesterday @ 8:15 am, I have called several times and each time I am only given the option to leave a message and not allowed to talk to anyone.

Now it's almost 24 hours and wondering what should I do. Should I leave another message or hope everything is well?

Also, I will be crossing the border on Nove 26th, 12 days (5 business days) after I faxed the documents. Do you think this is going to be a problem? Given the circumstances, should I fax again, maybe more closer to the 72 period?

Any comments would be greatly appreciate it.

Thanks.

P.S. People wondering why I faxed so ahead of time is for following reason. Next week (22nd, 23rd, + weekend 24th, 25th) is US Thanksgiving and everything is closed on Thursday and Friday. Since I am planning on crossing border on Monday Nov 26th, I should really have faxed my title on either Monday morning or Friday evening. So, being proactive, I faxed it in two days early on Wednesday night.

[mangoman]

I bought 2008 Sienna LE with Option package#2 and 16" alloy wheels
- power driver & passenger sliding door
- electronic locking system
- trip computer w/Homelink transceiver (garage door opener)
- 8-way power driver seat
- daytime running lights
- auto dimming mirror
- carpet floor mats

All in I paid USD $26,414.50 compared to CDN $37,600 + $1300 freight

Saved well over $12,000

I'm hoping you found a way around this but otherwise I'm scared to be the one to ask you/tell you, isn't the 2008 Sienna inadmissible according to the RIV list? Or did Toyota cough up some immobilizer data?! :)

[icu_nxtime]

Hi,

I faxed copy of my title (for a used car) to US Customs Wednesday Nov 14th at around 8:00pm. I called them the next morning Thursday Nov 15th @ 8:15 am to see if they got my fax. I called the Lewiston office @ 716.282.1500 and pressed option 3 and then option 6. I was asked to leave a message along with VIN # and phone # for a call back. Since I left message yesterday @ 8:15 am, I have called several times and each time I am only given the option to leave a message and not allowed to talk to anyone.

Now it's almost 24 hours and wondering what should I do. Should I leave another message or hope everything is well?

Also, I will be crossing the border on Nove 26th, 12 days (5 business days) after I faxed the documents. Do you think this is going to be a problem? Given the circumstances, should I fax again, maybe more closer to the 72 period?

Any comments would be greatly appreciate it.

Thanks.

P.S. People wondering why I faxed so ahead of time is for following reason. Next week (22nd, 23rd, + weekend 24th, 25th) is US Thanksgiving and everything is closed on Thursday and Friday. Since I am planning on crossing border on Monday Nov 26th, I should really have faxed my title on either Monday morning or Friday evening. So, being proactive, I faxed it in two days early on Wednesday night.


A guy at work just brought back a 2007 demo Sienna he said there was a guy in front of him that didn't confirm the fax and they said they didn't get it he had to go away for 72hrs. He himself sent it 2X, when he called they said they didn't get the first one.

[joejack]

A guy at work just brought back a 2007 demo Sienna he said there was a guy in front of him that didn't confirm the fax and they said they didn't get it he had to go away for 72hrs. He himself sent it 2X, when he called they said they didn't get the first one.

Thanks for quick reply.

Just for that reason, I had the docs faxed from kinko's and have the fax confirmation to prove I did fax.

Also, I any idea how I can get in touch with someone at US customs? Can someone, who has talked to them, maybe provide some help with phone prompts?

Thanks so much for all your help.

(it seems I am so close, but so far, from driving my new wheels)

[georgetoy]

A guy at work just brought back a 2007 demo Sienna he said there was a guy in front of him that didn't confirm the fax and they said they didn't get it he had to go away for 72hrs. He himself sent it 2X, when he called they said they didn't get the first one.
At Queenston-Lewiston, I showed US Customs my fax confirmation and did not require verbal confirmation from them. Others have said the same on this thread.
Remember, each day they receive hundreds of faxes. Each day's fax folders are about 1 to 2 inches thick. I doubt they can verbally confirm everybody's fax receipt. So bring with you your fax confirmation.

[vu_ho_huy]

Did anyone see this story in the Globe and mail?
Does this mean the party is over for car shopping across the border?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071109.wrtheft09/BNStory/Business/

[longdong]

with the price that he paid, I mostly certain that he also pay the state tax on top of it. That's typical car costs around 25000$ in US.



I'm hoping you found a way around this but otherwise I'm scared to be the one to ask you/tell you, isn't the 2008 Sienna inadmissible according to the RIV list? Or did Toyota cough up some immobilizer data?! :)

[DSTU]

A guy at work just brought back a 2007 demo Sienna he said there was a guy in front of him that didn't confirm the fax and they said they didn't get it he had to go away for 72hrs. He himself sent it 2X, when he called they said they didn't get the first one.

Best to COURIER the documents, don't rely on a technology that's decades old.

[WalterQ]

I want to buy in Manchester and return to Ottawa but hear that the VT or NY crossings east of Alex Bay require documents to be hand delivered 72 hrs in advance.

I was counting on fax or courier so I only make 1 trip to the border and get in/out of the US fast.

Anybody done this recently to PQ or ON who can provide details pls?

WQ

[JWL]

I bought 2008 Sienna LE with Option package#2 and 16" alloy wheels
- power driver & passenger sliding door
- electronic locking system
- trip computer w/Homelink transceiver (garage door opener)
- 8-way power driver seat
- daytime running lights
- auto dimming mirror
- carpet floor mats

All in I paid USD $26,414.50 compared to CDN $37,600 + $1300 freight

Saved well over $12,000

According to the current list this car is INADMISSIBLE!!

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/1126/rivsierrahf2.th.png (http://img142.imageshack.us/my.php?image=rivsierrahf2.png)

I sent a message to RFD to try to contact this member so hopefully he can stop this trainwreck.

MODS can you help contacting this member?

[jiciheb]

I want to buy in Manchester and return to Ottawa but hear that the VT or NY crossings east of Alex Bay require documents to be hand delivered 72 hrs in advance.

I was counting on fax or courier so I only make 1 trip to the border and get in/out of the US fast.

Anybody done this recently to PQ or ON who can provide details pls?

WQ

I imported a 2008 Subaru Legacy last friday and was told that you have to bring papers in person to the Lacolle (Qc)/Champlain (NY) border crossing...they don't accept faxes.

[novagolf]

Thanks to everyone on this forum ... imported 2007 Outback from NJ a couple of weeks ago ... everything went smoooooooooth :)

In response to the "hand-delivered" question above, I crossed at Callis Maine - they also don't accept faxes but I had the dealer courier three copies of the title and sales agreement so that it arrived 72 hours in advance. 5 minutes at the US side ... just long enough for them to check the VIN and hand me all the papers they had recieved. 20 minutes at the Canadian side .... again piece of cake.

Thanks again to all RFD'ers

[jmlleung]

1. Which airline do you guys use when you fly to pick up the vehicle at Manchester Subaru? Air Canada? Do you fly to Logan or Manchester, NH? Did Jack/Xan pick you up from the airport?
2. Has anyone asked them to transport the vehicle to the border instead? If so, can you share the experience?
3. Does the US border open on Thanksgiving, or the day after Thanksgiving? I call the number at Lewiston office @ 716.282.1500. But it is an automated system which only said "Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm".

Please PM if preferred. Thanks a lot.

[thegradas]

No, definitely not.


Does this mean the party is over for car shopping across the border?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071109.wrtheft09/BNStory/Business/

[googz]

Did anyone see this story in the Globe and mail?
Does this mean the party is over for car shopping across the border?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071109.wrtheft09/BNStory/Business/

Nothing new here. Just check the RIV admissibility list before importing.

[diigii]

This Monday I brought back a Subaru Tribeca from Manchester Subaru. After getting a few quotes from NY State, Xan from Manchester Subaru gave me the best price. He is very familiar with the process.

I crossed the border at 11:00am, went straight to RIV, then CT and had my plates by 5:00pm. My total savings were approximately $20,000.

Thanks to Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and to everyone who contributed to the thread. The information was very helpful in my decision making process.



CONGRATS COLLECTOR! THAT'S A EXCELLENT COLOR! IT ENHANCES YOUR CAR'S SOLID STANCE. ENJOY YOUR NEW TRIBECA!

[Raikkonen]

Please have a read of letter #2 appended here.

There were numerous, kind, positive comments about letter #1 (posted on page 588 of Monsieurmaggot's fine thread).

We really need to organize an "information session" outside of a chosen dealership or Honda Canada. A chance to get together, meet, greet, see some nice purchases, educate, and draw attention to what a million threadviewers have embraced as a very serious issue.


RE-SENT 11/15/07

11/14/07


Dear Mr. Shin and Mr. Kobayashi,


I am in receipt of your second brief email sent today. Thank you. It reads in its entirety "Honda Canada has requested your phone number for them to contact you. Could you please send me the best available number to reach you at so I can forward it to them?"

As I am not readily available during business hours, my preference is to communicate via email. However, if there is a good reason as to why you, as an intermediary, have made this request, apparently on behalf of Honda Canada or your District Sales Manager (I don't know) please let me know and I will consider how I may accommodate. Please provide the name and email address for this individual.

I do have a few more thoughts to share with you, and will make efforts to be brief (but not as brief as you). I would like to ask you to re-read my last letter, because I believe there are a number of direct points to which you could have responded, if you chose. You initiated email contact with me, yet have provided no meaningful response, which makes me feel even more undervalued as a Canadian Honda Customer. The whole week has now passed.

A number of Ontario Honda Dealerships are selling American Honda cars to Canadians. That seems hypocritical to me, and possibly to other Canadians when Honda has forbidden American Dealers to sell to Canadians, and have openly threatened punishment for doing so. Could you please help me understand why Hamburg Honda, a Honda Dealership in Niagara Falls, Ontario is allowed to sell U.S. model Honda Ridgelines? Kindly have a look at the speedometer which is clearly American.

http://www.trader.ca/powerpage/detai...4&adid=6359066

Please have a good look at the price. So much for the theory that U.S. cars have no resale value in Canada. Along with the artificial barriers imposed by Honda Canada, dealers are reciting this (poor resale value) as part of their mantra of discouragement to the increasing number of Canadians who look to $10,000 cheaper American Hondas. This was my personal experience.

Having read my two lengthy emails, you will understand why I find the following so distasteful. From your Honda.ca website "Our Philosophy":
http://www.honda.ca/HondaCorp/en/abo...&subNavIndex=1

"It begins with Respect for the Individual. This comes from a fundamental belief that the Human Being is born with the capacity to think, reason and create and that at Honda we should strive to nurture and support these unique characteristics. How? By encouraging Initiative. By treating all individuals with Equality. By building a company that fosters Trust. At Honda, we believe that every interaction we have with our customers, dealers and fellow Associates should reflect this philosophy.

"With this Respect we work together to better serve our customers with what we call The Three Joys.

"Every person who comes in contact with a Honda should feel joy as a result."

Would you as a consumer find any sincerity or plausibility in these lofty words if you were asked/forced to pay $20,000 extra for a Honda S2000 or $15,000 more for a Honda Pilot or Acura MDX (as Mr. Peter Mansbridge also concluded last night on CBC's "The National")?

How do you reconcile the Draconian barriers forcibly imposed on Canadians by Honda Canada with the bold words above? I ask these questions with the utmost respect, and because I was fortunately born with the capacity to think and reason.

I'll also have to take exception with Honda's website's page titled The Joy of Giving. http://www.honda.ca/HondaCorp/en/community1.asp?navIndex=5&subNavIndex=1

While there may have been Joy on the luxury cruise ship sailing the Mediterranean with Mr. Kobayashi and Honda Dealers and Principals last week, padding profits by taking an extra 10-20% from the disposable income of average Canadian families hardly brings us any Joy.

I look forward to your response to both of my emails. Thank you.

Sincerely,

XXXXX XXXXXX

[rubeus]

Good idea I'm in.


We really need to organize an "information session" outside of a chosen dealership or Honda Canada. A chance to get together, meet, greet, see some nice purchases, educate, and draw attention to what a million threadviewers have embraced as a very serious issue.

[cyber007]

Just read a good article on today's National Post. Looks like more and more media are supporting us :lol:

http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/driving/story.html?id=f5c6cea0-c0d6-4dd9-b5ec-566963f44e8e

[superwell]

I think your emails are very insightfull and you bring many good points to them, but I have to disagree with one of the things mentioned, do you think honestly you did anything but screw the average canadian by telling honda what dealership is doing the importing and reselling? All that happens now is that and average canadian that was "afraid" of importing will not be able to purchase a car, given higher than the import price in canada from a honda dealership, as now honda will slap around that dealership for making it harder for them to state their point. Now all I see happen is today will be the same as yesterday but now those cars will be exported back to the US and the rest of us the wouldn't of imported because of many reasons can't get a deal. Do get me wrong, I would of done the same to prove my point but do you think one person with a email the size of a stephen king novel is really going to do anything? Your wasting your time and energy, import a car if you like, if you don't save your fingers the time and effort and send an email to the guys that can do something like the government...but even then don't waste your time.

[110phil]

... screw the average canadian by telling honda what dealership is doing the importing and reselling?

I'd guess that Honda doesn't care that much that dealers are importing used US cars. GM dealers (and I think some others) are advertising that explicitly.

Raikonnen is taking a harder line than I would. I'd let Honda call me. Hey, maybe they're offering big discounts! :)

[superwell]

I'd guess that Honda doesn't care that much that dealers are importing used US cars. GM dealers (and I think some others) are advertising that explicitly.

Raikonnen is taking a harder line than I would. I'd let Honda call me. Hey, maybe they're offering big discounts! :)

true. All i sayin' is that maybe that was best left unsaid. When I can go to niagara and pick up a S2000 for $35g's rather then the $52G's they are new..I would rather have that a secret in my books or said here on the forum.

[reddy54]

Did anyone see this story in the Globe and mail?
Does this mean the party is over for car shopping across the border?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071109.wrtheft09/BNStory/Business/

No it does not. Spend 15 minutes reading this thread and you too will know why

[cavuu]

true. All i sayin' is that maybe that was best left unsaid. When I can go to niagara and pick up a S2000 for $35g's rather then the $52G's they are new..I would rather have that a secret in my books or said here on the forum.
There is no secret here, the vehicles are advertise on the Autotrader. Honda and other new car dealers are openly selling 'used' US cars, not new ones. There are no restrictions from the manufacturers on what they can sell in their used car lot.
You can't honestly believe that Honda doesn't know this is happening???

Fords Official reply to my email re pricing:

Thank you for contacting the Ford of Canada Customer Relationship Centre. We received your message sent on 11/13/2007 regarding the pricing difference between Canada and the U.S.

Ford of Canada is constantly monitoring market activity to remain competitive. Ford will continue to respond to the marketplace in pricing its vehicles.

Ford of Canada sets its MSRPs by considering a number of factors, including the prices of its competitors’ vehicles and Canadian consumer demands. Ford of Canada also may offer unique-to-Canada packaged options and standard features. When comparing prices between the U.S. and Canada, one must also consider incentives available in Canada which may not be available in the U.S.

The highly competitive Canadian Automotive Market includes 16 manufacturers vying for your business. Our vehicles remain competitively priced within the Canadian Market. MSRP prices in Canada and the U.S. are simply that, suggested retail prices. Actual retail prices are individually negotiated with dealers.

Please visit www.ford.ca for a listing of our current incentives which was announced recently.

If you have any other inquiries or concerns, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to address them.

Thank you for contacting Ford of Canada.

Sincerely,
Rachel
Ford of Canada Customer Relationship Centre

[can2000]

I imported a 2008 Subaru Legacy last friday and was told that you have to bring papers in person to the Lacolle (Qc)/Champlain (NY) border crossing...they don't accept faxes.

Thanks for sharing the info.

Do they accept courier delivery or must be submitted by car importer? Thanks

[Agedashi]

Hello all,

Thanks to this thread I imported an 08 outback in Sept. for my wife ($14,000 in savings with a 93 cent $). Now I'm looking for a Toyota or Nissan Truck for myself; as well, I've convinced my father in law to purchase his new Ford truck in the US.

Does anyone have any recent info on whether or not any of those 3 companies will sell to Canadians? I searched the thread but couldn't find anything.

Thanks in advance for the help.

[conundrumfp]

Ford doesn't honour rebates across borders, otherwise they don't care where you buy, as long as it's a Ford. Of course, they may change their minds in the future.

[jnmontario]

An update on my email exchanges with Toyota Canada. Summary: they all tote the same party line - heavy duty batteries/alternators that work in Minnesota must not work in Ottawa, which is further south, and warrant a $13000 price difference. They must think we're stupid.


Dear Mr. [JM]:

Thank you for your most recent email.

As previously advised, Toyota vehicles distributed in the US and Canada may not have identical equipment or options. When Toyota Canada considers equipment on Toyota vehicles for the Canadian market, certain options and features are selected on a model-by-model basis, that we believe are best suited for Canada's challenging climatic and driving conditions. For example, depending on the model, a Canadian vehicle may include heavy-duty heaters, batteries or alternators. These may differ from equipment and options selected for vehicles distributed and sold in the U.S. market. Your local Toyota will be able to provide you with much more information about the differences in equipment on US and Canadian vehicles.

Thank you once again for writing. We have noted your comments regarding the pricing disparity and have forwarded them to the appropriate departments within Toyota Canada for information purposes.

Sincerely,

Alice McNamee
Toyota Canada Inc.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Nina,

Thank you for your response. Aside from daytime running lights (DRL) and a
slightly different engine immobilizer (though my interpretation of the
documentation surrounding the engine immobilizer is that the immobilizers
in the US are effetively the same), I'm curious as to what changes warrant
a difference of over $10,000. I appreciate that the dollar parity is
relavitely recent, but the dollar has been quite close (within 10-15c of
US) for 2 years now and the invoice/MSRP prices don't reflect that
change. Instead, Canadians are paying FAR more for a nearly identical
vehicle.

I honestly would love to buy a Toyota Prius. You have made a fabulous
vehicle and I want to reduce my greenhouse gas footprint. That said, I
can't afford the Canadian price. Additionally, I'm not sure if you think
that with your move to close the loophole of importing US-bought vehicles
into Canada, you would force Canadian consumers of your vehicles to buy
Canadian. I firmly believe you'll find consumer backlash on this point -
don't underestimate the value of having 10,000 after-tax dollars in your
pocket. Many consumers (and I'm not exaggerating to make a point - check
out the any number of web forums on automobile sites) are heading to the US
still, but are instead purchasing Subarus because they're still alowing
vehicles purchased in the US to be imported into Canada.


Sincerely,
[JM]
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
toyota_feedback@toyota.ca writes:
Dear Mr. [JM]:

Thank you for your recent email to our company.

Toyota Canada sets its prices (the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price
(MSRP) for its vehicles based on competitive factors in the Canadian
market. However, the recent weakening of the US dollar and resulting
narrowing of the US and Canadian exchange rate recently has made the
purchase of products in the US attractive to Canadian consumers.

You may be interested to know also that Toyota vehicles distributed in the
US and Canada may not have identical equipment or meet the same regulatory
requirements. And, when Toyota Canada considers equipment on Toyota
vehicles for the Canadian market, we select certain options and features,
on a model-by-model basis, that we believe are best suited for Canada's
challenging climatic and driving conditions.

When a US vehicle is brought into Canada, the importer must ensure it
complies with Canadian regulatory requirements, like mandatory daylight
running lights, an appropriate vehicle immobilization system, etc. In
addition, the costs to retrofit or modify a vehicle in order for it to be
brought into Canada are the responsibility of the owner or person importing
the vehicle.

For further information on importing a vehicle to Canada, we suggest you
visit the website of The Registrar of Imported Vehicles (a division of
Transport Canada). The address is as follows: www.riv.ca . If you prefer,
you may call them at 1-888-848-8240.

We hope this information is helpful to you.

Sincerely,

Nina Malik
Toyota Canada Inc.

[endura]

I think your emails are very insightfull and you bring many good points to them, but I have to disagree with one of the things mentioned, do you think honestly you did anything but screw the average canadian by telling honda what dealership is doing the importing and reselling? All that happens now is that and average canadian that was "afraid" of importing will not be able to purchase a car, given higher than the import price in canada from a honda dealership, as now honda will slap around that dealership for making it harder for them to state their point. Now all I see happen is today will be the same as yesterday but now those cars will be exported back to the US and the rest of us the wouldn't of imported because of many reasons can't get a deal. Do get me wrong, I would of done the same to prove my point but do you think one person with a email the size of a stephen king novel is really going to do anything? Your wasting your time and energy, import a car if you like, if you don't save your fingers the time and effort and send an email to the guys that can do something like the government...but even then don't waste your time.


I must take issue.

The aforementioned official HONDA dealership is selling a 'USED' 07 Ridgeline/leather, with no Honda warranty (don't get me started on the aftermarket warranty companies) for $36000 Cdn. I just bought my brand new 07 Ridgeline/leather, in Toronto, for $34600+Freight=$36000 Cdn. I have a warranty and .9% financing 4yrs. Now, how on earth is the deal the dealership is offering a good deal for "...average Canadian that was "afraid" of importing..." You think exposing this sham is taking away a fair deal from the average canadian. are you kidding?

Is the definition of being a Canadian 'yes, I know I'm getting screwed over and I'm not happy about it but I'm not going to do anything about it because bending over happily and taking it like a real Canadian without complaining is what separates us from those greedy americans consumers.'

[longdong]

No not neccessary, if he can get any Toyota Sienna 2008 manufactured before september 2008 he can import it ...



According to the current list this car is INADMISSIBLE!!

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/1126/rivsierrahf2.th.png (http://img142.imageshack.us/my.php?image=rivsierrahf2.png)

I sent a message to RFD to try to contact this member so hopefully he can stop this trainwreck.

MODS can you help contacting this member?

[JWL]

Food for thought for those who can't understand why Cdn auto prices haven't quickly dropped to US levels along with the dollar. Although it may seem like automakers are not adjusting prices so they can make huge margins, I can see 3+ big issues that automakers are facing because of the rapid and dramatic change in the Cdn$ vs. US$:

1/ Used car inventory. If the dealer has a used car on his lot that he paid $X for as a trade-in and then new car prices drop 20+%, the value of their used cars also drops 20%. That’s a loss, not lost profit.

2/ Cars on leases. All cars on leases have a residual value which is effectively the agreed-upon trade-in value of the car when it is returned at the end of the lease. Same as above, if new car values drop 20+%, the off-lease cars will not be worth anywhere near to the lease residual value and will represent another loss.

3/ Where/when will the Cdn$/US$ FX rate settle? If/when they reduce prices the last thing the market will want to see is an increase in price due to an increase in the value of the US$. The negative impact of increasing prices might be worse than the impact of not reducing prices, so they are going to be careful not to put themselves in that position. Also if the new price is below their cost, they have to immediately report a loss.

I’m not suggesting that anyone should feel sorry for them, but I can see why they are dragging their feet. I don’t think it is just about trying to get wind-fall profits. If they reduce new car prices they will have to immediately report financial losses due to the above issues. By making temporary adjustments via rebates and incentives rather than changing the prices (I understand that the rebates/incentives aren’t equal to the difference) they partially address the problem, but effectively defer the above issues.

They also are undoubtedly struggling with the fact that the cost of producing cars in Canada just went up 20+% and Canada produces a disproportionate share of autos in North America. Do they need to close plants in Canada?

With all this happening I can picture why prices haven’t adjusted. I may not like it, but I can understand it. Until then, many people are doing the rational thing: go buy a car in the US.

P.S. I wish I was due for a new car so I could import a great deal like a lot of the rest of you!

[JWL]

No not neccessary, if he can get any Toyota Sienna 2008 manufactured before september 2008 he can import it ...

Actually on or before Sept 1, 2007, but your point is valid.

I hope he/she has this right!

[jmlleung]

Actually on or before Sept 1, 2007 (which is a whole year earlier than Sept 2008), but your point is valid.

I hope he/she has this right but there wouldn't be a lot of new Sienna's on the lot now that were manufactured 14+ months ago.

Why is it 14+ months ago? Should be 2+ months ago. :lol:

[scope11]

Actually on or before Sept 1, 2007 (which is a whole year earlier than Sept 2008), but your point is valid.

I hope he/she has this right but there wouldn't be a lot of new Sienna's on the lot now that were manufactured 14+ months ago.

I think you mean to say manufactured 2+ months ago, I would think there would still be quite a few to be found...

[accorder]

Stats Canada shows that more than 1.66 million new vechiles were sold in Canada in 2006. I was not able to find average purchase price but I remember it was around 30K. The average markups comparing to US prices (www.ATaleofTwoPrices.com) is between 20% to 40%. I will use the low end number in calculation

so the total amount Canadians overpaid is about 1.66m * 30000* 20% = 10 billion. oh boy.

[DSTU]

I'd guess that Honda doesn't care that much that dealers are importing used US cars. GM dealers (and I think some others) are advertising that explicitly.

Raikonnen is taking a harder line than I would. I'd let Honda call me. Hey, maybe they're offering big discounts! :)

I don't think Honda Canada has any say over their dealers on what used cars they can sell.

All dealers have competing brands on their used car lots.

Saying that - it is hypocritical of dealers saying don't buy a new car in the US while they are turning a larger profit on bringing up used cars.

[JWL]

Why is it 14+ months ago? Should be 2+ months ago. :lol:

I think you mean to say manufactured 2+ months ago, I would think there would still be quite a few to be found...

Right. LOL. I had it right and then editted to be wrong!:rolleyes:

[bimmerfans]

For those who happily imported your 08 Tribeca recently, could you please share with me your price by PM? Thank you.

[thelefteyeguy]

For those who happily imported your 08 Tribeca recently, could you please share with me your price by PM? Thank you.

lol i've seen this request so many times already...im not even interested and I know it's about 31K

...why not an X3 or an X5 (bimmerfans)?

[bimmerfans]

lol i've seen this request so many times already...im not even interested and I know it's about 31K

...why not an X3 or an X5 (bimmerfans)?

thank you. just couldn't get a brand new one. totally fed up.

[HOiYA]

So if a car has a manufacture date of Sept 2008, can you argue that it was manufactured on Sept 1st?

Actually on or before Sept 1, 2007, but your point is valid.

I hope he/she has this right!

[iluvtofish]

Food for thought for those who can't understand why Cdn auto prices haven't quickly dropped to US levels along with the dollar. Although it may seem like automakers are not adjusting prices so they can make huge margins, I can see 3+ big issues that automakers are facing because of the rapid and dramatic change in the Cdn$ vs. US$:

1/ Used car inventory. If the dealer has a used car on his lot that he paid $X for as a trade-in and then new car prices drop 20+%, the value of their used cars also drops 20%. That’s a loss, not lost profit.

2/ Cars on leases. All cars on leases have a residual value which is effectively the agreed-upon trade-in value of the car when it is returned at the end of the lease. Same as above, if new car values drop 20+%, the off-lease cars will not be worth anywhere near to the lease residual value and will represent another loss.

3/ Where/when will the Cdn$/US$ FX rate settle? If/when they reduce prices the last thing the market will want to see is an increase in price due to an increase in the value of the US$. The negative impact of increasing prices might be worse than the impact of not reducing prices, so they are going to be careful not to put themselves in that position. Also if the new price is below their cost, they have to immediately report a loss.

I’m not suggesting that anyone should feel sorry for them, but I can see why they are dragging their feet. I don’t think it is just about trying to get wind-fall profits. If they reduce new car prices they will have to immediately report financial losses due to the above issues. By making temporary adjustments via rebates and incentives rather than changing the prices (I understand that the rebates/incentives aren’t equal to the difference) they partially address the problem, but effectively defer the above issues.

They also are undoubtedly struggling with the fact that the cost of producing cars in Canada just went up 20+% and Canada produces a disproportionate share of autos in North America. Do they need to close plants in Canada?

With all this happening I can picture why prices haven’t adjusted. I may not like it, but I can understand it. Until then, many people are doing the rational thing: go buy a car in the US.

P.S. I wish I was due for a new car so I could import a great deal like a lot of the rest of you!



While I agree that the recent volatility of the exchange rate has made it virtually impossible for the manufacturers to acheive parity in the prices across both sides of the border, the manufacturers have only themselves to blame for the mess that they are in. They could have kept the gap at a reasonable level for the past few years but instead had opted to pad their bottom line by creating a huge disparity in pricing. As for the "residual values" on leased vehicles, again who is to blame for the huge popularity in leasing? They encourage leasing because they can put more people into their cars by offering low monthly payments to those that wouldn't ordinarily be able to afford to buy one. They made their bed and now they have to lie in it.

Personally, I don't care what they charge in Canada. They can say what they want about "Competitively pricing " their cars in Canada but if there were no collusion amongst the manufucturers why wouldn't the prices drop closer to those in the US? Why wouldn't Subaru of Canada sell their cars to local dealerships cheaper in order to gain market share in canada? What really irks me is the barriers that the manufacturers are putting up to prevent canadian consumers from buying down south. This flies in the face of NAFTA. They use the very same principles of NAFTA for their own benefit (allowing the free import and export of North American made vehicles) and yet they try and prevent the average consumer from benefitting from the very same principles.

Next time you talk to a sleazy car salesman from a local dealership, you will know where the sleaziness comes from!

[Dreyfus]

Auto brokers have anticipated declining resale prices for a few months now. They adapt by keeping inventory to a minimum and preferably buying on receipt of an order. I fail to see how new car dealers cannot respond in a like manner. The downside are lower trade in values, rush the trade-in to auction, do not hold depreciating cars while hoping to protect the usual margins. Inconvenient? yes, reduced new car sales? yes. A narrowing of US-Can prices is inevitable. The mfrs will drag it out kicking and screaming to Gov't. The ones that drag it out the longest will lose the most in the short and medium term.

[EZ2Import]

Personally, I don't care what they charge in Canada. They can say what they want about "Competitively pricing " their cars in Canada but if there were no collusion amongst the manufucturers why wouldn't the prices drop closer to those in the US? Why wouldn't Subaru of Canada sell their cars to local dealerships cheaper in order to gain market share in canada? What really irks me is the barriers that the manufacturers are putting up to prevent canadian consumers from buying down south. This flies in the face of NAFTA. They use the very same principles of NAFTA for their own benefit (allowing the free import and export of North American made vehicles) and yet they try and prevent the average consumer from benefitting from the very same principles.

This is precisely the thing that annoys me the most about what's going on at the moment. I don't know if the manufacturers think that by placing some artificial barriers preventing a purchase in the US, that Canadians are going to shrug their shoulders and buy at home? No way! These tactics just serve to make consumers mad, destroy goodwill and loyalty, and drive consumers into the arms of their competitors.

[bunchak]

Maggot,
Thanks very inciteful, and good writing skills, and very accurate.
No tax in Michigan tho if they bring the car for you to canada.
As for subaru, you can buy brand new. Warranty will be covered here. According to them, you might have to pay up front but they will refund you the money when you ship to them.
Dealers in Michigan have said they've been told by their manufacturers not to sell new to protect their smaller markets in canada, ie VW.
Ford will sell you new in Michigan but will not give you any incentives.
Car dealers will do all the paperwork too. Times are slow in Michigan, so they have deals...and they don't treat car buying as a privilege, they want to serve. Most US cars have slew of options included in the price, not like here, $10 for this, $10000 for that.
Friend bought a Mercedes, needed to change bumpers but i guess when ur saving $20K, $2000 doesn't matter much.
AGain maggot, great job and to those bleeding heart liberals and fear mongers, you pay the extra money...i've got better ideas for mine

[shopper-X]

For those who happily imported your 08 Tribeca recently, could you please share with me your price by PM? Thank you.

Try the Wall of Savers on CarBurner (http://www.carburner.com/index.php?title=Wall_Of_Savers)

[showMeAnImport]

This is precisely the thing that annoys me the most about what's going on at the moment. I don't know if the manufacturers think that by placing some artificial barriers preventing a purchase in the US, that Canadians are going to shrug their shoulders and buy at home? No way! These tactics just serve to make consumers mad, destroy goodwill and loyalty, and drive consumers into the arms of their competitors.

I would tend to agree with you on this point...seriously...I have had thoughts of getting rid of my honda lately just on principle alone. I am certainly a fan of their products but I find it very hard to support a company that is behaving like Honda...may sound silly but I seriously have thought about it...if I wouldn't lose any money in doing so I think I would make it happen...I think I may look at it and support a manufacturer that is showing more respect towards the consumer...maybe get rid of the accord and get a legacy or something...

Cheers

[rollifer]

1. Which airline do you guys use when you fly to pick up the vehicle at Manchester Subaru? Air Canada? Do you fly to Logan or Manchester, NH? Did Jack/Xan pick you up from the airport?
2. Has anyone asked them to transport the vehicle to the border instead? If so, can you share the experience?
3. Does the US border open on Thanksgiving, or the day after Thanksgiving? I call the number at Lewiston office @ 716.282.1500. But it is an automated system which only said "Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm".

Please PM if preferred. Thanks a lot.

I am flying in from Sudbury to Manchester on Nov 22 using AirCanada. The AirCanada's ticket price changes everyday, just check their website. Their price differs a lot depending on the day. I did not ask the dealer to transport the vehicle to the border. I have to stay overnight on 22nd because the dealer and the US border agency are closed on US Thanksgiving. The US border agency is open the day after Thanksgiving on Friday. They will pick me up on 23rd from an airport hotel I am staying. I am importing the car by Champlain/Lacolle border. The US side opens till 9:30pm and on the Canada side 24/7.
Good Luck!
Kim

[bluemule999]

I delivered title in person on Mon Nov 16. I picked up my car today.

I want to buy in Manchester and return to Ottawa but hear that the VT or NY crossings east of Alex Bay require documents to be hand delivered 72 hrs in advance.

I was counting on fax or courier so I only make 1 trip to the border and get in/out of the US fast.

Anybody done this recently to PQ or ON who can provide details pls?

WQ

[jzy]

Thanks for quick reply.

Just for that reason, I had the docs faxed from kinko's and have the fax confirmation to prove I did fax.

Also, I any idea how I can get in touch with someone at US customs? Can someone, who has talked to them, maybe provide some help with phone prompts?

Thanks so much for all your help.

(it seems I am so close, but so far, from driving my new wheels)

I just imported my Subaru today, and when I was there, I couldn't believe the huge stacks of faxes on their desk. They said they have very little time returning phone calls to confirm fax reciepts. For me, my dealer faxed the MSO last Saturday, and both he and I called and left messages but they never called back. I would suggest that you fax again closer to your actual import date and leave a message again. If they call back, great; if not, don't worry too much.

[norm07]

That's my problem norm, I've called them twice already and both times they told me that they didn't know and just check the list. They don't seemt o have a clue :>:(

May I ask how you know that the coupe has the imobiliser? I asked the dealer and he thought it didn't have it.

You will find it in the sales brochure in the Specs section Safety/Security "Immobilizer key system"

[longdong]

Check this toyota dealer:

This dealer has a huge list of used car from US ... amazing

http://www.houletoyota.com/fr/usedcars/listing/index.spy

Can we call this guy ? a mixed american-canadian toyota dealer ..

So that why it's so difficult to get a good used car from US these days.

[longdong]

So now the price different for a used car from Canada and US will be around 3k --> 5k .. so will you still import used car from US ...



Check this toyota dealer:

This dealer has a huge list of used car from US ... amazing

http://www.houletoyota.com/fr/usedcars/listing/index.spy

Can we call this guy ? a mixed american-canadian toyota dealer ..

So that why it's so difficult to get a good used car from US these days.

[vim]

So now the price different for a used car from Canada and US will be around 3k --> 5k .. so will you still import used car from US ...

In autotrader.ca I can see more and more Toyota Sienna LE imported from US. Before prices where quite high (over 30000 for LE), but today I have seen pleanty of LEs for 24000. Again, for this price that is not real Canadian LE, but for a bit more you can get with power doors. So new Toyota Sienna 2008 LE - 37000$. Toyoa Sienna 2007 LE you can get now for 27000$. That is 10000 depreciation just in first year. I can believe there are still people who are buying new Toyotas in Canada. Of course prices will fall in a few months. It is impossible to have such a huge price difference between new and one year old car. Market will not allow that.

[ziploc]

Hi,

Can someone confirm this I'm not sure what ti means...

Often in carfax report I see that the car was registered as a rental or major rental company.....with lien...???
I'm not sure what this means;

1- rental car from HERTZ or AVIS, etc or
2- Leased car for personal or business...

thx

[ziploc]

I just received info that Hyundai is planning to forbid the US dealers to sell to Canadians.....

[srtor]

This is precisely the thing that annoys me the most about what's going on at the moment. I don't know if the manufacturers think that by placing some artificial barriers preventing a purchase in the US, that Canadians are going to shrug their shoulders and buy at home? No way! These tactics just serve to make consumers mad, destroy goodwill and loyalty, and drive consumers into the arms of their competitors.

Well I think, we, the slap happy consumers, are also to blame a bit. We are so happy in letting our administration (both fed and prov) fcuk us badly in arse (moniterily), we seems not even mind when these money gouging corporations screw us. It is high time people should get organize and standup against all these have-it-all corporations . My props to those lawyers who brought that class action lawsuit. It's your money, you have every right to defend it. :mad:

[Prof]

I just received info that Hyundai is planning to forbid the US dealers to sell to Canadians.....

Particulars please.

[shoprbccom]

Looks like the gov is listening.. A LITTLE BIT! A step in the right direction at least!!

Ottawa today cranked up the pressure on car-makers to further drop Canadian new-vehicle prices - to more accurately reflect the loonie's recent surge.

Maybe.

Starting tomorrow, you'll be able to buy a new car or truck in the United States and take it across the border after the required 72-hour wait even if that model, like many lately, has been officially listed by its manufacturer as "inadmissible" to Canada, Transport Canada announced today.

read the rest:
http://www.importcarcanada.com/main/index.php?topic=120.0

[ziploc]

Particulars please.

I got an email from a friendly US Hyundai dealership....



and i just checked riv list....all Hyundai cars built after 1st sept 2007 are inadmissible..:mad:

[shoprbccom]

I got an email from a friendly US Hyundai dealership....



and i just checked riv list....all cars built after 1st sept 2007 are inadmissible..:mad:

See what i just posted.. i have a feeling this is about to change.

[ziploc]

See what i just posted.. i have a feeling this is about to change.

Just read...i hope the will allow to add immobilizers to new cars....it's a simple add-on and should make a car inadmissible....


ANW I'm starting to hate all automakers...

[shoprbccom]

Just read...i hope the will allow to add immobilizers to new cars....it's a simple add-on and should make a car inadmissible....


ANW I'm starting to hate all automakers...

I hear ya.. this is really the first action that any Canadian gov body has taken since this whole thing has come to light. I think it's a very positive sign.

[110phil]

I've been doing some math, and I wonder if the incentives Acura is offering aren't actually better than we've been thinking – at least if you were going to lease. I think you get pretty close to the American price, if I've got the logic right.

I've been looking at the RDX with tech package. Right now, the difference between the Canadian and US is, I think, about $11,000.

On a 36-month lease, the residual in Canada is 52% of MSRP (including freight). That's about the same as the percentage in the US. What that means is that even though the Canadian price is $11K too high right now, Honda is assuming that when the car has lost half its market value, that will still be $5,500 higher than the market value in the US> That is, Honda is letting you put the car back to the dealer at the end of the lease for about $5,500 more than the US price. They'll pay you back half the price discrepancy later.

Does that make sense? You're really buying only half the car when you lease, so the hit between the prices is only half. That's $5,500. Still a lot of money, $5,500. I'd still import to save that.

But Acura is now offering a 0.9% lease. The usual rate is, I think, 4.9% or 5.9%. If you would have paid 5.9% -- still better than a bank loan – this means that you're saving 5 points on the interest rate. Over the three-year life of the lease, that works out to about $5,250. The lease rate incentive almost knocks out the $CAN overcharging by itself!

However, in the US, Acura is offering 2.9% (not 5.9%). Canadians importing aren't eligible for that rate, but just to compare apples to apples, let's say that you're really saving only 2% and not 5%. That still works out to over $2,000 in interest savings.

Add in the fact that you get a warranty when buying in Canada – worth, say $1000. Add another $500 saved in expenses to pick up the car in the US. Add another $500 or whatever to convert the speedometer (if you would have had that done).

So you're paying $5500 too much. But you're getting back $2000 (or $5250) in interest, $1000 in warranty value, and $1000 in pain-in-the-butt. That's only an extra $1500 over US. And if the exchange rate goes down, that discrepancy could come down to zero.

A couple of caveats: this works best if you were going to have to borrow in the first place. If you were going to pay cash, you can work it this way: you're paying 0.9%. You can invest the money and make, say, 5%, which is maybe 3% after taxes. Net, 2.1%. It's still $2000 saved in interest!

I'm not including any money saved by negotiating the price, because you can do that both in Canada and the US. (Or you could, if US dealers would sell to you. J) And I'm not including excess mileage, which is probably the same for Canada and US – or too small to worry about.

I should also adjust for the fact that you're financing the inflated Canadian cost of the car, not the US price. I estimate that at 0.9%, that's less than $300 excess – although at 5.9%, it's a lot more.

Now, if you were thinking of buying, you might not want to lease because you're worried that the dollar might drop, and, after three years, you won't have the chance to import that cheap Subaru any more. But you can partially avoid that by taking the cash you would have used to buy in the US, and investing it *in US dollars*. That way, in three years, you have half the price of the car (plus interest) in $US. If the dollar is still strong, you buy in the US. If not, you convert to $CAN (at a profit) and buy (or lease) another car here. And, if the $CAN drops all the way back to 70 cents, you can take the profit and buy out the lease.

To summarize all this: the reason all this works out is that (a) with a lease, the price discrepancy is HALF what it looks like; (b) Acura is giving a pretty valuable rate cut, and (c) having the warranty is worth something.

Can anyone find anything wrong with this logic? Please let me know.

I should add that I do NOT work for Honda, or in the auto industry at all, and that until I figured all this out yesterday, I was planning to import. And, like the rest of you, I'm not very happy that the 2008 RDX is not on the admissible list and that US dealers won't sell them to us.

[110phil]

Add in the fact that you get a warranty when buying in Canada – worth, say $1000.

I should revise that to say that the warranty doesn't really bring you closer to par -- it's still Acura/Honda charging an extra $1000. But it brings buying here *more even* with importing, since you'd have to buy a third-party warranty if you imported.

[shoprbccom]

I've been looking at the RDX with tech package. Right now, the difference between the Canadian and US is, I think, about $11,000.

On a 36-month lease, the residual in Canada is 52% of MSRP (including freight). That's about the same as the percentage in the US. What that means is that even though the Canadian price is $11K too high right now, Honda is assuming that when the car has lost half its market value, that will still be $5,500 higher than the market value in the US> That is, Honda is letting you put the car back to the dealer at the end of the lease for about $5,500 more than the US price. They'll pay you back half the price discrepancy later.

Does that make sense? You're really buying only half the car when you lease, so the hit between the prices is only half. That's $5,500. Still a lot of money, $5,500. I'd still import to save that.


If you're going to lease, you need to work out the numbers. the savings and whole structure of leasing vs. buying outright is fairly different.

I wanted to lease the BMW 335i I hope to buy in the US shortly. I worked out the lease payments to being almost $35-40K over 3 years. I can buy a new/slightly used unit in the US for that kind of money plus taxes. They go for about 50-60K in Canada.

If I can re-sell the car in 3-4 years for 20-25K, I figure I'd be paying 15-20K to drive a car over the same time frame of a 40K in Canada lease.

Am I making sense? :)

[cyber007]

If you're going to lease, you need to work out the numbers. the savings and whole structure of leasing vs. buying outright is fairly different.

I wanted to lease the BMW 335i I hope to buy in the US shortly. I worked out the lease payments to being almost $35-40K over 3 years. I can buy a new/slightly used unit in the US for that kind of money plus taxes. They go for about 50-60K in Canada.

If I can re-sell the car in 3-4 years for 20-25K, I figure I'd be paying 15-20K to drive a car over the same time frame of a 40K in Canada lease.

Am I making sense? :)

Yes, it make perfect sense. I was thinking of lease a BMW X3 in Canada originally, after doing the math. I ended up bought a pre-owned Audi Q7 from US. Like you said, will plan to sell it in 4 years. The total cost in four years will be much less than lease a X3 here in Canada.

[endura]

I should revise that to say that the warranty doesn't really bring you closer to par -- it's still Acura/Honda charging an extra $1000. But it brings buying here *more even* with importing, since you'd have to buy a third-party warranty if you imported.

I did the same calculation and arrived at the same conclusion. My 07 Honda Ridgeline cost about $35000U.S. and $42000CDN. Both prices include freight. On autotrader.com I saw them advertised brand new for around $30K so I assumed that to be the realistic U.S. price I would have paid. So the difference was $12000CDN. Through a Canadian consumer organization, I got my truck in Toronto from a Honda dealer for $36000 incl. freight. Now the difference was $6000. Savings on interest through Honda's .9% lease/finance netted another couple thousand, or, opportunity cost on the interest I would have earned on $30K for 4 years sliding scale if I had imported, made up a significant amount of the difference. Plus, I had a warranty, which is important on an awd/automatic vehicle.

It still stinks that I had to do all this work to get a worse deal than any american can get after surfing the internet for 15 minutes.

[110phil]

endura: agreed: excellent that you didn't have to import, but crappy that you still got a worse deal.

shoprbccom and cyber007: yup, this only works if you get an excellent lease rate here in Canada. Interest is killer on expensive cars.

[2ride4life]

Looks like the gov is listening.. A LITTLE BIT! A step in the right direction at least!!

Ottawa today cranked up the pressure on car-makers to further drop Canadian new-vehicle prices - to more accurately reflect the loonie's recent surge.

Maybe.

Starting tomorrow, you'll be able to buy a new car or truck in the United States and take it across the border after the required 72-hour wait even if that model, like many lately, has been officially listed by its manufacturer as "inadmissible" to Canada, Transport Canada announced today.

read the rest:
http://www.importcarcanada.com/main/index.php?topic=120.0

what drives me crazy about all this immobilizer madness, is that in manitoba we are required to have an immobilizer installed in certain older vehicles and newer high-risk vehicles. Furthemore, as per a letter on RIV referencing this requirement, it states that "Qualifying theft deterrent immobilizers are those approved by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), and installed by an installation facility authorized by the Vehicle Security Installation Bureau (VSIB)." This seems to address directly the issue of whether a " NEW-inadmissable" vehicle has a non-compliant immobiler, which then can be rectified by having one of these immobilizers installed by a Manitoba Insurance approved installer.
I am sure that the case can be made that if in Manitoba this solution works, that others iin different provinces can also take advantage. Especially, since it appears that VSIB installation facilities are found across the country; http://www.vsib.ca/riflist.php
What is also interesting to note, is that if you look at IBC list of compliant manufacturers; http://www.ibc.ca/en/Insurance_Crime/Prevention_Investigation/Immobilizers/Immobilizers_List.asp,
that those with "problems" like honda, and toyota are not on the list. Then it seems logical that if you have an approved immobilizer installed that you should be all set.
Unfortunately, I have sinking feeling that manufacturers are going to say that the immobilizers are not the only non-compliant issue.
Thanks for letting me vent, great thread everyone - learning alot!!!

[Hybrid88]

Edura what is this "Canadian consumer organization" you speak of?! Care to share what they did for you?


I did the same calculation and arrived at the same conclusion. My 07 Honda Ridgeline cost about $35000U.S. and $42000CDN. Both prices include freight. On autotrader.com I saw them advertised brand new for around $30K so I assumed that to be the realistic U.S. price I would have paid. So the difference was $12000CDN. Through a Canadian consumer organization, I got my truck in Toronto from a Honda dealer for $36000 incl. freight. Now the difference was $6000. Savings on interest through Honda's .9% lease/finance netted another couple thousand, or, opportunity cost on the interest I would have earned on $30K for 4 years sliding scale if I had imported, made up a significant amount of the difference. Plus, I had a warranty, which is important on an awd/automatic vehicle.

It still stinks that I had to do all this work to get a worse deal than any american can get after surfing the internet for 15 minutes.

[accorder]

110phil, the caculation seems to make sense to you if you go for a lease. yet what does not make sense to all Canadians is the unreasonable high auto pricing. there is no much difference between lease and outright purchase. with a lease, you will overpay 5k in three years and then another 5k for your next car. with a outright purchase, you will overpay 10k upfront in Canada. eitherway, you will suffer from the high prices.

the US dollar have gone down against all major currencies. the exchange rate will be fluctuating yet I believe the Canadian loonie will only become stronger in the long run.

in the end, we should not be fooled by Canadian auto companies who do nothing to lower our burdens but trying hard to discourage Canadians from shopping in the USA. We will stand up and show the auto companies that we have alternatives.


I've been doing some math, and I wonder if the incentives Acura is offering aren't actually better than we've been thinking – at least if you were going to lease. I think you get pretty close to the American price, if I've got the logic right.

I've been looking at the RDX with tech package. Right now, the difference between the Canadian and US is, I think, about $11,000.

On a 36-month lease, the residual in Canada is 52% of MSRP (including freight). That's about the same as the percentage in the US. What that means is that even though the Canadian price is $11K too high right now, Honda is assuming that when the car has lost half its market value, that will still be $5,500 higher than the market value in the US> That is, Honda is letting you put the car back to the dealer at the end of the lease for about $5,500 more than the US price. They'll pay you back half the price discrepancy later.

Does that make sense? You're really buying only half the car when you lease, so the hit between the prices is only half. That's $5,500. Still a lot of money, $5,500. I'd still import to save that.

But Acura is now offering a 0.9% lease. The usual rate is, I think, 4.9% or 5.9%. If you would have paid 5.9% -- still better than a bank loan – this means that you're saving 5 points on the interest rate. Over the three-year life of the lease, that works out to about $5,250. The lease rate incentive almost knocks out the $CAN overcharging by itself!

However, in the US, Acura is offering 2.9% (not 5.9%). Canadians importing aren't eligible for that rate, but just to compare apples to apples, let's say that you're really saving only 2% and not 5%. That still works out to over $2,000 in interest savings.

Add in the fact that you get a warranty when buying in Canada – worth, say $1000. Add another $500 saved in expenses to pick up the car in the US. Add another $500 or whatever to convert the speedometer (if you would have had that done).

So you're paying $5500 too much. But you're getting back $2000 (or $5250) in interest, $1000 in warranty value, and $1000 in pain-in-the-butt. That's only an extra $1500 over US. And if the exchange rate goes down, that discrepancy could come down to zero.

A couple of caveats: this works best if you were going to have to borrow in the first place. If you were going to pay cash, you can work it this way: you're paying 0.9%. You can invest the money and make, say, 5%, which is maybe 3% after taxes. Net, 2.1%. It's still $2000 saved in interest!

I'm not including any money saved by negotiating the price, because you can do that both in Canada and the US. (Or you could, if US dealers would sell to you. J) And I'm not including excess mileage, which is probably the same for Canada and US – or too small to worry about.

I should also adjust for the fact that you're financing the inflated Canadian cost of the car, not the US price. I estimate that at 0.9%, that's less than $300 excess – although at 5.9%, it's a lot more.

Now, if you were thinking of buying, you might not want to lease because you're worried that the dollar might drop, and, after three years, you won't have the chance to import that cheap Subaru any more. But you can partially avoid that by taking the cash you would have used to buy in the US, and investing it *in US dollars*. That way, in three years, you have half the price of the car (plus interest) in $US. If the dollar is still strong, you buy in the US. If not, you convert to $CAN (at a profit) and buy (or lease) another car here. And, if the $CAN drops all the way back to 70 cents, you can take the profit and buy out the lease.

To summarize all this: the reason all this works out is that (a) with a lease, the price discrepancy is HALF what it looks like; (b) Acura is giving a pretty valuable rate cut, and (c) having the warranty is worth something.

Can anyone find anything wrong with this logic? Please let me know.

I should add that I do NOT work for Honda, or in the auto industry at all, and that until I figured all this out yesterday, I was planning to import. And, like the rest of you, I'm not very happy that the 2008 RDX is not on the admissible list and that US dealers won't sell them to us.

[endura]

Edura what is this "Canadian consumer organization" you speak of?! Care to share what they did for you?



http://carhelpcanada.com/

gotta buy a membership. I think I paid $50 or $60 for one year. They arranged the pricing over the phone. I was happy with it and the next day went and bought it from the dealership. Easiest/quickest I've bought a vehicle. Absolutely no headaches or pressure. Recommend them.

[baz5]

Flying down to Minni Monday morning, driving 7 hours back.
Getting an 05 durango.

[ziploc]

what drives me crazy about all this immobilizer madness, is that in manitoba we are required to have an immobilizer installed in certain older vehicles and newer high-risk vehicles. Furthemore, as per a letter on RIV referencing this requirement, it states that "Qualifying theft deterrent immobilizers are those approved by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), and installed by an installation facility authorized by the Vehicle Security Installation Bureau (VSIB)." This seems to address directly the issue of whether a " NEW-inadmissable" vehicle has a non-compliant immobiler, which then can be rectified by having one of these immobilizers installed by a Manitoba Insurance approved installer.
I am sure that the case can be made that if in Manitoba this solution works, that others iin different provinces can also take advantage. Especially, since it appears that VSIB installation facilities are found across the country; http://www.vsib.ca/riflist.php
What is also interesting to note, is that if you look at IBC list of compliant manufacturers; http://www.ibc.ca/en/Insurance_Crime/Prevention_Investigation/Immobilizers/Immobilizers_List.asp,
that those with "problems" like honda, and toyota are not on the list. Then it seems logical that if you have an approved immobilizer installed that you should be all set.
Unfortunately, I have sinking feeling that manufacturers are going to say that the immobilizers are not the only non-compliant issue.
Thanks for letting me vent, great thread everyone - learning alot!!!

The problem is that there are cars on riv inadmissibility list which according the insurance bureau have the immobilizer meeting the standards....check the pdf file on IBC page and look for hyundai suv and minivan....

[Rehan]

If you're going to lease, you need to work out the numbers. the savings and whole structure of leasing vs. buying outright is fairly different.

I wanted to lease the BMW 335i I hope to buy in the US shortly. I worked out the lease payments to being almost $35-40K over 3 years. I can buy a new/slightly used unit in the US for that kind of money plus taxes. They go for about 50-60K in Canada.

If I can re-sell the car in 3-4 years for 20-25K, I figure I'd be paying 15-20K to drive a car over the same time frame of a 40K in Canada lease.

Am I making sense? :) Make sure you work through ALL of the numbers. One of the big differences between leasing and buying/financing is the amount of tax you pay. Even if the depreciation of the car is only $15-20k, if you buy it then you have to pay tax on the full $35-40k. If you lease it, you pay tax only on the lease amount.

And another factor to include when comparing leasing vs. buying is the financing interest rate. If you are paying cash to buy the car, then factor in the opportunity cost of having invested that cash instead of parking it in the car; or if you're financing the purchase of the car, then factor in the interest rate for financing.


110phil is right that if you're the type that likes to lease vehicles, then importing from the US may not be the best option. BUT... there are used car dealerships and used car sales departments of new car dealerships that are offering vehicles imported from the US, and in many case those are also available at leases. I don't know what the actual numbers look like, but leasing an imported late model US vehicle might still be quite a bit better than leasing a new Canadian vehicle. Has anyone worked through those numbers?

[Kamloops]

Flying down to Minni Monday morning, driving 7 hours back.
Getting an 05 durango.
Have a safe trip, here is a picture of the 04 I picked up in Seattle. Limited full load with Hemi. Only 30,000 miles

http://kyra.ca/d1.jpg

Well I was there my friiend came across the boat as well. 2005 Searay with 8 hrs on it. Towed it back with the Dodge.

18,500 for Durango and 13,000 for boat.

[jemunt]

Has anyone been able to find an Audi dealership willing to sell to Canadians (looking to buy a Q7 3.6)? I live in Southwestern Ontario, so Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, New York would be ideal, but i am willing to drive farther.

Thanks,

[scouzi]

Has anyone been able to find an Audi dealership willing to sell to Canadians (looking to buy a Q7 3.6)? I live in Southwestern Ontario, so Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, New York would be ideal, but i am willing to drive farther.

Thanks,


These guys in Vermont have a used 2007 Q7. Maybe you could bargain ebven more.


http://www.kinneymotors.com/frameset.htm?url=/used_inventory.htm?reset=InventoryListing

Wow, they have a nice 2008 USED TT coupe also .

[Monsieurmaggot]

http://carhelpcanada.com/

gotta buy a membership. I think I paid $50 or $60 for one year. They arranged the pricing over the phone. I was happy with it and the next day went and bought it from the dealership. Easiest/quickest I've bought a vehicle. Absolutely no headaches or pressure. Recommend them.

These people are similar to the APA and other group pricing companies.

They rely on your membership and arrange what is essentially "fleet" pricing.

When I first looked into buying a car, a few co-workers told me they were disappointed with the pricing they were getting but didn't seem to worry too much since "it wasn't that expensive".

In most cases, the final prices are really non-negotiable but you'll get the illusion you're getting a deal.

They're great for the "sheep" reading the thread who don't want to pay MSRP in Canada or even venture south of the 49th.

For anyone who's into haggling, you can do better on your own.
....And much better doing it down south!

If you are set on buying in Canada, here's what many of us propose:

Take the US pricing, delete the US rebates (can be thousands), dealer holdbacks (typically $500 - $1000) and manufacturer to dealer incentives (some manufacturers give the dealers free automatic transmissions, moonroofs or similar options for free - the dealer is then free to charge for them or discount the price further - most in Canada don't even tell you about this!). Add about $500-$750 (remember Canada can never expect to do the volume that the US does) and offer that to a Canadian dealer. Forget about the Canadian marketing gimmicks.

If they factory order the car for you, you can save even more since they don't need to have the vehicle on their lots.

Anything more, they're gouging you....

[scouzi]

http://carhelpcanada.com/

gotta buy a membership. I think I paid $50 or $60 for one year. They arranged the pricing over the phone. I was happy with it and the next day went and bought it from the dealership. Easiest/quickest I've bought a vehicle. Absolutely no headaches or pressure. Recommend them.

If you are a member from Coscto you can get a quote from US dealers.

http://www.costcoauto.com/

I don't think these so called deals are so hot but if you are not as good haggler, it may be worth it.

[jazzjackrabbit]

so is this a good deal ???? thread is too long. i want to get a vette from USA what you think ?

[scouzi]

Has anyone been able to find an Audi dealership willing to sell to Canadians (looking to buy a Q7 3.6)? I live in Southwestern Ontario, so Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, New York would be ideal, but i am willing to drive farther.

Thanks,

They are having big incentives locally in Montreal. Maybe in Toronto also.

http://www.montrealaudidealers.com/audi/regional_aoa/montreal/November.html

[Monsieurmaggot]

so is this a good deal ???? thread is too long. i want to get a vette from USA what you think ?

What?

Buying in the US?

[baz5]

so is this a good deal ???? thread is too long. i want to get a vette from USA what you think ?

Let us do all the work for you, sit back and relax.

[yyz2hkg]

so is this a good deal ???? thread is too long. i want to get a vette from USA what you think ?

It's a great deal...first thing is to do a search for "corvette", then read through this thread, then go this thread. (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477998) well worth it. :)

[endura]

These people are similar to the APA and other group pricing companies.

They rely on your membership and arrange what is essentially "fleet" pricing.

When I first looked into buying a car, a few co-workers told me they were disappointed with the pricing they were getting but didn't seem to worry too much since "it wasn't that expensive".

In most cases, the final prices are really non-negotiable but you'll get the illusion you're getting a deal.

They're great for the "sheep" reading the thread who don't want to pay MSRP in Canada or even venture south of the 49th.

For anyone who's into haggling, you can do better on your own.
....And much better doing it down south!

If you are set on buying in Canada, here's what many of us propose:

Take the US pricing, delete the US rebates (can be thousands), dealer holdbacks (typically $500 - $1000) and manufacturer to dealer incentives (some manufacturers give the dealers free automatic transmissions, moonroofs or similar options for free - the dealer is then free to charge for them or discount the price further - most in Canada don't even tell you about this!). Add about $500-$750 (remember Canada can never expect to do the volume that the US does) and offer that to a Canadian dealer. Forget about the Canadian marketing gimmicks.

If they factory order the car for you, you can save even more since they don't need to have the vehicle on their lots.

Anything more, they're gouging you....

I disagree. If you do your homework it is worth it for certain vehicles to purchase in Canada. My 07 Ridgeline/leather cost $36000Cdn. incl. freight. Do you know how much I could have bought this truck for in the states?

[wackojacko]

I disagree. If you do your homework it is worth it for certain vehicles to purchase in Canada. My 07 Ridgeline/leather cost $36000Cdn. incl. freight. Do you know how much I could have bought this truck for in the states?

I just checked using www.costcoauto.com to get the invoice and it is $30,596 so that would be what you could get it for in the US. Now that is without a warranty, so that is worth something. I do think you did quite well off the CAD MSRP though.

[yyz2hkg]

Did anyone see today's Toronto Star pg A34?

Toyota took out a full page as did GM and states:


Toyota vehicles deliver quality durability, reliability and value.
Our most popular vehicles are built right here in Canada.
Vehicles features are selected specifically for the Canadian marketplace.
3-year comprehensive Toyota Roadside Assistance on all new Toyota vehicles.
Flexible incentives including lease and finance programs from Toyota Financial Services on new Toyota vehicles.


All of those features plus "wheather you finance, lease or pay cash, they'll give you from $500 to $5000 cash back or gas card equivalent on selected models.

Now...what are they saying? The vehicles purchased in the US don't have the same quality, durability, reliability and value, even though some models are made in Canada and exported back to the US?

Features such as an outside temp guage, block heater, and parts specfically put on to meet our colder climates aren't the same as a Buffalo/US dealer selling the same car?

OK, i've got to give the financing part to them, but that can be worked out too...

Just my 2cents tho...

[davehender]

Please send something about what's going to your MP- it's coming up to election time and it only takes two minutes. Copy what I have verbatim if you want, add to it, use it for ideas, make up your own message, whatever... but for Pete's sake make sure to change the constituency name to your own or your MP will ignore it! I hope the formatting turns out- if not then I apologize & I'll make it available as a Word 2003 document at my email address v5xe69rb@hotmail.com


Mr. Ron Cannan, MP Kelowna-Lake Country
114-1835 Gordon Drive
Kelowna, BC
V1Y 3H4
ron@cannan.ca
cannar@parl.gc.ca


Dear Mr. Ron Cannan MP,

I reside in your constituency of Kelowna-Lake Country, and my message to you is to express my feeling of outrage at the way automobile manufacturing companies (manufacturers) are:

a) Gouging Canadians who purchase automobiles in Canada by charging inflated prices for their vehicles – often amounting to many thousands of dollars.

b) Preventing Canadians from finding relief from manufacturers’ business practices by purchasing their vehicles in other, less price-inflated markets (i.e. in the United States). Automakers isolate Canadian buyers from American sellers in a very obvious attempt to maintain the outrageous profits they make from average Canadians. Manufacturers offer only token rebates and incentives to Canadian buyers in recognition of their reluctance to buy now in the face of such disparity between Canadian and American prices, but since Canadians are denied the advantage of the much lower American prices, the manufacturers ultimately control our market. I believe this takes place at a corporate level, and that automobile dealers themselves are not to blame.


As a Canadian who dutifully pays his income taxes and is presently unable to afford the inflated price of a new vehicle (or a decent used one as their prices are comparatively inflated as a result), I respectfully demand Federal Government intervention to cease this criminal conspiracy to steal money from Canadian consumers. I want to see three things:

1. a two-year delay in the implementation of Transport Canada’s regulation re: antitheft immobilizers as a requirement for registration of 2008 model-year vehicles in Canada.

This new regulation requires the installation of an approved engine immobilizer into new vehicles imported into Canada, and presently there is no approved aftermarket immobilizer device available. Many vehicles originating from the U.S. do not have Transport Canada approved immobilizer devices installed; as a result, the regulation effectively prevents many 2008 American vehicles from being registered for use in Canada, which plays right into the hands of the manufacturers that will use it to continue their inflated pricing scheme against Canadians. Delaying this regulation for two years will restore Canadians’ right under NAFTA to purchase vehicles in non-Canadian markets, and this will ultimately result in vehicle prices equalizing relative to free market prices.


2. an inquiry into international price fixing made under NAFTA by the Standing Committee on International Trade, an investigation under the Competition Act by the Canadian Competition Bureau, and possibly a criminal investigation by the RCMP into the dealings between Canadian & American manufacturing counterparts with regard to blatant price fixing activities.

Activities I consider “blatant” are collusion between manufacturers in Canada to inflate both Canadian car prices and prices for non-optional services such as “Freight and Pre-Delivery Inspection”, and also the steps that manufacturers take to deny Canadians their right to choose by purchasing vehicles outside the expensive Canadian market. Steps manufacturers take to deny the right to choose include voiding the warranty of vehicles originating from outside Canada, withdrawing purchase incentives such as rebates on cars bought by Canadians in the U.S., loss of relationship with Canadian car dealers with respect to providing customer service and timely service for repairs & recall campaigns, refusal to provide information regarding recall notices, and the like.

The Canadian government must take enforcement action against corporate decision makers for these discriminatory, dishonest, and fraudulent activities as they result in trusting Canadians paying criminally inflated prices for vehicles that they buy in good faith. Incidentally, automobile manufacturers’ refusal to honour warranties on American-bought vehicles in Canada is illegal, under the BC Supreme Court case “Toyota Canada Inc. v. Lipetz, 1998 CanLII 4473 (BC S.C.)”, yet I know of at least two manufacturers that still keep up the practice in Canada with seemingly no fear of reprisal.

At the Canadian Competition Bureau, Conspiracy Provisions of the Canadian Competition Act state…

“…section 45, 46 and 48 of the Competition Act prohibit agreements between two or more persons to prevent or unduly lessen competition or to unreasonably enhance the price of a product. Agreements between competitors to fix prices, to allocate customers or geographic markets, or to restrict production of a product by setting quotas among competitors or other means are considered to be "hard-core" cartel activities. Anti-competitive agreements harm both consumers and businesses, and enforcing the conspiracy provisions is an important priority for the Bureau. Much of the Bureau's work in this area involves investigating and prosecuting international cartels, a crucial activity for competition agencies around the world.”

Here is a link to the information provided above:

http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/internet/index.cfm?itemID=119&lg=e


The Competition Bureau has failed to protect Canadian consumers in this regard thus far, but I hope it will soon find the initiative to fulfill its mandate to “Protect and Promote Competitive Markets”. A look through the above website, including a search of “car price” under the site’s Search heading, failed to find anything to acknowledge such price fixing in the automotive industry even exists in Canada. As someone who normally speaks up for government employees against inappropriate comments directed at government workers, I find this failure shameful and embarrassing. It is unacceptable that automobile manufacturers treat Canadians so contemptuously without reprimand from the very government agency whose sole purpose is to monitor and control price fixing and dishonest, anti-competitive practices.


3. Reparations made to Canadians who paid inflated prices for automobiles that they bought in good faith dating back to the year 2005. Debt has never been higher amongst Canadians and, other than buying a home with a 20 or even 30 year mortgage, purchasing a motor vehicle is one of the largest purchases that many Canadians make. If possible, these reparations would be applied directly to affected vehicle loans, to bring their balances back in line with what they should have been at the time of purchase.


I believe we are slowly surrendering our very Canadian principles of integrity, self determination, fairness, and indeed our very sovereignty to the whim of corporations that are growing so powerful that they now manipulate their own market prices, government regulatory bodies, the labour force, and even the economy on their own terms in the name of profit. In a sense they have become governments unto themselves. Corporations can be treacherous from a political standpoint because as governments they exert considerable influence over the way things run, while as businesses they themselves are controlled by profit minded shareholders and not the citizen voters. Tenets of honesty, dignity, and honour seem to go out the window if it is better for business. How else can we explain auto manufacturers charging many thousands of extra dollars for products in Canada while simultaneously preventing Canadians from taking their business elsewhere? That this continues to happen directly under the nose of government is especially troubling.

We recently observed Remembrance Day, when we were reminded of soldiers who fought and died, soldiers who continue to fight, and the things the soldiers fought for in the hope we never again make the mistakes that brought us to war. As a speaker said just the other morning at my local ceremony, their sacrifice and victory gave us the freedom to live with dignity and honour. In recognition of all they have done for us, and to ensure our children continue to live with freedom, dignity, and honour, we are obligated to defend our freedom by ensuring others, including corporations, uphold our Canadian values. In a capitalist world market forces seem to govern corporate behaviour quite well, but when corporations control their own market, and therefore their own destiny, then government intervention into their affairs is required. When Canadians have to work extra months or years to pay inflated debt they give up a degree of their self-determination for the period of time they are servicing that debt. Whether it means postponing home renovations or missing out on big opportunities while they’re stuck paying excess thousands owing to one of many auto manufacturers, they are essentially slaves to the debt they owe. To me this is modern-day slavery in every sense of the word.

It is now time for the Federal Government to step in with resolve to set this matter straight, and I believe that all of Canada will be watching the way this is dealt with. I know I will. Please use all the resources available to the government to put people ahead of corporate greed and profits on Canadian soil. I do feel very strongly about this so I appreciate your quick action, and I would be grateful for a response from you on this matter within the week.

[jrvic]

I think you're on to something here. The logic looks good that on lease deals the Acura's are very close to par when consider everything including interest cost/opportunity cost of a US cash purchase.
On the interest cost, if one were to finance the US purchase with a bank loan then the interest rate in the calculation should be in range of 7-9%. This would for sure make the deals at par, even if you bought out your Canadian lease vehicle in the end.
The manufacturer warranty is always better in terms of times and effort saving, since you don't have to deal with a third party on repair issues.

Other than leasing, cash purchases are still not there, and Canadian lease deals are no where close to US ones.


I've been doing some math, and I wonder if the incentives Acura is offering aren't actually better than we've been thinking – at least if you were going to lease. I think you get pretty close to the American price, if I've got the logic right.

I've been looking at the RDX with tech package. Right now, the difference between the Canadian and US is, I think, about $11,000.

On a 36-month lease, the residual in Canada is 52% of MSRP (including freight). That's about the same as the percentage in the US. What that means is that even though the Canadian price is $11K too high right now, Honda is assuming that when the car has lost half its market value, that will still be $5,500 higher than the market value in the US> That is, Honda is letting you put the car back to the dealer at the end of the lease for about $5,500 more than the US price. They'll pay you back half the price discrepancy later.

Does that make sense? You're really buying only half the car when you lease, so the hit between the prices is only half. That's $5,500. Still a lot of money, $5,500. I'd still import to save that.

But Acura is now offering a 0.9% lease. The usual rate is, I think, 4.9% or 5.9%. If you would have paid 5.9% -- still better than a bank loan – this means that you're saving 5 points on the interest rate. Over the three-year life of the lease, that works out to about $5,250. The lease rate incentive almost knocks out the $CAN overcharging by itself!

However, in the US, Acura is offering 2.9% (not 5.9%). Canadians importing aren't eligible for that rate, but just to compare apples to apples, let's say that you're really saving only 2% and not 5%. That still works out to over $2,000 in interest savings.

Add in the fact that you get a warranty when buying in Canada – worth, say $1000. Add another $500 saved in expenses to pick up the car in the US. Add another $500 or whatever to convert the speedometer (if you would have had that done).

So you're paying $5500 too much. But you're getting back $2000 (or $5250) in interest, $1000 in warranty value, and $1000 in pain-in-the-butt. That's only an extra $1500 over US. And if the exchange rate goes down, that discrepancy could come down to zero.

A couple of caveats: this works best if you were going to have to borrow in the first place. If you were going to pay cash, you can work it this way: you're paying 0.9%. You can invest the money and make, say, 5%, which is maybe 3% after taxes. Net, 2.1%. It's still $2000 saved in interest!

I'm not including any money saved by negotiating the price, because you can do that both in Canada and the US. (Or you could, if US dealers would sell to you. J) And I'm not including excess mileage, which is probably the same for Canada and US – or too small to worry about.

I should also adjust for the fact that you're financing the inflated Canadian cost of the car, not the US price. I estimate that at 0.9%, that's less than $300 excess – although at 5.9%, it's a lot more.

Now, if you were thinking of buying, you might not want to lease because you're worried that the dollar might drop, and, after three years, you won't have the chance to import that cheap Subaru any more. But you can partially avoid that by taking the cash you would have used to buy in the US, and investing it *in US dollars*. That way, in three years, you have half the price of the car (plus interest) in $US. If the dollar is still strong, you buy in the US. If not, you convert to $CAN (at a profit) and buy (or lease) another car here. And, if the $CAN drops all the way back to 70 cents, you can take the profit and buy out the lease.

To summarize all this: the reason all this works out is that (a) with a lease, the price discrepancy is HALF what it looks like; (b) Acura is giving a pretty valuable rate cut, and (c) having the warranty is worth something.

Can anyone find anything wrong with this logic? Please let me know.

I should add that I do NOT work for Honda, or in the auto industry at all, and that until I figured all this out yesterday, I was planning to import. And, like the rest of you, I'm not very happy that the 2008 RDX is not on the admissible list and that US dealers won't sell them to us.

[jazzjackrabbit]

It's a great deal...first thing is to do a search for "corvette", then read through this thread, then go this thread. (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477998) well worth it. :)

that helped thanks !

[heinrich]

I'm happy to report that I'm enjoying my brand new Van Bortel Outback LL Bean... thanks to all who posted valuable information here!

A few notes on the process, crossing at Lewiston:
- bring American coinage for tolls - it's 75cents over the first bridge, then 2.85 to get off the interstate approaching Victor. Same in reverse, with an added 3.85 or so to get back to Canada

-watch out for cops in the US - there was airborne surveillance and lots of copcars about pulling over speeders.

-on the way back to Canada, at the US border, don't wait in line to go through the booth - just hang left to the Export lane, go through the little parking/inspection area, cross the oncoming traffic and head over to the customs building, enter via the red door.

-rental car from Toronto - National was the cheapest I could find, $200 for the one-way to Rochester Airport. I tried different National offices, and got different prices, so shop around. Interestingly, you could also get a U-Haul truck for the same price and drop that directly in Victor, but I assume the cost of fuel would be quite a bit higher. Enterprise, which has an office in Victor, absolutely refused to do a one-way (I called all local Enterprises to see if they had any US plates on the lot, as suggested here, but no luck). I drove to Victor, then ended up driving to Rochester Airport and getting a lift back to Victor; it would have saved almost an hour to have made arrangements to be picked up at the airport by Van Bortel staff, but I wasn't thinking.

-border crossing back to Canada at 2PM on a Thursday was not very busy at all, maybe 25 minutes

-insurance was the biggest hassle of all - summary of what I learned on redflag and through experience: if using PC Financial, don't even mention the USA when adding the vehicle. Don't bother with Belair Direct if you aren't already a customer. RBC and other bigger-name/non-discount insurance places will likely be your best bet.

-the RIV phoneline has the worst designed menu option system ever... just hit 1,1 to talk to someone in English with your questions...

[ramrod60]

Thanks for the form letter davehender. I will change it a tad (for my area) and send it on....I must do something! Sitting back and doing dick is just sooo canadian. In the case of auto makers, we are not just sitting back we are bending over and being violated time and time again. The price gap is (has been) bad enough but the reasons they offer for the price gap and the $incentives (crumbs) proves they are treating us like absolute morons. (check Toyota's last ad ....yyz2hkg post..what the heck do their 5 points mean!)

Due to recent events/actions by Toyota, I will NEVER buy from them.

Speak out canucks - to your local MP/Consumer groups (Competition Bureau, Ombudsman, etc.). We are tired of this and we are not taking it anymore!

[rob3blk]

congratulations heinrich. thanks for the toll info i was wondering about that.
how long was your ride back from victor to the us border? also when you decided on a vehicle from van bortel how long after did the business manager contact you to let you know that your car was ready for pick up? I have agreed with van bortel to purchase a legacy limited and waiting for business manager to call. How did you pay money order draft and who it was address too? Sorry for all the questions. thanks

[Monsieurmaggot]

I disagree. If you do your homework it is worth it for certain vehicles to purchase in Canada. My 07 Ridgeline/leather cost $36000Cdn. incl. freight. Do you know how much I could have bought this truck for in the states?

I think you might find some deals on the 2007 model line in Canada but for comparison purposes, I still think they'll still be cheaper in the US. I can't comment on your purchase without knowing the trim level.

But a quick glance on the Internet I find that US Invoice for 2007 Honda Ridgeline RTX 4dr Crew Cab AWD SB (3.5L 6cyl 5A) is $25,181. Minus rebate (the 2008 have a $1500 rebate) I would imagine the 2007 have a higher rebate but assuming a $1500 rebate, it takes you in the $23,700 range.

US invoice for 2007 Honda Ridgeline RTL 4dr Crew Cab AWD SB w/leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A) is $29,826. Subtract $1500 rebate and your in the $28,350 range.

Both have $635 PDI.

That seems to be the range for the Ridgeline in the US.

Source: Cars.com: http://www.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp;jsessionid=Z0QDVLMENCIJZLAYIE0E2VA?se ction=prices&crpPage=prices.jsp&makeid=18&modelid=7791&year=2007&myid=&acode=&mode=&aff=national

Assume again that the money is at par, a RTL with Leather comes to be $33,050ish (Ontario 14% taxes in). That's still a four thousand dollar saving buying in the US.

[shopper-X]

For those looking for cheap replacement BRIGHTER light bulbs the non-HID's you get in the US, I found these at Costco:

Phillips Crystal Vision Ultra Automotive Light Bulbs for $34.99 a pair. *Up to 4,000K brightness. Sylvania Silverstar's are up to 4,000K also and go for $28.99 EACH at CT. Available in 9003, 9004, 9005, 9006, 9007 & H7.
I looked up a few Subaru's, Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca and they all use H7 for the low beam and the Legacy and Outback use 9003 for the high beam. The Tribeca uses H9's for high beam that are NOT at Costco.
To see which bulbs you need check out the Phillips Automotive Replacement Guide (http://www.nam.lighting.philips.com/us/automotive/lookup/index.php).

http://img229.imageshack.us/img229/1158/dsc01826xu0.jpg

[davehender]

Thanks Ramrod. I've been trying to get folks to express their concerns to their MPs here and I think I'm getting some results- it starts off slow and it takes a while to gain momentum.

I can't understand how these people have gotten away with fixing prices & restricting our right under NAFTA to purchase goods in other markets, and continue to get away with it, without being called on it by our regulatory agencies; automobile companies make excellent servants but terrible masters, which is what they're trying to be now... they're manipulating our market and trying their hardest to make it so we can't do a darn thing about it. I would never expect Canadian prices to go as low as American prices, as there will always (well, hopefully) be differences between our two markets.

I think the operative word in this situation is "reasonable". The differences should be reasonable based upon the different cost and tax regimes between our two countries. I don't think we're really trying to compare Canadian to American vehicles per se- we're trying to compare Canadian prices to those that would be found in an "open market", which more or less happens to be the American one. I love being a Canadian, and given the chance I would always shop here, but I think the prices of the goods we buy should be at least somewhat based on prices in the open market. I'm no economist but I think prices are so messed up in Canada right now that we're not sure what we should really be paying for anything here(!), and being Canadians I'm afraid we are just a little too easy going about it to our own peril and the marketers' ill gotten gain. There are so many layers of business making a killing on us, but the automakers are really burning us because they're taking it a step further. They're trying to keep us from doing anything about it.

I read some posts about how the 'powers that be' may be concerned about how residual values, trade-in values, etc. would crash if prices were to quickly snap back to what they should be. There's a good point there, and in a perfect world the automotive manufacturers would be held to blame for it & be responsible to shoulder the financial burden. I don't know what the answer is to that one, but that isn't to say there isn't one... maybe we could write the extra prices off on our income taxes and the government could collect it from the auto manufacturers over a certain number of years? They should have been monitoring prices after all, and I doubt the first time they ever heard of automotive price fixing was just last September. Maybe automakers could lower new vehicle prices in increments over a certain number of years while providing rebates to existing vehicle owners? There are some smart people out there making up scenarios right now I'm sure. Whatever comes of it, automakers are ripping us off big-time and they need to be stopped NOW. Plain and simple. Anyone who suggests otherwise just likes to be screwed over, and that's no way for any society to operate.

[VladK]

so the step where you go through US customs, is that completely useless?

I just got plates for Mercedes E350 so the process is finally complete. We drove back to Canada we never stopped at US customs.

[LoDown]

so the step where you go through US customs, is that completely useless?

I just got plates for Mercedes E350 so the process is finally complete. We drove back to Canada we never stopped at US customs.

If your car is not a stolen one likely not a big problem - but you never know when your back in the states with the car. "Transgressor beware!"

[endura]

I think you might find some deals on the 2007 model line in Canada but for comparison purposes, I still think they'll still be cheaper in the US. I can't comment on your purchase without knowing the trim level.

But a quick glance on the Internet I find that US Invoice for 2007 Honda Ridgeline RTX 4dr Crew Cab AWD SB (3.5L 6cyl 5A) is $25,181. Minus rebate (the 2008 have a $1500 rebate) I would imagine the 2007 have a higher rebate but assuming a $1500 rebate, it takes you in the $23,700 range.

US invoice for 2007 Honda Ridgeline RTL 4dr Crew Cab AWD SB w/leather (3.5L 6cyl 5A) is $29,826. Subtract $1500 rebate and your in the $28,350 range.

Both have $635 PDI.

That seems to be the range for the Ridgeline in the US.

Source: Cars.com: http://www.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp;jsessionid=Z0QDVLMENCIJZLAYIE0E2VA?se ction=prices&crpPage=prices.jsp&makeid=18&modelid=7791&year=2007&myid=&acode=&mode=&aff=national

Assume again that the money is at par, a RTL with Leather comes to be $33,050ish (Ontario 14% taxes in). That's still a four thousand dollar saving buying in the US.

as with everything else in life, timing is everything.

in the states, there are no rebates left on the 07's. they expired end of oct. in canada, there is a $2000 rebate from honda to the dealer on 07's. nothing on the 08's. the real market price for me if purchased in the states would have been $30500 incl. freight, + whatever the importing costs are, plus lost interest on the money. my canadian vehicle cost $36000 inc. freight. + 4yrs @.9% financing. + warranty.

For me, at this time, the canadian deal is better.

my other choice was a nissan frontier, and if I had gone with that one I guarantee you an american nissan frontier would be sitting on my driveway right now. difference was $8-9 thousand and nissan has a warranty if the vehicle was registered in the states for the first 6 months.

point is, everyone has to do their homework and find out what is best for them. I did my homework and I'm content, and certainly not a 'sheep'.:D

[Chubien]

Just completed a deal with Xan at Manchester Subaru, purchased from him a Legacy GT Limited.
Despite the Canadian dollar loosing ground to the US dollar this past week I believe I still saved $14,000 from buying the car in Canada. Had XE.com been quicker at activating my account (it took about 4 days) I would have saved another thou$.
Apparently it takes about one week for XE to wire the money to the dealer if you use use EFT method to XE. Advice for the people that are in a hurry to get their cars faster wire to the money to XE.
Next after money is wired to the dealer, all paperwork will get courriered to myself which I will bring in person to the US customs office at the champlain crossing. 72 hours later I will likely get a one way bus trip to manchester from montreal.

[heinrich]

congratulations heinrich. thanks for the toll info i was wondering about that.
how long was your ride back from victor to the us border? also when you decided on a vehicle from van bortel how long after did the business manager contact you to let you know that your car was ready for pick up? I have agreed with van bortel to purchase a legacy limited and waiting for business manager to call. How did you pay money order draft and who it was address too? Sorry for all the questions. thanks

From Victor to the border was pretty much a straight shot at 5m/h over the limit, so whatever that works out to, I can't remember the exact timing.

I paid by bank draft drawn on my US account, made out to "Van Bortel".

It was nearly a month from making the decision to picking up the car. My impression was that at the start, Van B was very responsive, but it felt like their internet business may have really taken off and the whole fax to the border thing slowed down and feedback got a little bit sluggish. I just emailed Karl to see what was happening, and was never in doubt that the deal would go off.

[ecgz88]

If you buy in Canada now, Acura CANADA is offer $4000 rebate for RDX Tech :confused: not sure if can combine with 0.9% buying finance rate......
If they can, consider US 2.9% finance rate, would be another $2000 difference.

110phil, the caculation seems to make sense to you if you go for a lease. yet what does not make sense to all Canadians is the unreasonable high auto pricing. there is no much difference between lease and outright purchase. with a lease, you will overpay 5k in three years and then another 5k for your next car. with a outright purchase, you will overpay 10k upfront in Canada. eitherway, you will suffer from the high prices.

the US dollar have gone down against all major currencies. the exchange rate will be fluctuating yet I believe the Canadian loonie will only become stronger in the long run.

in the end, we should not be fooled by Canadian auto companies who do nothing to lower our burdens but trying hard to discourage Canadians from shopping in the USA. We will stand up and show the auto companies that we have alternatives.

[bluemule999]

Davehender, excellent letter. I sent your letter with a few choice words of mine. Canadians need to overwhelm the Government with their outage. Change will not happen if everyone sits back, screams and yells at the dinner table, but then do nothing.

To locate government email addresses, see like below:
http://canada.gc.ca/directories/direct_e.html#mp

[st7860]

Excellent letter. I sent your letter with a few choice words of mine. Canadians need to overwhelm the Government with their outage. Change will not happen if everyone sits back, screams and yells at the dinner table, but then do nothing.

To locate government email addresses, see like below:
http://canada.gc.ca/directories/direct_e.html#mp

[QUOTE=davehender;5944098]Please send something about what's going to your MP- it's coming up to election time and it only takes two minutes. Copy what I have verbatim if you want, add to it, use it for ideas, make up your own message, whatever... but for Pete's sake make sure to change the constituency name to your own or your MP will ignore it! I hope the formatting turns out- if not then I apologize & I'll make it available as a Word 2003 document at my email address v5xe69rb@hotmail.com

you can send postal letters to MP's for free too.

[bluemule999]

Congratulations!! I will post shortly my experience of picking up my Legacy GT Limited from Xan tomorrow (with pictures). You will not be disappointed with the car. It looks and drives beautifully!!

Just completed a deal with Xan at Manchester Subaru, purchased from him a Legacy GT Limited.
Despite the Canadian dollar loosing ground to the US dollar this past week I believe I still saved $14,000 from buying the car in Canada. Had XE.com been quicker at activating my account (it took about 4 days) I would have saved another thou$.
Apparently it takes about one week for XE to wire the money to the dealer if you use use EFT method to XE. Advice for the people that are in a hurry to get their cars faster wire to the money to XE.
Next after money is wired to the dealer, all paperwork will get courriered to myself which I will bring in person to the US customs office at the champlain crossing. 72 hours later I will likely get a one way bus trip to manchester from montreal.

[litobro]

Getting a Prius would be well worth it now!!!

[baillieul]

Oh, I'm pissed at the Canadian dealers.

So, I'm shopping Ford Fusion. Read about the 2007 'adjustment incentives'. Dealer denies any knowledge of the incentatives. Makes some calls, says, oh ya, there is 5500 on them, thats the good news. Bad news is we don't have any 2007s. Great deal Ford!

Just came out of a negotiation for a 2007 Sentra buyback with 26000 kms. Nice enough car. Advertised at 14,200. Ok. I drive it. ok, lets buy it. Salesman writes 14,200 on offer sheet , come back says its yours, but has added a $390 'processing fee'. He says well, they are loss leaders. You have no trade ( for us to steal ) so we have to add the fees. I left. What a bunch of crooks!

Is it worth the effort to import something like a sentra? I am in NS. A shopping trip to NH is not out of the question. Any special gottyas with Nossans?

[DrXenon]

For those looking for cheap replacement BRIGHTER light bulbs the non-HID's you get in the US, I found these at Costco:

Phillips Crystal Vision Ultra Automotive Light Bulbs for $34.99 a pair. *Up to 4,000K brightness. Sylvania Silverstar's are up to 4,000K also and go for $28.99 EACH at CT. Available in 9003, 9004, 9005, 9006, 9007 & H7.

Beware, the bulbs I saw at my local Costco (may be the same as these) come with blue coatings to mimic HIDs but this technique actually reduces the amount of light you get out of the bulb.

See http://www.danielsternlighting.com/tech/bulbs/blue/blue.html

[dotcalamitie]

Regarding the ads in the Star from GM and Toyota...you gotta laugh your ass off at the Canadian suckers buying that. These car companies AND companies like Future Shop - are making more money than they ever have in Canada and they are spending some of those huge profits on advertising to lure in more suckers. Today Lawrence Yip of the Star writes about the GREAT VALUE OF THE 2008 SUBARU TRIBECA AT $45,000. What kind of kaka is that idiot drinking? Future Shop sends me a special email saying how they are working hard at bringing down prices and have lowered the price on over 1,000 products. I quickly run to their site, check their flyers - the Panasonic 65 inch Plasma TV, TH65PZ750, on sale this week at Future Shop is $9,500!!! In the US, I can get this tv delivered for $6,100 US. I've never seen future shop advertise like they are now, but they are appalling. What kind of nonsense is this? My point is that these companies are claiming to be competitive, but they are not. They are still rolling in our dough and as long as people keep buying at dealers and future shop, the huge profits they are making will keep going back into deceptive advertising.

[dotcalamitie]

Oops, I shouldn't have left Nissan out with their "Fair deal" program. Cripes, let's run down to Nissan and get a fair deal on a 350Z - $50,000. Or maybe go to the US and get a TOTALLY UNFAIR DEAL at $30,000 US. So is Nissan going to provide $15,000 worth of incentives on their 350Z's to at least get close to the US price? Didn't think so.

[Dreyfus]

http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/VIG_Canada01192007.htm

Other info on import conditions to US also their recognition of CMVSS114.
We are simply asking TC/RIV to reciprocate, clearly the US Gov't has more respect for its consumers.

[ajm25]

I just received info that Hyundai is planning to forbid the US dealers to sell to Canadians.....

I just bought a Veracruz today and was told the same thing by the dealer. He knows that they will be sending him a letter shortly with the directive. They have told me that sales in progress will be fine, but if you have any intentions of buying a Hyundai do it now.

[showMeAnImport]

Oh, I'm pissed at the Canadian dealers.

So, I'm shopping Ford Fusion. Read about the 2007 'adjustment incentives'. Dealer denies any knowledge of the incentatives. Makes some calls, says, oh ya, there is 5500 on them, thats the good news. Bad news is we don't have any 2007s. Great deal Ford!

Just came out of a negotiation for a 2007 Sentra buyback with 26000 kms. Nice enough car. Advertised at 14,200. Ok. I drive it. ok, lets buy it. Salesman writes 14,200 on offer sheet , come back says its yours, but has added a $390 'processing fee'. He says well, they are loss leaders. You have no trade ( for us to steal ) so we have to add the fees. I left. What a bunch of crooks!

Is it worth the effort to import something like a sentra? I am in NS. A shopping trip to NH is not out of the question. Any special gottyas with Nossans?

You're directing your anger to the wrong place. The reality is the dealers at this point are almost as much of a victim as you are. Just like we are paying high prices, so are they to get the vehicles on their lot. Direct your anger at the head office of these multinational son-of-a-***** corporations.

Cheers

[st7860]

dealers are at fault too because are not prohibited from offering their own incentives.

[allknowing]

I just bought a Veracruz today and was told the same thing by the dealer. He knows that they will be sending him a letter shortly with the directive. They have told me that sales in progress will be fine, but if you have any intentions of buying a Hyundai do it now.

I have yet to catch the last few pages of thread but .. the Veracruz is/was already on the inadmissable list -- did you do your homework? Or did I miss something?

I just checked the Cdn dealership today '08 was 47K for LTD, '07 GLS was 39 -5K incentives.

Care to share your price? (and was this from Arnolds?)

[collector]

Please send something about what's going to your MP- it's coming up to election time and it only takes two minutes. Copy what I have verbatim if you want, add to it, use it for ideas, make up your own message, whatever...

Thanks for the idea. I just sent the letter to my MP. We should put some pressure on them.

[03terminator]

You Ontario guys are getting really hosed. The auto industry takes hundreds of millions in subsidies from the Feds and Ontario taxpayers (GM $500,000,000) and then screws Canadians like this. TC is complicit or completely incompetent. Keep up the pressure on TC to harmonize. There is background info on The Canada Gazette regarding the immobilizer.

http://search.canadagazette.gc.ca/search?site=gazette_collection&client=gazette_collection&proxystylesheet=http%3A%2F%2Fcanadagazette.gc.ca%2 Fcss%2Fgazette_collection_stylesheet-e.xslt&output=xml_no_dtd&q=CMVSS+114&btnG=%3E%3E

[ajm25]

I have yet to catch the last few pages of thread but .. the Veracruz is/was already on the inadmissable list -- did you do your homework? Or did I miss something?

I just checked the Cdn dealership today '08 was 47K for LTD, '07 GLS was 39 -5K incentives.

Care to share your price? (and was this from Arnolds?)

Only those manufactured post September 1st are inadmissible, and it takes some time for them to ship. Mine was manufactured in July. I bought it at dealer invoice, so dealer gets the hold back.

[showMeAnImport]

dealers are at fault too because are not prohibited from offering their own incentives.

You're missing the point my friend...sure, they could bite into their profit to a certain extent and offer some incentive but in order to even come close to American pricing on some cars they would have to go 5 - 10k (probably more in some cases) below what they paid for the car....hmmm...can you say closing their doors very quickly....their hands are tied...any incentive that they could possibly offer based on pure math would fail to resonate with Canadians...

The responsibility and ability to rectify the situation is with the manufacturer...this is a fact...

Cheers

[davehender]

Thanks Bluemule, ST, and Collector... every bit helps!

[bcbud]

I did the same calculation and arrived at the same conclusion. My 07 Honda Ridgeline cost about $35000U.S. and $42000CDN. Both prices include freight. On autotrader.com I saw them advertised brand new for around $30K so I assumed that to be the realistic U.S. price I would have paid. So the difference was $12000CDN. Through a Canadian consumer organization, I got my truck in Toronto from a Honda dealer for $36000 incl. freight. Now the difference was $6000. Savings on interest through Honda's .9% lease/finance netted another couple thousand, or, opportunity cost on the interest I would have earned on $30K for 4 years sliding scale if I had imported, made up a significant amount of the difference. Plus, I had a warranty, which is important on an awd/automatic vehicle.

It still stinks that I had to do all this work to get a worse deal than any american can get after surfing the internet for 15 minutes.

I have been pricing US Ridgelines since August and not to depress you more but I received prices " ...The sales price for a Rtx now is $24,227 and a Rtl is selling for$28,420. If you have any other question please let me know.

Thanks for your time on the phone today!

Take care ...”
These were for 07's and they knew that I was Canadian, this was their first offer and I believe that I could have still received them cheaper. I did not buy one because my existing vehicle works great, plus I am hoping the ridgline will have a diesel option in 2-3 years (strongly rumoured). Hope you enjoy the vehicle as I like them as well.

[ziploc]

I just bought a Veracruz today and was told the same thing by the dealer. He knows that they will be sending him a letter shortly with the directive. They have told me that sales in progress will be fine, but if you have any intentions of buying a Hyundai do it now.


Congrats :cheesygri

I'm looking for an Entourage...but have a hard time to find 2007 models left and the dealers don't want to go below MRSP with 2008.....:mad:

I have a request, can You send me a clear picture of the cargo space behind the 3rd row seat in Your Veracruz..??
maybe I will consider one instead

Thx

[yklivan]

For those who have succesfully brought in 08 Tribeca, do you pay the 1K Green levy at Canada Customs?

[yklivan]

Just completed a deal with Xan at Manchester Subaru, purchased from him a Legacy GT Limited.
Despite the Canadian dollar loosing ground to the US dollar this past week I believe I still saved $14,000 from buying the car in Canada. Had XE.com been quicker at activating my account (it took about 4 days) I would have saved another thou$.
Apparently it takes about one week for XE to wire the money to the dealer if you use use EFT method to XE. Advice for the people that are in a hurry to get their cars faster wire to the money to XE.
Next after money is wired to the dealer, all paperwork will get courriered to myself which I will bring in person to the US customs office at the champlain crossing. 72 hours later I will likely get a one way bus trip to manchester from montreal.

Are you sure that Champlain is closer to cross after taking your car from Xan but not Hightgate?

[collector]

For those who have succesfully brought in 08 Tribeca, do you pay the 1K Green levy at Canada Customs?

NO

[1treehill]

I am just looking for a nice deal of a used car to import to Canada. My friend found a 2006 accord EX that is asked for US $18000 from a private seller, milage around 50000 km. Can somebody tell me is it a good deal? Since this car is still in the manufacturer's warranty, is it transferable to Canada?[/B] [B]My friend think I could save 6% state tax because this is a private seller, can I import a car bought from a private seller? any difference for the process of import? How much do you think it will cost me to import totally? Any other suggestions?
Thank you!

[Alexo]

The ultimate other 2 questions are:

1) What the hell is TC going to do to hold these manufacturers to task in terms of ensuring that they are not going to be arbitrarily adding vehicles as inadmissible moving forward?

2) What protection will there be in place to ensure this does not happen to more Canadians moving forward? For example, are they going to implement some kind of rule that states if the vehicle was admissible at border crossing time that people will still be able to complete the process even if the vehicle goes on the inadmissible list before they have an opportunity to complete the process on the Canadian side? Or some kind of rule that says a particular admissibility list stays static for at least a 30 to 45 day window before manufacturers can add changes? Or a Deadline atleast --> Something like the manufacturers need to have all their changes in by Jan 1 2009....or something....anything!!!!
Why don't you write a nice letter to your MP at his or her parliamentary address and ask them?
They sail that plain old snail-mail is better than email and whaddayaknow, you don't even need a stamp.

Start here: http://www2.parl.gc.ca/Parlinfo/Compilations/HouseOfCommons/MemberByPostalCode.aspx

Not so long ago Ontarians voted against changing the election system to Mixed Memember Proportional because they felt that only 100% directly elected representative would be "accountable to the voters".

Personally, I tend to disagree but hey, it was your choice.

I assume the same reasoning works on the federal level as well, do why don't you demand that those "accountable" MPs represent your interests for a change instead of spending their efforts on voting themselves salary increases?

.

[bluemule999]

Highgate Springs is closer. I did it twice this past week.


Are you sure that Champlain is closer to cross after taking your car from Xan but not Hightgate?

[endura]

I have been pricing US Ridgelines since August and not to depress you more but I received prices " ...The sales price for a Rtx now is $24,227 and a Rtl is selling for$28,420. If you have any other question please let me know.

Thanks for your time on the phone today!

Take care ...”
These were for 07's and they knew that I was Canadian, this was their first offer and I believe that I could have still received them cheaper. I did not buy one because my existing vehicle works great, plus I am hoping the ridgline will have a diesel option in 2-3 years (strongly rumoured). Hope you enjoy the vehicle as I like them as well.


I think this is because of the $3500 rebate honda U.S. was giving the dealers until oct 31. I missed it and honda won't do it again as they have adjusted production in the factory to realign with the lowered demand for trucks/suv's.

re diesel. it looks like the diesel is coming with the redesigned ridgeline in 2010-2011, which is when my lease is up:D

[Chubien]

Are you sure that Champlain is closer to cross after taking your car from Xan but not Hightgate?

Champlain is just closer to where I work, I still have to bring the paperwork in person this allows me to do so without taking too much time off.

[trenton1776]

Regarding the ads in the Star from GM and Toyota...you gotta laugh your ass off at the Canadian suckers buying that. These car companies AND companies like Future Shop - are making more money than they ever have in Canada and they are spending some of those huge profits on advertising to lure in more suckers. Today Lawrence Yip of the Star writes about the GREAT VALUE OF THE 2008 SUBARU TRIBECA AT $45,000. What kind of kaka is that idiot drinking? Future Shop sends me a special email saying how they are working hard at bringing down prices and have lowered the price on over 1,000 products. I quickly run to their site, check their flyers - the Panasonic 65 inch Plasma TV, TH65PZ750, on sale this week at Future Shop is $9,500!!! In the US, I can get this tv delivered for $6,100 US. I've never seen future shop advertise like they are now, but they are appalling. What kind of nonsense is this? My point is that these companies are claiming to be competitive, but they are not. They are still rolling in our dough and as long as people keep buying at dealers and future shop, the huge profits they are making will keep going back into deceptive advertising.

Future Shop, Best Buy and the rest are a completely different story then the auto dealers. They do not buy direct from the manufacture rather from distributors like Ingram Micro, Synnex, Tech Data and others. The manufactures still set the MSRP and the wholesale price through distribution. Future Shop may have some pricing clout but ultimately it still comes down to the manufacturers pricing.

[vim]

Can anyone who imported used car confirm, that instead of Certificate of Origin I just have to request dealer "Car Title". Is that all the difference between importing used car and new car? I am very familiar with new car import process, but was wandering about differences for used car import process.
I am assuming that if I am buying used car from dealer, then this car will not have any liens or any other problems.

Thank you

[Lax5]

Luds... I'm trying to do the same with a 2008 Nissan Rogue. Since you're also from QC, let me ask you- will you be going with a 3rd party warranty? If so with whom? I'm having some trouble finding a company that covers Quebec (a couple of Canadian companies that I have found exclude Quebec and the only one I did find (so far) in the province, only works through dealerships. *sigh*).

A buddy is of the understanding that the Rogue is not admissable. Yet, when I check TC list it appears that only a few models are not allowed across the border. Do you have confirmation that the immoblizer will meet the Canadian standard?

[showMeAnImport]

Well, the party is over on this one for me....I just got off the phone with RIV and the guy told me that any SUV, regardless of manufacturer, manufactured after Sept. 1 2007 is admissible only if you have a CMVSS114 compliance letter from the manufacturer....Here I was thinking that there were some exceptions (Eg the 4Runner based on how I was interpreting the list)

The current list in the case of Toyota almost implies that only the Rav4 and Highlander need a compliance letter but according to RIV (at least the guy I talked to) this is not the case....all of them need one....Including Subarus...Subaru may be willing to issue compliance letters...I don't know, but Toyota will not....

Why do they have any Toyota's listed in the admissible column at all??!?!?!?!?! Clearly they are not practically admissible because you will never get a letter...leaving the list structured like this only serves to further confuse Canadians and potentially lead them into a situation of financial hardship...Is it possible that this guy didn't know what he was talking about??!?!?!?!?!?!?

I will likely take the time to write my MP but don't hold out much hope that it will make a difference...for me, after this conversation, I am essentially giving up any immediate thoughts of importing my vehicle...the manufacturers have got what they wanted with respect to me it seems...this is an impossible battle at this point...

Really sad when you think about how disrespectful these manufacturers are towards us as Canadians...wow...

I have such a bad taste in my mouth about this whole thing at this point that I don't think I can possibly even hand my money over to Toyota Canada for a 4Runner...just on principle...

I guess I will be going used here in Canada or new with any Canadian manufacturer that starts showing more respect to Canadians on price...if they are exhibiting some respect and have a product that meets my requirements for towing etc. then they will be getting my money...even if I am not crazy about their product...

Cheers

[dotcalamitie]

Prior to the last few months, i was paying $1,500 a month for an Escalade, $1,800 a month for a BMW and $900 a month for a Ridgeline. $4,200 a month for my cars. I am now driving a 2007 Prius which I paid cash for and a 2008 Tribeca which I'm paying about $400 a month for...all from the US. The Canadian automotive industry is getting zero dollars a month from me now. When prices return to normal, I might consider going back to high end vehicles...but I doubt it. The Tribeca fits under my ass just as nicely as an Escalade and the Prius is an absolute panic to play with. I was told a story of a guy who ordered a $500,000 Rolls Royce in Toronto, before he went to pick it up, he checked and found they were selling them for $400,000 in Detroit. He told Rolls Royce here to stick their car where the sun don't shine, they aren't getting $100,000 for doing nothing more than the dealer in Detroit does for their customers.

[showMeAnImport]

Prior to the last few months, i was paying $1,500 a month for an Escalade, $1,800 a month for a BMW and $900 a month for a Ridgeline. $4,200 a month for my cars. I am now driving a 2007 Prius which I paid cash for and a 2008 Tribeca which I'm paying about $400 a month for...all from the US. The Canadian automotive industry is getting zero dollars a month from me now. When prices return to normal, I might consider going back to high end vehicles...but I doubt it. The Tribeca fits under my ass just as nicely as an Escalade and the Prius is an absolute panic to play with. I was told a story of a guy who ordered a $500,000 Rolls Royce in Toronto, before he went to pick it up, he checked and found they were selling them for $400,000 in Detroit. He told Rolls Royce here to stick their car where the sun don't shine, they aren't getting $100,000 for doing nothing more than the dealer in Detroit does for their customers.

LOL...Like cars much?!?!?!:razz: :-)

[jazzjackrabbit]

does anyone think prices of cars will go down in canada soon with the CAD $ stronger, im looking at buying a vette but its so dam expensive compared to the states.

[longdong]

Don't buy any Honda, even a used car, warranty will be void in Canada .. also, Honda America is clearly stated that they will not issue any clearance letter for a used car (so buy from a private seller is a big risk)


I am just looking for a nice deal of a used car to import to Canada. My friend found a 2006 accord EX that is asked for US $18000 from a private seller, milage around 50000 km. Can somebody tell me is it a good deal? Since this car is still in the manufacturer's warranty, is it transferable to Canada?[/B] [B]My friend think I could save 6% state tax because this is a private seller, can I import a car bought from a private seller? any difference for the process of import? How much do you think it will cost me to import totally? Any other suggestions?
Thank you!

[showMeAnImport]

We Canadians truely are second-class citizens...when your own government supports this kind of treatment what are you going to do...

It will be interesting moving forward to see what happens with all this...if anything...

Cheers

[blkm3]

I agree, a friend was in the market for an MDX elite. Looked in the U.S. and found it to be much cheaper but with different options, plus the no warranty part unless he drives back to the U.S. for anything that needs to be done. But I was lucky to be able to get one hooked up for just a bit more than 60 which came close to what he would have paid for in the U.S. for the exact same model with the exact same options. There was still a bit of a diff but not enough for him to lose warranty on the car.. hope this helps.

Don't buy any Honda, even a used car, warranty will be void in Canada .. also, Honda America is clearly stated that they will not issue any clearance letter for a used car (so buy from a private seller is a big risk)

[J233]

Can anyone who imported used car confirm, that instead of Certificate of Origin I just have to request dealer "Car Title". Is that all the difference between importing used car and new car? I am very familiar with new car import process, but was wandering about differences for used car import process.
I am assuming that if I am buying used car from dealer, then this car will not have any liens or any other problems.

Thank you

Correct, this is the only difference (well, you will also need safety and emission done before plating the vehicle in Canada as it is sold as "used" and "titled"). Once the vehicle is registered in the US to its first owner it means it's "titled". It is similar to Canadian "green ownership". Each title has a unique number assigned and it is as important as the original MSO that comes with the vehicle.
If there are liens on a vehicle the title will show the info. Most states will also show in the title that the vehicle was titled for a rental company or as a fleet vehicle.

I am in a process of closing a deal for a 2007 demo and I am getting the title from the dealer with my name and address on it as purchaser. Then, it will be faxed to US Customs, etc, etc.

[vim]

Correct, this is the only difference (well, you will also need safety and emission done before plating the vehicle in Canada as it is sold as "used" and "titled"). Once the vehicle is registered in the US to its first owner it means it's "titled". It is similar to Canadian "green ownership". Each title has a unique number assigned and it is as important as the original MSO that comes with the vehicle.
If there are liens on a vehicle the title will show the info. Most states will also show in the title that the vehicle was titled for a rental company or as a fleet vehicle.

I am in a process of closing a deal for a 2007 demo and I am getting the title from the dealer with my name and address on it as purchaser. Then, it will be faxed to US Customs, etc, etc.

Thank you very much for this reply. Just to be sure I have to ask you - when buying used car I will get from a dealer new title that will be in my name, but he also have to show me old title. Right? Also, did you get title before you paid if full, or just after you paid down payment?

Thanks again.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Anyone know how badly Mercedes or Audi are cracking down on New car imports from the USA? Do they honor the warranty?

I hate the fact that BMW told their stinking dealerships to stop selling new Cars to Canadians. The prices over here are just sickening.

Does anyone know how much a sales guy can lower the price on a car in Canada? Is it true that it is 10 percent?

[1treehill]

Don't buy any Honda, even a used car, warranty will be void in Canada .. also, Honda America is clearly stated that they will not issue any clearance letter for a used car (so buy from a private seller is a big risk)

Thank you for the reply, since Honda won' work, I am currently looking at Nissan 2007 Altima2.5s.
Q1 according to importcarcanada.com, Nissan cars must be registered in USA and moved to Canada after 6 months to maintain valid canadian warranty. So if I buy a used car, does it mean the car was registed in USA already before I purchase it?
Q2 Can I buy this used car from private seller to save 7% of State tax, if I confirm from Nissan that Manufacturer will provide recall clearance letter?
Q3 Dealer told my friend that title document would be mail to us in about 1 month, how to get the title document for used car faster?
Q4 after I purchased car, I will drive it back to toronto (from Chicago), My understanding about insurance on the road is that I have to contact my current insurer to add this car under my policy, correct?
Q5 Can somebody tell me pros and cons to buy from private seller for a used car then import to canada, or are you suggesting to buy from a dealer to avoid risk.


Thank you

[davehender]

Really, would it be so hard just to send a message to your Member of Parliament (MP)?

I know we're Canadians and we're world renowned for our tolerance, but we should be doing more than looking for ways to sneak around the doors the automakers keep slamming on us. They're changing the rules on us every chance they get, and they seem be doing this with government support! For f*ck sake, send an email or letter will ya? It would help all of us. It really would.

I wrote an email to my MP that you're welcome to copy word for word & add to or change whatever you want - it can be found on post #9219 (Page 615). Every single person here who has any concern whatsoever about the scam automakers are pulling should be sending a message. The government is not going to do anything out of a simple sense of integrity or honour - we need to make this issue a political hot potato for them to do anything about it.

[J233]

Thank you very much for this reply. Just to be sure I have to ask you - when buying used car I will get from a dealer new title that will be in my name, but he also have to show me old title. Right? Also, did you get title before you paid if full, or just after you paid down payment?

Thanks again.

NP. my pleasure. OK, the dealer should either fax you the title or give you the title number (or you can get it yourself by running Carfax report) so you could go to a state DMV Web site and have a look (some states offer this service). I doubt they will be willing to courier you the original title without you paying for the vehicle in full first (then you will get the title + car keys).
Now, there is no need for you to obtain a new title under your name if you importing the vehicle to Canada. All you need is your name and address written down on the existing title (preasumably now under dealer's name) as purchaser. This is why US Customs ask to fax copies of both sides of a title, just in case there are multiple owners listed of that particular vehicle -this is listed under "History" part of the document. If you are the second owner, most likely the title will be blank on the other side (one page only)
I would strongly suggest that you contact the state DMV office and ask them your specific questions, just for clarification. Each state has own flavors of bureaucracy, for example Florida requires an insurance slip with the vehicle VIN # listed + policy number in order to issue a temp plates, Tennessee on the other hand just needs your policy number so it is always good to ask, just be patient when you go through endless options from their menu :)

[scouzi]

We Canadians truely are second-class citizens...when your own government supports this kind of treatment what are you going to do...

It will be interesting moving forward to see what happens with all this...if anything...

Cheers


If you have a Canadian IP address, try to access Oakley's US website (without using a proxy) . They don't allow Canadian citizens to access the US website!

US citizens can acces the Canadian website.

www.oakley.com

I dare you. Just give it a try.

[neo1973]

If you have a Canadian IP address, try to access Oakley's US website (without using a proxy) . They don't allow Canadian citizens to access the US website!

US citizens can acces the Canadian website.

www.oakley.com

I dare you. Just give it a try.

That's $%&#ed up! :mad:

[NoooProblem]

If you have a Canadian IP address, try to access Oakley's US website (without using a proxy) . They don't allow Canadian citizens to access the US website!

US citizens can acces the Canadian website.

www.oakley.com

I dare you. Just give it a try.


I was shopping for a cheap fax machine at officedepot.com. Found one for $60. When I entered my postal code, it kicked me over to officedepot.ca and jacked the price up to $100. What??? Am I not supposed to notice this or what? I ended up buying on eBay instead (for the $60 price).

[accorder]

That's not what an honest and reputable company would do. :mad:

Oakley owns an apology to Canadian people.


If you have a Canadian IP address, try to access Oakley's US website (without using a proxy) . They don't allow Canadian citizens to access the US website!

US citizens can acces the Canadian website.

www.oakley.com

I dare you. Just give it a try.

[dealzuser]

That's not what an honest and reputable company would do. :mad:

Oakley owns an apology to Canadian people.

I think we are reading too many price fixing conspiracies here. :) I don't think Oakley did this just to hide prices from Canadians. There are lots of sites that are blocked from Canada. For example, I heard that from the US, you can watch TV episodes from network's website, but it's blocked from Canada.

BTW, my curiosity did get the best of me. :) I priced an Oakley pair of glasses on the US site through a free proxy server. For example:

- POLARIZED OAKLEY NANOWIRE™ 2.0 = $300 USD or $375 CDN.

That's just the way it is. When I want to buy something, I will buy whoever sells it for cheaper.

[Tender]

If you have a Canadian IP address, try to access Oakley's US website (without using a proxy) . They don't allow Canadian citizens to access the US website!

US citizens can acces the Canadian website.

www.oakley.com

I dare you. Just give it a try.

Hmm, I can't access the Australian site either. But Japan is fine.

[joejack]

Don't buy any Honda, even a used car, warranty will be void in Canada .. also, Honda America is clearly stated that they will not issue any clearance letter for a used car (so buy from a private seller is a big risk)

Not true, well not untill 2 weeks ago. I bought my Honda Odyssey (used) from a private seller and got the seller to requrest the re-call clearence letter for me. They gave him a re-call letter without any issues in 3 business days.

I am going to pickup the car this Wednesday. Will let you know how it goes.

[Dreyfus]

Go to www.framesdirect.com
located in Houston TX.
Sell prescription/nonprescription, not the cheapest but reasonable. I got two sets of prescription they handle Canadian business very efficiently. There are others with a good reputation this is one I have dealt with.

[Dreyfus]

I see some of you are opting out of the TC/RIV/MFRs waltz due to 2008 CMVSS114. Buying used is always risky when you are in a strange city without access to a reliable mechanic for inspections. As far as I can ascertain www.carmax.com runs a large and ethical used car sales network. Warren Buffet of Berkshire Hathaway fame has bought a large stake in the company. Buffet is known for his good ethical practices and due diligence when he acquires stakes in other companies. They are not near the Cdn. border but its worth the drive.
Money back no questions five days, thats as good as it gets.
Check it out. Don't let the pols dlrs mfrs grind you down to the point where you give up. Fight back buy late model used.

[accorder]

it would be totally ok if Oakley treat USA cosumers the same way as it does to Canadians. this market differentiation is actually consumer discrimination. guess Oakley must think all Canadians are smart enough to be able to check out US prices by using a proxy. Or it might think Canadians are simply super rich.

that's disgusting...

I think we are reading too many price fixing conspiracies here. :) I don't think Oakley did this just to hide prices from Canadians. There are lots of sites that are blocked from Canada. For example, I heard that from the US, you can watch TV episodes from network's website, but it's blocked from Canada.

BTW, my curiosity did get the best of me. :) I priced an Oakley pair of glasses on the US site through a free proxy server. For example:

- POLARIZED OAKLEY NANOWIRE™ 2.0 = $300 USD or $375 CDN.

That's just the way it is. When I want to buy something, I will buy whoever sells it for cheaper.

[eastsidesubaru]

I've been reading about all these long trips from NH to Ontario in your new AWD Subarus. From the break in perspective...is it OK for a brand new vehicle to go 75mph for 9 hrs ? Just curious...

Actually that is nice and easy on the engine. Just do not LOCK IN your speed. But start/stop, stop and go, onramp acceleration, etc is what is hardest on the engine.
Rules for Subaru break in = super easy.
1. keep it under 4000rpm for the first 1000 miles
2. don't go the same speed for more than 15 minutes... in other words, don't use cruise on 75 for the whole trip. cruise at 65, then 70, then 75, then 65, then 70, etc changing it every 15 minutes if you have to use cruise, otherwise, you should naturally vary the speed enough just driving normal.

[eastsidesubaru]

I see some of you are opting out of the TC/RIV/MFRs waltz due to 2008 CMVSS114. Buying used is always risky when you are in a strange city without access to a reliable mechanic for inspections. As far as I can ascertain www.carmax.com runs a large and ethical used car sales network. Warren Buffet of Berkshire Hathaway fame has bought a large stake in the company. Buffet is known for his good ethical practices and due diligence when he acquires stakes in other companies. They are not near the Cdn. border but its worth the drive.
Money back no questions five days, thats as good as it gets.
Check it out. Don't let the pols dlrs mfrs grind you down to the point where you give up. Fight back buy late model used.

I have heard some major horror stories about Carmax (we don't have them in WA so I have no personal experience, though.) For anybody buying a used car, I Think http://www.carchex.com/ provides a pretty neat service... They will send a tech to wherever the used car you like is at, and give it a mechanical inspection, take pictures, and write a report and send it to you. I have no affilitation with them and have never used them but I thought it was a pretty neat idea.

[jingyu]

Nice tips and thanks.
Actually that is nice and easy on the engine. Just do not LOCK IN your speed. But start/stop, stop and go, onramp acceleration, etc is what is hardest on the engine.
Rules for Subaru break in = super easy.
1. keep it under 4000rpm for the first 1000 miles
2. don't go the same speed for more than 15 minutes... in other words, don't use cruise on 75 for the whole trip. cruise at 65, then 70, then 75, then 65, then 70, etc changing it every 15 minutes if you have to use cruise, otherwise, you should naturally vary the speed enough just driving normal.

[icecream]

Which takes more gas? A minivan or SUV?

[tkl]

I've now officially joined the club. Picked up my new Hyundai Sante Fe on Thursday, went to the inspection, RIV office and MTO on Friday. My car is now officially registered. My conservative estimate of my savings with the exchange at $ 1.06 is about $ 8000.00. For what I paid, I would get a Honda Civic but instead, I now have a mid size suv that'll fit my growing family with excellent trims and features that I could not justify buying here at Canadian prices.

I would like to especially thank RFDers: spdztr and georgetoy for answering so many of my questions. Alysomji, yyzh2kg for the excellent and detailed thread on what to expect during the process. Also thanks to Kocur, jonsa, diigii and of course Monsieurmaggot for starting the thread. Many RFDer whom I've never wrote to but read your experiences, I thank you as well.

My day:

6:30am - Breakfast at McDonalds at Atrium on Bay food court. Gross.

6:45 am - Arrived at bus terminal Dundas/Bay thinking there would be a huge lineup for tickets for the 8:15 am bus. There wasn't. There were, however, lots of weirdo talking to themselves. Bought a 2 way cheapest tix for about $ 40.00 as others have suggested to avoid possible problems at the boarder.

8:15 am - 25 of us boarded the bus, picked a spot and settled down.

10:45 am - Arrived at US boarder, one guy working. Took him 45 mins to clear all of us as there were many who couldn't speak English. Asked me the questions, told him I was going to buy a car, declared the bank draft, filled the paperwork for that.

12:00 pm - Arrived at US bus terminal, dealer picked me up, 12 minute drive to the dealership

12:30 pm- Filled various paperwork, found out they spelled my name and address wrong on all documents. Re did documents, tried to upsell me extended warranty, rustproofing. Declined. Salesman showed me my car and I was blown away inside as it was waaay better than the base model that I drove here. Giggling like a school girl inside.

1:00 pm - Left the dealership to drive home. 30 minutes into the drive, I realize that I read the google map wrong and was driving towards Boston. !@#$^*! turned around, drove back the right way and the slush was forming on my wipers.

3:15 pm - Arrived at US customs , Queenston/Lewiston customs afterwaiting about 20 minutes in line as there were many cars waiting to cross. Got to the customs office, went to the red door, and went upstairs, wrong place as it's on the main floor. There was only one female customs officer and her assistant. Both were cranky. They could not find my paperwork. I called my salesman who was prepared to fax the confirmation over. Another 5 minutes later she finds it but doesn't tell me. It was raining hard so she never came out to look at any of the car that were being exported. Stamped my forms and I left. Total time, about 15 minutes.

3:45 pm - Arrived at Canadian custom, nice blond lady helped me, filled forms, paid GST. Again, nobody came out to look at the vehicle. Left after about 20 minutes

................Continue next post

[tkl]

5:15 pm - Arrived at the most western part of the 407, hopped on, got off around Leslie, 45 minutes drive, minor traffic compared to if I took the 401 in rush hour.

---------

Next day

Went to RIV office, did form 2. 10 minute wait, 3 people in line. Nothing to alter on my car as the dealer had already installed the running daylight for me.

There was a posted letter from RIV stating that they are looking into the September 2007 immobilizer issue and any update will be posted on their site.

Went to Crappy tire, although there was nothing to do, I had to wait for an available inspector to do his 3 minute job.

Went to MTO, registered everything, paid PST. I wanted to replace my old, bent plates with a new set but the same numbers, letter and it would cost $ 250.00 ??!!! as it would have considered a personalized plates. Yet a set of replacement plates cost $ 10.00

Now I just have to get use to looking at the smaller KM reading and having my trip odometer in miles but for the savings, I think I can handle it.

As long as my vehicle doesn't turn out to be a POS during the 5 year 50000 miles warranty in Canada and 10 year power train warranty in the US then I should be fine. Otherwise, it'll be my first and last HYUNDAI.

The end.

------------

At least $ 8000.00 saved.

[Prof]

I'm in the last throws of a purchase decision but I'm wondering about timing. If I bought the car in December to complete the transaction but then brought it back after Jan 1, would I pay the 6% or 5% GST? It's an issue of timing the exchange of currency (of only I had done it at $1.10!) and ease of getting away for pickup.

Any tax accountants here? I took the CGA course in another lifetime and career and have no clue.

[diigii]

I've now officially joined the club. Picked up my new Hyundai Sante Fe on Thursday, went to the inspection, RIV office and MTO on Friday. My car is now officially registered. My conservative estimate of my savings with the exchange at $ 1.06 is about $ 6500.00. For what I paid, I would get a Honda Civic but instead, I now have a mid size suv that'll fit my growing family with excellent trims and features that I could not justify buying here at Canadian prices.

I would like to especially thank RFDers: spdztr and georgetoy for answering so many of my questions. Alysomji, yyzh2kg for the excellent and detailed thread on what to expect during the process. Also thanks to Kocur, jonsa, diigii and of course Monsieurmaggot for starting the thread. Many RFDer whom I've never wrote to but read your experiences, I thank you as well.



CONGRATULATIONS TKL ON YOUR NEW CAR! ENJOY YOUR NEW CAR AND THE MONEY YOU SAVED BY BEING A SMART SHOPPER!!! :cheesygri *clap clap clap clap*

[yyz2hkg]

Good Job. pics would be nice too...

[yklivan]

Champlain is just closer to where I work, I still have to bring the paperwork in person this allows me to do so without taking too much time off.

But since you need to pass through the same port where you submitted your documents when you bring in your new car. It's much longer trip than Highgate afterall.

[rf134a]

I see some of you are opting out of the TC/RIV/MFRs waltz due to 2008 CMVSS114. Buying used is always risky when you are in a strange city without access to a reliable mechanic for inspections. As far as I can ascertain www.carmax.com runs a large and ethical used car sales network. Warren Buffet of Berkshire Hathaway fame has bought a large stake in the company. Buffet is known for his good ethical practices and due diligence when he acquires stakes in other companies. They are not near the Cdn. border but its worth the drive.
Money back no questions five days, thats as good as it gets.
Check it out. Don't let the pols dlrs mfrs grind you down to the point where you give up. Fight back buy late model used.

Unfortunately, due to CMVSS 114, I won't be able to import a 2008 Rav4 V6. The dealers there won't even give me a quote, never mind sell one to me. And after it's sold, it'll be nearly impossible to get Toyota USA to give me a letter saying that the immobilizer conforms to CMVSS 114. I guess it'll be a Tribeca for me...

[Quick_lude]

I'm happy to report that I'm enjoying my brand new Van Bortel Outback LL Bean... thanks to all who posted valuable information here!

...

Can you share in public or maybe pm me with the price? Or anyone else for that matter? We're looking to get the 2008 Outback LL Bean ourselves. Thank you.

[Matty]

Following davehender's lead -- and his great letter -- I’m writing to my MP, Bev Oda. As you suggested Dave, I adapted your text. Thanks very much.

Here it is.

Dear Ms. Oda,

I reside in your constituency of Durham, and I want to express my feeling of outrage at automobile manufacturers, regarding the price discrepancy of cars in Canada and those in the US. You know as much as I do how much this has been in the news recently, and it won’t go away until prices are lowered to near parity.

I need to buy a new vehicle, but the prices of the ones I’m considering are $10,000 to $20,000 more in Canada. To be specific, the cars I’m considering range from C$27,000 to C$39,000 in the US, to about C$37,000 to C$59,000 in Canada. I can’t afford this. My only option now is to buy in the US, unless these artificially-high prices in Canada come down to within about 3% of parity.

Note that I believe the pricing problem takes place at a corporate level, and that automobile dealers are not to blame; I’m sure dealers would love nothing more than to see prices fall to near parity.

I want you to know that Canadian auto manufacturers are using indisputably misleading advertising and scare tactics to prevent Canadians from purchasing vehicles in the United States, often by implying that a handful of slightly different equipment (perhaps a different battery, engine heater and headlight washers) accounts for the huge price difference. Some are offering insulting token rebates and incentives — but nothing that makes prices even approach parity. This insults the intelligence of every car shopper.

As a Canadian who dutifully pays his income taxes and is presently unable to afford the inflated price of a new vehicle (or a decent used one as their prices are comparatively inflated), I respectfully demand government intervention.

What I want:

1- An inquiry into international price fixing, an investigation under the Competition Act by the Canadian Competition Bureau, and possibly a criminal investigation by the RCMP into the dealings between Canadian & American manufacturing counterparts with regard to blatant price fixing activities.
Activities I consider “blatant” are collusion between the Canadian and US arms of each manufacturer to a) inflate the Canadian car prices, b) void the warranties of vehicles originating from outside Canada, c) deny purchase incentives for Canadians in the US, and d) refuse to provide service even if the owner chooses to pay out of his or her own pocket.
2- That the current Transport Canada antitheft device requirement for new cars to be changed in an important way. Ms. Oda, this is a shocker: while the immobilizers are a GOOD thing, here’s the bad: suspiciously it is the manufacturers who alter their devices ever so slightly (say, a different resistor here, a new wire there) between the Canadian and US models so that they can then claim to TC that they are different, and hence TC can be fooled into believing the Canadian immobilizers are inadmissible. They are, because they are essentially identical. The benefit to the manufacturers is that they can prevent their US cars from being admissible in Canada, and if it can’t be imported, it protects their much more profitable Canadian car sales.
3- For it to be legal for the owner of a newly US-purchased car to have an aftermarket system installed after importation, say 30 or 60 days later.


The Canadian government must take enforcement action against corporations for their discriminatory, dishonest, and fraudulent ways. Incidentally, automobile manufacturers’ refusal to honour warranties on American-bought vehicles in Canada is illegal, under the BC Supreme Court case “Toyota Canada Inc. v. Lipetz, 1998 CanLII 4473 (BC S.C.)”, yet manufacturers are still denying warranties with seemingly no fear of reprisal (to wit, Honda, Acura, and Chrysler).

Note that the Conspiracy section of the Canadian Competition Act prohibits “two or more persons to prevent or unduly lessen competition or to unreasonably enhance the price of a product.” Evidently, the Competition Bureau has completely failed to protect Canadian consumers in this regard.

I believe we are slowly surrendering our very Canadian principles of integrity, self determination, and fairness to the whim of corporations that are growing so powerful that they now manipulate prices, government regulatory bodies, the labour force, and even the economy on their own terms in the name of profit. Tenets of honesty, dignity, and honour seem to go out the window if it is better for business.

It is now time for the Federal Government to step in quickly to set this matter straight, and I believe that all of Canada will be watching the way this is dealt with. I know I will. Please use all the resources available to put people ahead of corporate greed. I feel very strongly about this so I appreciate your quick action, and I would be grateful for a response from you on this matter.

MD

[tico 1948]

Hey Gang, FWIW, the money I saved by purchasing my Subie in the U.S., has just been used to convert my home over to Natural Gas (our homegrown Nova Scotia Resource) from Fuel Oil (subject to Arabic Whim). With the conversion done, I am still left with approx. $3,500 of my total vehicle purchase savings. Like MonsieurMaggot says, spend your savings in Canada on other useful stuff. As an added bonus, the Nat. Gas price vs. Fuel Oil is rather substantial, resulting in more savings. Also, until March 2008, the Gas Company is giving up to $4,000 in rebates to help the homeowner with the conversion costs.I am not sure yet how much I qualify for but a rebate is "a good thing". I can also sell my boiler(10 yr. old),burner,fuel tank(3 yr. old) for a decent price(already have 3 interested parties). Its truly amazing what buying in the U.S. can do for you when you factor in all the other possibilities. Plus having a vehicle that is simply a Blast to Drive, well it just can't get much better 'cept maybe a Lotto win on top of it all. Cheers and congrats to all you RFD savers out there! Have fun with your savings!!!

[spdztr]

I've now officially joined the club. Picked up my new Hyundai Sante Fe on Thursday, went to the inspection, RIV office and MTO on Friday. My car is now officially registered. My conservative estimate of my savings with the exchange at $ 1.06 is about $ 6500.00. For what I paid, I would get a Honda Civic but instead, I now have a mid size suv that'll fit my growing family with excellent trims and features that I could not justify buying here at Canadian prices.

I would like to especially thank RFDers: spdztr and georgetoy for answering so many of my questions. Alysomji, yyzh2kg for the excellent and detailed thread on what to expect during the process. Also thanks to Kocur, jonsa, diigii and of course Monsieurmaggot for starting the thread. Many RFDer whom I've never wrote to but read your experiences, I thank you as well.


Congrats on the import, and welcome to the Santa Fe club!! My neighbour is going to pick his up this week also - he too was lucky in finding an '07 Limited model. Can't wait to see pictures.

[joejack]

5:15 pm - Arrived at the most western part of the 407, hopped on, got off around Leslie, 45 minutes drive, minor traffic compared to if I took the 401 in rush hour.

---------

Next day

Went to RIV office, did form 2. 10 minute wait, 3 people in line. Nothing to alter on my car as the dealer had already installed the running daylight for me.

Congrats!!

Can you possibly point me where I can find RIV office. I have been searching their site www.riv.ca and for the world of it, can'g find it. I am going to pickup my car this Thursday and would like to do the form 2 at the riv office rather then online, seems faster, but can't find any of the office locations. I live in Markham ON. (407/McCowan)

On riv site, I found link to TC (transport canada) and they have office locations. Should I be going to transport canada office? I don't think so, but double checking?

Thanks so much for your help.

[superwell]

Congrats!!

Can you possibly point me where I can find RIV office. I have been searching their site www.riv.ca and for the world of it, can'g find it. I am going to pickup my car this Thursday and would like to do the form 2 at the riv office rather then online, seems faster, but can't find any of the office locations. I live in Markham ON. (407/McCowan)

On riv site, I found link to TC (transport canada) and they have office locations. Should I be going to transport canada office? I don't think so, but double checking?

Thanks so much for your help.

here you go:

Registrar of Imported Vehicles
405 The West Mall
Toronto ON M9C 5K7
1-888-848-8240
info@riv.ca

[Danno2005]

Unfortunately, due to CMVSS 114, I won't be able to import a 2008 Rav4 V6. The dealers there won't even give me a quote, never mind sell one to me. And after it's sold, it'll be nearly impossible to get Toyota USA to give me a letter saying that the immobilizer conforms to CMVSS 114. I guess it'll be a Tribeca for me...

Long shot but if we can find a US based resident(s) that gets transferred to Canada, and Toyota provides a letter to that US resident claiming the 2008 Toyota (whatever model) complies with CMVSS 114, could that letter be used as proof of compliance for whatever Toyota model?

[jmlleung]

Congrats!!

Can you possibly point me where I can find RIV office. I have been searching their site www.riv.ca and for the world of it, can'g find it. I am going to pickup my car this Thursday and would like to do the form 2 at the riv office rather then online, seems faster, but can't find any of the office locations. I live in Markham ON. (407/McCowan)

On riv site, I found link to TC (transport canada) and they have office locations. Should I be going to transport canada office? I don't think so, but double checking?

Thanks so much for your help.

RIV office - 405 The West Mall, Etobicoke - closes 4:30 PM http://www.riv.ca/english/html/contact_us.html

[can2000]

Champlain is just closer to where I work, I still have to bring the paperwork in person this allows me to do so without taking too much time off.

I am thinking if Manchester Subaru can help to Fedex the paperwork to Chaimplain border for me? If so, can save me a week to pick up the car.

Thanks

[can2000]

RIV office - 405 The West Mall, Etobicoke - closes 4:30 PM http://www.riv.ca/english/html/contact_us.html

Looks RIV no office in Montreal?

Thanks

[joejack]

Thank you both: superwell and jmlleung.

[jzy]

Thanks to this thread and everyone that contributed to this thread (especially those who took the time answering my pm's), I am now a proud member of the super saving club: Went to Buffalo last Friday and picked up my Subaru Outback 2.5i Ltd w/VDC and a whole load of accessories from Northtown. Jesse Bestine prepared all the paperwork and everything went extremely smoothly. Got the car registered and plated on Saturday. Net saving minimum of $13,000!:lol:

[yklivan]

I am thinking if Manchester Subaru can help to Fedex the paperwork to Chaimplain border for me? If so, can save me a week to pick up the car.

Thanks


Even if Manchester Subaru is willing to send your title to Champlain. US port still requires the buyer to present in person with their original and copy of the title at the time of registration because they'll give you back your original and stamped copies for you to export your car.

Also, I confirm with Highgate and Derby Line that they require the car to be exported passing their port 8-4 Mon-Fri, not only the 1st time you go for registering your title but also the time you drive through their port with your new car, i.e. no passing with a new car during the weekend. Very important!

[zircon]

A few points of interest:

The feds are screwing Canadians on rebates on hybrids. You must purchase your hybrid in Canada to qualify for the federal rebate. To show you how hypocritical this policy is, if you buy a vehicle that is a fuel guzzler from the states, you still must pay the additional new tax that was imposed with the hybrid bill. So, buy a fuel efficient car i the sates, no rebate; buy a fuel pig in the states, pay up. Some provinces have hybrid rebates; Ontario will provide you with a rebate so long as the vehicle has not been registered in the province before.

If you buy in Michigan (Suburban Subaru and Suburban Volvo in Detroit both advertise to Canadians) have them bring the car over, then the MI 6% tax does not apply.

My family purchased new Honda CRVs in 2000, 2002, a new Accord in 1999, and an Acura tsx in 2004. All great cars. But I will NEVER buy from these guys again. I bought a Lexus 2007 hybrid RX400H with 5000 miles in July - no problem importing or with Lexus USA. When the new CRV came out, my Honda dealer called me to test it out - I laughed and thought why get a CRV when I can buy a Lexus instead for the same $? I am banking US$ and am considering Subie Legacy GT Limited or Infiniti G35X.

[DSTU]

Which takes more gas? A minivan or SUV?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

[ac328]

Which takes more gas? A minivan or SUV?

:lol:

One of the best posts ever.:lol:

[warpdryv]

I'm in the last throws of a purchase decision but I'm wondering about timing. If I bought the car in December to complete the transaction but then brought it back after Jan 1, would I pay the 6% or 5% GST? It's an issue of timing the exchange of currency (of only I had done it at $1.10!) and ease of getting away for pickup.

Any tax accountants here? I took the CGA course in another lifetime and career and have no clue.

the border agents will charge you 6% on Dec 31st and 5% after Dec. 31st. They don't care when you bought your car, just when you imported it.

[DSTU]

:lol:

One of the best posts ever.:lol:

Well you can use Jerry Cans and fill up the minivan - then it will "take" more gas than an SUV. But then an SUV can haul a small tank behind it filled with gas.

So dammit - I just don't know which one would take more gas.

[stock_junkie]

I just successfully imported a new 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport. I was going to get the base model but then realized they don't come with an immobilizer so I upgraded to the Sport (bigger 19" rims and leather seats are nice!) I was still worried because RIV list says:

"2008 RAV4 and Highlander
models, admissible only when
equipped by manufacturer's
optional electronic immobilization
system to comply with CMVSS
114. The importer must provide
RIV with a letter from the
manufacturer stating the vehicle
complies with CMVSS 114."

Toyota USA told me they've never heard of such a letter and that the recall clearance letter was all I needed. And then Toyota Canada told me RIV has this wrong. It should say that only the 2008 BASE RAV4 and BASE Highlander models require this letter because the sport and limited models come standard with an immobilizer and it's only optional on the base models. Anyways I worried for nothing because the lady at the RIV office never said boo and was happy with just the recall clearance letter. Not sure if I just got lucky or what but I was ready for a big fight. All the RAV4's and Highlander's are made in Japan so the models that end up in Canada or the US both have the same immobilizers!

Anyways I'm very happy with the new redesigned Highlander! The Highlander Sport has an MSRP of $46,200 here before taxes and I got mine for $38,000 AFTER taxes and duty (made in Japan) and that was including the purchase of the extended 84/120 warranty that costs $2200 here and options like the tow prep package, tinted windows, and power rear door. I also liked the option of choosing FWD for better gas mileage, while all the Highlander's here are only available in 4WD.

The process was so easy that I'm getting my parents a 2008 Camry SE now!

If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada (don't require a US address), you just have to be willing to go past the border states and drive over 10 hours home. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships though! lol

If anybody wants to know which dealership I dealt with you can PM me. You'll just have to wait until I finish exporting a new 2008 Camry SE for my parents because I don't want to take the chance of upsetting the apple cart until that goes through smoothly.

[Luds]

Here's my letter to my MP (for members with French speaking MPs)

Cher Mr. Nadeau,

Je suis résidant de la ville de Gatineau et je vous écris aujourd’hui pour vous exprimer mon mécontentement envers les manufacturiers d’automobiles, spécifiquement par rapport à la différence de prix entre les véhicules vendus au Canada et aux Etats-Unis. Vous en avez probablement entendu parler dernièrement, cette histoire sera d’actualité jusqu’à ce que la différence de prix devienne marginale ou inexistante.

Ma famille doit se procurer un nouveau véhicule. Le prix de véhicules de milieu de gamme acheté au Canada excède le prix du même véhicule acheté aux États-Unis de plus de 10 000$ et ce sans compter la conversion du dollar. Par exemple, l’Altima V6 me coûterait 42 000$ au Canada mais seulement 28 800$ US aux États-Unis. Mes seuls choix sont donc d’acheter un plus petit véhicule comme une Nissan Versa ou d’acheter le véhicule désiré aux États-Unis.

Notez que je crois que ce problème de prix prend place à un niveau élevé dans l’échelle corporative et que les concessionnaires ne demanderaient rien de mieux que de pouvoir baisser leurs prix à parité avec le marché Américain pour ne pas perdre de clients.

Je veux que vous sachiez que les manufacturiers d’automobiles utilisent des moyens forts suspects tels les mensongères pour éviter que les Canadiens achètent un véhicule aux États-Unis. Plusieurs manufacturiers annulent la garantie sur le véhicule s’il est importé au Canada (entre autres, Nissan et Honda). Les manufacturiers expliquent ces différences de prix par un équipement différent (ces différences sont aussi banales qu’une batterie différente). Les manufacturiers offrent parfois des « prix réduits » pour les Canadiens comme 4 000$ de réduction et financement à 1.9% chez Nissan pour une Altima. Ce qui est caché est que cette réduction de 4 000$ n’est qu’applicable pour un achat comptant ce qui rend le financement à 1.9% impossible. De toute façon, vous comprendrez que même un rabais de 4 000$ combiné à un financement de 1.9% est marginal en comparaison avec une différence de prix de plus de 10 000$. Ces pratiques sont malhonnêtes et insultantes pour les consommateurs Canadiens.

Étant un bon citoyen Canadien, payant mes impôts et l’hypothèque sur ma demeure pour le prochain 20 ans, je ne peux pas me permettre de payer ce prix gonflé chez un concessionnaire Canadien. C’est pourquoi je demande au gouvernent d’intervenir.

Ce que je désire :

1- Une enquête sur la fixation des prix, une investigation sous la loi sur la concurrence par Bureau de la compétition, ainsi qu’une investigation criminelle par la GRC des activités entre manufacturiers Canadiens et Américains sur la fixation des prix.

Je considère cette collusion de fixation de prix flagrante pour les points suivants :

a) La fixation de prix gonflés des véhicules au Canada

b) L’annulation de garantie de véhicules non Canadiens importés au Canada

c) Le refus d’offres spéciales aux clients Canadiens aux États-Unis

d) Le refus de service pour les véhicules importés au Canada



2- Que le liste des véhicules admissibles pour importation au Canada du registraire des véhicules importés (www.riv.ca) et de Transport Canada ne soit pas modifiée de façon quotidienne ou du moins, qu’un avis de 60 jours soit affiché lorsqu’un véhicule admissibilité devient inadmissible. De cette façon, une personne ayant acheté un véhicule admissible peut l’importer même si ce véhicule devient inadmissible par après. Cette situation fâcheuse semble courante parce que le registraire n’offre aucun avis sur la modification d’admissibilité.

3- Que la liste de modification requise pour chaque véhicule soit clairement indiquée sur le site du registraire ou de Transport Canada. Aucune liste précise n’est disponible sur le site présentement.

4- Que la nouvelle condition causant l’inadmissibilité d’un nombre considérable de véhicule 2008, soit (texte copié du registraire) « Si le PNBV de ce véhicule est moins que 10000 lb, et la date de fabrication est après le 1ier septembre 2007, il doit être équipé d'un système de verrouillage et d'immobilisation qui répond à l'intention de NSVAC 114 » annulée ou modifiée. Mr. Nadeau, cette condition nouvelle cause l’inadmissibilité d’une grande majorité de véhicule 2008 parce que le registraire considère (possiblement avec cause) qu’aucun système de verrouillage et d’immobilisation disponible sur le marché d’après vente ne soit conforme. Je demande l’annulation ou modification de cette clause, ou simplement qu’il soit possible d’installer ce système après l’importation au Canada.

Le gouvernement de Canada se doit d’intervenir afin de protéger ses citoyens et mettre fin à ces pratiques malhonnêtes, discriminatoires et frauduleuses. De plus, le refus des manufacturiers automobiles d’honorer les garanties sur les véhicules achetés en Amérique du Nord au Canada semble illégal selon le jugement de la Court Suprême de Colombie Britannique « Toyota Canada Inc. v. Lipetz, 1998 CanLII 4473 (BC S.C.) », ce qui n’empêche pas les manufacturiers (tels Honda, Nissan, Chrysler) de refuser sans aucune conséquences.

La partie VI, Infractions relatives à la concurrence de la loi sur la concurrence dicte :

« Complot

45. (1) Commet un acte criminel et encourt un emprisonnement maximal de cinq ans et une amende maximale de dix millions de dollars, ou l’une de ces peines, quiconque complote, se coalise ou conclut un accord ou arrangement avec une autre personne :

b) soit pour empêcher, limiter ou réduire, indûment, la fabrication ou production d’un produit ou pour en élever déraisonnablement le prix; »

Je crois que le Bureau de la compétition a faillit à sa tache de protéger les contribuables Canadiens. Malheureusement, les Canadiens semblent accepter la perte de nos principes d’intégrité, de détermination et de justice au gré des corporations grandissantes qui manipulent les prix, les organismes de réglementations gouvernementaux, le marché du travail et l’économie pour leur profit. L’honnêteté, la dignité et l’honneur semblent disparaître afin de faire grossir leur portefeuille.

Il est maintenant temps pour le Gouvernement Fédéral d’intervenir rapidement et de rectifier ce problème et je crois que le Canada entier suivra ce dossier en détails. S’il vous plaît, Mr Nadeau, veuillez utiliser toutes vos ressources afin d’assurer le droit des Canadiens de pouvoir acheter un véhicule au Canada à prix juste ou de pouvoir importer un véhicule de leur choix sans barrières. Je vous remercie d’intervenir dans ce dossier et serais heureux de lire votre réponse à ce sujet.

Merci

[Tender]

I just successfully imported a 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport. I was going to get the base model but then realized they don't come with an immobilizer so I upgraded to the Sport (bigger 19" rims and leather seats are nice!) I was still worried because RIV list says:

"2008 RAV4 and Highlander
models, admissible only when
equipped by manufacturer's
optional electronic immobilization
system to comply with CMVSS
114. The importer must provide
RIV with a letter from the
manufacturer stating the vehicle
complies with CMVSS 114."

Toyota USA told me they've never heard of such a letter and that the recall clearance letter was all I needed. And then Toyota Canada told me RIV has this wrong. It should say that only the 2008 BASE RAV4 and BASE Highlander models require this letter because the sport and limited models come standard with an immobilizer and it's only optional on the base models. Anyways I worried for nothing because the lady at the RIV office never said boo and was happy with just the recall clearance letter. Not sure if I just got lucky or what but I was ready for a big fight. All the RAV4's and Highlander's are made in Japan so the models that end up in Canada or the US both have the same immobilizers!

Anyways I'm very happy with the new redesigned Highlander! The Highlander Sport has an MSRP of $46,200 here before taxes and I got mine for $38,000 AFTER taxes and duty (made in Japan) and that was including the purchase of the extended 84/120 warranty that costs $2200 here and options like the tow prep package, tinted windows, and power rear door. I also liked the option of choosing FWD for better gas mileage, while all the Highlander's here are only available in 4WD.

The process was so easy that I'm getting my parents a 2008 Camry SE now!

Did you get a new one? I thought the U.S. dealers won't sell to Canadians?

[stock_junkie]

Yep it was new and I didn't require a U.S. address either. If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada, you just have to be willing to go past the border states. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships though! lol

If anybody wants to know which dealership I dealt with you can PM me. You'll just have to wait until I finish exporting a new 2008 Camry SE for my parents because I don't want to take the chance of upsetting the apple cart until that goes through smoothly.


Did you get a new one? I thought the U.S. dealers won't sell to Canadians?

[diigii]

Yep it was new and I didn't require a U.S. address either. If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada, you just have to be willing to go past the border states. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships! lol

CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW CAR! ENJOY DRIVING AND YOUR SAVINGS! :cheesygri

[frankmp]

GM dealer's will not sell new vechiles stateside without a US address. So my question. If a friend purchases the bill of sale and the MSO would be stated in HIS address. Without the friend titling the car could friend then make me a bill of sale for exact amount of purchase price. If I send all three of these doc's to US customs as part of the 72 hour wait period is there any reason they would have a problem with this? Has anyone done this? WOuld Canada customs care?

thanks Frank

[reddy54]

Yep it was new and I didn't require a U.S. address either. If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada, you just have to be willing to go past the border states. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships though! lol

If anybody wants to know which dealership I dealt with you can PM me. You'll just have to wait until I finish exporting a new 2008 Camry SE for my parents because I don't want to take the chance of upsetting the apple cart until that goes through smoothly.

Be careful who you give info to because a Toyota rep will probably be one of those pm's

[whampoa]

Yep it was new and I didn't require a U.S. address either. If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada, you just have to be willing to go past the border states. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships though! lol

If anybody wants to know which dealership I dealt with you can PM me. You'll just have to wait until I finish exporting a new 2008 Camry SE for my parents because I don't want to take the chance of upsetting the apple cart until that goes through smoothly.

Yeah, remember the 1/100 rules. At least a RFD member for one year and 100 posts.

Anything short of that, the dealer will probably get busted and we are all poorer for that.

[Tender]

Yep it was new and I didn't require a U.S. address either. If you're presistant and search hard enough you can still find some Toyota dealers willing to sell directly to Canadians for exporting into Canada, you just have to be willing to go past the border states. I think I went through about 100 different Toyota dealerships though! lol

If anybody wants to know which dealership I dealt with you can PM me. You'll just have to wait until I finish exporting a new 2008 Camry SE for my parents because I don't want to take the chance of upsetting the apple cart until that goes through smoothly.

Congratulatoins! Can't wait for the pictures.

[Prarie Pirate]

Yeah, remember the 1/100 rules. At least a RFD member for one year and 100 posts.

Anything short of that, the dealer will probably get busted and we are all poorer for that.

Checks post count...rats:o

[HOiYA]

You might want to check with the sate you are considering. In California, they require you to register the car.

GM dealer's will not sell new vechiles stateside without a US address. So my question. If a friend purchases the bill of sale and the MSO would be stated in HIS address. Without the friend titling the car could friend then make me a bill of sale for exact amount of purchase price. If I send all three of these doc's to US customs as part of the 72 hour wait period is there any reason they would have a problem with this? Has anyone done this? WOuld Canada customs care?

thanks Frank

[diigii]

Be careful who you give info to because a Toyota rep will probably be one of those pm's

I'm just wondering how these people could sleep at night, knowing their job is part deception.

I believe in karma, though. Their time will come.

[Lost Horizon]

I'm just wondering how these people could sleep at night, knowing their job is part deception.

I believe in karma, though. Their time will come.


For an experienced and seasoned insight into all that, just call up your local provincial and federal politicians, sheep shearers extrodinaire.

[the Bez]

Thanks to Matty for the original format. I just did some wordsmithing and changed a few things but here is my letter sent to my MP and Minister Cannon:
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Mr. Lake & Minister Cannon,

I reside in the constituency of Edmonton-Millwoods-Beaumont, and I want to express my feelings of outrage at automobile manufacturers, regarding the price discrepancy between cars in Canada and those in the US. You know how much this has been in the news recently, and it won’t go away until prices are lowered to match the reality of the value of the Canadian dollar in relation to the US dollar.

I need to buy a new vehicle in the next couple of months, but the prices of the models I am considering are $10,000 to $20,000 more in Canada. To be specific, the cars I’m considering range from C$27,000 to C$39,000 in the US, and these same models are priced between C$37,000 to C$59,000 in Canada. Not only is there no justification for this pricing discrepancy on the part of the manufacturers (especially considering many of the vehicles sold on both sides of the border are made right here in Canada to the exact same specs), but also I can not afford this. My only option now is to buy in the US unless these artificially-high prices in Canada come down to reflect the relative values of Canadian and US currencies. Check out this site for many, many examples of this ridiculous gouging of the Canadian consumer by the auto industry. http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/ .

Note that I believe the pricing problem takes place at a corporate level, and that individual automobile dealers are not to blame; I’m sure dealers would love nothing more than to see prices fall to near parity because they would only sell more vehicles.

It appears to me and many others that the auto manufacturers are using indisputably misleading advertising and scare tactics to prevent Canadians from purchasing vehicles in the United States, often by implying that a handful of slightly different equipment (perhaps a different battery, engine heater and headlight washers) accounts for the huge price difference. Some are offering insulting token rebates and incentives — but nothing that makes prices even approach parity. This insults the intelligence of every Canadian car shopper.

As a Canadian who dutifully pays his income taxes and is presently unable to afford the inflated price of a new vehicle in Canada (or a decent used one as their prices are comparatively inflated), I respectfully demand government intervention.

What I would like to see is the following:

1- An inquiry into international price fixing, an investigation under the Competition Act by the Canadian Competition Bureau, and possibly a criminal investigation by the RCMP into the dealings between the Canadian & American arms of the automakers with regard to blatant price fixing activities. Activities I consider “blatant” are collusion between the Canadian and US arms of each manufacturer to: a) inflate Canadian automobile prices b) void the warranties of vehicles legally imported into Canada from the US or other countries and c) deny purchase incentives to Canadians choosing to purchase in the US

2- That the current Transport Canada antitheft electronic immobilization device requirement for new cars (per Canadian Standard CMVSS 114 "Locking and Immobilization Systems") be revised to permit aftermarket immobilizer systems to be installed rather than just relying on the OEM systems. While I agree that the immobilizers are a GOOD thing, it is the manufacturers who alter their devices ever so slightly, if at all, between the Canadian and US models so that they can then claim to Transport Canada (TC) that do not meet the new Canadian standard, thus making their US cars inadmissible to be imported into Canada. This immobilizer issue alone should not dictate whether a car is inadmissable, as a simple aftermarket modification or new system can be installed to bring it inline with the Canadian standard. There are numerous other examples of items that are required in Canada but not in the US (i.e., Daytime Running Lights, Infant Restraint and Child Tether Anchorage differences and 8 km/hr bumpers) but DO NOT make the vehicles inadmissable - they are still shown to be admissable but with a 45 day window after importation to get the required modifications completed to meet TC regulations. If TC is willing to permit importation of vehicles with temporary safety-related deficiencies such as child restraints AND bumpers that do not meet Canadian regulations (until the modifications are completed of course), common sense would say that they SHOULD do the same for something that is strictly an anti-theft device. This is just another artificial barrier to trade in a thinly veiled attempt by the auto manufacturers to protect their profits in Canada, but unfortunately Transport Canada is playing right into their hands with the current state of this Canadian standard. This standard should be revised immediately to allow the immobilizers to be modified as required to meet the standard once the vehicles are imported. It should NOT be used as an excuse by the automakers to prevent their US vehicles from being legally imported into Canada.

The Canadian government must take action against corporations for their discriminatory, dishonest, and fraudulent actions. Incidentally, automobile manufacturers’ refusal to honour warranties on American-bought vehicles in Canada is illegal, under the BC Supreme Court case “Toyota Canada Inc. v. Lipetz, 1998 CanLII 4473 (BC S.C.)”, yet manufacturers are still denying warranties with seemingly no fear of reprisal (to wit, Honda, Acura, and Chrysler).

Note that the Conspiracy section of the Canadian Competition Act prohibits “two or more persons to prevent or unduly lessen competition or to unreasonably enhance the price of a product.” Evidently, the Competition Bureau has completely failed to protect Canadian consumers in this regard.
I believe we are slowly surrendering our very Canadian principles of integrity, self determination and fairness to the whims of corporations that are growing so powerful that they now manipulate prices, government regulatory bodies, the labour force and even the economy on their own terms in the name of profit. Tenets of honesty, dignity, and honour seem to go out the window if it is better for business.

It is now time for the Federal Government to step in quickly to set this matter straight, and I believe that all of Canada will be watching the way this is dealt with. I know I will. Please use all the resources available to put the Canadian people ahead of corporate greed. I feel very strongly about this so I look forward to and appreciate your quick action, and would be grateful for a response from both of you on this matter.

Thank you very much,

The Bez (note - not my real name)
Edmonton, Alberta


WRITE YOUR MP TODAY, THIS BLANTANT COLLUSION AND PROTECTIONISM HAS TO STOP!!!

[diigii]

For an experienced and seasoned insight into all that, just call up your local provincial and federal politicians, sheep shearers extrodinaire.

Oh yeah, those kinds, I know a long time ago. They all have the same "skin." It's amazing how the "transformation" happens so quickly. Here comes a person who starts out honest, dedicated and compassionate of the people he/she wants to served, but when swept into power the principles that got him/her there gets corrupted. Nothing but lost cause.

[kehoz]

GM dealer's will not sell new vechiles stateside without a US address. So my question. If a friend purchases the bill of sale and the MSO would be stated in HIS address. Without the friend titling the car could friend then make me a bill of sale for exact amount of purchase price. If I send all three of these doc's to US customs as part of the 72 hour wait period is there any reason they would have a problem with this? Has anyone done this? WOuld Canada customs care?

thanks Frank

Hi Frank,

The really tricky part is to arrange a purchase situation where the dealer can release the MSO without registering the vehicle. I did this by finding a dealer in a different state from my US friend (a dealer that was reasonable driving distance to my home). In the out-of-state situation, the dealer has the option of releasing the car with a temporary permit and the MSO, otherwise they will be forced to collect tax and register the car.

In regards to customs, what I did was to export through US customs under my friends name, listing my name as the "transporter". Once I got to the Canadian side of the border I presented a simple self typed and signed bill of sale, and the MCO in my friends name with the US customs stamp. Using these two items, I was able to start the import process in my own name in Canada. I never provided the typed bill of sale to US customs (they didn't ask for it either), and only sent the MSO and the dealership papers (both in my friends name) for the 72 hour period. The US Customs paperwork also asks for a buyers Canadian address, and for that I used my own address.

The other thing I did was to make sure ahead of time that my local registries agent would know how to process the third party sale with an MCO and not require an out of province inspection or get all confused. I also made sure that my insurance would cover me for the car from the moment I picked it up from the dealer.

Not sure if this is a sure fire, no fail, way of doing things, but it worked for me.

Come to think of it... You might also be able to do this without involving a friend at all. (Get your own mailing address in a US state without income tax and then buying the car in a different state. Anyone try that?).

[Boodie]

OK step 1> I have submitted my loan application to a us auto finance bank.

in hopes to get approved for a new 07 santa fe. I will log the whole process here hopefully I will make it thru step one lol

[showMeAnImport]

I just successfully imported a new 2008 Toyota Highlander Sport. I was going to get the base model but then realized they don't come with an immobilizer so I upgraded to the Sport (bigger 19" rims and leather seats are nice!) I was still worried because RIV list says:

"2008 RAV4 and Highlander
models, admissible only when
equipped by manufacturer's
optional electronic immobilization
system to comply with CMVSS
114. The importer must provide
RIV with a letter from the
manufacturer stating the vehicle
complies with CMVSS 114."

Toyota USA told me they've never heard of such a letter and that the recall clearance letter was all I needed. And then Toyota Canada told me RIV has this wrong. It should say that only the 2008 BASE RAV4 and BASE Highlander models require this letter because the sport and limited models come standard with an immobilizer and it's only optional on the base models. Anyways I worried for nothing because the lady at the RIV office never said boo and was happy with just the recall clearance letter. Not sure if I just got lucky or what but I was ready for a big fight. All the RAV4's and Highlander's are made in Japan so the models that end up in Canada or the US both have the same immobilizers!

Anyways I'm very happy with the new redesigned Highlander! The Highlander Sport has an MSRP of $46,200 here before taxes and I got mine for $38,000 AFTER taxes and duty (made in Japan) and that was including the purchase of the extended 84/120 warranty that costs $2200 here and options like the tow prep package, tinted windows, and power rear door. I also liked the option of choosing FWD for better gas mileage, while all the Highlander's here are only available in 4WD.

The process was so easy that I'm getting my parents a 2008 Camry SE now!

I am so frigging confused at this point it is not funny...are you allowed to bring this vehicle in without a 114 compliance letter because it was manufactured before Sept. 1 /2007?!?!?!?!?!?

I spent 30 minutes on the phone with an agent from RIV yesterday and he swore on his mother's grave that all Toyota SUVs manufactured after Sept. 1 /2007 were only admissible with a 114 compliance letter....

This is despite the fact that the vehicle I am interested in (2008 Toyota 4Runner) is listed as admissible and there are not notes in the "notes" section saying that a compliance letter is needed for it. There are notes in the "notes" section talking about needing a compliance letter for a rav4 and Highlander but not a 4Runner. WTF is going on?!!!? These RIV agents seem to be giving everybody a different story...BTW: I know for a fact that the 4Runner is made in Japan....

Could you possibly shed some light on my situation? More specifically, could you look at the list and tell me how you interpret the admissibility for the 4Runner...RIV is a mess...they can't get their story straight...

Thanks for any help you can provide...

Confused in Canada...

Cheers

[jrvic]

I know this topic has been discussed before, but I can't seem to find it. The question is would Canada custom process my US car import without US export documentation?
Maybe those already sucessfully imported their car can answer this. Did Canada custom officers ask to see export document stamped by US counter part?

Thanks in advance for your input

[Dreyfus]

Thanks to Matty for the original format. I just did some wordsmithing and changed a few things but here is my letter sent to my MP and Minister Cannon:
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Mr. Lake & Minister Cannon,

I reside in the constituency of Edmonton-Millwoods-Beaumont, and I want to express my feelings of outrage at automobile manufacturers, regarding the price discrepancy between cars in Canada and those in the US. You know how much this has been in the news recently, and it won’t go away until prices are lowered to match the reality of the value of the Canadian dollar in relation to the US dollar. .................................................. ..............................................
.................................................. ...............................................
.................................................. ..
What I would like to see is the following:

1- An inquiry into international price fixing, an investigation under the Competition Act by the Canadian Competition Bureau, and possibly a criminal investigation by the RCMP into the dealings between the Canadian & American arms of the automakers with regard to blatant price fixing activities. Activities I consider “blatant” are collusion between the Canadian and US arms of each manufacturer to: a) inflate Canadian automobile prices b) void the warranties of vehicles legally imported into Canada from the US or other countries and c) deny purchase incentives to Canadians choosing to purchase in the US

2- That the current Transport Canada antitheft electronic immobilization device requirement for new cars (per Canadian Standard CMVSS 114 "Locking and Immobilization Systems") be revised to permit aftermarket immobilizer systems to be installed rather than just relying on the OEM systems. While I agree that the immobilizers are a GOOD thing, it is the manufacturers who alter their devices ever so slightly, if at all, between the Canadian and US models so that they can then claim to Transport Canada (TC) that do not meet the new Canadian standard, thus making their US cars inadmissible to be imported into Canada. This immobilizer issue alone should not dictate whether a car is inadmissable, as a simple aftermarket modification or new system can be installed to bring it inline with the Canadian standard. There are numerous other examples of items that are required in Canada but not in the US (i.e., Daytime Running Lights, Infant Restraint and Child Tether Anchorage differences and 8 km/hr bumpers) but DO NOT make the vehicles inadmissable - they are still shown to be admissable but with a 45 day window after importation to get the required modifications completed to meet TC regulations. If TC is willing to permit importation of vehicles with temporary safety-related deficiencies such as child restraints AND bumpers that do not meet Canadian regulations (until the modifications are completed of course), common sense would say that they SHOULD do the same for something that is strictly an anti-theft device. This is just another artificial barrier to trade in a thinly veiled attempt by the auto manufacturers to protect their profits in Canada, but unfortunately Transport Canada is playing right into their hands with the current state of this Canadian standard. This standard should be revised immediately to allow the immobilizers to be modified as required to meet the standard once the vehicles are imported. It should NOT be used as an excuse by the automakers to prevent their US vehicles from being legally imported into Canada.

The Canadian government must take action against corporations for their discriminatory, dishonest, and fraudulent actions. Incidentally, automobile manufacturers’ refusal to honour warranties on American-bought vehicles in Canada is illegal, under the BC Supreme Court case “Toyota Canada Inc. v. Lipetz, 1998 CanLII 4473 (BC S.C.)”, yet manufacturers are still denying warranties with seemingly no fear of reprisal (to wit, Honda, Acura, and Chrysler).

Note that the Conspiracy section of the Canadian Competition Act prohibits “two or more persons to prevent or unduly lessen competition or to unreasonably enhance the price of a product.” Evidently, the Competition Bureau has completely failed to protect Canadian consumers in this regard.
I believe we are slowly surrendering our very Canadian principles of integrity, self determination and fairness to the whims of corporations that are growing so powerful that they now manipulate prices, government regulatory bodies, the labour force and even the economy on their own terms in the name of profit. Tenets of honesty, dignity, and honour seem to go out the window if it is better for business.

It is now time for the Federal Government to step in quickly to set this matter straight, and I believe that all of Canada will be watching the way this is dealt with. I know I will. Please use all the resources available to put the Canadian people ahead of corporate greed. I feel very strongly about this so I look forward to and appreciate your quick action, and would be grateful for a response from both of you on this matter.

Thank you very much,

The Bez (note - not my real name)
Edmonton, Alberta


WRITE YOUR MP TODAY, THIS BLANTANT COLLUSION AND PROTECTIONISM HAS TO STOP!!!

Very good points in your letter. I would have one tiny quibble and that is that CMVSS114 must be rewritten to accept FMVSS114 (US) as a conforming standard. Prior to Sept. 01 2007 CMVSS114 did accept FMVSS114 as a conforming standard. The Liberals blundered in 2003-2004 when they wrote a standard that did not accept FMVSS114 as conforming, Today the opposition parties (Dion, Duceppe, Laycock) are keeping a low profile on this issue so that they have something to hit the Conservatives over the head with in the coming election campaign. Lawrence Cannon is inexperienced and does not know how to direct the bureaucrats in TC. What he has to do is issue a directive to his Deputy Minister instructing him to rewrite CMVSS114 so that FMVSS114 becomes a conforming standard. With the rewrite in hand he takes it with supporting documentation to Privy Council so that they can issue an "order in council" putting the newly amended CMVSS114 into effect. Publish it in the Canada Gazette and we are off to the races. Transport handed $3,000 to $40,000 per car to the mfrs on a silver platter surrounded by cherry tomatoes and parsley on Sept. 01 2007. Time to take the platter back any person of normal intelligence in the Minister's chair should have no difficulties. The mfrs are simply enjoying a gift from TC.

[Monsieurmaggot]

I know this topic has been discussed before, but I can't seem to find it. The question is would Canada custom process my US car import without US export documentation?
Maybe those already sucessfully imported their car can answer this. Did Canada custom officers ask to see export document stamped by US counter part?

Thanks in advance for your input

I was asked to show my Export documentation.

But then again, I imported my car months ago when no one knew about this and the agents were thorough.

Now they're so busy, I doubt they have time to check.

Remember that your vehicle hasn't been properly exported from the US and a simple audit could get you into trouble.

[fulrach]

I just got home from Manchester after picking up my 2008 Tribeca 5 Seat Limited from Jack @ Manchester Subaru! I'll post pics later tonight with Jack and I

Thanks Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and everyone on RFD that's contributed to it! The import process so far has been easier than I thought it would have been!

Off to RIV, CT & MTO tomorrow!

[novagolf]

I know this topic has been discussed before, but I can't seem to find it. The question is would Canada custom process my US car import without US export documentation?
Maybe those already sucessfully imported their car can answer this. Did Canada custom officers ask to see export document stamped by US counter part?

Thanks in advance for your input

Interestingly enough I didn't even have the original title (6 month old 2007 Outback LTD) as the dealership was selling it on behalf of Hertz. All I had was a fax copy that you couldn't even read the VIN when I entered US customs and all the guy said was "that should be enough for me to find it" ... and he went out back to get the copies of the couriered documents the dealer had couriered 5 days earlier. We went outside ... he looked at the VIN on the vehicle, and handed me all the copies he had ... already with a stamp on it.

When I got to Canada Customs I pointed out I didn't have the original title document however US Customs stamped the copy ... I'm not sure the Canadian guys even looked at it. In looking at my RIV Form 1 now and there isn't anything to check off to say they saw any export stamp. I know I didn't answer your questions 100% ... but just passing on my experience :lol:

Had a great experience at the dealership and expecting the original title via courier any day now.

[eipod]

Here's my letter to my MP (for members with French speaking MPs)


Merci Luds.
That is a well written letter and I'd be interested in hearing if you ever get a response.

[the Bez]

Very good points in your letter. I would have one tiny quibble and that is that CMVSS114 must be rewritten to accept FMVSS114 (US) as a conforming standard. Prior to Sept. 01 2007 CMVSS114 did accept FMVSS114 as a conforming standard. The Liberals blundered in 2003-2004 when they wrote a standard that did not accept FMVSS114 as conforming, Today the opposition parties (Dion, Duceppe, Laycock) are keeping a low profile on this issue so that they have something to hit the Conservatives over the head with in the coming election campaign. Lawrence Cannon is inexperienced and does not know how to direct the bureaucrats in TC. What he has to do is issue a directive to his Deputy Minister instructing him to rewrite CMVSS114 so that FMVSS114 becomes a conforming standard. With the rewrite in hand he takes it with supporting documentation to Privy Council so that they can issue an "order in council" putting the newly amended CMVSS114 into effect. Publish it in the Canada Gazette and we are off to the races. Transport handed $3,000 to $40,000 per car to the mfrs on a silver platter surrounded by cherry tomatoes and parsley on Sept. 01 2007. Time to take the platter back any person of normal intelligence in the Minister's chair should have no difficulties. The mfrs are simply enjoying a gift from TC.

I haven't done much research into the differences between the 2 specs but I thought that the immobilizers that are installed on both US and Canadian cars (at least prior to Sept 1, 2007) were generally built in accordance with FMVSS 114 even though the immobilizers are not a requirement in the US. I thought that with Canada now going with CMVSS 114 that this revised standard is MORE stringent than the FMVSS one. Is this not correct?

At the end of the day, it's still not clear to me why the immobilizers suddenly make the cars inadmissable when the DRL, bumpers and child safety restraints can be remedied during the 45 day window after importation. Who makes this call? Is it written within CMVSS 114?

[EZ2Import]

I know this topic has been discussed before, but I can't seem to find it. The question is would Canada custom process my US car import without US export documentation?
Maybe those already sucessfully imported their car can answer this. Did Canada custom officers ask to see export document stamped by US counter part?

I exported/imported a vehicle in 2006 and no one in Canada seemed interested in whether or not the vehicle had been exported from the US.

I'm in the process of bringing another vehicle up and thought about not exporting it, but aside from the hassle of the 72 hour wait, there is absolutely no problem with exporting from the US.

I would advise doing everything by the letter. Dot all your i's and cross all your t's and you won't have any problems.

[J233]

Actually that is nice and easy on the engine. Just do not LOCK IN your speed. But start/stop, stop and go, onramp acceleration, etc is what is hardest on the engine.
Rules for Subaru break in = super easy.
1. keep it under 4000rpm for the first 1000 miles
2. don't go the same speed for more than 15 minutes... in other words, don't use cruise on 75 for the whole trip. cruise at 65, then 70, then 75, then 65, then 70, etc changing it every 15 minutes if you have to use cruise, otherwise, you should naturally vary the speed enough just driving normal.

Thank you eastsidesubaru and others for the info.

[fulrach]

I just got home from Manchester after picking up my 2008 Tribeca 5 Seat Limited from Jack @ Manchester Subaru! I'll post pics later tonight with Jack and I

Thanks Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and everyone on RFD that's contributed to it! The import process so far has been easier than I thought it would have been!

Off to RIV, CT & MTO tomorrow!


Here's the pics! - Diamond Black Pearl

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2079/dscf7946gk4.jpg
http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/9445/dscf7949rx2.jpg
http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1472/dscf7958tj4.jpg


3 - Canadians who picked up Tribeca's from Jack @ Manchester Subaru on Sunday (Jack is 2nd from left in blue jacket)

[davehender]

Thanks very much Matty. Your updates sound great!

Merci beaucoup to Luds aussi!

[NAFTAGO]

Hi everyone,

I want to start saying that this thread is unique in the sense that it took me months to finally post for the first time. Not due to the lack of interest but because the first buyers were the pioneers that started this movement and we were just absorbing the info. Now I am ready to buy in the US and become part of the wave of change. Although i haven't posted before I have told all my friends and since buying in the US is not for everybody they all listened and a friend in TO is about to buy an outback ( he has a legacy now)

I am ready to join the Subaru club and I am looking to buy either an Outback 2.5i because of the manual Transmission or the 2.5i Limited with VDC


I am calling for the help of Subaru outback buyers in the GTA.
Where are the best prices: in Buffalo or Manchester, is it worth the extra distance?
Northwest, Van Bortel, Manchester?
Could you send me the contact names?
I hear about names like XAN and Ken etc. etc. but after so many posts everything is blurry.
Could you send me some contact names to start getting quotes?
All those who did your own homework. can you tell me where are the best deals?
I am trying to get it before Dec 03 which is when the latest cash rebates expire.

Finally: what is the best way to pay.
bank wire- and send the money before pick up? sound risky to me.
Certified cheque: and declare at the border, any cons?

Thank you all in advance, for the great job.

as my name implies:
The NAFTA will provide, it's the law!

If we break the law, we go to Jail; if Honda Toyota et al break the law they make money on Canadians???

[Dreyfus]

I haven't done much research into the differences between the 2 specs but I thought that the immobilizers that are installed on both US and Canadian cars (at least prior to Sept 1, 2007) were generally built in accordance with FMVSS 114 even though the immobilizers are not a requirement in the US. I thought that with Canada now going with CMVSS 114 that this revised standard is MORE stringent than the FMVSS one. Is this not correct?

At the end of the day, it's still not clear to me why the immobilizers suddenly make the cars inadmissable when the DRL, bumpers and child safety restraints can be remedied during the 45 day window after importation. Who makes this call? Is it written within CMVSS 114?

In broad terms CMVSS114 and FMVSS114 were equivalent standards prior to Sept. 1 2007. The implementation could be quite different in that one could cut off the fuel pump, another one could cut the ignition and so on. The end result was immobilization. The tamper aspect was similar one could hide it under a panel attached to the firewall another could put it in a frame member. The new amended CMVSS114 replaced both the old CMVSS114 and FMVSS114 with a United Nations standard that bears little resemblance to the old Canadian/US standard. The theory was that there is a "world market" for cars produced in Canada and the US would recognize this and adopt UN standard and we would be compatible. In the first place NAFTA cars have no appeal outside of NAFTA, in the second as far as the US is concerned they rule the world and everybody else should conform. Since the US represents 90% of the auto market in NAFTA it makes no sense for the 10% player (Canada) to have incompatible standards. All three standards immobilize and are 'tamper proof". In the studies done in 2003 and since, thefts have been reduced by 50% on "theft deterrent" equipped cars, the recovery rate dropped dramatically because the skilled thieves were chopping for parts or sending containers overseas. Only the amateurs were deterred. We have a well developed theft education system 1) Detention centres
2) Provincial jails 3) Federal penitentiaries 4) With doctorates being won at the highest levels near Kingston. A single standard will make the learning process easier, hence IBC wanting home grown after market solutions that can react to the changing circumstances. The cost to implement the new CMVSS114 was estimated to be $32 per car. We are now paying $3k to $40k per car because of the amateurish way the Liberals handled this during the public consultation period 2003-2004 and the Conservatives having been out of power for over a decade either don't care or don't know how to rectify the problem.

[Luds]

Merci Luds.
That is a well written letter and I'd be interested in hearing if you ever get a response.
Thanks very much Matty. Your updates sound great!

Merci beaucoup to Luds also!

Forgot a few typos in there and a few words are missing :confused:

[Luds]

All right folks, I've been negociating for a while with a few dealers, I was wondering what kind of price I should expect to pay.

The MSRP for the fully loaded 3.5 Premium SE Altima Coupe with Nav package is $31,755.

How much should I expect to pay?

[longdong]

Amazing vehicle ...

Subie rocks ...

Here's the pics! - Diamond Black Pearl

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2079/dscf7946gk4.jpg
http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/9445/dscf7949rx2.jpg
http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1472/dscf7958tj4.jpg


3 - Canadians who picked up Tribeca's from Jack @ Manchester Subaru on Sunday (Jack is 2nd from left in blue jacket)

[zircon]

Go to Edmunds.com and 1) price the car out. The invoice price is what you want, with about 500-700 added to include all fees, destination etc. If the car is an 07 it will be cheaper to buy since it is depreciated and a 08 is not. Even if new. 2) On Edmunds, go to forums and look up your car. Usually there is a thread on prices paid. That should be very useful. Good luck.

When I bought a car in summer, I used xe.com to buy US$. It was about 1% cheaper than a bank, so I saved about $400 just on that. Beware, it takes a week to set up an account with them.

[Dreyfus]

[url]http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/menu.htm

Here is an opportunity for you to comment on 15 year rule and Right hand drive imports.

Tie your comments into the present non tariff trade barrier debacle. CMVSS114 must be rewritten we do not need more barriers. People with little resources cannot afford to be ripped off and the 15 year rule must stay because the way things are going in Transport nobody will be able to afford a car. Perhaps your grandmother can only afford 15 year old imports and when deprived of that should she buy a donkey.
The bureaucrats read the comments copy the minister or the prime minister. If they do not hear from you then you are quite satisfied with the status quo.

[rf134a]

The 15 year rule is for people who want to import "antiques". I doubt poor people or your grandma would want to buy a 600bhp 15-year old RWD Skyline. The article cites data from ICBC saying that RWD drivers have a higher accident rate. They are also notoriously bad for pollution. Most riceboys that buy RWD cars also takeout the catalytic converter.

Citing affordability is a poor excuse for the 15 year rule. I'm ok with not having any old rust buckets from Japan, even if they have 1,000,000bhp and can do the 1/4 mile is 2 seconds flat.

[jmlleung]

Hi fulrach,

Nice Tribeca! I have to pick up mine soon. Thanks for the photos.

How was the trip back from Manchester to Toronto?

Here's the pics! - Diamond Black Pearl

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2079/dscf7946gk4.jpg
http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/9445/dscf7949rx2.jpg
http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1472/dscf7958tj4.jpg


3 - Canadians who picked up Tribeca's from Jack @ Manchester Subaru on Sunday (Jack is 2nd from left in blue jacket)

[eastsidesubaru]

I doubt your grandma would want to buy a 600bhp 15-year old RWD Skyline.

You've never met my grandma... :cheesygri

[joejack]

I was asked to show my Export documentation.

When you say 'Export documentation' you really mean the original title with stamp (on front or back or both) from the US Customs, right?

Is that it or is there anything else?

Thanks.

[scouzi]

http://www.reportonbusiness.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071120.wrcars20/BNStory/Business/home#

[vim]

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148

[Monsieurmaggot]

From the Detroit News article, they quoted Jim Miller, Honda Canada's king of deception.

Listen to this garbage:

"Pricing is done in market conditions," said Jim Miller, vice president of Honda Canada. "There is no simple easy answer."

The Canadian car market is one-tenth the size of the American market. The country's 33 million residents buy about 1.6 million vehicles a year, and buying patterns tend to skew more toward the practical than in the United States.

Canadians buy or lease smaller vehicles, while Americans tend to super-size their orders. Nearly 60 percent of the new cars purchased in Canada are entry-level or compact vehicles. Small cars make up only 17 percent of the U.S. car market, according to Autodata Corp., a New Jersey company that tracks U.S. vehicle sales".

What he fails to mention is that due to Honda and other Canadian subsidy marketing practices, most Canadians CAN'T afford the bigger cars like our American cousins.

Now thanks to NAFTA and the strong Canadian dollar, I am driving a $50,000 car that I got in the US for less than $30k.

Dennis "The ventriloquist puppet" DesRosiers says: (It seems he must have a string on his back that you pull since he's always saying the same thing...)

"The trim levels are different, so you're not getting a fair comparison when you're looking at similar vehicles," said Dennis Desrosiers, a Canadian auto industry analyst and president of DesRosiers Automotive Consultants Inc. in Ontario.

"There's a large group of people who sit around every day cross-border shopping. They think there's a boogie man in every closet when the reality is the market is shockingly complex."


Yup. I would be one of them. I guess I'm too stupid to understand the "complex market forces" of simple greed.

Here's another good one:

"We price at what the market will bear," said Jim Cain, a Ford spokesman, adding that the U.S. side of operations at Ford do not dictate how much a car costs in Canada. "The U.S. doesn't get a vote in Canadian prices.".

Question is, who the hell still wants to buy a Ford?

[Tekken_War]

This article is in french so google transalte it, i'm too lazy >.>

Les détaillants font tout pour garder leurs clients

Les constructeurs automobiles en ont assez de perdre des clients au profit des États-Unis. Des pages entières de publicité achetées par Toyota Canada et GM Canada prouvent leur sérieux.

Dans le quotidien La Presse, il faut dépenser une trentaine de milliers de dollars pour avoir une telle visibilité un samedi.

Cette stratégie est plus que nécessaire car les Canadiens ont été nombreux à s'acheter un véhicule, le mois dernier, aux États-Unis. 12 289 achats, en octobre 2006, contre 24 873 en octobre 2007; une augmentation de 102%. En octobre 2006, le huard était encore loin de la parité, il valait 89 cents.

Pour certains véhicules, les prix américains demeurent encore plus avantageux, mais encore faut-il être prêts à faire les démarches pour importer une voiture.

L'Association pour la protection des automobilistes prédit que les consommateurs canadiens seront moins nombreux à acheter des véhicules aux États-Unis au cours des prochaines semaines. Ils repousseraient leurs achats au mois de janvier dans le but de profiter des promotions du temps des fêtes offertes ici.

http://lcn.canoe.ca/lcn/infos/national/archives/2007/11/20071119-204607.html


In general, they are desperate by placing a full ads page on newspaper.

[Ventrick]

Well getting ready to pull the trigger on a new Subbie, was listening to the news this morning and they said that the Inflation numbers were in for the month and caused the dollar to drop over a cent, speculation the BoC is goint to lower interest rates which will shy people away from the Canadian Dollar so I did my money conversion and only got USD at Par through Royal Bank, wish I was ready to do this 2 weeks ago, heh.

[dotcalamitie]

Question: What happens to an American Citizen who moves to Canada with their 2008 Honda that doesn't conform to Canadian standards?

[dotcalamitie]

My 2008 tribeca has a rattle in the back, i think it's from the large cover over the tool kit...is there a way to secure it as it doesn't seem to have a latch. it's the only thing wrong with my new US car - at 1500 miles now.

[jrvic]

I was asked to show my Export documentation.

But then again, I imported my car months ago when no one knew about this and the agents were thorough.

Now they're so busy, I doubt they have time to check.

Remember that your vehicle hasn't been properly exported from the US and a simple audit could get you into trouble.

See post below...

[martin1]

I was asked to show my Export documentation.

But then again, I imported my car months ago when no one knew about this and the agents were thorough.

Now they're so busy, I doubt they have time to check.

Remember that your vehicle hasn't been properly exported from the US and a simple audit could get you into trouble.


According to this notice from CBSA, stamp is not requried for Private Importations. I just got off the phone with a guy from CBSA and he confirmed that.

Link for the notice,

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html

[inspire]

All right folks, I've been negociating for a while with a few dealers, I was wondering what kind of price I should expect to pay.

The MSRP for the fully loaded 3.5 Premium SE Altima Coupe with Nav package is $31,755.

How much should I expect to pay?

What does "fully loaded" mean? You have to define all the options you have for the car for it to have any pertinent meaning. Use edmunds.com and price it out. It will give you invoice pricing on every option. Make up a zip code because the "TMV" pricing, I feel, is not accurate.

Due to these harsh economic times, and it being close to the end of a month, dealers are more likely to give discounts on cars that are sitting on the lot. I'm not saying the Altima coupe is a slow mover, but with the US economy slowing, they will go out of their way to make a sale.

Question: What happens to an American Citizen who moves to Canada with their 2008 Honda that doesn't conform to Canadian standards?
Right now ... they are screwed. They have to sell it because it cannot be imported into Canada and have Canadian plates on it. I have seen many instances where people with a 2000+ Toyota MR2 had to sell their cars since they were never sold in Canada, and thus banned from importing it here (ie RIV inadmissible list).

[jrvic]

According to this notice from CBSA, stamp is not requried for Private Importations. I just got off the phone with a guy from CBSA and he confirmed that.

Link for the notice,

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html

This is excellent information. Maybe we should modify the steps to import vehicle as this can save the 72 hours wait. I am sure the US border people would like this. No more private CDN importers flooding their offices with faxes and calls.
I just realized this means you can import cars into Canada on weekends as well ....

[whampoa]

My 2008 tribeca has a rattle in the back, i think it's from the large cover over the tool kit...is there a way to secure it as it doesn't seem to have a latch. it's the only thing wrong with my new US car - at 1500 miles now.

Put a bag of sand or rice over the large toolkit cover, if the noise is gone than you have a loose latch that need to be replace under warranty.

If not, remove the cover and if you can still hear the rattle. It might be something else beside the cover.

Have the dealership check where the rattle come from.

[Luds]

What does "fully loaded" mean? You have to define all the options you have for the car for it to have any pertinent meaning. Use edmunds.com and price it out. It will give you invoice pricing on every option. Make up a zip code because the "TMV" pricing, I feel, is not accurate.

Due to these harsh economic times, and it being close to the end of a month, dealers are more likely to give discounts on cars that are sitting on the lot. I'm not saying the Altima coupe is a slow mover, but with the US economy slowing, they will go out of their way to make a sale.

Thanks for the reply, inspire. By Fully loaded I meant that it literally has all the options available from the site. Premium SE package, VDC, Technoligy package, kick plates, trunk mats, moonroof deflector. It's a manual transmission.

MSRP = $31,755
Invoice = $29,064

Basically what I would like to know is if I can expect a deal around $30,000

[SubieOwner]

Special thanks to Monsieurmaggot and all RFD members for the pages of information and support................. the result being that last Tuesday I just put a fresh set of plates on my new Diamond Gray Metallic 2008 5-passenger Tribeca Limited. The whole process was pretty painless and each step went better than anticipated, from this Subaru being a wonderful vehicle, to a great deal and service from my closest Subaru dealer south of the border, to the easy process of clearing US and Canada Customs at the Emerson/Pembina border crossing, to quick service from RIV and the subsequent 5 minute check at Canadian Tire, to the final step of insurance and licence plates. The whole process was smooth and orderly. My impression was that at each stage of the process everyone was on the same page and knew exactly what they were doing. Plus a sweet deal was made even sweeter with the excellent exchange rates I managed to get between Nov 5-8.

Thanks again to all.

[joejack]

This is excellent information. Maybe we should modify the steps to import vehicle as this can save the 72 hours wait. I am sure the US border people would like this. No more private CDN importers flooding their offices with faxes and calls.

This is really excellent. In 2000, I brought my Toyota Camry from the States when I moved to Toronto and I don't ever remember having to fax the title to US border and wait 72 hours or even stop at the US border for that matter.

However, when I started the import process this time, after reading RedFlags, I just assumed it was a new requirement.

I guess, I wont be stopping at the border on Monday morning, hell, I will just drive in on Sunday morning. Originally, I was suppose to spent the extra day in Buffalo so that I would cross the border on Monday morning to satisfy the US requirement.

Thanks for posting this, really appreciate this.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

I have a ideal solution to get a US based Car, not sure if it would be legal though.

1) i know someone in the States, they could purchase a car for me.
2) they drive it to me, over the border.
3) They sell it to me in Canada.
4) What taxes do i need to pay? If any? IS it even allowed to purchase from an American "Visiting" Canada?

[yyz2hkg]

My 2008 tribeca has a rattle in the back, i think it's from the large cover over the tool kit...is there a way to secure it as it doesn't seem to have a latch. it's the only thing wrong with my new US car - at 1500 miles now.

It may not be the tool box, more maybe the hatch itself...if you search in one of the forums, you should be able to look up the rattle in the hatch, which may require the full disaasembly of the hatch through the dealer to rectify the problem.

[tico 1948]

Put a bag of sand or rice over the large toolkit cover, if the noise is gone than you have a loose latch that need to be replace under warranty.

If not, remove the cover and if you can still hear the rattle. It might be something else beside the cover.

Have the dealership check where the rattle come from.

I think it's the jack handle moving about in its little storage cavity. I'm putting a couple of old bath towels in with the jacking tools. That should help with the noise. If you've ever changed a tire, something to wipe your hands on after is a welcome thing.:D I have the Cargo Tray Accessory, it's fairly heavy so I don't think the problem is with the latch/cover. I'm driving to Halifax to-night,4 hr. round trip, will let you all know if that stops/helps with the rattle.

[Albertan]

Hey guys,

I am looking at importinga 2004-2006 Kia Sorento from the US. Can anyone give me some guidance on whether or not the remaining balance of the factory warranty will be valid here in Canada?

Thanks!

[jrvic]

I have a ideal solution to get a US based Car, not sure if it would be legal though.

1) i know someone in the States, they could purchase a car for me.
2) they drive it to me, over the border.
3) They sell it to me in Canada.
4) What taxes do i need to pay? If any? IS it even allowed to purchase from an American "Visiting" Canada?

That would work, but there are easier ways that your friend never has to travel to Canada.

[DSTU]

Thanks for the reply, inspire. By Fully loaded I meant that it literally has all the options available from the site. Premium SE package, VDC, Technoligy package, kick plates, trunk mats, moonroof deflector. It's a manual transmission.

MSRP = $31,755
Invoice = $29,064

Basically what I would like to know is if I can expect a deal around $30,000

There are numerous sites on the web stating what people have paid.

[jzy]

According to this notice from CBSA, stamp is not requried for Private Importations. I just got off the phone with a guy from CBSA and he confirmed that.

Link for the notice,

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html

This has been discussed in this thread (pages 339-341). The potential problems are not with CBSA.

[HOiYA]

When I called Honda USA, they said that they still would not issue a compliance letter. The company line is that the determination of whether the immobilizer meets CMVSS 114 is up to TC and not them. They flat out said the car is inadmissible. I am waiting for the whole TC fiasco to settle to see which side of the fence I land on.

Question: What happens to an American Citizen who moves to Canada with their 2008 Honda that doesn't conform to Canadian standards?

[yyz2hkg]

Hey guys,

I am looking at importinga 2004-2006 Kia Sorento from the US. Can anyone give me some guidance on whether or not the remaining balance of the factory warranty will be valid here in Canada?

Thanks!

Call them or send them a email, it's unknown unless someone on this forum has actually imported a KIA. Here's their contact info though.

KIA Canada
1-877-542-2886
180 Foster Crescent, Mississauga, ON, L5R 4J5

[SPaulS]

Called again RIV to check Camry 2008 import, i have been told either i should have a CMVSS 114 compliance letter from the original manufacturer otherwise it is not admissible.
( Which Toyota USA will not provide i suppose ---called them last week to hear some kind of legality issue ) When asked the after market installation,was told that is not permitted even when i gave the RIV list para 9 reference.

Double standards and that too so openly by a Government Controlled body (TC), feeling pissed off now, seems like will have to back off .

WHY DON'T TRANSPORT CANADA PUT A BLANKET BAN ON ALL THE VEHICLE IMPORTS INSTEAD OF HAVING ALL THESE DOUBLE STANDARDS ........ATLEAST THAT WILL SAVE US TIME ..............Feel Sorry for Other fellows like me.............

[sika]

"2007 AND 2008 Yaris Sedan built after September 1st, 2007, admissible only when equipped by manufacturer's optional electronic immobilization system to comply with CMVSS 114. The importer must provide RIV with a letter from the manufacturer stating the vehicle complies with CMVSS 114"

First: Camry 2008 model is addmissible
Second: it cames with electronic immobilization system as factory installed
Third: It's no problem to import this car as of today
Fourth: To import this car you don't need CMVSS 114 vehicle complies




Called again RIV to check Camry 2008 import, i have been told either i should have a CMVSS 114 compliance letter from the original manufacturer otherwise it is not admissible.
( Which Toyota USA will not provide i suppose ---called them last week to hear some kind of legality issue ) When asked the after market installation,was told that is not permitted even when i gave the RIV list para 9 reference.

Double standards and that too so openly by a Government Controlled body (TC), feeling pissed off now, seems like will have to back off .

WHY DON'T TRANSPORT CANADA PUT A BLANKET BAN ON ALL THE VEHICLE IMPORTS INSTEAD OF HAVING ALL THESE DOUBLE STANDARDS ........ATLEAST THAT WILL SAVE US TIME ..............Feel Sorry for Other fellows like me.............

[SPaulS]

Sika , why don't you call RIV and post here what they say..............as said earliar RIV needs compliance letter................and then called Toyota USA again afterwards...........REPLY WAS...........WON'T ISSUE ANY COMPLIANCE LETTER AND 2008 TOYOTA CAMRY IS NOT ADMISSIBLE IN CANADA ................any better answers will make me happy.
Thanks!!

[2ride4life]

Did any one notice that the pdf for the RIV admissability list is no longer available on the RIV site? It is only available as HTML.

Does any one know why they would do this? It is to make it harder to see whether they have made any changes, or what?

What a pain!!!:mad:

[yklivan]

Hey guys,

RIV just updated their website. Instead of opening the admissible list in pdf, they link the info with Transport Canada. Since they change the info very frequently, it is advisable to check the site every day if you are planning or going to import a car from US.

[diigii]

I really like this article by John Leblanc, analyzing the incentives offered by Canadian distributors. He just hit the spot where he says "buyer beware" if the ad plays the patriotic theme. We need more auto journalists like him! :cheesygri

http://www.wheels.ca/newsFeatures/article/32929


Do new car incentives add up?

John LeBlanc

Special to the Star

Nov 14, 2007
Grumpy consumers, overzealous border officials, grandstanding politicians, and backpedaling carmakers — hey, has the past month in the Canadian car retailing business been fun, or what?

We’re now about four weeks into this maelstrom caused by the Canadian loonie rocketing well past the sagging American dollar; a reversal in currency value that exposed some vast differences in new car pricing between the Canadian and American markets.

Since then, some Canadian new carmakers reacted to government and consumer backlash by swiftly adding cash, finance or equipment incentives to their sales programs.

Some took a “wait and see” attitude.

But judging by the number of full-page ads in last weekend’s Wheels, more and more carmakers are jumping on the pricing parity bandwagon.

From the emotional reader feedback we’ve received over this hot issue, there seems to be an underlying feeling that the higher loonie for once (other than at the hockey rink or comedy hall), has given us a leg up on our neighbours from the south.

Yet, when it comes to buying a new car or truck, Canadians were being treated like second-class citizens.

To this point, some of the recently introduced incentive sales programs, like Acura’s “No Passport Required” or Honda’s “The New Deal for Canadians”, certainly play the patriotic card in their ad copy.

Whereas Chrysler’s “Consumer Price Adjustment” headline, is more succinct.

Others — with “free gas”, “scratch and win” or “year-end reductions”— avoided any direct reference to the whole cross-border shopping thing.

Whether it’s thousands of dollars in cash incentives, low lease offers, or free sunroofs, car buyers still have to ask: are these new deals, well, really a deal? Or are Canadian car buyers merely being thrown a bone by carmakers wishing this whole pricing parity thing will fade from consumers’ consciousness before year-end sales quotas are due?

For example, at first blush, Nissan Canada’s recent $8,000 reduction on a 2008 Infiniti QX56 luxo-SUV (among other models) sounds generous.

I mean, eight grand—that’s nearly half the cost of a new Nissan Versa subcompact.

But based on the currency rates on the day I’m writing this column, even with Infiniti chipping in, at $71,600 (or $21,406 more expensive than an American model) the QX56 may be a tough sell to the knowledgeable consumer.

In big, bold letters, Hyundai Canada’s ad last Saturday boasted, “With 0% financing, the Americans will be coming here to shop.”

Well, maybe the Yanks who like to get fleeced.

Over the phone, a Buffalo Hyundai dealer told me I could expect a six to seven per cent financing rate on a 2008 Sonata with a V6 and an automatic transmission. Trouble is, that car is still $8,000 cheaper in the States than a comparably equipped Canadian model.

The same problem lies with Acura Canada’s parity pricing program.

It offers zero per cent financing for both leases and loans. But car buyers still have to get their head around the idea that even with higher U.S. finance rates, a TL sedan is still nearly $10,000 more expensive in the Great White North.

Or how about a 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5L? VW Canada is offering a $1,000 rebate, yet at $22,475, that’s still $6,062 more than one bought in Boston or Detroit.

I don’t care what the lease rate is, that’s still a lot of fahrfernugen.

Now, no reasonable person would ask North American car retailers to match dollar-to-dollar MSRPs between the two markets.

It’s simply isn’t fiscally responsible or good business.

But carmakers like Chrysler and Ford have managed to offer substantial cash incentives on certain models that bring pricing more in line with comparable American market models. And further perusal of last weekend’s Wheels saw plenty of end-of-year specials.

So if you do read a patriotic ad headline boasting big savings to Canadian new car buyers, as always, buyer beware.

Oh, and make sure you plenty of batteries for your calculator.

[diigii]

I'm reading the article about the new 2008 Subaru Tribeca and the caption underneath the photo made me laugh!!!

Price is competitive at $42,000????? WHAT THE F#&K??!!!!!!

http://www.wheels.ca/newsFeatures/article/32966

[yklivan]

Please also note that RIV put a revised date for each revision of the list. However, the info found in the Transport Canada website only says "SUBJECT TO REVISION WITHOUT NOTIFICATION". Section 5.3, regarding Multipurpose passenger vehicles, has also been changed if you check it today.

[kmare]

SPaulS; I have had the same discussion with Riv -- what is concerning is the inconsistency with their responses, I'm assuming that you received a different response. Based on my calls:

2008 Camry would be admissible as per TC/Riv list; it does not require any additional documentation as it has been determined to comply with all CMVSS requirements (exception being those that can be completed post importation: DRL and Child Restraint).

2008 Yaris should be the only 'admissible' vehicle that would require a CMVSS 114 letter; i'm assuming that there is a factory immobilizer option that would potentially allow it to be admissible (since no such letter can be produced by Toyota it should be considered not admissible)

[Albertan]

Hey Guys,

I am thinking of bringing up an 05-06 Kia Sorento, as I mentioned previously. I am buying in Washington state and bringing it up through BC. However, I will be registering, insurring and driving the SUV in my home province of Alberta.

My question is - when do you pay PST on a vehicle brought up through BC? Do you pay @ Customs, or when you register? I hope it's at registration, because then I wont have to pay PST since I am an Albertan, just coming up through a PC Port of Entry.

Thanks!

[SPaulS]

Kamre: I have checked couple of times on different days..............every time the same or similar reply............Compliance Letter.........

[sb_tor]

Hey Guys,

I am thinking of bringing up an 05-06 Kia Sorento, as I mentioned previously. I am buying in Washington state and bringing it up through BC. However, I will be registering, insurring and driving the SUV in my home province of Alberta.

My question is - when do you pay PST on a vehicle brought up through BC? Do you pay @ Customs, or when you register? I hope it's at registration, because then I wont have to pay PST since I am an Albertan, just coming up through a PC Port of Entry.

Thanks!

only GST needs to be paid at border.
PST (if applicable) has to be paid only at registration.

[Danno2005]

Kamre: I have checked couple of times on different days..............every time the same or similar reply............Compliance Letter.........


SPaulS - I see you're frustrated.

Have you asked RIV if they can read? 2008 Camry is not listed in the INADMISSABLE column.

Here is the text from TC site.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/TOYOTA_LEXUS.htm

ADMISSIBLE NOTES
1992 TO 2008 All other passenger car models except those listed in the inadmissible column
2008 Yaris Sedan (see notes)
2007 AND 2008 Yaris Sedan built after September 1st, 2007 (see notes)

INADMISSIBLE
1992 Corolla
1992 TO 1994 Tercel / Paseo
2000 SC400/300
2000 TO 2005 MR2
2005 AND 2006 Scion TC
2007 AND 2008 Yaris Hatchback built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Corolla built after september 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Prius built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Matrix built after September 1st, 2007
2008 Scion

NOTES
See explanations on cover page.
2007 AND 2008 Yaris Sedan built after September 1st, 2007, admissible only when equipped by manufacturer's optional electronic immobilization system to comply with CMVSS 114. The importer must provide RIV with a letter from the manufacturer stating the vehicle complies with CMVSS 114.

[diigii]

How about something we RFD'ers can all rejoice in hitting back at Toyota's arrogant stance. To all potential Toyota or GM buyers, beware of cars made at Toyota and GM's joint manufacturing plant, the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. (NUMMI) in California.

A lawsuit is before the court to sue Toyota USA and GM by a whistleblower who alleges that management routinely deletes or downgrades her audits on defects.

Guess who am I rooting for in this case? :cheesygri

http://www.wheels.ca/article/33024

Toyota plant accused of passing defects

Associated Press

Nov 20, 2007

TOKYO – An employee at a California plant run jointly by General Motors and Toyota is accusing her managers of allowing serious defects to go unchecked, including faulty seat belts and braking, and retaliating when she resisted, according to a lawsuit filed earlier this month.

In the case before Alameda County Superior Court in California, Katy Cameron, a certified auditor who has worked for 23 years at New United Motor Manufacturing Inc., says management routinely deleted or downgraded defects from her reports on vehicles since 2005.

The lawsuit, filed Nov. 6, demands unspecified damages for retaliation against a whistleblower and intentional infliction of emotional distress from NUMMI, Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota in North America and General Motors Corp.

According to legal documents obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press, defects that were intentionally passed over included broken seat belts, faulty headlights, inadequate braking, mirrors falling off, engine oil leaks and steering wheel alignment problems – all in an effort to decrease the number of defects. It is not clear whether any defects resulted in accidents.

When Cameron, a trained expert at spotting defects, complained, her bosses struck back, demoting her twice, accusing her of being crazy and violent, forcing her to submit to mental fitness tests, according to the documents.

An officer at NUMMI, the Freemont, Calif.-based joint venture, threatened to fire her and then tried to get the personnel department to dismiss her, the lawsuit said.

"NUMMI has done everything in its power to try to break Cameron psychologically and force her from the workplace," the lawsuit said. "Cameron is an American hero who will not be silenced by multibillion dollar corporations at the expense of hardworking American consumers and families.''

As a result of the persistent on-the-job maltreatment and harassment, Cameron has been getting medical treatment for stress, depression, fatigue, insomnia and panic attacks, it said. She is now on medical leave.

Toyota in Japan declined comment on the lawsuit, saying it was still looking into the allegations. But it did release a statement Tuesday saying it was "tackling quality problems as a top priority.''

GM spokesman in Tokyo Michihiro Yamamori said he did not know about the lawsuit.

NUMMI, set up as a joint venture in 1984, produces the Corolla subcompact, Tacoma pickup and Pontiac Vibe wagon. One of the plant's purposes was to have American workers learn Toyota's production methods. It has been the topic of numerous labor relations studies, and the company claims teamwork and safety among its "core values.''

Quality problems have been creeping up at Toyota, which traditionally has a stellar reputation for reliability. Toyota's recalls have ballooned over the last couple of years, and President Katsuaki Watanabe has promised to beef up quality control.

Last month, Consumer Reports said Toyota "is showing cracks in its armor" and will no longer get automatic recommendations from the magazine when it releases new or redesigned vehicles. It also removed several Toyota vehicles from its recommended list because of quality issues.

Toyota, which appears to be on track to beat GM as the world's biggest automaker by sales as soon as this year, recalled 766,000 vehicles in the United States last year, down from 2.2 million in 2005, but up from 210,000 in 2003.

The lawsuit says NUMMI management blocked Cameron from communicating with other departments, including the quality division at Toyota in Japan, by barring her from meetings and denying her an opportunity to be considered for travel assignments.

The "Toyota way" of manufacturing is emulated by manufacturers around the world not only because it eliminates waste but also because it empowers the individual worker. In principle, workers are encouraged to stop an entire assembly lines if a problem arises.

[Albertan]

only GST needs to be paid at border.
PST (if applicable) has to be paid only at registration.


Thanks for the response!

[thelefteyeguy]

Price is competitive at $42,000????? WHAT THE F#&K??!!!!!!

http://www.wheels.ca/newsFeatures/article/32966

it is competitive...compared to other canadian vehicle prices

[whampoa]

WHY DON'T TRANSPORT CANADA PUT A BLANKET BAN ON ALL THE VEHICLE IMPORTS INSTEAD OF HAVING ALL THESE DOUBLE STANDARDS ........ATLEAST THAT WILL SAVE US TIME ..............Feel Sorry for Other fellows like me.............

Why do you want to put a blanket ban on all imports just because Toyota is giving you a hard time?

Read below, Toyota is not what it crack up to be.

How about something we RFD'ers can all rejoice in hitting back at Toyota's arrogant stance. To all potential Toyota or GM buyers, beware of cars made at Toyota and GM's joint manufacturing plant, the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. (NUMMI) in California.

A lawsuit is before the court to sue Toyota USA and GM by a whistleblower who alleges that management routinely deletes or downgrades her audits on defects.

Guess who am I rooting for in this case? :cheesygri

http://www.wheels.ca/article/33024

Toyota plant accused of passing defects

...

This NUMMI plant is heading into a one way street, the wrong way!

[diigii]

it is competitive...compared to other canadian vehicle prices

But not to us, anymore. :cheesygri

I guess that statement is open to any interpretations. :cheesygri

[st7860]

Why do you want to put a blanket ban on all imports just because Toyota is giving you a hard time?

Read below, Toyota is not what it crack up to be.



yes, i'd rather get something like a subaru or whatever instead of a car with an engine prone to sludge.

[Tender]

it is competitive...compared to other canadian vehicle prices

it is competitive...compared to what they'd like to gouge

[Luds]

Do I need my Recall Letter at the boarder? US customs (Ogdensburg) confirmed that I don't and the RIV site only lists it as a need pass the federal inspection. It isn't listed as a requirement to pass Canadian customs.

Main reason I ask as that this document would be mailed by Nissan and take some time to arrive I assume. I'd like to pick up the car on Monday and this may not be possible if I don't have the Recall Letter.

[TucDream]

First time poster, long time lurker.

I plan to pick up my new ‘beca on Saturday, bringing it thru Blaine WA on Monday morning. I’d really like to get thru CT on Monday as well, and am wondering if I can speed up the RIV process to help make that happen.

What I’m thinking of is:
- picking up a Form 1 at the border on the way down (Thursday)
- online payment with RIV with the Form 1 case number (Thursday)
- email the Recall Clearance letter to RIV (Friday)
- Customs complete Form 1 & email to RIV (Monday morning)
- Me speak nicely to RIV to email Form 2 (Monday noon)
- CT inspection (Monday afternoon).

Any thots? Could this work?

The only real downside I could see is that if the Form 1 gets screwed up & I lose the RIV fee that is associated to it.

Btw, thanks to all who have blazed the trail for us. I think Canada has cornered the market on Diamond Grey Metallic 'becas!

[Lost Horizon]

First time poster, long time lurker.

I plan to pick up my new ‘beca on Saturday, bringing it thru Blaine WA on Monday morning. I’d really like to get thru CT on Monday as well, and am wondering if I can speed up the RIV process to help make that happen.

What I’m thinking of is:
- picking up a Form 1 at the border on the way down (Thursday)
- online payment with RIV with the Form 1 case number (Thursday)
- email the Recall Clearance letter to RIV (Friday)
- Customs complete Form 1 & email to RIV (Monday morning)
- Me speak nicely to RIV to email Form 2 (Monday noon)
- CT inspection (Monday afternoon).

Any thots? Could this work?

The only real downside I could see is that if the Form 1 gets screwed up & I lose the RIV fee that is associated to it.

Btw, thanks to all who have blazed the trail for us. I think Canada has cornered the market on Diamond Grey Metallic 'becas!

The fly in the ointment (a la truck crossing) that I see is that Customs filled out the Form 1 as part of the import process. Not sure that they would hand out a blank one before you have the export stamp from US Customs..

the rest makes sense, it's wot I did.. but email/fax the Form 1 and the Recall as a single package.

[fernie]

it is competitive...compared to other canadian vehicle prices

Yes definitely competitive :cheesygri

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071115-1.htm
November 15, 2007

Hyundai Canada announces Holiday Gift Event

Markham, Ontario - Hyundai Auto Canada has announced a "Holiday Gift Event" it says gives potential cross-border shoppers a reason to reconsider a trip to the U.S. The promotion offers cash back from $3,000 to $5,000 on selected 2007 models, and significantly-reduced purchase and lease financing as low as zero per cent on selected models.

The new program is in addition to the previously-announced GST reduction program, whereby customers pay the equivalent of five per cent GST on all 2007 and 2008 model-year Hyundai vehicles. Hyundai also reminds shoppers that automobile purchase or lease financing is not available to Canadians at U.S. dealers.

"We know Canadian customers are looking for a reason to purchase a vehicle in Canada right now," said John Vernile, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "This Hyundai cash-back and rate-reduced program is that reason. While the cash-back offers are significant, the real savings to Canadians come in our zero per cent finance and lease rates. Buyers going to the U.S. have to take funds out of their bank accounts or personal lines of credit, causing them to incur significant interest costs or forego earning interest.

"Our low Hyundai Financial Services interest rates make the transaction prices of several of our models lower than comparable U.S. models and allow buyers the huge financial benefit of keeping their cash in their accounts to earn interest. This offers value to our Canadian customers, keeps business and money in Canada, and removes the hassle and uncertainty of importing a U.S. vehicle."

Further information about the promotion is available at HyundaiCanada.com.

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071112-1.htm
November 12, 2007

Nissan Canada offers new vehicle purchase incentives up to $8,000


Mississauga, Ontario - Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) has announced a series of new manufacturer-to-dealer purchase incentives across its Nissan and Infiniti vehicle lines. The incentives mean additional consumer savings of up to $8,000 on cash vehicle purchases, and finance rates as low as 1.9 per cent on select models. The new offer will be in effect until November 30, 2007.

"Customers have clearly been looking for more value in new-vehicle pricing and we're happy to respond by providing even more reasons to buy or lease a new Nissan or Infiniti vehicle," said Mark Grimm, President and CEO of NCI.

New cash incentives range from $1,000 on the 2008 Nissan Sentra to $8,000 on 2008 Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX56 models. Lease rates start from 3.9 per cent, and finance rates are as low as 1.9 per cent on select models.

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071109-6.htm
November 9, 2007

GM Canada announces new price incentives


Oshawa, Ontario - General Motors of Canada has announced that it is introducing a series of new price incentives to augment its highly-competitive lease and finance rates.

Effective immediately, GM will cover a one per cent GST reduction for all cash and finance customers until the new GST rates take effect on January 1, 2008; offer new cash incentives ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 on select models, including the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Corvette, GMC Yukon and all 2008 Saab models; and launch its year-end "Wish and Win" event, which gives GM customers the chance to win a new car or up to an additional $10,000 toward the purchase of a new GM car or truck.

"Coming off our strong October sales increases, we are moving beyond our great lease and finance rates to offer GM customers even greater value," said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada's vice-president of sales, service and marketing. "We know consumers have been focused on the high Canadian dollar, so we are going to continue to show them that the best value on the industry's best vehicles can be found at their local GM Canada dealership."

[thelefteyeguy]

welcome to the Nov 20th ;)

elmst200 must be from the Cdn Automobile Association :D


jk

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071107-1.htm
November 7, 2007

Volkswagen Canada announces rebates on Jetta, Passat and Touareg


Ajax, Ontario - Volkswagen Canada has announced a manufacturer's sales program on select models for the months of November and December 2007.

Savings will include $1,000 on Jetta, $2,000 on Passat, and $2,000 on Touareg 2 models. The savings will be in addition to APR and lease rates starting as low as 1.9 per cent on select models.

"Our goal is to continue delivering more value and savings to Canadians, as well as to maintain our competitive position in the market," said executive vice-president John White.

Volkswagen Canada is the fourth Canadian automaker in the last month to announce rebates and price reductions on new models. With the strength of the Canadian dollar and lower vehicle MSRPs in the U.S., many Canadians have been going south to purchase their new vehicles.

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071105-1.htm
November 5, 2007

Ford of Canada announces price reductions on most models


Oakville, Ontario - Ford has announced that, effective November 3, consumers can save up to $8,250 on model-year 2007 and 2008 Ford and Lincoln models. The savings are part of the company's "Get in and drive year-end clearance" event.

"We hear what people are saying - they prefer to purchase in Canada," said Bill Osborne, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company of Canada. "To continue to give Canadians good reason to shop at home, we are providing additional savings on most of our vehicle line-up. It's a great time to consider a Ford or Lincoln vehicle, right here in Canada."

The company says that virtually all 2007 and 2008 models will come with an "e-bonus" of $1,250, available on-line or from dealerships. Additionally, there will be a delivery allowance of up to $7,000, and a 1 per cent reduction on the GST or HST, where applicable. The reductions are in addition to purchase and lease APR offers; for more information, visit Ford of Canada's website.

[elmst200]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071102-5.htm
November 2, 2007

Volvo Canada announces new cash rebates for all buyers


Toronto, Ontario - Volvo Cars of Canada has announced that, effective yesterday, a new program will offer customers a rebate of up to $5,000 toward the purchase price of a Volvo, regardless if it is a cash, finance or lease transaction. The program covers the S40, S60, S80, V50, XC90, C30 and C70 models.

"Volvo Canada and its retailers review all customers equally," says Steve Blyth, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of Canada Corp. "The company will not offer an incentive program to cash-paying customers that is different than one offered to our finance or lease customers. This new rebate program will be available on the majority of Volvo vehicles to all customers, regardless of how they would like to conduct the transaction."

The incentive program is focused primarily on model-year 2008 and remaining model-year 2007 vehicles, and offers different cash rebates according to the nameplate.

"This new cash rebate program, when combined with some of the industry's best lease and finance rates, gives potential Volvo customers a compelling reason to visit a Volvo retailer in Canada," Blyth says. "We have lease rates starting from 2.9 per cent and finance rates starting from 3.9 per cent.

"We realize Canadians are looking to the U.S. market and comparing prices of vehicles with the same nameplate. We hope they also notice that Canadian Volvo vehicles have a longer list of standard equipment, a more comprehensive warranty offer and a retailer network equipped with parts to service built-for-Canada vehicles. That said, we recognize that the price is perhaps the most important factor in a purchase decision. Our plan is that this new rebate program will help customers avoid considering the added cost, hassle, time and intricacies of importing a vehicle from south of the border."

[iluvtofish]

First time poster, long time lurker.

I plan to pick up my new ‘beca on Saturday, bringing it thru Blaine WA on Monday morning. I’d really like to get thru CT on Monday as well, and am wondering if I can speed up the RIV process to help make that happen.

What I’m thinking of is:
- picking up a Form 1 at the border on the way down (Thursday)
- online payment with RIV with the Form 1 case number (Thursday)
- email the Recall Clearance letter to RIV (Friday)
- Customs complete Form 1 & email to RIV (Monday morning)
- Me speak nicely to RIV to email Form 2 (Monday noon)
- CT inspection (Monday afternoon).

Any thots? Could this work?

The only real downside I could see is that if the Form 1 gets screwed up & I lose the RIV fee that is associated to it.

Btw, thanks to all who have blazed the trail for us. I think Canada has cornered the market on Diamond Grey Metallic 'becas!

This is the way that you may be able to get your Form 2 the quickest:

Pay your RIV fee online as soon as you get home (don't pay at the border)

The border will fax your form 1 for you when you bring your vehicle over but I also faxed the documents myself. I faxed the form 1 along with the MSO and the bill of sale along with a cover letter quoting the case number to this number: 1-905-267-1182 attn. Data Entry. I then faxed the Recall clearance letter along with a cover letter quoting the case number to this number: 1-888-642-9899. Don't forget to include the instruction to e-mail your form 2 to you when its ready. Phone them the next day and every day after that to see if you are in the system. When you are, you can ask them to e-mail the form 2 to you.

[Danno2005]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071105-1.htm
November 5, 2007

Ford of Canada announces price reductions on most models


Oakville, Ontario - Ford has announced that, effective November 3, consumers can save up to $8,250 on model-year 2007 and 2008 Ford and Lincoln models. The savings are part of the company's "Get in and drive year-end clearance" event.

"We hear what people are saying - they prefer to purchase in Canada," said Bill Osborne, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company of Canada. "To continue to give Canadians good reason to shop at home, we are providing additional savings on most of our vehicle line-up. It's a great time to consider a Ford or Lincoln vehicle, right here in Canada."

The company says that virtually all 2007 and 2008 models will come with an "e-bonus" of $1,250, available on-line or from dealerships. Additionally, there will be a delivery allowance of up to $7,000, and a 1 per cent reduction on the GST or HST, where applicable. The reductions are in addition to purchase and lease APR offers; for more information, visit Ford of Canada's website.

A Ford dealer I know did a deal for a customer. Cost per monthly payment rose with the new November deals compared to October.

Smoke and mirrors folks...smoke and mirrors.....

[jzy]

Do I need my Recall Letter at the boarder? US customs (Ogdensburg) confirmed that I don't and the RIV site only lists it as a need pass the federal inspection. It isn't listed as a requirement to pass Canadian customs.

Main reason I ask as that this document would be mailed by Nissan and take some time to arrive I assume. I'd like to pick up the car on Monday and this may not be possible if I don't have the Recall Letter.

Neither customs requires the recall letter. However, RIV does ask for it before releasing Form 2 - at least that was the case for me when I went to their office to pay RIV fee and to get Form 2.

[Vidman]

Having gone through Blaine 2 weeks ago, I don't think you can get the form 1 in advance- it needs to be stamped by Can Customs when you bring the vehicle into Canada.
Good luck- It took me nearly 10 days and 4 calls to get my form 2 e-mailed to me.
On a positive note, I was able to register the vehicle (in Alberta) without issue with just my MSO and Bill of sale. That way I could drive it while waiting for the form 2 to arrive. Doesn't hurt to try- worst they can say is no.

The RIV wasn't willing to help me for the first few days becasue they wouldn't look into receipt of my form 1- they kept telling me that it takes several days to get it processed.


First time poster, long time lurker.

I plan to pick up my new ‘beca on Saturday, bringing it thru Blaine WA on Monday morning. I’d really like to get thru CT on Monday as well, and am wondering if I can speed up the RIV process to help make that happen.

What I’m thinking of is:
- picking up a Form 1 at the border on the way down (Thursday)
- online payment with RIV with the Form 1 case number (Thursday)
- email the Recall Clearance letter to RIV (Friday)
- Customs complete Form 1 & email to RIV (Monday morning)
- Me speak nicely to RIV to email Form 2 (Monday noon)
- CT inspection (Monday afternoon).

Any thots? Could this work?

The only real downside I could see is that if the Form 1 gets screwed up & I lose the RIV fee that is associated to it.

Btw, thanks to all who have blazed the trail for us. I think Canada has cornered the market on Diamond Grey Metallic 'becas!

[Lost Horizon]

what's with all this sudden spate of old news activity on rebates by the various corporate fanboyz? Are we trying to muddy the waters, lol..

Wrong forum, methinks..

here.. let me help with the load leveller.. (http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/)

[fulrach]

I just got home from Manchester after picking up my 2008 Tribeca 5 Seat Limited from Jack @ Manchester Subaru! I'll post pics later tonight with Jack and I

Thanks Monsieurmaggot for starting this thread and everyone on RFD that's contributed to it! The import process so far has been easier than I thought it would have been!

Off to RIV, CT & MTO tomorrow!

I'm all plated! All said and done... roughly speaking, I spent about $34,500CDN for my 5 Seater Limited after Taxes, RIV, Plates, flight out to Manchester, gas, etc...

I had spoken to 2 different dealers in Ontario about the exact same car, minus the tint, splashguards and all weather mats that I got in Manchester.. they quoted me $53,990 after taxes, frieght and PDI...

Total savings of about $20,000 over the Canadian price... mmmmm :)

[elmst200]

i know, i know. these are for criticizing and entertaining purpose, have a bit fun..

what's with all this sudden spate of old news activity on rebates by the various corporate fanboyz? Are we trying to muddy the waters, lol..

Wrong forum, methinks..

here.. let me help with the load leveller.. (http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/)

[elmst200]

congratulations for your huge saving..
have you put your story on carburner.com Wall of Savers?

I'm all plated! All said and done... roughly speaking, I spent about $34,500CDN for my 5 Seater Limited after Taxes, RIV, Plates, flight out to Manchester, gas, etc...

I had spoken to 2 different dealers in Ontario about the exact same car, minus the tint, splashguards and all weather mats that I got in Manchester.. they quoted me $53,990 after taxes, frieght and PDI...

Total savings of about $20,000 over the Canadian price... mmmmm :)

[Lost Horizon]

i know, i know. these are for criticizing and entertaining purpose, have a bit fun..

my bad then.. me happy now.. :D

[shopper-X]

what's with all this sudden spate of old news activity on rebates by the various corporate fanboyz? Are we trying to muddy the waters, lol..

Wrong forum, methinks..

here.. let me help with the load leveller.. (http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/)

They maybe trying to increase their post count for the 1/100 post rule for Toyota information. :twisted:

[endura]

the hyundai 'canadian special' sucks. our 07 entourage came with 0% financing 5 yrs. they've replaced that with 6 or 7% financing and given $5500 cash back on 07 inventory of the minivan. it's a worse deal now!!

from my calculations, you're better off buying an 08 with the 0% financing.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

***Dealership sleaze update***

Called a few Audi dealers, asked about new S5 car, the US price is 50,500 the Canadian is 65,900 :rolleyes:

When i asked the dealers why i have to pay so much more, they said because the Canadian Audi S5 has 6,000 worth of options included hahah
i asked if the Navigation unit was included in that price, they said NOOOOO meaning there are no meaningful differences between the 2 versions of the S5.
So at that point I confronted all those sales guys and asked if they can give me one feature that both cars do not share…. Not one sales guy could tell me !!!!!!!! f-ing sleazes , I asked if that is how they try to f-k over the consumer, and they defended themselves by saying that Audi Canada told them to say those lies. :)

Moving on……..
BMW called today, said that they are trying to help Canadian consumers **Cough cough , yeah right**
They said all bmw 2008/2007 cars are 4.9% interest finance for 60 months. WOW. When asked if they can lower the car by at least 10% , all I heard on the phone was “SILENCE”.

They can shove their deals and incentives up their ass.

[showMeAnImport]

"2007 AND 2008 Yaris Sedan built after September 1st, 2007, admissible only when equipped by manufacturer's optional electronic immobilization system to comply with CMVSS 114. The importer must provide RIV with a letter from the manufacturer stating the vehicle complies with CMVSS 114"

First: Camry 2008 model is addmissible
Second: it cames with electronic immobilization system as factory installed
Third: It's no problem to import this car as of today
Fourth: To import this car you don't need CMVSS 114 vehicle complies

Any car/SUV made after Sept. 1 /2007 will require an admissibility letter from Toyota. Period. I have called RIV 3 times in recent days to see if they would consistently tell me the same thing. You are interpreting the list wrong. I did the same thing. Every "notes" section always include the word "See explanation section". This applies to all vehicles listed as admissible. When you refer to the explanations section is says all vehicles will need to have a compliance letter...sucks but this is what is happening...

All Toyota's built after Sept. 1 might aswell be in the inadmissible column because they are effectively just this --> inadmissible...because you will not get the letter that is needed...period. Game over..

I had a hard time accepting it too but this is the reality now...What mislead me was the special notes pointing out certain vehicles etc as needing a compliance letter...they only did this for vehicles that could ship without an immobilizer...they might as well not even have done this because in the end it is the same for all Toyotas...you need a letter...

Cheers

[showMeAnImport]

SPaulS; I have had the same discussion with Riv -- what is concerning is the inconsistency with their responses, I'm assuming that you received a different response. Based on my calls:

2008 Camry would be admissible as per TC/Riv list; it does not require any additional documentation as it has been determined to comply with all CMVSS requirements (exception being those that can be completed post importation: DRL and Child Restraint).

2008 Yaris should be the only 'admissible' vehicle that would require a CMVSS 114 letter; i'm assuming that there is a factory immobilizer option that would potentially allow it to be admissible (since no such letter can be produced by Toyota it should be considered not admissible)

See post #9424...

Sorry, but you are wrong...I was interpreting the list the same as you but I now know better...annoying but true...

I can so see how people are getting confused...they need to rewrite the list and put all Toyotas in the inadmissible column because they are all inadmissible now...

Cheers

[Monsieurmaggot]

Question: What happens to an American Citizen who moves to Canada with their 2008 Honda that doesn't conform to Canadian standards?

Interesting question. Normally private US individuals can import their vehicles into Canada providing they owned the car before crossing the border. I believe I read somewhere that indicated how long the vehicle needed to be registered in the US (but for the life of me I can't remember where I read that).

The only caveat was for vehicles that were unadmissible due to roadworthiness safety issues (bumpers and emissions).

Be curious to see what TC does about the new immobilizer issue since many cars coming across with their American owners in the future won't comply.

[Yorker86]

How can you sleep at night doing what you are doing?? Excuse me while I go take a **** in the washroom and hope that it lands on your face.

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071115-1.htm
November 15, 2007

Hyundai Canada announces Holiday Gift Event

Markham, Ontario - Hyundai Auto Canada has announced a "Holiday Gift Event" it says gives potential cross-border shoppers a reason to reconsider a trip to the U.S. The promotion offers cash back from $3,000 to $5,000 on selected 2007 models, and significantly-reduced purchase and lease financing as low as zero per cent on selected models.

The new program is in addition to the previously-announced GST reduction program, whereby customers pay the equivalent of five per cent GST on all 2007 and 2008 model-year Hyundai vehicles. Hyundai also reminds shoppers that automobile purchase or lease financing is not available to Canadians at U.S. dealers.

"We know Canadian customers are looking for a reason to purchase a vehicle in Canada right now," said John Vernile, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "This Hyundai cash-back and rate-reduced program is that reason. While the cash-back offers are significant, the real savings to Canadians come in our zero per cent finance and lease rates. Buyers going to the U.S. have to take funds out of their bank accounts or personal lines of credit, causing them to incur significant interest costs or forego earning interest.

"Our low Hyundai Financial Services interest rates make the transaction prices of several of our models lower than comparable U.S. models and allow buyers the huge financial benefit of keeping their cash in their accounts to earn interest. This offers value to our Canadian customers, keeps business and money in Canada, and removes the hassle and uncertainty of importing a U.S. vehicle."

Further information about the promotion is available at HyundaiCanada.com.

[orion747]

My 2008 tribeca has a rattle in the back, i think it's from the large cover over the tool kit...is there a way to secure it as it doesn't seem to have a latch. it's the only thing wrong with my new US car - at 1500 miles now.

A few other people have had this issue, according to this forum post:

http://www.sb9t.com/forums/showthread.php?t=211&highlight=rattle

The sb9t.com forums are great for Tribeca owners, lots of great info there. BionicBadger is a regular there too.

[Monsieurmaggot]

I have a ideal solution to get a US based Car, not sure if it would be legal though.

1) i know someone in the States, they could purchase a car for me.
2) they drive it to me, over the border.
3) They sell it to me in Canada.
4) What taxes do i need to pay? If any? IS it even allowed to purchase from an American "Visiting" Canada?

They pay sales tax in the US.
You still need to export the vehicle (but some are now saying you don't need to do that) and then go throught the RIV processing.
You pay GST, AC tax and possibly the new gas guzzler surcharge when the car is imported.
You pay PST if your jurisdiction charges it (at the local rate).

Regardless whether the car is new or used, bought from a dealer or privately, GST, AC tax and possibly the gas guzzler tax is payable on ANY US purchased vehicle. In Canada you only pay those taxes when the car is bought new or from a dealer.

[baz5]

Just got home from US.
Flew to Minni $170.
Drove to Fargo 3 hours, spent night.
Drove to border 2 hours, took 2 minutes in US border, he basically just came out and I read the VIN and he checked it.
Went to CAN border filled out form, took about 20 minutes. He came out, searched my vehicle for a few minutes.
Another hour and I was home.
Kinda sucked driving 6 hours by yourself but whatever.
Made a few good CDs lol.

[kmare]

See post #9424...

Sorry, but you are wrong...I was interpreting the list the same as you but I now know better...annoying but true...

I can so see how people are getting confused...they need to rewrite the list and put all Toyotas in the inadmissible column because they are all inadmissible now...

Cheers

I'm not sure either of us is right or wrong. The problem is with RIV; as they have told me otherwise -- that a CMVSS114 letter is not required

By your argument (and I would agree), all vehicles (not just Toyota) are inadmissible since:

i) explanation section mandates that a CMVSS114 letter/proof is required
ii) unlikely that any US manufacturer can speak to or provide a letter for CMVSS standards
iii) unlikely that any Canadian manufacturer can speak to or provide a letter for a US Spec vehicle

In this thread, we are continuing to see Subaru vehicles flood across the border and I'm assuming
i) that such a CMVS114 letter is not provided by Subaru US or Canada.
ii) that these vehicles are manufactured post Sept 1st
iii) they are passing the RIV inspection process

We are both asking the RIV/TC to fix this mess, something is definitely broken in the process and documentation.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

They pay sales tax in the US.
You still need to export the vehicle (but some are now saying you don't need to do that) and then go throught the RIV processing.
You pay GST, AC tax and possibly the new gas guzzler surcharge when the car is imported.
You pay PST if your jurisdiction charges it (at the local rate).

Regardless whether the car is new or used, bought from a dealer or privately, GST, AC tax and possibly the gas guzzler tax is payable on ANY US purchased vehicle. In Canada you only pay those taxes when the car is bought new or from a dealer.


Hmmm, so you are saying if John who lives in the USA, comes over with his brand new 335 BMw and i purchase that car from him in my drive way and he takes a plane back to the USA, i would still have to pay PST/GST/Duty and any import fees? Wow that just sucks.

[Animeka]

I have a TERRIBLE problem. :twisted:

I'm looking into getting a subaru outback and I can't figure out a way to compare apples to apples. The canadian Touring version has automatic tiptronic and moonroof. The US llbean 2.5 looks like it but has GPS etc... I want to price the equivalent of the Touring, with no GPS/extras, to do a fair comparison.

Anyone who bought a Subaru, can you tell me what you got and how you compared?

Thanks,

A.

[apesma]

Special thanks to Monsieurmaggot and all RFD members for the pages of information and support................. the result being that last Tuesday I just put a fresh set of plates on my new Diamond Gray Metallic 2008 5-passenger Tribeca Limited. The whole process was pretty painless and each step went better than anticipated, from this Subaru being a wonderful vehicle, to a great deal and service from my closest Subaru dealer south of the border, to the easy process of clearing US and Canada Customs at the Emerson/Pembina border crossing, to quick service from RIV and the subsequent 5 minute check at Canadian Tire, to the final step of insurance and licence plates. The whole process was smooth and orderly. My impression was that at each stage of the process everyone was on the same page and knew exactly what they were doing. Plus a sweet deal was made even sweeter with the excellent exchange rates I managed to get between Nov 5-8.

Thanks again to all.
How did you handle insurance with Autopac? Thanks.

[ziploc]

I don't know exactly what it is ???

Is this the same thing as a certified check ???


What's the difference in them...??

How long does it take to clear it...??

my dealer wants me to bring a ''bank draft'' but i don't want to get stuck there waiting for it to clear....



Thx in advance for Your answers

[baz5]

Bah I just phoned RIV to get it done today and they said it takes 3 business days.

[HOiYA]

I certified check is a personal check that has been certified at your bank. Meaning when you bring in your check to get certified, they have actually taken the money from your account. The check is drawn on a Canadian bank and this takes longer to clear the US banking system.

A bank draft is a check issued by your bank drawn on a US bank and as a result clears the US banking system faster. Bank drafts are for amounts over $2,500 and requires the payee name, where as money orders are under $2500 and do not require a payee name.


I don't know exactly what it is ???

Is this the same thing as a certified check ???


What's the difference in them...??

How long does it take to clear it...??

my dealer wants me to bring a ''bank draft'' but i don't want to get stuck there waiting for it to clear....



Thx in advance for Your answers

[sheriffabc]

HI I have registered for the above seminar for tomorrow - at 55 Town Centre Scarborough at 1.30 pm - I have already imported my car - if someone wants to go in my place - pm me and I will give further particulars.

[ziploc]

I certified check is a personal check that has been certified at your bank. Meaning when you bring in your check to get certified, they have actually taken the money from your account. The check is drawn on a Canadian bank and this takes longer to clear the US banking system.

A bank draft is a check issued by your bank drawn on a US bank and as a result clears the US banking system faster. Bank drafts are for amounts over $2,500 and requires the payee name, where as money orders are under $2500 and do not require a payee name.

Thx for a fast answer...

Do You know how long it takes for a dealer to check the bank draft ??

Thx

[HOiYA]

If I were to haphazard a guess, anywhere from 2-5 days? It might seem long to you, but if you compare that with a check drawn on a Canadian bank, it could take up to 30 days.


Thx for a fast answer...

Do You know how long it takes for a dealer to check the bank draft ??

Thx

[ac328]

Hmmm, so you are saying if John who lives in the USA, comes over with his brand new 335 BMw and i purchase that car from him in my drive way and he takes a plane back to the USA, i would still have to pay PST/GST/Duty and any import fees? Wow that just sucks.

Well, just ignore all those pesky laws and do it anyway (that was sarcasm).

On a more practical note, in Alberta if you are a resident here you cannot operate a car here that belongs to you without registering it; you can't register it unless you have properly imported it. And you can't import it without paying GST, RIV fee, AC tax, and duty (if applicable).

http://www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/mv/residency_reqs.cfm

Pretty sure most other provinces operate along similar lines.

[yyz2hkg]

I have a TERRIBLE problem. :twisted:

I'm looking into getting a subaru outback and I can't figure out a way to compare apples to apples. The canadian Touring version has automatic tiptronic and moonroof. The US llbean 2.5 looks like it but has GPS etc... I want to price the equivalent of the Touring, with no GPS/extras, to do a fair comparison.

Anyone who bought a Subaru, can you tell me what you got and how you compared?

Thanks,

A.

2.5i LTD. should be comparable. Sunroof, tiptronic, and I think the US version has a auto-dimming compass rearview mirror over the CAD Touring model....IIRC.

[Lost Horizon]

If I were to haphazard a guess, anywhere from 2-5 days? It might seem long to you, but if you compare that with a check drawn on a Canadian bank, it could take up to 30 days.

Or, you could wire the money down, as long as you are sure where it will go and you trust the dealer.. that's what I did.. no wait at the dealer, just pick up the documents, drive it around to block to see that it all works, and run for the border..

That way you also save time on the pesky over $10,000 declaration form at the border going down..

[ziploc]

Or, you could wire the money down, as long as you are sure where it will go and you trust the dealer.. that's what I did.. no wait at the dealer, just pick up the documents, drive it around to block to see that it all works, and run for the border..

That way you also save time on the pesky over $10,000 declaration form at the border going down..

Yes i tried but the dealer provided me only with routing and account number...but my bank ask me for swift and something else also...

[Animeka]

2.5i LTD. should be comparable. Sunroof, tiptronic, and I think the US version has a auto-dimming compass rearview mirror over the CAD Touring model....IIRC.

Pardon my lack of understanding, but Leather-trimmed upholstery, is that leather interior? If that's not leather interior then you're right, the US LTD sounds like the CAD Touring.

Thanks,

A.

[HOiYA]

I totally forgot about the over $10,000 thing! :-)

If the dealer calls his bank he should be able to get you the swift number. This is equivalent to the branch number in Canada. I think the other number you want is the International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Have the dealer call their bank to find out.

Yes i tried but the dealer provided me only with routing and account number...but my bank ask me for swift and something else also...

[Animeka]

I totally forgot about the over $10,000 thing! :-)

If the dealer calls his bank he should be able to get you the swift number. This is equivalent to the branch number in Canada. I think the other number you want is the International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Have the dealer call their bank to find out.

Can you pay by credit card?

[HOiYA]

Most dealers will only accept a max of $5000. This is because the credit card company charges anywhere from 2%-5% to the dealership. If you are willing to pay for that, they *might* be willing, but that is a substantial amount on a large purchase.

Can you pay by credit card?

[Animeka]

Most dealers will only accept a max of $5000. This is because the credit card company charges anywhere from 2%-5% to the dealership. If you are willing to pay for that, they *might* be willing, but that is a substantial amount on a large purchase.

Figured that might be an issue, but it would have made it a lot easier to make the purchase... Wonder if the CC companies would "double" the warranty :lol:

[ziploc]

thx for Your advice...i just spoke with the dealer and he will find the info that I need...

SWIFT and IBAN

[J233]

This is excellent information. Maybe we should modify the steps to import vehicle as this can save the 72 hours wait. I am sure the US border people would like this. No more private CDN importers flooding their offices with faxes and calls.
I just realized this means you can import cars into Canada on weekends as well ....
It truly is ! Would love to skip this US part for sure. But I think this is a serious regulation in the US side and I would personally not be tempted to cut corners here.

[J233]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/071109-6.htm
November 9, 2007

GM Canada announces new price incentives


Oshawa, Ontario - General Motors of Canada has announced that it is introducing a series of new price incentives to augment its highly-competitive lease and finance rates.

Effective immediately, GM will cover a one per cent GST reduction for all cash and finance customers until the new GST rates take effect on January 1, 2008; offer new cash incentives ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 on select models, including the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Corvette, GMC Yukon and all 2008 Saab models; and launch its year-end "Wish and Win" event, which gives GM customers the chance to win a new car or up to an additional $10,000 toward the purchase of a new GM car or truck.

"Coming off our strong October sales increases, we are moving beyond our great lease and finance rates to offer GM customers even greater value," said Marc Comeau, GM of Canada's vice-president of sales, service and marketing. "We know consumers have been focused on the high Canadian dollar, so we are going to continue to show them that the best value on the industry's best vehicles can be found at their local GM Canada dealership."

Good news but I am really at loss here from marketing perspective. I've been hearing for a year now that GM's greatest hit, the triplets. Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave are in high demand but overpriced. So why not to add the trio to the "selected models" list ?

[yyz2hkg]

Pardon my lack of understanding, but Leather-trimmed upholstery, is that leather interior? If that's not leather interior then you're right, the US LTD sounds like the CAD Touring.

Thanks,

A.

Yes...that's correct for the leather...if you really want a good comparison, go to cars101.com for a US Subaru, and then compare it to the CAD at subaru.ca I'm pretty sure that's what you're looking for as I did this sometime last year and ended up with something similar.

[reddy54]

Hey guys,

RIV just updated their website. Instead of opening the admissible list in pdf, they link the info with Transport Canada. Since they change the info very frequently, it is advisable to check the site every day if you are planning or going to import a car from US.

Once you are in the Transport Canada website you can get the list in PDF.

[kingrukus]

Guys, I need some serious help. I went to the seminar at scarborough civic center, but they were unable to tell us the following
-what states charge sales tax on private sale?
-how to get temporary license plate tags for the vehicle to drive back to canada?
-who issues the temporary license plates (is it your local provincial govn't, or the state which you buy the car in)
-is PST/GST charged on the value written by the seller on a recepit, or on the red book value (because what happens if the value written on receipt is FAR below the red book value)?

I am looking at buying a 350z (used) very soon from an eastern state (NY, FL, MI, OH, NJ, NC, SC, GA, IN), and I need to basically eliminate states that will charge me the extra state tax.

THANKS!!!!!

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Well, just ignore all those pesky laws and do it anyway (that was sarcasm).

On a more practical note, in Alberta if you are a resident here you cannot operate a car here that belongs to you without registering it; you can't register it unless you have properly imported it. And you can't import it without paying GST, RIV fee, AC tax, and duty (if applicable).

http://www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/mv/residency_reqs.cfm

Pretty sure most other provinces operate along similar lines.


ahh in other words the government wants us to grease up and take it up the waaaazooo. 6.1% duty on a car that was slapped duty already by the Americans. Free trade my ass.

[jadeboy]

Any car/SUV made after Sept. 1 /2007 will require an admissibility letter from Toyota. Period. I have called RIV 3 times in recent days to see if they would consistently tell me the same thing. You are interpreting the list wrong. I did the same thing. Every "notes" section always include the word "See explanation section". This applies to all vehicles listed as admissible. When you refer to the explanations section is says all vehicles will need to have a compliance letter...sucks but this is what is happening...

All Toyota's built after Sept. 1 might aswell be in the inadmissible column because they are effectively just this --> inadmissible...because you will not get the letter that is needed...period. Game over..

I had a hard time accepting it too but this is the reality now...What mislead me was the special notes pointing out certain vehicles etc as needing a compliance letter...they only did this for vehicles that could ship without an immobilizer...they might as well not even have done this because in the end it is the same for all Toyotas...you need a letter...

Cheers


Well, I called RIV about a 2008 Lexus IS 350. They said it's admissible and that I only need a letter of recall from the dealer which state there is not any recall on this car. It doesn't not have to said that it's has an immoblizer.
Well... this is atleast what I have hear from 1 person.

[jzy]

I don't know exactly what it is ???

Is this the same thing as a certified check ???


What's the difference in them...??

How long does it take to clear it...??

my dealer wants me to bring a ''bank draft'' but i don't want to get stuck there waiting for it to clear....



Thx in advance for Your answers

Did your dealer specifically tell you that you will have to wait until the bank draft clears before you can take possession of the car? My dealer had no problem giving me the car as soon as I handed him the bank draft. No waiting was required.

[bluemule999]

Careful with a bank draft as it takes 10 days to clear.

I don't know exactly what it is ???

Is this the same thing as a certified check ???


What's the difference in them...??

How long does it take to clear it...??

my dealer wants me to bring a ''bank draft'' but i don't want to get stuck there waiting for it to clear....



Thx in advance for Your answers

[J233]

Yes i tried but the dealer provided me only with routing and account number...but my bank ask me for swift and something else also...

SWIFT number = Routing number

In addition, you need your dealer's account #, Beneficiary name and address (this is your dealer), dealer's bank name and address.

[novagolf]

Thx for a fast answer...

Do You know how long it takes for a dealer to check the bank draft ??

Thx

I paid for my new Outback via bank draft drawn from my TD branch. The draft also included a US bank name (Wells Fargo maybe) in the fine print - as they must have a "clearing" agreement with them. The dealer never blinked at the draft ... I walked away with the car 2 minutes after giving it to them.

[J233]

Guys, I need some serious help. I went to the seminar at scarborough civic center, but they were unable to tell us the following
-what states charge sales tax on private sale
-how to get temporary license plate tags for the vehicle to drive back to canada?
-who issues the temporary license plates (is it your local provincial govn't, or the state which you buy the car in)
-is PST/GST charged on the value written by the seller on a recepit, or on the red book value (because what happens if the value written on receipt is FAR below the red book value)?

I am looking at buying a 350z (used) very soon from an eastern state (NY, FL, MI, OH, NJ, NC, SC, GA, IN), and I need to basically eliminate states that will charge me the extra state tax.

THANKS!!!!!

My thoughts:

1. You will need to do your homework, state by state. Some sales folks don't know 100% so check with their "business people". Don't get discourage if you find out that you have to pay the tax - maybe there are exemptions, for example you don't pay the state tax "if the vehicle is delivered outside the state". Try New Hampshire - they don't have state sales tax so not even a remote possibility to pay tax.
2. You get a trip permit from a state DMV office - your dealer should do this for you , except state of Massachusetts - they don't have temp permits
3. If you drive a 60K car to the border but show 20K sale price on your bill of sale they will charge GST based on red book value and you will have some other questions to answer too. If the bill of sale makes sense they will use the paid amount #. PST should be based on the sale price listed in the bill of sale.

[thelefteyeguy]

Pardon my lack of understanding, but Leather-trimmed upholstery, is that leather interior? If that's not leather interior then you're right, the US LTD sounds like the CAD Touring.

Thanks,

A.

The internet has all the information

just go to subaru.com and look at the 360 degree interior pic.

and just look at the "leather" interior

[baz5]

I brought a bank draft for $13,900, I didn't declare it on my customs form at the airport. THe guy asked what I was doing, I said buying car. Told him I had a draft. He said 'let me see it quick'. Took a quick look, and that was it.

[novagolf]

For those of you not living on the beautiful East Coast and haven't seen today's edition of The National the lead story is on the 100% increase in imported cars from the US in October 2007 (24,000) vs. October last year (12,000) and the frustration some importers are experiencing due to the changing list of admissable vehicles. The good news is that Minister of Transportation Cannon was asked about the issue of Canadians who purchased cars in the US, followed all the rules, and now find themselves in limbo because they can't register the vehicles and they are sitting idle. The Minister clearly stated that they are "doing due diligence to correct the problem" so that those folks can get their vehicles registered. It would appear public pressure is paying off.

Now posted online (until Wednesday night at 10:00pm EST when it will revert to tomorrow's broadcast) : http://www.cbc.ca/national/latestbroadcast.html

[inspire]

Well,

This will be my second Acura I've imported in the past 12 months. It's not for me but for a family friend. I know the numerous people who have voiced their disdain for Honda & Co for making their products inadmissible via the 'immobilizer' issue. Only 4 Honda products made the admissibility list (for now) -- Acura TL, TSX, RL and the Honda 2000. I'm not a fan of this 'immobilizer' issue ... this is a favour for someone who has helped me a lot along the way.

I will tell you that Acura has implemented the same policy as Honda -- new car sales CANNOT be done for Canadians any more. I have a US mailing address I can use so it will be first titled in Michigan, wait the 3 days for US Customs and then brought over to be plated in Ontario; a temporary Michigan plate (30 days) can be issued to ANYONE. Insurance agent in Ontario has been notified, and I was told that having a Michigan plate for the sake of taking it across the border will not be a problem. I will have to pay 6% Michigan sales tax, along with other minor administration fees. I will then have to pay RIV fee, 6% GST, 8% PST, A/C tax, gas tax. Also will pay to have DRLs to be retrofitted.

OK ... some are gonna ask me #s. Price for the car -- invoice + $715 destination (aka 'freight') + $500 profit for the dealer. Total before sales tax = $30,991+$715+$500 = US$32,206 + 6% MI sales tax = $34,138.36 + admin fees + temporary plate ... $34,300 (for argument's sake).

In Canada ... using acura.ca as a starting point ... the base TL with a 5-speed auto, no navigation = $42,700+$1825 (freight) = $44,525. I bet I could possibly haggle down $3000 off the car if I tried really hard ... $41,525. That is a savings of C$7000, assuming parity with the US$. No 6.1% import duty since the TL is built in Marysville, OH.

So to those who hate on Honda ... I hear you. But $7000, my friend will take his chances and forego the Acura Canada warranty and drive around with a nice car, with a good rating from Consumer's Report. And I have driven the 3rd generation TL many times when I get my Acura serviced at a Canadian dealership. (2 Acuras in my driveway ... one from Canada, the other from the US)

[novagolf]

While this may have been mentioned before (didn't see it) does anyone have any "little known" way to get a great rate on a car loan other than the manufaturer (2007 Subaru Outback Limited from NJ). I can get P+1 or around 8% from my bank however that isn't fantastic. I have already paid for the car (using some of the 0% interest Citibank and 1% MBNA credit card money - thanks to the folks on that RFD thread :lol: ) so am not really interested in creative ways to get the low dealer financing US dealers might offer. I would rather use the money that I used for the car to pay down other debt if I could get a good rate to finance the car.

I know everyone has access to different financing options based on their relationship with their bank but I would be intersted in any options some of us may not have thought of.

Thanks!

[ac328]

ahh in other words the government wants us to grease up and take it up the waaaazooo. 6.1% duty on a car that was slapped duty already by the Americans. Free trade my ass.

I agree charging duty again is BS, but even with the duty the deals are still good.

Of course you can always buy a car built in North America and avoid it.

[SubieOwner]

How did you handle insurance with Autopac? Thanks.

It was really pretty easy. Go to the MPIC web site and follow the following links: Insurance>Buying or Selling>Purchasing Outside MB = Temporary Registration Permits. As you will notice there are two choices, 1) buying your coverage before leaving home, or 2) arranging for coverage with MPIC from your US dealership by phone and fax. I wanted to have my insurance in hand before leaving Winnipeg so I chose method #1. Also you can buy extended coverage if you wish (lower deductible, increased liability). Not knowing how long it would take the RIV to send Form 2 I decided to buy 10 days of coverage. Only needed 7 days. One more thing, Autopac does not require a Certificate of Inspection for new vehicles (see Insurance>Insuring a Vehicle>Insuring a New Vehicle).

Hope this helps.

[rob3blk]

Just wanted to say thank you to monsieurmaggot and everyone here thats contributing. I emailed Karl on Nov.11 and picked up today. The day started at 7 am and ended at 5 pm with my plates. :)

[drayog]

In our town they are trying to push this:
In a local newspaper:

The New deal for Canadians: 0.9% Financing

A Pilot LX 2WD for total cost $39,244

and a Ridgeline LX for $38,221

Wow , big deal.The more I read about the deals in Canada the more pissed off I get. I hope no one buys a Honda from Canada Honda dealers.

[rafku]

I have a TERRIBLE problem. :twisted:

I'm looking into getting a subaru outback and I can't figure out a way to compare apples to apples. The canadian Touring version has automatic tiptronic and moonroof. The US llbean 2.5 looks like it but has GPS etc... I want to price the equivalent of the Touring, with no GPS/extras, to do a fair comparison.

Anyone who bought a Subaru, can you tell me what you got and how you compared?

Thanks,

A.


I was wondering the same thing. Picked up a OB 2.5i 5Spd MT in US. I think the closest trim in CAN is Touring 5Spd MT except that it has moonroof and body-matched mirrors & door handles. I figured these are worth $1,000 xtra at most.

It is prob different for AT.

[SPaulS]

Well, I called RIV about a 2008 Lexus IS 350. They said it's admissible and that I only need a letter of recall from the dealer which state there is not any recall on this car. It doesn't not have to said that it's has an immoblizer.
Well... this is atleast what I have hear from 1 person.


It is nice to hear.................but better you check two three times to see if the info is consistent......i am getting the same reply to have compliance letter for Camry 2008..........If we beleive the EXPLANATION Para 9.......any after market Acceptable CMVSS 114 Immobilizer should work........but agents are refusing to accept even that, don't see any hope yet unless our Politicians help us out if they are sincere ONLY then and their loyality is with a common man and not with these big auto industry profit makers. Wish all of us Good Luck who are sailing in the same boat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[maxillo]

Great tread....lots of info.

Quick question, I'm planning on getting a Toyota FJ cruiser, 2007 model used b/c 2008 is inadmissible. It will be from a Toyota dealer. What do I have the dealer fax to the US customs? they won't have a title for it, right? they won't have a Manufacturer's Cert. or Origin either...

Any particular advantage in buying from PA vs NY?

Cheers, and thanks in advance.

Mike

[can2000]

Guys, how to check out the bus tickets from www.greyhound.com (Montreal to Machester, NH)?
Looks no way to input a Canadian province there.


http://www.greyhound.com/home/TicketCenter/step1.asp

Thanks!

[baz5]

Guys, how to check out the bus tickets from www.greyhound.com (Montreal to Machester, NH)?
Looks no way to input a Canadian province there.


http://www.greyhound.com/home/TicketCenter/step1.asp

Thanks!

$29 in advanced.
Put Montreal PQ in.

[can2000]

$29 in advanced.
Put Montreal PQ in.

Actually $39/way. I mean after I set up the location and date/time, I can't check out to put in the Canadian credit card billing address.

Thanks

[shopper-X]

For those of you that missed it, Rick Mercer interviewed the founders of the ZENN (Zero Emissions No Noise) car built in Quebec Canada by Feel Good Cars.

It's a Canadian product sold all over world except Canada because Transport Canada will not approve it. However Transport Canada have finally said it's drivable in Canada but it's up to each province to certify it and only BC have certified it so far.

This is another typical Transport Canada move to wash their hands of real responsibility to Canadians.

Rick Mercer Link (http://www.cbc.ca/mercerreport/backissues.php)

[shoprbccom]

actually written by a paper on the other side of the border in detroit..

"Really, it's greed," Iny said of the higher prices. "What the public would like to see is no fine print, no excuses. Just do the right thing."

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148fi

[tico 1948]

A few other people have had this issue, according to this forum post:

http://www.sb9t.com/forums/showthread.php?t=211&highlight=rattle

The sb9t.com forums are great for Tribeca owners, lots of great info there. BionicBadger is a regular there too.

Just got back from my trip to Halifax. I drove over some rough streets and no rattle.:) It appears as though the towel trick worked! A permanent fix (I believe) would be to get some plastic tubing to sleeve over the jack handle where it clips into its storage cavity. I'll do that to-morrow and let you all know how that works.

[1treehill]

Any one imported Nissan Altima, can you please tell me where did you buy it?
Thx

[Luds]

Any one imported Nissan Altima, can you please tell me where did you buy it?
Thx

Nissan dealers seem to have no problem selling to Canadiens. I'm going through that process right now, started by sending emails to various large dealers around NYC.

[chinsterr]

Something we all know already, but it helps fuel the fire :twisted:

from http://www.reportonbusiness.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071121.wstatscanretail1121/BNStory/robNews/home


"September retail sales slip slightly

The Canadian Press

November 21, 2007 at 8:54 AM EST

OTTAWA — Retail sales edged down 0.2 per cent in September to an estimated $34.4-billion, due mainly to a decline in sales by new-car dealers.

It is the third decrease in overall sales since May, 2007; Statistics Canada says retail sales have generally been rising at a rapid clip since 2004.

Third-quarter sales fell 0.3 per cent.

Excluding sales by dealers of new, used and recreational vehicles and auto parts, retail sales increased by 0.1 per cent in September.

Sales in the automotive sector declined 0.7 per cent in September, primarily due to a 1.3 per cent decrease in sales by new-car dealers."

[scouzi]

actually written by a paper on the other side of the border in detroit..

"Really, it's greed," Iny said of the higher prices. "What the public would like to see is no fine print, no excuses. Just do the right thing."

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148fi

Ford is the most honnest:

"We price at what the market will bear"

[longdong]

"Please be advised that all 2008 SUV's, Minivans and Trucks listed as
INADMISSIBLE on the List of Admissible Vehicles from the United Stats
cannot be processed by this office, regardless of the date of purchase
or entry.

These files have been placed on hold by Transport Canada and as a result
we are unable to access them at this time."

[Tender]

Here is another one for everyone to bash about:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071121.RDOLLAR21/TPStory/?query=manufacturer

"Manufacturers seek relief from high-flying loonie
STEVEN CHASE AND GREG KEENAN

November 21, 2007

OTTAWA, TORONTO -- The surge in the Canadian dollar has helped make Canada the most expensive place in the world to assemble automobiles, vehicle makers warned Ottawa yesterday as they and other industries begged for federal aid to weather the loonie's rise.

"In the not-too-distant past, Canada had a competitive advantage within North America to help attract new investment," Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association president Mark Nantais told MPs on the Commons finance committee.

"Today ... Canada is the highest-cost jurisdiction globally for many auto manufacturers to operate," he said. "This reality leaves Canada at a competitive disadvantage at attracting the ongoing investments needed to remain globally competitive."

MPs on the key parliamentary committee are probing the impact of the strengthened loonie - which has risen more than 20 per cent against the U.S. greenback this year - as they begin hearings on what should be in the 2008 federal budget...

...Mr. Nantais said Canada's cost advantage in recent years has been the lower value of the Canadian dollar compared with its U.S. counterpart, as well as lower labour and health care expenses. But recent negotiations between the United Auto Workers and the Detroit Three auto makers have driven down the labour costs of U.S. auto workers.

Canadian hourly labour costs are about $70 when all costs - including wages, pensions and health care expenses - are included. U.S. hourly labour costs were previously $75 (U.S.) but the UAW deal is expected to shave about $20 to $25 from that figure.

Car makers also warned that cross-border shopping for vehicles threatens jobs at Canadian auto plants and asked for federal tax relief to help reduce automobile prices.

"While the number of vehicle imports from the U.S. is expected to be in the 150,000 to 160,000 range [this year], this number is increasing and represents 10 per cent of the new vehicle market and a potential loss of employment," David Adams, president of the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers of Canada, which represents offshore-based companies, said in his submission.

The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association, which represents the Canadian arms of the Detroit Three auto makers Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., called on Ottawa for relief. It is seeking measures that include employment insurance payroll levies, a refundable investment tax credit for new machinery and the extension of a temporary accelerated writeoff rate for spending on equipment..."

How do they justify this? Asking for relief while gouging us at the same time?

I understand there is cost issue, but how can a Canadian buying a car in the U.S. instead of here have an impact to an auto position here? Don't they still have to produce the same number of cars? Or why couldn't they slash some jobs down south?

Canadians are second class to them, both as consumers and labours.

[DSTU]

Great tread....lots of info.

Quick question, I'm planning on getting a Toyota FJ cruiser, 2007 model used b/c 2008 is inadmissible. It will be from a Toyota dealer. What do I have the dealer fax to the US customs? they won't have a title for it, right? they won't have a Manufacturer's Cert. or Origin either...

Any particular advantage in buying from PA vs NY?

Cheers, and thanks in advance.

Mike


Mike - yopu've got to be kidding me. This is discussed hundreds if not thousands of times in this thread.

SEARCH.

Hint - go to the auto sections, DETAILED STEPS are posted there.

Another Hint - GO TO THE FIRST POST OF THIS THREAD.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Here is another one for everyone to bash about:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071121.RDOLLAR21/TPStory/?query=manufacturer

"Manufacturers seek relief from high-flying loonie
STEVEN CHASE AND GREG KEENAN

November 21, 2007

OTTAWA, TORONTO -- The surge in the Canadian dollar has helped make Canada the most expensive place in the world to assemble automobiles, vehicle makers warned Ottawa yesterday as they and other industries begged for federal aid to weather the loonie's rise.

"In the not-too-distant past, Canada had a competitive advantage within North America to help attract new investment," Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association president Mark Nantais told MPs on the Commons finance committee.

"Today ... Canada is the highest-cost jurisdiction globally for many auto manufacturers to operate," he said. "This reality leaves Canada at a competitive disadvantage at attracting the ongoing investments needed to remain globally competitive."

MPs on the key parliamentary committee are probing the impact of the strengthened loonie - which has risen more than 20 per cent against the U.S. greenback this year - as they begin hearings on what should be in the 2008 federal budget...

...Mr. Nantais said Canada's cost advantage in recent years has been the lower value of the Canadian dollar compared with its U.S. counterpart, as well as lower labour and health care expenses. But recent negotiations between the United Auto Workers and the Detroit Three auto makers have driven down the labour costs of U.S. auto workers.

Canadian hourly labour costs are about $70 when all costs - including wages, pensions and health care expenses - are included. U.S. hourly labour costs were previously $75 (U.S.) but the UAW deal is expected to shave about $20 to $25 from that figure.

Car makers also warned that cross-border shopping for vehicles threatens jobs at Canadian auto plants and asked for federal tax relief to help reduce automobile prices.

"While the number of vehicle imports from the U.S. is expected to be in the 150,000 to 160,000 range [this year], this number is increasing and represents 10 per cent of the new vehicle market and a potential loss of employment," David Adams, president of the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers of Canada, which represents offshore-based companies, said in his submission.

The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association, which represents the Canadian arms of the Detroit Three auto makers Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp., called on Ottawa for relief. It is seeking measures that include employment insurance payroll levies, a refundable investment tax credit for new machinery and the extension of a temporary accelerated writeoff rate for spending on equipment..."

How do they justify this? Asking for relief while gouging us at the same time?

I understand there is cost issue, but how can a Canadian buying a car in the U.S. instead of here have an impact to an auto position here? Don't they still have to produce the same number of cars? Or why couldn't they slash some jobs down south?

Canadians are second class to them, both as consumers and labours.
WTF?
This is too much. What else? Perhaps the car manufacturers should ask the government to pay for our gas because of the oil price?

This is BS, They should lower the freaking prices on their overpriced garbage, so that more people would purchase their crap cars. I will never purchase an American or Japanese car due to this price gouging, in fact i plan to make sure everyone i know will be against the idea of purchasing a new or used car in Canada, boycott the dirty car manufacturers in this country !

[Bullseye]

I have a TERRIBLE problem. :twisted:

I'm looking into getting a subaru outback and I can't figure out a way to compare apples to apples. The canadian Touring version has automatic tiptronic and moonroof. The US llbean 2.5 looks like it but has GPS etc... I want to price the equivalent of the Touring, with no GPS/extras, to do a fair comparison.

Anyone who bought a Subaru, can you tell me what you got and how you compared?

Thanks,

A.

The equivalent of the Touring Edition in Canada is simply the 2.5i in the US, minus the moonroof. The LTD is not a fair comparison, as it has leather, VDC, 6-cd player, and dual climate control, and the Touring Edition has none of those.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

I agree charging duty again is BS, but even with the duty the deals are still good.

Of course you can always buy a car built in North America and avoid it.


True enough, one thing is for sure, i hope everyone gets the word out.
Yesterday i visited a family friend, and the guy didn't know nothing about how badly he was being gouged by the car manufacturers. I spent an hour giving him some examples and hopefully that guy will tell his buddies the same.

so go to hell all you Manufacturers of overpriced garbage ! God i hope their sales dip by 2+ percent each month from now on. by March maybe the idiots will do something about the MSRP on those new cars.

[paul_lee]

Just wanted to say thank you to monsieurmaggot and everyone here thats contributing. I emailed Karl on Nov.11 and picked up today. The day started at 7 am and ended at 5 pm with my plates. :)

Congratulations for your new car - rob3blk.

Paul Lee

[Trexim]

Here is another one for everyone to bash about:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071121.RDOLLAR21/TPStory/?query=manufacturer

"Manufacturers seek relief from high-flying loonie
STEVEN CHASE AND GREG KEENAN

November 21, 2007

OTTAWA, TORONTO -- The surge in the Canadian dollar has helped make Canada the most expensive place in the world to assemble automobiles, vehicle makers warned Ottawa yesterday as they and other industries begged for federal aid to weather the loonie's rise.

....

Car makers also warned that cross-border shopping for vehicles threatens jobs at Canadian auto plants and asked for federal tax relief to help reduce automobile prices.

....

Canadians are second class to them, both as consumers and labours.

Wow, failed to get the money from our pocket directly, they go the alternate route and trying to get our money from the government ...

Did they ask and got a big cheque from the US government to keep the car price low in the States?

Ridiculous ...

[inspire]

Here is another one for everyone to bash about:
Car makers also warned that cross-border shopping for vehicles threatens jobs at Canadian auto plants and asked for federal tax relief to help reduce automobile prices.

The only "ways" cross-border shopping will affect Canadian jobs is because of the stupid IMMOBILIZER issue and how US corporate has forbidden new car sales to Canadians (re: Chysler, Honda, etc). I would have bought a Honda Civic (made in Ontario) last year instead of an Acura if the US Honda dealer was allowed to. Instead, I bought a car that was Assembled in Japan. :rolleyes:

[winterd]

I have a TERRIBLE problem. :twisted:

I'm looking into getting a subaru outback and I can't figure out a way to compare apples to apples. The canadian Touring version has automatic tiptronic and moonroof. The US llbean 2.5 looks like it but has GPS etc... I want to price the equivalent of the Touring, with no GPS/extras, to do a fair comparison.

Anyone who bought a Subaru, can you tell me what you got and how you compared?

Thanks,

A.
I would say, having chosen an Outback Ltd in the States, that the Canadian model eqivalent would the Outback Limited Package.
With Canadian pricing MSRP $ 38, 995 not including taxes or options.Even the accessories for the car are considerably more expensive in Canada!!!
Hope that helps

[Dreyfus]

Now we know who wants non tariff barriers to trade. The CVMA and the AIAMC appear before a finance committee with a pitch to at least retain and preferably expand CMVSS114 so that they can continue to maintain the "Canadian" premium of $3k to $30k per car. Private imports are eroding their lucrative Canadian market and even more alarming, imports are growing. They now raise the sensitive jobs issue, but not so sensitive that CVMA/AIAMC members do not lift their embargo on importing Canadian manufactured cars from the US. Of course the number of Canadian manufactured cars is decreasing in Canada because the CVMA/AIAMC members are blocking them at the border and Transport is colluding in this loss of jobs.
I for one would like to believe that our MPs are not a bunch of drunks, clowns and fools but only time will tell.

[Lange]

Just bought my second car from the US. This time I went through Jesse Bestine at Northtown Subaru in Amherst. He's a really helpful, straight forward guy and he did a lot extra to ensure that everything went smoothly for us when we brought the car over. I would highly recommend him, for both price and service, to anyone looking for a new Subaru. Northtown is also a network of about a dozen dealerships, so if you're in Toronto and looking for anything used, it's a good place to start. I'm going to go to him again for a relative.

[Dreyfus]

Built in Canada
U.S. models
Buick LaCrosse/Allure Ford Crown Victoria
Chevrolet Equinox Ford Edge
Chevrolet Impala Ford Freestar
Chevrolet Monte Carlo GMC Sierra*
Chevrolet Silverado * Lincoln MKX
Chrysler 300 Mercury Grand Marquis
Chrysler minivans* Mercury Monterey
Chrysler Pacifica Pontiac Grand Prix
Dodge Charger Pontiac Torrent
Dodge Magnum
Imports
Acura MDX Lexus RX 330/350*
Honda Civic* Suzuki XL7
Honda Pilot* Toyota Corolla*
Honda Ridgeline Toyota Matrix

Some of these may be admissible, as you know the list changes daily.
This is from 2006 probably changed by now.
Buzz Hargrove of CAW fame should be livid that Canadians cannot import Canadian built cars from US. Indeed every canadian worker in mfrs and parts plants should be outraged that their products are "Banned in Canada". Check this against the RIV list and ask yourself. What is my gov't trying to accomplis

[shopper-X]

Now we know who wants non tariff barriers to trade. The CVMA and the AIAMC appear before a finance committee with a pitch to at least retain and preferably expand CMVSS114 so that they can continue to maintain the "Canadian" premium of $3k to $30k per car. Private imports are eroding their lucrative Canadian market and even more alarming, imports are growing. They now raise the sensitive jobs issue, but not so sensitive that CVMA/AIAMC members do not lift their embargo on importing Canadian manufactured cars from the US. Of course the number of Canadian manufactured cars is decreasing in Canada because the CVMA/AIAMC members are blocking them at the border and Transport is colluding in this loss of jobs.
I for one would like to believe that our MPs are not a bunch of drunks, clowns and fools but only time will tell.

I have to agree that the Canadian Automotive job losses will steam from the embargo and manufactures not playing fair.

1. Keeping the price high in Canada will cause people to look at another vehicle or even a used one they can afford = manufacturing job losses.
2. Not able to import a Canadian made vehicle from the US = manufacturing job losses.

If a vehicle built in Canada is sold in the USA, Mexico, Canada, UK or even Russia it will keep jobs going. Putting a stop to importing a vehicle from the US will infact create automotive manufacturing job losses and no one is to blame but the manufactures themselves.

Way to go Honda, Chysler, and GM in protecting your wallets and not your people!

[showMeAnImport]

I'm not sure either of us is right or wrong. The problem is with RIV; as they have told me otherwise -- that a CMVSS114 letter is not required

By your argument (and I would agree), all vehicles (not just Toyota) are inadmissible since:

i) explanation section mandates that a CMVSS114 letter/proof is required
ii) unlikely that any US manufacturer can speak to or provide a letter for CMVSS standards
iii) unlikely that any Canadian manufacturer can speak to or provide a letter for a US Spec vehicle

In this thread, we are continuing to see Subaru vehicles flood across the border and I'm assuming
i) that such a CMVS114 letter is not provided by Subaru US or Canada.
ii) that these vehicles are manufactured post Sept 1st
iii) they are passing the RIV inspection process

We are both asking the RIV/TC to fix this mess, something is definitely broken in the process and documentation.

I feel ya man...this is annoying as hell...for me it is enough to hear 3 different agents in a row tell me consistently the same thing. I could have called back a fourth time and got a more favourable interpretation but this still would not give me enough confidence to even bother try to import. My luck I would get the agent that gives unfavourable interpretations of the list when my paper work gets processed. Too risky...

They really dropped the ball with the way the list is structured/presented...they could confuse a rocket scientist at NASA with this stupid document. It is absolutely nuts....

I am embarrassed for them...very unprofessional handling of things for sure...

It's ********...

Cheers

[Animeka]

Thanks to the people who answered my question about the Subaru US vs CAN model dilemma :)

A.

[john103]

Just one question..

If you have a canadian citizenship, do you still have to have passport with you when crossing the border?

[st7860]

you only need to carry a passport if you're taking a plane or bus or train, not by private car.

[sika]

c/p form riv website in regards of TOYOTA's

"9. Every Passenger vehicle, multipurpose passenger vehicle, truck and 3 wheeled vehicle manufactured after September 1, 2007
and with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less than 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs), except an emergency vehicle or a walk-in van, must
be equipped with an immobilization system that meets CMVSS 114.
While many vehicles manufactured for the United States market offer the electronic immobilization system as an option, there are some
makes and models where this system is not available from the manufacturer. In many cases, an after market system that meets the
intent of CMVSS114 can be installed by a third party. However you should check with the manufacturer to see if the installation of such
an after market system compromises the vehicle warranty. Importers should check with the manufacturer to determine whether a
vehicle is equipped or can be equipped with an electronic immobilization system that meets the intent of CMVSS 114, before
purchasing and importing a vehicle.
Electronic immobilizers require a special key or small electronic device to start a vehicle's engine. Usually you attach this to your key
ring.
This type of system, when activated, totally immobilizes engine systems in response to any attempt to start the vehicle without using an
authorized key, by shutting off one or more parts of the engine's electrical system. This might include the starter, ignition or fuel
system.
As part of the RIV inspection, the importer will be required to supply documentation to prove that the vehicle came equipped
with a factory installed system that complies with CMVSS 114 or that a recognized aftermarket system that meets the intent
of CMVSS 114, has been installed."

Anybody called the dealers to see they provide this letter as well? You'll need it if you import TOYOTA's build after Sept 1/2007.






I feel ya man...this is annoying as hell...for me it is enough to hear 3 different agents in a row tell me consistently the same thing. I could have called back a fourth time and got a more favourable interpretation but this still would not give me enough confidence to even bother try to import. My luck I would get the agent that gives unfavourable interpretations of the list when my paper work gets processed. Too risky...

They really dropped the ball with the way the list is structured/presented...they could confuse a rocket scientist at NASA with this stupid document. It is absolutely nuts....

I am embarrassed for them...very unprofessional handling of things for sure...

It's ********...

Cheers

[john103]

you only need to carry a passport if you're taking a plane or bus or train, not by private car.

So citzenship certificate should be good enough, right?

I'm askin this cuz this new car is under my mom's name and she doesnt have passport yet, if I apply now it takes 2~4weeks.

[sika]

I know this is very very sneaky but I called Toyota USA and tell them that I have a Camry 08 and I need the Compliance letter CMVSS114 and recall letter. How do I get them?

They said to provide them the VIN# and they will send me via FAX and mail the Letters

Is that easy or what?

[teresacute]

I'm determined to get a new Subaru from the U.S. If you have successfully imported a Subaru recently, would you mind posting the name of the sales person and the dealer here? I just want to follow your trail to be safe. Never argue with success, right?
Thanks a million.

[HighFlyer]

I'm determined to get a new Subaru from the U.S. If you have successfully imported a Subaru recently, would you mind posting the name of the sales person and the dealer here? I just want to follow your trail to be safe. Never argue with success, right?
Thanks a million.

searching will yield all the info you need ;)

[jadeboy]

"As part of the RIV inspection, the importer will be required to supply documentation to prove that the vehicle came equipped
with a factory installed system that complies with CMVSS 114 or that a recognized aftermarket system that meets the intent
of CMVSS 114, has been installed."

So this is more then just a letter of recall. So they want another letter to stipulate an immobilizer which meet "CMVSS 114" ? Can someone confirm this with RIV.CA .

[kingrukus]

My thoughts:

1. You will need to do your homework, state by state. Some sales folks don't know 100% so check with their "business people". Don't get discourage if you find out that you have to pay the tax - maybe there are exemptions, for example you don't pay the state tax "if the vehicle is delivered outside the state". Try New Hampshire - they don't have state sales tax so not even a remote possibility to pay tax.
2. You get a trip permit from a state DMV office - your dealer should do this for you , except state of Massachusetts - they don't have temp permits
3. If you drive a 60K car to the border but show 20K sale price on your bill of sale they will charge GST based on red book value and you will have some other questions to answer too. If the bill of sale makes sense they will use the paid amount #. PST should be based on the sale price listed in the bill of sale.

Thanks for the information.
Does anyone here have personal experiencing with obtaining a trip permit from a DMV office in the USA themselves? I am not buying my car through a dealer, I am going private owner.

Thanks!

[accorder]

here is more complete list. One of ways to show our support is to buy cars made in Canada yet at U.S. prices.
http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/p/91/143.aspx

Manufacturer Model

Acura CSX
MDX

Chrysler Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Caravan
Dodge Magnum
Chrysler 300 series
Dodge Charger

Ford Crown Victoria
Mercury Grand Marquis
Freestar
Mercury Monterey
Edge
Lincoln MKX
Flex

General Motors
Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Buick Allure
Pontiac Grand Prix
Chevrolet Equinox
Pontiac Torrent
Chevrolet Silverado
GMC Sierra
Diesel Locomotives
Light Armored Vehicles

Honda Civic
Odyssey
Ridgeline
Pilot

Kenworth T300 Medium Duty Truck

Suzuki XL7

Toyota Corolla
Lexus RX350
Matrix

Western Star Custom Vehicles Orion Buses
Western Star Trucks

Built in Canada
U.S. models
Buick LaCrosse/Allure Ford Crown Victoria
Chevrolet Equinox Ford Edge
Chevrolet Impala Ford Freestar
Chevrolet Monte Carlo GMC Sierra*
Chevrolet Silverado * Lincoln MKX
Chrysler 300 Mercury Grand Marquis
Chrysler minivans* Mercury Monterey
Chrysler Pacifica Pontiac Grand Prix
Dodge Charger Pontiac Torrent
Dodge Magnum
Imports
Acura MDX Lexus RX 330/350*
Honda Civic* Suzuki XL7
Honda Pilot* Toyota Corolla*
Honda Ridgeline Toyota Matrix

Some of these may be admissible, as you know the list changes daily.
This is from 2006 probably changed by now.
Buzz Hargrove of CAW fame should be livid that Canadians cannot import Canadian built cars from US. Indeed every canadian worker in mfrs and parts plants should be outraged that their products are "Banned in Canada". Check this against the RIV list and ask yourself. What is my gov't trying to accomplis

[Tender]

here is more complete list. One of ways to show our support is to buy cars made in Canada yet at U.S. prices.
http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/p/91/143.aspx

Manufacturer Model

Acura CSX
MDX

Chrysler Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Caravan
Dodge Magnum
Chrysler 300 series
Dodge Charger

Ford Crown Victoria
Mercury Grand Marquis
Freestar
Mercury Monterey
Edge
Lincoln MKX
Flex

General Motors
Chevrolet Impala
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Buick Allure
Pontiac Grand Prix
Chevrolet Equinox
Pontiac Torrent
Chevrolet Silverado
GMC Sierra
Diesel Locomotives
Light Armored Vehicles

Honda Civic
Odyssey
Ridgeline
Pilot

Kenworth T300 Medium Duty Truck

Suzuki XL7

Toyota Corolla
Lexus RX350
Matrix

Western Star Custom Vehicles Orion Buses
Western Star Trucks

But this looks exactly like the "prohibited list" from the manufacturers! A quick glance doesn't reveal a single car (at least to me) that we can buy from U.S. (inadmissible, ban for dealer to sell to Canadians, etc.)

[accorder]

yeah. it gives us another strong reason to call on Transport Canada to revisit the inadminissible list issue....

But this looks exactly like the "prohibited list" from the manufacturers! A quick glance doesn't reveal a single car (at least to me) that we can buy from U.S. (inadmissible, ban for dealer to sell to Canadians, etc.)

[paul_lee]

I'm determined to get a new Subaru from the U.S. If you have successfully imported a Subaru recently, would you mind posting the name of the sales person and the dealer here? I just want to follow your trail to be safe. Never argue with success, right?
Thanks a million.

My friend and I each bought an Outback 2.5i from Karl in Van Bortel Subaru. When we picked up the cars on Nov 5, there were at least 5 others pickup their cars from him. I am sure many others in here also bought from him. We are very happy with the whole process and experience of dealing with Karl.

Karl is very nice to work with and the prices from VB is all on the web.

[93dx]

can Canadians lease or finance a car from the USA??...through which ever dealer you buy the car from?
thanks

[the Bez]

"As part of the RIV inspection, the importer will be required to supply documentation to prove that the vehicle came equipped
with a factory installed system that complies with CMVSS 114 or that a recognized aftermarket system that meets the intent
of CMVSS 114, has been installed."

So this is more then just a letter of recall. So they want another letter to stipulate an immobilizer which meet "CMVSS 114" ? Can someone confirm this with RIV.CA .

Someone mentioned a while back that they were keeping copies of previous revisions of the RIV list. Is this just something added to this latest (Nov 20) revision? Because since hardly anyone is successful at getting these compliance letters from the manufacturers doesn't this essentially make all 2008 vehicles manufactured after Sept 1/07 inadmissable?

The note does say however: ".....or that a recognized aftermarket system that meets the intent of CMVSS 114, has been installed." What's to stop someone from buying a car in the US, paying for an aftermarket immobilizer http://www.ibc.ca/en/Insurance_Crime/documents/immobilizers/TDS_systems_approved-aftermarket-e.pdf installation IN the US before importation and then bringing the letter from the immobilizer manufacturer/installer and IBC that proves it meets CMVSS 114 and then proceding with the import? I guess the key is to find an installer in the US that can do this for you. Has anyone looked into this at all??

[Dreyfus]

It appears that on the surface an after market immobilizer would meet the requirement. One problem is that the mfrs will maintain that the car has been modified and the warranty is void. The other problem is who certifies that the mod meets CMVSS114. I suggest that you get it done in the US with a manufacturers (theft deterrent-immobilizer) statement that it meets CMVSS114 and specifically the ULC documented version (ULC documentation costs approx $140 and is in the thread here). Also an invoice that clearly references CMVSS114 and ULC plus that it was installed. Talk to the Canadian Tire supervisor where you will be getting inspection done and get an opinion based on the documentation you will be providing. That was position 1, position 2 is will Canadian Tire install and certify an after market system. I can't see them turning down the second scenario. Just kiss your warranty goodbye. Don't forget that Canadian Tire is the one you have to impress.

[rafku]

But this looks exactly like the "prohibited list" from the manufacturers! A quick glance doesn't reveal a single car (at least to me) that we can buy from U.S. (inadmissible, ban for dealer to sell to Canadians, etc.)

How about a Diesel Locomotive from GM :lol:

[the Bez]

It appears that on the surface an after market immobilizer would meet the requirement. One problem is that the mfrs will maintain that the car has been modified and the warranty is void. The other problem is who certifies that the mod meets CMVSS114. I suggest that you get it done in the US with a manufacturers (theft deterrent-immobilizer) statement that it meets CMVSS114 and specifically the ULC documented version (ULC documentation costs approx $140 and is in the thread here). Also an invoice that clearly references CMVSS114 and ULC plus that it was installed. Talk to the Canadian Tire supervisor where you will be getting inspection done and get an opinion based on the documentation you will be providing. That was position 1, position 2 is will Canadian Tire install and certify an after market system. I can't see them turning down the second scenario. Just kiss your warranty goodbye. Don't forget that Canadian Tire is the one you have to impress.

But if I'm importing a Honda or GM or whoever else I won't have any warranty anyway, unless I buy an aftermarket 3rd party one or an extended one from the Canadian OEM.

Can I ask why you need ULC documentation if the IBC PDF document specifically indicates which immobilizer models and manufacturer's meet CMVSS 114? As long as the INSTALLER has some documentation that they install as per the requirements of CMVSS 114 this should be adequate, no?

[03terminator]

Mastergard has immobilizers that meet the TC requirements.

http://www.mastergard.com/

[Dreyfus]

But if I'm importing a Honda or GM or whoever else I won't have any warranty anyway, unless I buy an aftermarket 3rd party one or an extended one from the Canadian OEM.

Can I ask why you need ULC documentation if the IBC PDF document specifically indicates which immobilizer models and manufacturer's meet CMVSS 114? As long as the INSTALLER has some documentation that they install as per the requirements of CMVSS 114 this should be adequate, no?

Much as I love IBC Transport Canada rejected their recommendations in 2003-2004, having rejected them at the "consultation" stage you can rest assured that now that the CMVSS114 has been put into effect the mandarins are not going to suffer "loss of face" unless the Minister of Transport or Privy Council orders them to do so. It gets even better, in 2003-2004 CVMA and some non NAFTA mfrs objected to the 10% market player (Canada) imposing its standards on the 90% market player (US+MEX). Remember we are dealing with theft deterrent sytems that cost $30 per unit plus or minus. All three systems in common use Can-US-Euro can be defeated within 15 minutes and are roughly 50% effective. So you have a Tweedle dum-Tweedle dee situation this is not a Satans Choice vs motherhood and apple pie situation. CMVSS114 as of Sept 1 2007 is in effect ULC- S338, some of the TC people would know how to change a wheel, they certainly couldn't write a standard on anything. They can photocopy and follow ministerial direction though. Canadian Tire makes the decision on what is acceptable, you don't need a copy of ULC-S338 . All you need is that it stated on any documentation you receive from an installer.
When the gov't holds parliamentary hearings and the mfrs play the grossly distorted "loss of manufacturing jobs" sob story we should all be a little more anxious than we were previously.

[Monsieurmaggot]

Just one question..

If you have a canadian citizenship, do you still have to have passport with you when crossing the border?

When I crossed over by bus to pick up my car, I only showed the US Customs guy my birth certificate and drivers' license.

They were more interested in seeing my return ticket and proof of a car purchase.

You will need a passport to travel by air. I can't say if you need a passport to travel by rail.

[Monsieurmaggot]

I'm compelled to comment about email and PMs.

For those of you emailing me for generic information, most of your questions have already been posted on this site.

Please don't PM or email me with questions on "is this a good price?"

DO A SIMPLE SEARCH.

I'm getting a lot of email (about 100 a day!) and a couple of PMs.

I haven't IMPORTED ANYTHING BUT A SUBARU so don't ask me which dealer will sell you something else.

....and no, I don't have a clue what a good price is for a non-Subaru.

I did my own research, you should too. Compare apples and apples. Don't use the trim level as the guide since the US and Canadian options could be different.

[Lost Horizon]

I'm compelled to comment about email and PMs.

For those of you emailing me for generic information, most of your questions have already been posted on this site.

Please don't PM or email me with questions on "is this a good price?"

DO A SIMPLE SEARCH.

I'm getting a lot of email (about 100 a day!) and a couple of PMs.

I haven't IMPORTED ANYTHING BUT A SUBARU so don't ask me which dealer will sell you something else.

....and no, I don't have a clue what a good price is for a non-Subaru.

I did my own research, you should too. Compare apples and apples. Don't use the trim level as the guide since the US and Canadian options could be different.

Ahh.h..h...h.. the price of fame...

[Luds]

Mastergard has immobilizers that meet the TC requirements.

http://www.mastergard.com/

Wow. the RIV are a bunch of aholes. This would solve the problem on basically every single 2008 model. :mad:

[cko64]

Wow, my friend just bought a Honda Pilot from Oregon (No State Tax) for $38,000 USD or $37,500 CAD Fully loaded with Rear Camera and GPS etc...This set of wheels would have cost him nearly $58,000 CAD in Canada with all those add on fees such as Air Conditioning Fee, Handling Fee, Tire recycling Fee, Freight. Bogus Fee etc...

That's a saving over $20,000 CAD. I am so tempted to get a Lexus RX400h. I checked the prices in the US, the difference is almost $30,000 CAD.

[dotcalamitie]

Just got an email from BMW saying to adjust for the US/CAN exchange issue all 2007 get 2% financing and 2008 get 3% for both purchase and finance. Wow. Ok, so I should run down now to buy an M6 for $139,000. Oh wait...maybe i should just go across the border and get it in New York for $104,000. Are these pharkers serious? This doesn't adjust for the US/CAN issue.

[kingrukus]

Thanks for the information.
Does anyone here have personal experiencing with obtaining a trip permit from a DMV office in the USA themselves? I am not buying my car through a dealer, I am going private owner.

Also, some of the private owned cars I am looking at have liens against them (i.e. the title is still being held by the bank). How do you guys get around this issue?

[dotcalamitie]

One of the outcomes of the 2008 immobilizer law will be a faster depreciation of Canadian purchased vehicles...as the 2006 and 2007 vehicles start to get turned around (resold), the impact on those cars will be even more severe. This is because we "importers" will be focusing on bringing in 2006 and 2007 used cars instead of 2008's. So US cars will flood the Canadian market for those years. And any 2008 models that are admissable, will be imported like crazy lowering the Canadian price of those vehicles. NO matter what games the car companies play to preserve their high prices, the impact on their price will be substantial and will fall harder, faster. Also, these BMW strategies usually raise the buy back price to accomodate the lower interest rate...resulting in the payments being a push.

[93dx]

can Canadians lease or finance a car from the USA??...through which ever dealer you buy the car from?
thanks
anybody??

[wackojacko]

NO, you can not export a vehicle with a lien on it.

anybody??

[lasallejai]

http://www.thestar.com/News/Canada/article/278716

Canadians bought 25,000 cars in U.S. in October

Nov 21, 2007 06:20 PM
THE CANADIAN PRESS


A soaring loonie pushed the number of cars Canadians purchased south of the border in October to nearly 25,000 – an increase of more than 100 per cent over the same month last year.

"We have been seeing a steady increase throughout 2007 and it really reflects the fact that the Canadian dollar has been appreciating against the U.S. greenback, making it more attractive for Canadians to go down into the U.S. and pick up a vehicle," said Carlos Gomes, senior economist with Scotia Economics.

According to Transport Canada, 24,873 cars were imported from the United States in October, more than double the number of cars – 12,289 – imported in the same month last year.

Simultaneously, the number of new car sales in Canada has declined from 158,394 in August to 121,000 in October.

Some experts say the number of Canadians who are holding off making purchases hoping to see lower vehicle prices here in Canada has added to that decline, which has prompted warnings that a steady rise of the loonie is hurting the economy.

However, that argument does not seem to stop tens of thousands of Canadians who cross the U.S. border every week looking for bargains.

And savings can be nowhere more significant than when purchasing a car. Many motorists who have purchased a car south of the border say they've saved in some cases up to $20,000.

But not all car bargain hunters have been able to take their newly bought wheels for a drive.

A new regulation by Transport Canada that requires that all vehicles be equipped with an electronic immobilization system means about a thousand cars without the anti-theft device purchased by Canadians in the U.S. may never be licensed.

While Transport Canada says the new regulation is here to stay, it admits some of those cars may have been purchased between Sept. 1, when the new regulation came into effect, and the time when the agency posted it on its website.

"There was a delay before the website was updated," Patrick Charette, a spokesman for Transport Canada admitted in an interview with The Canadian Press.

"I know that people clicked on the website and the car wasn't listed as not admissible. They bought the car and by the time they came back they said `Oops, now it's listed as not admissible."

The confusion arises from the fact that not all cars and models can be equipped with the anti-theft device.

To avoid having those cars held at the border, Transport Canada has authorized Canada Border Service Agency agents to allow owners to drive their cars home with a form clearly marked "not admissible."

"There's no guarantee that this car will ever be admissible and will ever be allowed to stay in Canada with plate and license," said Charette.

However, he said authorities were working to find a temporary solution.

" We want to make sure that we can get a balance between our safety approach and the situation obviously consumers are facing," Charette said.

But experts are looking for a long-term solution, which would be same vehicle standards in the U.S. and Canada.

"Most of the cars that we produce here in Canada are sent to the United States, so it would make sense that we would have a uniform standard . . . so that when you are assembling a vehicle you don't have to be putting in certain technical requirements for the Canadian markets as opposed to the U.S.," said Gomes.

"You would be able to produce the same vehicle for both markets."

[davehender]

Just a reminder to everybody on this site who's feeling ripped off by the auto manufacturers, who keep prices high & slam the door on people trying to legally take their business to an open (American) market.

Please send a letter to your MP!! Better yet, send a copy to Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport (mintc@tc.gc.ca) while you're at it. I wrote one on page 615 (post #9219), Matty did a good one on page 620 (post #9300), Bez in Edmonton posted one on page 622 (#9330), Bluemule posted a couple on pages 510 and 521 (#7810 and #8660), and Luds in Gatineau even wrote one in French on page 622 (#9318)! If you don't know your MP's name then please just google your city name with the letters "MP" beside it. If you want to do it quickly, and if you agree with what my letter says, then just make a copy of my letter and send it off. I'm sure the other writers would be happy if you would do the same with theirs too.

I see so many people here asking questions about how to buy the car they want, how to bring it across, how to get to the States to buy a car, how to decide between leather and cloth, how to finance, etc. etc., but none of this would even be necessary if the automakers didn't presume to have authority to break existing laws & have a hand in enforcing new ones! It's crazy the hoops some Canadians jump through to save a couple grand off their income taxes when two days later they head down to their Canadian car dealer and drop $8,000 too much for a car & amortize it over five years, which is then paying the "lender" (often the automaker) interest on money they should never have had "owing" to them in the first place. Unfortunately that scenario will continue going on, because many Canadians have to finance their purchases & thus won't have the cash to buy across the line. Automakers will still make a killing on them once they do break down and decide to buy.

Please help us fight this thing, because I don't think the timing could be better. It's all well and good to use the information here, get your vehicle, and bail out laughing about the way you were able to buy your car for a fair price in the US & say "F.U." to the Canadian companies, but do you really think you'll be able to do the same thing this time next year or in two years from now? Not if the automakers get their way- they're hard at work hatching schemes to bend us over in new ways we've never even thought of yet, and if we look at history as an example of what they can do (and are doing) to us then we may all be screwed on the next go-around. He who laughs last laughs the loudest!

[Georgian]

Can anyone find out who are the member of the Finance committee in the House of commons? then we can write to them.

[LoDown]

actually written by a paper on the other side of the border in detroit..

"Really, it's greed," Iny said of the higher prices. "What the public would like to see is no fine print, no excuses. Just do the right thing."

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148fi

If we want to be able to buy our cars in Canada at 'TRUE NORTH' American prices that take into account the realities of CAN/US exchange rates, then we need to fight dis-information at every turn. This is want I wrote back to the US author of the above linked article:

Hello Scott,

I read your recent article - LOONIE PRICING: Market variables make the difference, experts say, but Canadians aren't buying that...

I found it to be a good read overall. Unfortunately, it appears you were fed some dis-information which you then inadvertently passed on to your readers. Specifically, you wrote:

"Cars can be imported for $226 in some cases, though Canada charges on average a 14 percent sales tax, meaning small price differences do not save Canadians enough money to take the trip to the States. Additionally, car makers offer a more aggressive incentive program on many cars in Canada, automakers said. "The incentives are very different, making the net price lower," Landry said.

...this Landry guy is making it sound like Canadians pay an extra 14% if you buy a car in the US as a Canadian.

Reality check: When buying a North American made car in Canada we also add 14% tax (6% GST and 8% PST), as applicable, to the purchase price of new cars. When Canadians import a car from the US we do not pay the US state tax but we do pay the 14% tax - just like we would in Canada . Bottom line, any price difference above the $226 import fee is a REAL saving.

Request you write a correction to ensure your future articles have credibility.

Thank you,


His article also quotes someone that said prices in Canada are set at "what the market will bear". I have no doubt this is the case. To fight this we must accelerate the speed at which the market "no longer bears the con-men". I call on each RFDer to ensure 10 friends are informed to the point of making their next car purchase in the US. One million views of this thread (all honorary RFD members:cheesygri ) x 10 is a damn big number. :D

FACTS: Canadians buy about 1.6 Million cars a year or 133,000 cars per month on average. In October 2007, 25,000 cars were imported into Canada. 25000/133000= 18.8% of cars being purchased outside of Canada. ...and it is only going to increase. Car manufacturers (other than Subaru), Canadian car dealers, dis-information puppets (Desrosier and his ilk) be affraid...be very, very affaid.:twisted:

LoDown

[NoooProblem]

Here is another one for everyone to bash about:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071121.RDOLLAR21/TPStory/?query=manufacturer

"Manufacturers seek relief from high-flying loonie
STEVEN CHASE AND GREG KEENAN

......

Car makers also warned that cross-border shopping for vehicles threatens jobs at Canadian auto plants and asked for federal tax relief to help reduce automobile prices......

I would argue the opposite to be true. By buying NAFTA cars cheaper in the US, we are helping the automotive industry. We are buying "more car" from the US than we could with the same $ amount in Canada. By building and selling "more car", the manufacturers are getting more value-added out the door.

Or we are just paying less for a similar car from a US dealer. By buying cheaper cars we will just consume more cars because they cost less. This is simple basic economics that applies to all consumer goods.

And regarding the last part of the quote, why would car makers makers need help in reducing prices? It's plain to see that lower prices mean higher sales volumes. Just go ahead and lower prices comparable to US prices. Consumers will junk their old vehicles and buy newer ones.

[dotcalamitie]

Country of origin weighs little in anyone's purchase decision - buy the car that best fits what YOU want. Let the people decide who makes the best car. I've rarely heard of people going out to buy a Canadian or American or Japanese car (and frankly, those personality types often have a screw loose). They go and buy a Honda or Cadillac, not because it's Japanese or American, but because it delivers something that they want better than anyone else. The unions or government don't rule the marketplace...and we still have tons of US options open to us even with the door closed on 2008's. There is nothing wrong with a used car in great condition...your savings are even more incredulous.

[dotcalamitie]

judging from the star article, TC is going to do something about the immobilizer law soon...that being said, they have to appease BOTH consumers and auto makers. If they just say no problem, import your cars Canadians, the manufacturers will go orbital because why do they have to conform to the law and consumers don't? There is going to be hell to pay no matter what TC does. However, TC is here to serve the people and the people will speak loud and clear - cut the immobilizer nonsense out. Frankly, there is one simple solution - just add a tax. That would allow the automakers to provide cars without immobilizers (although the tax should be high enough to make it more economical to install the immobilizer) and consumers to import. It's the best solution.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Just got an email from BMW saying to adjust for the US/CAN exchange issue all 2007 get 2% financing and 2008 get 3% for both purchase and finance. Wow. Ok, so I should run down now to buy an M6 for $139,000. Oh wait...maybe i should just go across the border and get it in New York for $104,000. Are these pharkers serious? This doesn't adjust for the US/CAN issue.


:lol: Did they mention how long the term can be for 3% on 2008 finance? 24 months only? what a scam, i hope they choke on the profits, bastards.

I hope nobody purchases the new S5 from Audi, it is 15K more here than in the USA. They have no excuse for this pricing,.......... yet we have to take it up the ass. they could have lowered the price to 50K they did not, they had their chance to price a new model, never before sold in Canada, to be fairly priced with the american model, ..

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Country of origin weighs little in anyone's purchase decision - buy the car that best fits what YOU want. Let the people decide who makes the best car. I've rarely heard of people going out to buy a Canadian or American or Japanese car (and frankly, those personality types often have a screw loose). They go and buy a Honda or Cadillac, not because it's Japanese or American, but because it delivers something that they want better than anyone else. The unions or government don't rule the marketplace...and we still have tons of US options open to us even with the door closed on 2008's. There is nothing wrong with a used car in great condition...your savings are even more incredulous.

I agree, nothing wrong with getting a one year old or two year old car, better than being taken advantage of by the evil car empire...

Here is to hopping that in 2008 new car sales will fall by 25 percent at least in Canada, and used car sales fall by 50 percent....

[cbr600f4]

I am unable to find any US (Buffalo NY area) dealers who are willing to sell to Canadian. They said they are not allowed to do so deal to franchise agreement with the manufacturer.
Do you know any willing US HONDA, TOYOTA or NISSAN dealers?

[whampoa]

I am unable to find any US (Buffalo NY area) dealers who are willing to sell to Canadian. They said they are not allowed to do so deal to franchise agreement with the manufacturer.
Do you know any willing US HONDA, TOYOTA or NISSAN dealers?

Not to be an ass but if you just read the last three pages you'll know why the above three cannot be imported new, for now.

And to answer you question, what's wrong with a new Subaru or any used car on the lot.

[jed]

Not quite on topic, but close...

I've been reading this thread for the last few months, read all the arguments, and its interesting how short some people's memories are. Those peeps being the manufacturers/politicians.

I was in "the business" for quite awhile (over 13 yrs) and back in 96-98, when our dollar was quite abit less than the US $, it was the Americans who were coming up here to buy our cars/trucks and saving THEMSELVES anywhere from $8000-$20000. The manufacturers fixed that by upping the cost of the CDN models to make it less attractive, and in fact they did it across the board with replacment crate motors, body panels, everything.

Now the dollar has changed positions, and the manufacturers are pi$$ing themselves laughing with the amount of money they are making. They could give a rat$ a$$ about the discrepancy because fact of the matter is they sell more into California than into our entire country (I'm paraphrasing and taking abit of a creative license here, but you get my drift).

If they lowered the cost of vehicles and parts to where they were 10 yrs ago, (and they were making money then you better believe) we'd be where we should. Will they? Doubt it.

And here I sit with a '98 model in my driveway and the 08's blocked at the border (I want a Denali or Escalade - love the honking 6.2l/6-spd auto combo).

/end rant

[st7860]

you get my drift).



drift? need for speed pro street?

[jed]

Sure - thats car-related thats go with that...;)

[yklivan]

For the last couple of days, there were a lot of discussion about the requirements of immobiliser. Since I am brining in a new Tribeca and the salesman told me this is a recent manufactured car but don't know if it is made after Sept 1, do I need to provide some kind of proof when crossing the border or to submit to RIV? It is clearly stated in the brochure that a Tribeca limited edition already has immobiliser as a standard feature.

[jed]

There is an updated list on the RIV site pertaining to your question - have you looked at that yet?

[allknowing]

Anybody come across Ontario dealers selling US used cars? I found one in Collingwood advertising on trader.ca -- any others? Looks to be a way to get a good price on a used car. -- I am a bit too far from the border to make it convenient to do it myself.

[sos1]

Tons of Dealers doing this,esp. the big import ones. Benz, BMW. These Dealers were more than happy to sell their cars to US. Citizens, when the US$ was sooo much higher but complain the most to the manufacturers when we go into the US to buy cars. These bandits can't have it both ways. If we continue not to buy these overpriced cars here, they'll get the message soon enough.

US Dealers can sell cars to illegal mexican aliens but not to canadian citizens!!
What's up with that. Lou Dobbs at CNN would have a field day with this story!!

[jac_3232]

Anybody come across Ontario dealers selling US used cars? I found one in Collingwood advertising on trader.ca -- any others? Looks to be a way to get a good price on a used car. -- I am a bit too far from the border to make it convenient to do it myself.

I found a dealer (Automax) that was advertising that they would find and sell US cars to Canadians. I called, and gave them my specs for a 2007 GM truck. At the same time, I searched the US Autotrader to see what kind of prices to expect. I found the exact truck I wanted in Indiana for $21,000. Automax called back and said they found one for $23,750 CAN. I tried negotiating, but they wouldn’t budge. I went and did it myself, and bought the truck for $20,000 US. When I was talking to the dealer, they told me they had a previous call that day from Automax, and they were going to sell it to them for what I paid, $20,000 US (19,400 CAN). So, I saved $4959 CAN by doing it myself. I did not pay any state tax, because I had it “shipped out of state”. My total savings is just over $11,000.

So yes, you can have someone else do it, but I’ve learned my lesson for the day.:)

[DarkCat]

:....what a scam, i hope they choke on the profits, bastards....
They have no excuse for this pricing,..........
yet we have to take it up the ass...

While I applaud the intention of the discussion, there is hardly any need to
use such crude mataphors / continuous profanity. No offense, but trust me,
it does *not* make you sound "all grown up".

Absolutely condemn the manufacturers, but hey,
let's bring a little civility into this forum.

[iamhappy]

I am going to pick up my car, can I only buy one-way flight ticket and show officer the proof of purchase? Thanks.

[DarkCat]

...US Dealers can sell cars to illegal mexican aliens but not to canadian citizens!!
What's up with that. Lou Dobbs at CNN would have a field day with this story!!

Actually, I think this is a very good idea.
Instead of sending emails to our politicians, why not send them to US TV stations?
Send them to every consumer group reporter you can find on every station you can think of.

I'd love to see a headline like
"US Economy tanking because car manufacturers refuse to sell to everyone",
or "Discrimination against Canadians", or ...

We need to embarass the manufacturers and that ain't going to happen
in such a small market like Canada. The US manufacturers are obviously
in on it - let's expose them on (American) national TV.

I don't watch alot of these shows, but I know that they are out there -
start accumulating names, share them here and start writing!

[heavychemist]

Man, I had a huge scare yesterday. I called the Massena US border crossing (Cornwall) to make sure that they received the paperwork for my export (08 Subaru Tribeca 5 seat limited with Navi) and the lady I talked to checked and said that it wasn't received. UPS online tracking said it was received by a guy named Miller. She said no Miller here. My heart jumped into my throat. Original title for the vehicle and my sales slip...missing??? She said that maybe it just hasn't been personally delivered to them and that I should check back the next day. Rrriiiigghht.. I'm going to find out where it went. Called UPS and they said that it was delivered to the right address. Hmmm.. Called Massena back and this time talked to a different person. Explained the situation to him and he took my name and vehicle information again and decided to go check. He was gone a good while. He said that "Yep, it's here". Phew! He said that I needed to wait 72 hours before crossing the border with the vehicle. I said no problem, I'm bringing it back next Monday. Wished him a Happy Thanksgiving. Needless to say, I had a stiff drink when I got home.

My advice to people..make sure you call the border crossing to check that they have received the papers.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Actually, I think this is a very good idea.
Instead of sending emails to our politicians, why not send them to US TV stations?
Send them to every consumer group reporter you can find on every station you can think of.

I'd love to see a headline like
"US Economy tanking because car manufacturers refuse to sell to everyone",
or "Discrimination against Canadians", or ...

We need to embarass the manufacturers and that ain't going to happen
in such a small market like Canada. The US manufacturers are obviously
in on it - let's expose them on (American) national TV.

I don't watch alot of these shows, but I know that they are out there -
start accumulating names, share them here and start writing!


That is a good idea i think, i wish we had someone like Lou Dobbs in Canada. The guy is awsome.

[Danno2005]

Neil Cavuto on Foxnews has it all over Dobbs.

[110phil]

... back in 96-98, when our dollar was quite abit less than the US $, it was the Americans who were coming up here to buy our cars/trucks and saving THEMSELVES anywhere from $8000-$20000. The manufacturers fixed that by upping the cost of the CDN models to make it less attractive, and in fact they did it across the board with replacment crate motors, body panels, everything.

Jed,

Not sure I undestand you completely. Are you saying that the manufacturers bumped up the prices of Canadian vehicles and not US? And what do you mean about replacement body panels?

[Strikerjs]

I see a lot of people blaming Cdn dealerships in this thread, but is seems like, to me, that they are really in a bind here. The manufacturers are the ones setting the price that they sell to the dealers, and they are the ones making the big profits. The dealers can only sell the cars based on the price that they get from the manufacturers.

Buying from the US doesn't hurt the manufacturers that much (unless you change the brand that you buy), but it kills the Cdn dealers. I would be raging, fuming mad if I was a Cdn dealer right now. They are getting screwed by the manufacturers!

[jed]

Thats exactly what I mean - lets say that a crew cab 4x4 was 25000 with a 80 cent US dollar, the US version was 28-30000 back then. Take into account the 20 points on the dollar and huge savings for US buyers.

Body panels, collision replacement parts - lets say you had a rusty box on your truck and wanted to repair it - buy it through CDN GM parts dept, ship it to the US and it was a huge savings. GM upped the costs on all these things so Cdn's pay even more.

Now the shoe is finally on the other foot - but for this immobilizer BS - GM has had PASS-KEY, VATS, etc for years. They get around this fact by stating a specific regulation that probably has to do with a gauge of wire than any real difference.

[jed]

And yes its the dealers who are taking the hit - they are a captured market having to buy from the manufacturer and use their pricing.

The dealers have however been buying US used and bringing them up here.

[110phil]

Body panels, collision replacement parts - lets say you had a rusty box on your truck and wanted to keep it - buy it through CDN GM parts dept, ship it to the US and it was a huge savings. GM upped the costs on all these things so Cdn's pay even more.

Gotcha, thanks. Let's hope the US market is so big and important that it's easier for GM to lower Canadian prices than raise US ones.

But my thinking is that it would be easier for the manufacturers to deliberately make cars that don't satisfy the other country's requirements. I'm surprised they haven't done that already, but maybe this immobilizer thing is turning on a few light bulbs over executives' heads.

[jed]

If the Conservatives are the type of real-market party they profess to be - send your MP letters telling them to get the manufacturers to smarten up. There are some good letters on here to use as examples.

This is exactly what NAFTA as supposed to give us - the ability to purchase at real market prices with no barriers.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

I see a lot of people blaming Cdn dealerships in this thread, but is seems like, to me, that they are really in a bind here. The manufacturers are the ones setting the price that they sell to the dealers, and they are the ones making the big profits. The dealers can only sell the cars based on the price that they get from the manufacturers.

Buying from the US doesn't hurt the manufacturers that much (unless you change the brand that you buy), but it kills the Cdn dealers. I would be raging, fuming mad if I was a Cdn dealer right now. They are getting screwed by the manufacturers!

Most manuf tell me that their Canadian branches set the price, so i guess it is Canadians screwing Canadians in this case, Greed wins out, whatever the market can bear, and they hope the docile civilized Canadian sheep will take it.

The only way to hurt the manufacturers is by not going to the dealers, and not purchasing anything in this over-priced country.

The government has penis envy towards the USA. That is why our government has to have "Special" regulations in place that are different than the American ones when it comes to cars....

[DarkCat]

I see a lot of people blaming Cdn dealerships in this thread, ...

Well, not exactly.

We understand it is the manufacturers.

The dealers just don't seem to be helping at all:

1) They know they are being gauged by the mfg;
they've done nothing about it because they didn't have to -
just simply pass along the higher cost to the consumer.
Demanding better pricing from the manufacturing seems to a logical plan of action.

2) And compared to US dealers, Canadian dealers (as an effective cartel)
have nothing less than a pi$$-poor attitude towards the sheep...er, customer.

While they may be able to do little about the big picture,
they just ain't helping themselves.
If Adam Smith was right, these dealers will soon become history.
Survival of the fittest (or most astute).
I for one shed no tears for ANY of them.

[scouzi]

I see a lot of people blaming Cdn dealerships in this thread, but is seems like, to me, that they are really in a bind here. The manufacturers are the ones setting the price that they sell to the dealers, and they are the ones making the big profits. The dealers can only sell the cars based on the price that they get from the manufacturers.

Buying from the US doesn't hurt the manufacturers that much (unless you change the brand that you buy), but it kills the Cdn dealers. I would be raging, fuming mad if I was a Cdn dealer right now. They are getting screwed by the manufacturers!

It's their stance that's the problem. They are getting gouged also. Why should they pay more for the same cars as their US colleagues?

Instead of complaining about that, they are acting like sheep and pressuring the car makers in closing the borders. They should instead use their energy to pressure the car makers in normalizing the pricing so there would be no reason to buy in the US.

Lower pricing would mean higher volume for them and more servicing income.

[scouzi]

Well, not exactly.

We understand it is the manufacturers.

The dealers just don't seem to be helping at all:

1) They know they are being gauged by the mfg;
they've done nothing about it because they didn't have to -
just simply pass along the higher cost to the consumer.
Demanding better pricing from the manufacturing seems to a logical plan of action.

2) And compared to US dealers, Canadian dealers (as an effective cartel)
have nothing less than a pi$$-poor attitude towards the sheep...er, customer.

While they may be able to do little about the big picture,
they just ain't helping themselves.
If Adam Smith was right, these dealers will soon become history.
Survival of the fittest (or most astute).
I for one shed no tears for ANY of them.

I should have read your post first before posting mine :)

Almost the same!

[torontostar1966]

I am planning to pick up my new car next month. my plan wil be one-way flight to Houston Tx from Toronto, and drive my new car all the way back.



I am going to pick up my car, can I only buy one-way flight ticket and show officer the proof of purchase? Thanks.

[propofol]

I see a lot of people blaming Cdn dealerships in this thread, but is seems like, to me, that they are really in a bind here. The manufacturers are the ones setting the price that they sell to the dealers, and they are the ones making the big profits. The dealers can only sell the cars based on the price that they get from the manufacturers.

Buying from the US doesn't hurt the manufacturers that much (unless you change the brand that you buy), but it kills the Cdn dealers. I would be raging, fuming mad if I was a Cdn dealer right now. They are getting screwed by the manufacturers!

What you say is true, but there are a lot of people like me who have been so screwed by car dealers in the past that we are absolutely relishing in their current difficulties. They had it coming to them - you can't treat people like crap for so long and then expect them to defend you when time gets tough. Boo Hoo...

[scope11]

FYI - I just received a "random" tax investigation from the Ministry of Finance on my car purchase. I called to ensure that it wasn't an error (mostly because I've not heard other members here mention this). Guy basically told me that he just needed me to mail a copy or fax of the blue & white boarder receipt that shows the converted CDN amount and GST I was charged.

I confirmed with him after he explained - "So basically you are auditing what the CBSA did from a GST perspecitve, and what the MTO did from a PST standpoint". He said yes, and that I did what I was supposed to (whatever thats suppposed to mean....

Dumb in my opinion. Just get it from the frickin CBSA buddy....

[inspire]

It's essentially Canadian corporate HQ that is to blame. However, as an association, each dealership can 'pressure' HQ to fix the underlying problem. Dealers have inventory that won't move ... I mean 25 000 cars imported in October this year (increase of 100% compared to Oct 2006!!!) which means 25 000 less cars sold from local dealerships.

Some policies are coming into effect but seriously, does it address the huge barrier in price? I think the media is making a mountain out of a molehill since the vast of Canadians lease / finance cars, so they will never realize the benefit to US pricing for a straight purchase of a car.

FYI - I just received a "random" tax investigation from the Ministry of Finance on my car purchase. I called to ensure that it wasn't an error (mostly because I've not heard other members here mention this). Guy basically told me that he just needed me to mail a copy or fax of the blue & white boarder receipt that shows the converted CDN amount and GST I was charged.

I confirmed with him after he explained - "So basically you are auditing what the CBSA did from a GST perspecitve, and what the MTO did from a PST standpoint". He said yes, and that I did what I was supposed to (whatever thats suppposed to mean....

Dumb in my opinion. Just get it from the frickin CBSA buddy....

Ironic -- I got that 'random' one, too. There are privacy laws which prohibit one part of the gov't to go into the personal files of another dept. How else would we have a bloated Crown corporation? You think Canadian gov't is built to be efficient???

[RRKnight]

FYI - I just received a "random" tax investigation from the Ministry of Finance on my car purchase. I called to ensure that it wasn't an error (mostly because I've not heard other members here mention this). Guy basically told me that he just needed me to mail a copy or fax of the blue & white boarder receipt that shows the converted CDN amount and GST I was charged.

I confirmed with him after he explained - "So basically you are auditing what the CBSA did from a GST perspecitve, and what the MTO did from a PST standpoint". He said yes, and that I did what I was supposed to (whatever thats suppposed to mean....

Dumb in my opinion. Just get it from the frickin CBSA buddy....

Same thing happened to me when I imported my 2008 Outback in July. I sent in the form and never heard back from them again. I guess they don't trust their own people :D

[vim]

It's essentially Canadian corporate HQ that is to blame. However, as an association, each dealership can 'pressure' HQ to fix the underlying problem. Dealers have inventory that won't move ... I mean 25 000 cars imported in October this year (increase of 100% compared to Oct 2006!!!) which means 25 000 less cars sold from local dealerships.


If you do want to preassure dealer do this: Call dealer, get a quote on car, let him/her know that you are about to buy. Then tell him that you decided to import yourself are importing through broker. Lost sale will make them pressure HQ.

[whampoa]

Not only are the manufacturers/dealers, to me they're one and the same, gouge us from anything with a wheel to a child car seat.

The logic of that just doesn't make any sense, are they saying child car seat are less safe in the US than up here, even though they're manufacture by the same company from the same assembly plant.

[Trexim]

If you do want to preassure dealer do this: Call dealer, get a quote on car, let him/her know that you are about to buy. Then tell him that you decided to import yourself are importing through broker. Lost sale will make them pressure HQ.

Not a bad idea. But I think that's exactly why Toyota and many other companies have banned US dealerships from selling to Canadians. Only works if the majority follow through with their threat.

Instead of pressuring the HQ to lower the price, they punished/bullied their potential customers. Because they know many have and will return to buy a brand they are familiar with. Well, it's the information age now, and customers slowly but surely realize they are being treated unfairly .... The manuf'/dealership now whine and blame others but themselves and ry to get money from the government (tax payers money). I really have no pity for either the manuf' or the dealerships.

[HighFlyer]

FYI - I just received a "random" tax investigation from the Ministry of Finance on my car purchase. I called to ensure that it wasn't an error (mostly because I've not heard other members here mention this). Guy basically told me that he just needed me to mail a copy or fax of the blue & white boarder receipt that shows the converted CDN amount and GST I was charged.

I confirmed with him after he explained - "So basically you are auditing what the CBSA did from a GST perspecitve, and what the MTO did from a PST standpoint". He said yes, and that I did what I was supposed to (whatever thats suppposed to mean....

Dumb in my opinion. Just get it from the frickin CBSA buddy....

Nothing more than a make-work project.... I got one of these, but lost it. I eventually got a hold of the appropriate department and asked them to send me a duplicate. The agent asked for my name and the vehicle VIN (or something like that). Within a split second he said, don't worry about it. I said 'huh?'.... he said I didn't have to mail it in. I got his name (in case they come back to me later) and I've never heard from them ever since.

[SPaulS]

Man, I had a huge scare yesterday. I called the Massena US border crossing (Cornwall) to make sure that they received the paperwork for my export (08 Subaru Tribeca 5 seat limited with Navi) and the lady I talked to checked and said that it wasn't received. UPS online tracking said it was received by a guy named Miller. She said no Miller here. My heart jumped into my throat. Original title for the vehicle and my sales slip...missing??? She said that maybe it just hasn't been personally delivered to them and that I should check back the next day. Rrriiiigghht.. I'm going to find out where it went. Called UPS and they said that it was delivered to the right address. Hmmm.. Called Massena back and this time talked to a different person. Explained the situation to him and he took my name and vehicle information again and decided to go check. He was gone a good while. He said that "Yep, it's here". Phew! He said that I needed to wait 72 hours before crossing the border with the vehicle. I said no problem, I'm bringing it back next Monday. Wished him a Happy Thanksgiving. Needless to say, I had a stiff drink when I got home.

My advice to people..make sure you call the border crossing to check that they have received the papers.



If you are an individual you don't need 72 hours wait to import, see the link attached, which was posted earliar either here or at edmunds...........

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html

!!!!!!!!!!--------Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[shoprbccom]

Canadians bought 25,000 cars in U.S. in October

http://www.importcarcanada.com/main/index.php?topic=158.0

[Trexim]

Canadians bought 25,000 cars in U.S. in October

http://www.importcarcanada.com/main/index.php?topic=158.0

DesRosier (or whatever his name is) can continue to cover his ears and say "bla bla bla" but a very simple math of:

25,000 * $20,000 = $500,000,000

That's half a billion dollars.

[Ventrick]

If you are an individual you don't need 72 hours wait to import, see the link attached, which was posted earliar either here or at edmunds...........

http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html

!!!!!!!!!!--------Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It has been stated previous that although CBSA doesn't require it. The US Government does, so if you do not properly export you could face seizure upon re-entry into the states.

[SPaulS]

It has been stated previous that although CBSA doesn't require it. The US Government does, so if you do not properly export you could face seizure upon re-entry into the states.

I came across this link (Canadian Customs) only very recently, BUT i do have some previous practical experience.........in 2005 i brought my Car, which i was using in States.........didn't knew honestly that i have to go through 72 hours process at US customs so brought directly to Local Customs Office in GTA for initiating the import process....no issues , have been to States for atleast 5-6 different times using the same car with Ontario plates.
Also, intrestingly my VIN number shows all the history when i put that in CarFAx.com search like when was it registerd in States and when i got it registered in Ontario etc.
.....................

[inkognito81]

Well, according to CBP's vehicle exporting requirements (Exporting a Motor Vehicle (http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/export/export_docs/motor_vehicle.xml)):

Section 192.2 (c) 2i:
"The required documentation must be submitted to Customs at least 72 hours prior to export..."

Monkey see, monkey do :cheesygri

EDIT:
(Also, I think the border crossing agents would be happy to not having to keep these giant folders of faxes and documents and dealing with phone calls about vehicle exports all day. Especially since they aren't collection any money...)

[Honda-sucks]

I think we should bring Transport Canada to task on this....How can an American drive across the border with an "inadmissable" vehicle into Canada and reside at their Canadian address for six months while we are blacklisted at the border? How can we unite and DEMAND action? And how do we know that this vehicle is returning or returned to the U.S??? OUTRAGEOUS !!!!

[Strikerjs]

What you say is true, but there are a lot of people like me who have been so screwed by car dealers in the past that we are absolutely relishing in their current difficulties. They had it coming to them - you can't treat people like crap for so long and then expect them to defend you when time gets tough. Boo Hoo...

I don't feel sorry for them either. They are, as people mention, rich, greedy pigs. :)

[superwell]

Canadians bought 25,000 cars in U.S. in October

A soaring loonie pushed the number of cars Canadians purchased south of the border in October to nearly 25,000 – an increase of more than 100 per cent over the same month last year.

"We have been seeing a steady increase throughout 2007 and it really reflects the fact that the Canadian dollar has been appreciating against the U.S. greenback, making it more attractive for Canadians to go down into the U.S. and pick up a vehicle," said Carlos Gomes, senior economist with Scotia Economics.

According to Transport Canada, 24,873 cars were imported from the United States in October, more than double the number of cars – 12,289 – imported in the same month last year.

Simultaneously, the number of new car sales in Canada has declined from 158,394 in August to 121,000 in October.

Some experts say the number of Canadians who are holding off making purchases hoping to see lower vehicle prices here in Canada has added to that decline, which has prompted warnings that a steady rise of the loonie is hurting the economy.

However, that argument does not seem to stop tens of thousands of Canadians who cross the U.S. border every week looking for bargains.

And savings can be nowhere more significant than when purchasing a car. Many motorists who have purchased a car south of the border say they've saved in some cases up to $20,000.

But not all car bargain hunters have been able to take their newly bought wheels for a drive.

A new regulation by Transport Canada that requires that all vehicles be equipped with an electronic immobilization system means about a thousand cars without the anti-theft device purchased by Canadians in the U.S. may never be licensed.

While Transport Canada says the new regulation is here to stay, it admits some of those cars may have been purchased between Sept. 1, when the new regulation came into effect, and the time when the agency posted it on its website.

"There was a delay before the website was updated," Patrick Charette, a spokesman for Transport Canada admitted in an interview with The Canadian Press.

"I know that people clicked on the website and the car wasn't listed as not admissible. They bought the car and by the time they came back they said `Oops, now it's listed as not admissible."

The confusion arises from the fact that not all cars and models can be equipped with the anti-theft device.

To avoid having those cars held at the border, Transport Canada has authorized Canada Border Service Agency agents to allow owners to drive their cars home with a form clearly marked "not admissible."

"There's no guarantee that this car will ever be admissible and will ever be allowed to stay in Canada with plate and license," said Charette.

However, he said authorities were working to find a temporary solution.

" We want to make sure that we can get a balance between our safety approach and the situation obviously consumers are facing," Charette said.

But experts are looking for a long-term solution, which would be same vehicle standards in the U.S. and Canada.

"Most of the cars that we produce here in Canada are sent to the United States, so it would make sense that we would have a uniform standard . . . so that when you are assembling a vehicle you don't have to be putting in certain technical requirements for the Canadian markets as opposed to the U.S.," said Gomes.

"You would be able to produce the same vehicle for both markets."

[NAFTAGO]

Wow, failed to get the money from our pocket directly, they go the alternate route and trying to get our money from the government ...

Did they ask and got a big cheque from the US government to keep the car price low in the States?

Ridiculous ...


It is funny/sad/interesting/incredible to see the evolution of the cross-border car shopping situation. Car manufacturers first:

Pretended nothing was happening then

-Denied price difference; a few Thousand dollars to Des Rossiers and he will publish an article saying that you save between $300-$1000 and you have to pay for GST +PST+AC Fee+registration+Gas for the engine and 4 round tires if you buy the car in the US, unlike your car in Canada??

-Offered HUGE (insert sarcasm here) savings of up $3000 and even $8000 (on slow moving models) while they are charging paying MSRP plus around $1500 freight on average.

-Made sound the importing process something close to Impossible.

-Delayed the release of admissible models to the RIV as long as they could

-Created the Immobilizer-Gate scandal
I do not how they do it but car Manufacturers (CM) tell the RIV that their popular models are inadmissible even when the Canadian model is identical and the RIV blindly enforces it. leaving the most popular cars in canada ( built in Canada in many cases) inadmissible.

-Stop selling to Canadians- Because they can.
One car sale in Canada brings more profit than 2 sales in the US so they simply stop selling to Canadians.

Finally the issue is wide in the open and they decide to create sales with named that evoke (invoke?) the issue i.e:
"Even the Americans will come north to buy our cars"

And that's it that is now, finally they are panicked and since every company has their own agenda ( divide and conquer) their lines are broken and every CM is looking for their own benefit, opening a can of worms like, claiming to offer the same warranty than in the US but they offer 100,000 miles ( 160,900 Kilometers) versus 100,000Km here.
Or the fact that NOBODY pays MSRP prices in the US ( haven't heard a single comment about this in the media)

You have to subscribe to one of those websites to get access to the Super-sensitive-mission-impossible-to obtain-elusive-top-secret INVOICE price which you can get in one minute in the US.

Or the fact that delivery for cars in the US is $500-$800 vs $1,300-$1500 in Canada. To be fair this should be the only difference in pricing I am willing to pay, but having said that how about the Cars being made in Canada?
I am in Toronto, how about driving a couple of hours to the factory and get your own car still warm from the oven?
Ok. O.k. I lost it there.

And another not so popular topic: Can anybody explain to me why a US dealership pays 6.1% (at some point) for a VW or Subaru Forester ( made in Germany and Japan) then once in North America we Canadians pay 6.1% duty when we import it ( if they let us buy it that is) and then when we sell it to someone in Mexico, they have to pay 6.1% again.
I guess the question is not why. Obviously every government want to charge their own taxes. I guess the question is why we let it happen.

For Subarus:
All Subarus sold in NY state are PZEV Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle,
Which are the California emissions Standards the toughest emission standard on the Planet. The Brochure says that they are 90% cleaner that any non-PZEV car Believe 1/3 of that and you have a car 30% cleaner that any other brand new car in Canada and comparable to a hybrid, with the utility, AWD and reliability of a Subaru.

So when someone tells you that you are killing jobs in Canada tell them:
Shut up, I am saving the planet... have vision!

I wonder when is Canada waiting for to adopt the PZEV standard. In US states where PZEV is not mandatory you can order an PZEV version of the Outback for only USD $200 more.


Last point: CM say that if they reduce the prices they would loose money on the lease cars (residual Value) and the used car market would drop.
-Customers only want lower prices, that make cars more affordable.

-CM banks and government only want higher prices: more profit, more taxes, more people financing cars because cars cost less ( is easier to gather here and there $20k in cash and buy the car in cash, and then pay your in laws/parents etc interests than $30K finance by the bank.

That's why they don't want the used car market to collapse: you would pay less taxes in your used car transaction and used cars are usually taken to the corner garage instead of the dealership.

To be fair they have to take the hit at some point and this price disparity has been going on for around 5 yrs first because the CAD was low, now because is high, tomorrow because of the Oscars. They have to stop the lies NOW and take the hit NOW, if they want to keep selling car in Canada. they would loose $$ on one shipment at the time and then the new shipment would be bought and sold at the adjusted price.
Now if the Dealerships REALLY buy the cars at the price they claim, is up to them to tell the CM to adjust the prices.
Recently FORD said: "We price our cars at the price the market will bear"
The Canadian market WONT BEAR this prices anymore.

As a side note:
The other day my young son wouldn't eat his soup, so I said: either you finish that soup now or I will get you a FORD when you grow up!
-He asked for seconds.

The moral of the story is fair pricing for US -CADnot perceived quality
( Talking about FORD, Honda and KIA )


O.K.
I am tired now. Time to go and keep on looking for my Subaru Outback
( biggest exception to the rules in this letter)
Not Because they are Angels but because There is Subaru of America SoA ( in the US) and Subaru of Canada SoC. with both sharing Fuji Heavy industries as a parent company.

So as always the Americans are screwing the Canadians but today I LIKE IT.
(The enemy of my enemy is my dealership??)
I am sorry for the Canadian Subaru dealerships, salesman.

For SUBARU ( I am sure it applied for other brands too)
I want to thank the Canadian dealerships for bothering to purchase cars and finance them themselves and keeping them warm and clean without snow and pay salaries to people that shows us the car colours in person (you know the monitor is not the same as the same deal) how the baby seat fits, and the features and accessories that we are going to add when we buy our cars in Buffalo, Rochester or Manchester two weeks later. Actually they are saving us the trip to the Border for all of us who would never consider that car bacause is out of our budget.
the word "SHOWROOM" has never been so meaningful.

-For Subaru Mechanics and servicers: I hope you are ready to work extra time, because we have a lot of questions about winter tires and regular vs synthetic oil.

To Dealerships: maybe they should change their name to Service Dealers, or Service-ships ( because of the service-bays?) or Warranty-centres ( with tre at the end to denote the Canadian Origin and make it sound fancy) or Gas-o-Savers because of the gas they are saving us to take the cars to the US for warranty jobs

I propose to all those Subaru buyers to send a TOFURKEY to their local dealership so that they have something on the table this XMas.

That goes for all those people who were CAR-POOR last year ( or now) after they paid the CANADIAN price.

while whoever keeps the money spent Xmas in a cabin in Whistler; since we know is not us, the salesman says is the dealership, the dealership says is the CM and the CM says is the government, and the government says is not them.
( I sing this song to my kid when I put him to bed and he falls fast, is works as a tongue-twister too )
I wonder if it is the Chupacabras, but the profit reports at Honda and Toyota make me reconsider.

Sorry I couldn't finish without a sarcastic note.
How good it feels to get a new car at a decent price doesnt it?
We are not breaking the law (CM are) this is LEGAL and FAIR.
We are the market and we wont bear this.
I was thinking of getting a middle level Civic or Mazda 3, now I am getting an Outback. and if they don't adjust the prices I will use it for one year, sell it in Canada Used and get another brand new for the same price.
Should I go for the turbo version.........uhmmm

O.K.
Enough ranting; the credit and kudos go to the founder/s and regulars and all of us now for "spreading the truth" about this issue which I think in many ways gets water-down because a lot of people file it their under "shopping" while buying a car is the SECOND most important purchase and asset that people do in their lives.

For those who have managed to buy South you know earning $5-$20K (after taxes) are hard to come, nobody gives you that and buy a lot of stuff, whether you buy it here or there.

There are a few rumours ( Think is official now) out there that say that is not necessary for you to Export private vehicles from the US, meaning no US stamp, meaning no faxing 72 hrs BEFORE bringing the car over, meaning you could buy the car and drive it to beautiful Canada in the same day.

In addition: hopefully the immobiliser-gate gets solved soon and we can disregard what Honda, Toyota say ( if you still want to buy one after all their help and support) and go to Canadian Tire and get an low cost after-market solution and get them to stop stopping us.

I am sorry if I touched so many issues but, which will make hard to follow them up but I just felt like it was time to contribute all the learned in the last 4 months that I have been reading this thread.

Go NAFTA Go!

[shoprbccom]

DesRosier (or whatever his name is) can continue to cover his ears and say "bla bla bla" but a very simple math of:

25,000 * $20,000 = $500,000,000

That's half a billion dollars.

Haha.. yea.. that's a lot of coin.

[lasallejai]

It is funny/sad/interesting/incredible to see the evolution of the cross-border car shopping situation. Car manufacturers first:

Pretended nothing was happening then

-Denied price difference; a few Thousand dollars to Des Rossiers and he will publish an article saying that you save between $300-$1000 and you have to pay for GST +PST+AC Fee+registration+Gas for the engine and 4 round tires if you buy the car in the US, unlike your car in Canada??

-Offered HUGE (insert sarcasm here) savings of up $3000 and even $8000 (on slow moving models) while they are charging paying MSRP plus around $1500 freight on average.

-Made sound the importing process something close to Impossible.

-Delayed the release of admissible models to the RIV as long as they could

-Created the Immobilizer-Gate scandal
I do not how they do it but car Manufacturers (CM) tell the RIV that their popular models are inadmissible even when the Canadian model is identical and the RIV blindly enforces it. leaving the most popular cars in canada ( built in Canada in many cases) inadmissible.

-Stop selling to Canadians- Because they can.
One car sale in Canada brings more profit than 2 sales in the US so they simply stop selling to Canadians.

Finally the issue is wide in the open and they decide to create sales with named that evoke (invoke?) the issue i.e:
"Even the Americans will come north to buy our cars"

And that's it that is now, finally they are panicked and since every company has their own agenda ( divide and conquer) their lines are broken and every CM is looking for their own benefit, opening a can of worms like, claiming to offer the same warranty than in the US but they offer 100,000 miles ( 160,900 Kilometers) versus 100,000Km here.
Or the fact that NOBODY pays MSRP prices in the US ( haven't heard a single comment about this in the media)

You have to subscribe to one of those websites to get access to the Super-sensitive-mission-impossible-to obtain-elusive-top-secret INVOICE price which you can get in one minute in the US.

Or the fact that delivery for cars in the US is $500-$800 vs $1,300-$1500 in Canada. To be fair this should be the only difference in pricing I am willing to pay, but having said that how about the Cars being made in Canada?
I am in Toronto, how about driving a couple of hours to the factory and get your own car still warm from the oven?
Ok. O.k. I lost it there.

And another not so popular topic: Can anybody explain to me why a US dealership pays 6.1% (at some point) for a VW or Subaru Forester ( made in Germany and Japan) then once in North America we Canadians pay 6.1% duty when we import it ( if they let us buy it that is) and then when we sell it to someone in Mexico, they have to pay 6.1% again.
I guess the question is not why. Obviously every government want to charge their own taxes. I guess the question is why we let it happen.

For Subarus:
All Subarus sold in NY state are PZEV Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle,
Which are the California emissions Standards the toughest emission standard on the Planet. The Brochure says that they are 90% cleaner that any non-PZEV car Believe 1/3 of that and you have a car 30% cleaner that any other brand new car in Canada and comparable to a hybrid, with the utility, AWD and reliability of a Subaru.

So when someone tells you that you are killing jobs in Canada tell them:
Shut up, I am saving the planet... have vision!

I wonder when is Canada waiting for to adopt the PZEV standard. In US states where PZEV is not mandatory you can order an PZEV version of the Outback for only USD $200 more.


Last point: CM say that if they reduce the prices they would loose money on the lease cars (residual Value) and the used car market would drop.
-Customers only want lower prices, that make cars more affordable.

-CM banks and government only want higher prices: more profit, more taxes, more people financing cars because cars cost less ( is easier to gather here and there $20k in cash and buy the car in cash, and then pay your in laws/parents etc interests than $30K finance by the bank.

That's why they don't want the used car market to collapse: you would pay less taxes in your used car transaction and used cars are usually taken to the corner garage instead of the dealership.

To be fair they have to take the hit at some point and this price disparity has been going on for around 5 yrs first because the CAD was low, now because is high, tomorrow because of the Oscars. They have to stop the lies NOW and take the hit NOW, if they want to keep selling car in Canada. they would loose $$ on one shipment at the time and then the new shipment would be bought and sold at the adjusted price.
Now if the Dealerships REALLY buy the cars at the price they claim, is up to them to tell the CM to adjust the prices.
Recently FORD said: "We price our cars at the price the market will bear"
The Canadian market WONT BEAR this prices anymore.

As a side note:
The other day my young son wouldn't eat his soup, so I said: either you finish that soup now or I will get you a FORD when you grow up!
-He asked for seconds.

The moral of the story is fair pricing for US -CADnot perceived quality
( Talking about FORD, Honda and KIA )


O.K.
I am tired now. Time to go and keep on looking for my Subaru Outback
( biggest exception to the rules in this letter)
Not Because they are Angels but because There is Subaru of America SoA ( in the US) and Subaru of Canada SoC. with both sharing Fuji Heavy industries as a parent company.

So as always the Americans are screwing the Canadians but today I LIKE IT.
(The enemy of my enemy is my dealership??)
I am sorry for the Canadian Subaru dealerships, salesman.

For SUBARU ( I am sure it applied for other brands too)
I want to thank the Canadian dealerships for bothering to purchase cars and finance them themselves and keeping them warm and clean without snow and pay salaries to people that shows us the car colours in person (you know the monitor is not the same as the same deal) how the baby seat fits, and the features and accessories that we are going to add when we buy our cars in Buffalo, Rochester or Manchester two weeks later. Actually they are saving us the trip to the Border for all of us who would never consider that car bacause is out of our budget.
the word "SHOWROOM" has never been so meaningful.

-For Subaru Mechanics and servicers: I hope you are ready to work extra time, because we have a lot of questions about winter tires and regular vs synthetic oil.

To Dealerships: maybe they should change their name to Service Dealers, or Service-ships ( because of the service-bays?) or Warranty-centres ( with tre at the end to denote the Canadian Origin and make it sound fancy) or Gas-o-Savers because of the gas they are saving us to take the cars to the US for warranty jobs

I propose to all those Subaru buyers to send a TOFURKEY to their local dealership so that they have something on the table this XMas.

That goes for all those people who were CAR-POOR last year ( or now) after they paid the CANADIAN price.

while whoever keeps the money spent Xmas in a cabin in Whistler; since we know is not us, the salesman says is the dealership, the dealership says is the CM and the CM says is the government, and the government says is not them.
( I sing this song to my kid when I put him to bed and he falls fast, is works as a tongue-twister too )
I wonder if it is the Chupacabras, but the profit reports at Honda and Toyota make me reconsider.

Sorry I couldn't finish without a sarcastic note.
How good it feels to get a new car at a decent price doesnt it?
We are not breaking the law (CM are) this is LEGAL and FAIR.
We are the market and we wont bear this.
I was thinking of getting a middle level Civic or Mazda 3, now I am getting an Outback. and if they don't adjust the prices I will use it for one year, sell it in Canada Used and get another brand new for the same price.
Should I go for the turbo version.........uhmmm

O.K.
Enough ranting; the credit and kudos go to the founder/s and regulars and all of us now for "spreading the truth" about this issue which I think in many ways gets water-down because a lot of people file it their under "shopping" while buying a car is the SECOND most important purchase and asset that people do in their lives.

For those who have managed to buy South you know earning $5-$20K (after taxes) are hard to come, nobody gives you that and buy a lot of stuff, whether you buy it here or there.

There are a few rumours ( Think is official now) out there that say that is not necessary for you to Export private vehicles from the US, meaning no US stamp, meaning no faxing 72 hrs BEFORE bringing the car over, meaning you could buy the car and drive it to beautiful Canada in the same day.

In addition: hopefully the immobiliser-gate gets solved soon and we can disregard what Honda, Toyota say ( if you still want to buy one after all their help and support) and go to Canadian Tire and get an low cost after-market solution and get them to stop stopping us.

I am sorry if I touched so many issues but, which will make hard to follow them up but I just felt like it was time to contribute all the learned in the last 4 months that I have been reading this thread.

Go NAFTA Go!


Funny and witty, indeed! Mostly well said! If I had not purcahsed my Mazda 6last year in Canada I would definitely be one of those who are driving their brand new cars back to Canada from the States for sure! Too bad this thread did not surface sooner.>:(

[michelb]

... Too bad this thread did not surface sooner.>:(

I think Rehan had started a similar thread in 2004 or 2005 (not nearly as popular but the dollar wasn't nearly as favorable then).

[jrvic]

It has been stated previous that although CBSA doesn't require it. The US Government does, so if you do not properly export you could face seizure upon re-entry into the states.

I would not worry about it. If you really cared about complying with US law, do this later at your convenience, perhaps on a shopping trip, after you get your US car. How would the US border agents know the vehicles were orinally purchased in the US anyways?

[jafferk]

I just received some e-mail from Transport Canada:

The vehicle appears in the “INADMISSIBLE” column of the List of Vehicles Admissible from the United States. In this case, it is probably that the manufacturer does NOT authorize the installation of an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114, for safety reasons. The vehicle therefore may NOT be imported into Canada.

Doesn't that mean that no matter what you do, you still can't import in that vehicle because the manufacturer says that they do not authorize the installation of an after market immobilizer??????

[blainehamilton]

Simple solution: don't buy that brand of vehicle on EITHER side of the border. If companies want to play BS like that, you make your voice heard with your dollars...

My next new car sure won't be a Toyota or Honda.

[michelb]

I would not worry about it. If you really cared about complying with US law, do this later at your convenience, perhaps on a shopping trip, after you get your US car. How would the US border agents know the vehicles were orinally purchased in the US anyways?

I'm not sure if you can do it later as I'm pretty sure I had to give me US Title to MOT when I registered in Ontario - I think they need the original title to export from the US.

[iamhappy]

Anyone can answer this question? thanks.
I am planning to pick up my new car next month. my plan wil be one-way flight to Houston Tx from Toronto, and drive my new car all the way back.

[jwstewart]

I am planning to pick up my new car next month. my plan wil be one-way flight to Houston Tx from Toronto, and drive my new car all the way back.

To be clear, that is a statement, not a question.

If you are asking if it's ok, wise, allowed, etc., then yes. Cross border shopping has numerous therapeutic benefits.

I flew to Minneapolis Tuesday, and returned yesterday with a 2008 Subaru Tribeca. :cheesygri

[torontostar1966]

Thank you and congratulations!

To be clear, that is a statement, not a question.

If you are asking if it's ok, wise, allowed, etc., then yes. Cross border shopping has numerous therapeutic benefits.

I flew to Minneapolis Tuesday, and returned yesterday with a 2008 Subaru Tribeca. :cheesygri

[accorder]

It is posted here so you don't need to google around.

http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/p/97/153.aspx

[vint]

This thread makes me think now that I have rushed into buying my 2007 Saab 9-3 in September. I did get financing and I don't think there is a way to return it now >:( I checked US site and it is a lot cheaper there.

I wonder if I should sell it and just go to U.S. and get a 2007 Saab 9-3 from there.

What do you think?

[accorder]

Anybody come across Ontario dealers selling US used cars? I found one in Collingwood advertising on trader.ca -- any others? Looks to be a way to get a good price on a used car. -- I am a bit too far from the border to make it convenient to do it myself.

check out the reply here if it helps http://ataleoftwoprices.com/forum/forums/t/79.aspx

[accorder]

This thread makes me think now that I have rushed into buying my 2007 Saab 9-3 in September. I did get financing and I don't think there is a way to return it now >:( I checked US site and it is a lot cheaper there.

I wonder if I should sell it and just go to U.S. and get a 2007 Saab 9-3 from there.

What do you think?
you could have got a 9-5 in the U.S. for what you have paid in Canada. Try to find your car resell value and do some calculation to see if it makes sense to you financially.

[ac328]

This thread makes me think now that I have rushed into buying my 2007 Saab 9-3 in September. I did get financing and I don't think there is a way to return it now >:( I checked US site and it is a lot cheaper there.

I wonder if I should sell it and just go to U.S. and get a 2007 Saab 9-3 from there.

What do you think?

Wouldn't you take a bath on the depreciation? Any nearly new car takes the biggest hit in the first and second year. Plus I used to have a 9-5 and the resale value was mediocre when I traded it in.

Why don't you go through www.autotrader.ca and see what 9-3s are selling for in your area (click on "find my value"), then compare to what it would cost you to get one in the US.

I would probably guess it wouldn't be worth it in your case, but who knows.

[vint]

If I still save in the end then why not. The car is only 2 months old. The problem is who is going to buy it? Since it is cheaper to get it from US I don't think anyone would bother paying more here.

[vint]

Is there such thing as take over finance? I know there is take over lease, but haven't heard about finance.

[nedjel]

What a bunch of BS. 6 months ago, I had a Candian dealer import a Sienna06 for me from the US. Why? Because I couldn’t afford the same vehicle in Canada. Made and assembled by the same people in Princeton, Indiana. Shame on the CDN government and car manufactures like Honda and Toyota purposefully trying to prevent Canadians from importing from the US. Canada and US signed FREE TRADE agreement. There is nothing free about it. Freedom my as$.
Wallmart, BestBuy, Costco etc have matched US prices but the greedy Canadian Dealerships have not. All they do is complain about low sales. I won’t be buying from Canadian dealerships any time soon. ONLY from US.
If anyine is interested in Importing a Toyo Sienna, please check out the forum
http://www.siennaclub.org/forum/

good luck to everyone. :cheesygri

[wackojacko]

I'm in the process of importing a Tribeca from Van Bortel.

I think the government should fix the immobilizer issue so any car that has one can enter, even if the manufacture says it does not.

As for Canadian prices, I want them to stay where they are, I want to be rewarded with a higher resale value on my car for doing the work to import it. If Canadian prices fall we all loose with resale/trade-in/residual values.

What do they do when the US economy recovers and our doller is $1.25 or $1.40 like it was? Put the prices up again. Cars are different then other items from Walmart/Costco, etc. They don't have an orgainzed resale market.

[brendonp]

FYI - I just received a "random" tax investigation from the Ministry of Finance on my car purchase. I called to ensure that it wasn't an error (mostly because I've not heard other members here mention this). Guy basically told me that he just needed me to mail a copy or fax of the blue & white boarder receipt that shows the converted CDN amount and GST I was charged.

I confirmed with him after he explained - "So basically you are auditing what the CBSA did from a GST perspecitve, and what the MTO did from a PST standpoint". He said yes, and that I did what I was supposed to (whatever thats suppposed to mean....

Dumb in my opinion. Just get it from the frickin CBSA buddy....

I got this as well - faxed off the info and recently received a bill for $105. No explanation as to what it was, no supporting documentation, just an invoice. I've called several times about it, but have yet to get any sort of response as to why I'm being charged an extra $105...

Brendon

[brendonp]

Nothing more than a make-work project.... I got one of these, but lost it. I eventually got a hold of the appropriate department and asked them to send me a duplicate. The agent asked for my name and the vehicle VIN (or something like that). Within a split second he said, don't worry about it. I said 'huh?'.... he said I didn't have to mail it in. I got his name (in case they come back to me later) and I've never heard from them ever since.

In reference to my last post (sorry, missed this one) - I got the same story, no big deal, don't worry about it... then a bill for $105 with no explanation as to what it was...

I think I'm going to give 'em a call again now!

Brendon

[brendonp]

Quick update to my own post....

I got a live person at the Ministry of Finance who pulled my file - it turns out that the price of the vehicle must include any duties/excise taxes when calculating PST (ie, you need to pay PST on vehicle price + 6%) . He explained that with so many people bringing vehicles across the border, the amount of PST not being collected (ie in my case PST on roughly $1300 in duties) was becoming significant. It looks like at least one department in the government is aware that a lot of Canadians are shopping down south for cars!

Brendon

[brendonp]

Is there such thing as take over finance? I know there is take over lease, but haven't heard about finance.

Not really that I know of... the closest would be when the seller sells the car for the same amount that they currently owe on the car (but you'd then be responsible for PST)... however, you'd need to apply for financing, and you wouldn't be getting any special finance rates arranged at purchase time - and don't forget about that PST....

[GoogleFish]

Quick update to my own post....

I got a live person at the Ministry of Finance who pulled my file - it turns out that the price of the vehicle must include any duties/excise taxes when calculating PST (ie, you need to pay PST on vehicle price + 6%) . He explained that with so many people bringing vehicles across the border, the amount of PST not being collected (ie in my case PST on roughly $1300 in duties) was becoming significant. It looks like at least one department in the government is aware that a lot of Canadians are shopping down south for cars!

Brendon

Got to love paying Provincial Sales Tax on a Federal Gov't Duty!

[dynamiteroll]

Getting an 08 Impreza from Joe Spitz at Carter Subaru in Seattle and picking up next week.

Local salesman gave me a song and dance about relative exchange rates compared to the Yen. All I know is I saved a bundle of money up front even with the duties accounted for. If I can't get it within several hundred dollars locally, it's not worth my while to buy in Canada.

[reddy54]

For those interested the RIV list was updated today.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

[shopper-X]

Is there such thing as take over finance? I know there is take over lease, but haven't heard about finance.

You take the money from the sale and pay off your loan or if you want them to take over the balance then contact the financing company.

[can2000]

Is there any problem with the city of my address on the invoice (Bill of Sale) (and all doc.) mispelled?



thanks

[SPaulS]

I'm in the process of importing a Tribeca from Van Bortel.

I think the government should fix the immobilizer issue so any car that has one can enter, even if the manufacture says it does not.

As for Canadian prices, I want them to stay where they are, I want to be rewarded with a higher resale value on my car for doing the work to import it. If Canadian prices fall we all loose with resale/trade-in/residual values.

What do they do when the US economy recovers and our doller is $1.25 or $1.40 like it was? Put the prices up again. Cars are different then other items from Walmart/Costco, etc. They don't have an orgainzed resale market.


Check the list published by TC yesterday, seems like TC made the issue clear.

[Benny]

My sister lives in Maryland. I Know a dealer in New Jersey. What are the advantages if she buys the vehicle and registers it and then drives to Mississauga and gifts it to me vs myself buying it from New Jersey.

[Rehan]

My sister lives in Maryland. I Know a dealer in New Jersey. What are the advantages if she buys the vehicle and registers it and then drives to Mississauga and gifts it to me vs myself buying it from New Jersey. The only advantage is getting a wider variety of dealers willing to work with you (with your sister, actually).

But you'll have to pay MD state tax, DMV registration fees, GST at the border when you import, and then PST when you get the vehicle plated in Ontario. Even if she gifts it to you when you're in Mississauga, you'll have to go through the whole import procedure.

[bluemule999]

Just a reminder to everybody on this site who's feeling ripped off by the auto manufacturers, especially the way government is working closely with them to keep prices high & prevent people from doing anything about it by slamming the door on people trying to bring American cars to Canada.

Please send a letter to your MP!! Better yet, send a copy to Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport (mintc@tc.gc.ca) while you're at it. I wrote one on page 615 (post #9219), Matty did a good one on page 620 (post #9300), Bez in Edmonton posted one on page 622 (#9330), Bluemule posted a couple on pages 510 and 521 (#7810 and #8660), and Luds in Gatineau even wrote one in French on page 622 (#9318)! If you don't know your MP's name then please just google your city name with the letters "MP" beside it. If you want to do it quickly, and if you agree with what my letter says, then just make a copy of my letter and send it off. I'm sure the other writers would be happy if you would do the same with theirs too.

I see so many people here asking questions about how to buy the car they want, how to bring it across, how to get to the states to buy a car, how to decide between leather and cloth, how to finance, etc. etc., but none of this would even be necessary if the automakers didn't have the Canadian government's blessing to break existing laws and have a hand in enforcing new ones! It's crazy the hoops some Canadians jump through to save a couple grand off their income taxes when two days later they head down to their Canadian car dealer and drop $8,000 too much for a car & amortize it over five years, which is then paying the "lender" (often the automaker) interest on money they should never have had in the first place. Unfortunately that scenario is still going on, because many Canadians have to finance their purchases & thus won't have the cash to buy across the line. Automakers will still make a killing on them once they do break down and decide to buy.

Please help us fight this thing, because I don't think the timing could be better. It's all well and good to use the information here, get your vehicle, and bail out laughing about the way you were able to buy your car for a fair price in the US & say "F.U." to the Canadian companies, but do you really think you'll be able to do the same thing this time next year or in two years from now? Not if the automakers get their way- they're hard at work hatching schemes to bend us over in new ways we've never even thought of yet, and so far the government is standing by holding the duct tape & Vaseline for them. Then we'll all be really screwed. He who laughs last laughs the loudest!


Here, here davehender. I cannot agree with you more!!! Everyone, get in on the outrage!!! Send an email to your MP today.

I sent my email below with davehender's letter attached to the following email addresses. Include the opposition as cc's and you will get a response!! See below.

To: Harper.S@parl.gc.ca; Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca; Emerson.D@parl.gc.ca; Flaherty.J@parl.gc.ca
Cc: Folco.R@parl.gc.ca; Dion.S@parl.gc.ca; Layton.J@parl.gc.ca

From: Prime Minister/Premier ministre <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: "Jim Prentice, P.C., M.P." <Minister.Industry@ic.gc.ca>
Sent: Wednesday, November 21, 2007 2:13:01 PM
Subject: Office of the Prime Minister / Cabinet du Premier ministre

Dear Mr. xxx:

On behalf of the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, I would like to acknowledge receipt of your recent e-mail correspondence.

Please be assured that your comments have been carefully reviewed. I have taken the liberty of forwarding your message to the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry. I am certain that the Minister will also appreciate being made aware of your views.

Thank you for writing to the Prime Minister.


B. Funes
Executive Correspondence Officer
for the Prime Minister's Office
Agent de correspondance de la haute direction
pour le Cabinet du Premier ministre

>>> Received : 17 Nov 2007 05:36:18 PM >>>

All,

This is my third email about the subject of inflated Canadian auto prices. Other than the RIV change today to allow non-inadmissible cars into Canada until an inspection can be done, the Canadian Government has done nothing.

The recent change in requirements for auto immobilizers in Canada could be construed that the auto manufacturers have applied undue influence on Transport Canada. I can tell you that many people on Internet forums believe this to be true.

We live in a free and democratic country. The USA is a very close cousin who share in a good number of Canadian beliefs. The NAFTA agreement was drafted to make good on this very similar social-economic lifestyle between Canada and USA. Now that Canadians are able to take advantage of what NAFTA provides, artificial barriers have been established to stop Canadians from stretching their hard-earned dollars. The Canadian Government, at best, has stood by and done nothing. At worst, has participated in erecting the barriers. The government works for the Canadian population. I, and others, expect immediate action...no studies, debate, hot air, action, action, action!!!

The auto manufacturers say that they establish prices that the market will bear. Do you really believe that without all these artificial barriers, Canadians would freely pay approx 10K more than in the USA. Would you!!! ACT NOW!!!

I have attached a letter written by a fellow Canadian that has eloquently expressed his outrage to his MP.

Thank You

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Finally it is offical.

BMW Canada's website posted their new interest rates which are 3.9% for 60 months for Finance and 3.9% for 36 month lease.

Too bad their cars couldn't go down by 10 percent. Becuase if they did, i think their sales would skyrocket........... and if they lowered their prices so would everyone else in the industry...

Greedy Canadian bastards, i hope their sales go down 20 percent each month from now till March 2008, perhaps by then they will offer real discounts for the consumer.

[ecgz88]

2007 AND 2008 All models built
after September 1st, 2007

are inadmissible

for Ford/Hyundai

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

That is sad, i guess people should just purchase older models, or go with alternatives if they can find them. Or hold off on new car purchases, let the dealers starve a bit more, maybe they will finally put some preasure on the Canadian "Manufacturers" that set the pricing in Canada.




2007 AND 2008 All models built
after September 1st, 2007

are inadmissible

for Ford/Hyundai

[03terminator]

2007 AND 2008 All models built
after September 1st, 2007

are inadmissible

for Ford/Hyundai

Unless,

Admissible
2007 AND 2008 All models built
after September 1st, 2007 and
newer models if equipped with the
Ford Securilock Antitheft
Immobilizer System.



Point taken.

[dotcalamitie]

Here is a fun one...I got my letter last night from BMW saying they are providing unprecedented lease and finance rates of 2% on all 2007's and 3% on all 2008's. So I wrote them back this morning...

"exactly how are these rates unprecedented? I leased a 2001 BMW 740IL from you with 1.9% lease rate financing."

They wrote back and it was funny because the email made it thru a couple of people at BMW with their comments like "how do we answer this?" Anyway...the answer is...

"the BMW lease rates being offered are unprecedented because of the number of models that are getting the financing at 2 and 3 percent."

I checked the web site and of course the model I was looking at is still $139,000 vs $104,000 in the US and the financing rate is an incredible 4.9 percent. The funny thing is that BMW is alienating their most profitable customer group. The 7 series, for example, I read created something like 25% of BMW profit. Do you think it costs any more to make a 7 series at $100,000 than a 5 series at $60,000? Greedy bastards.

[dotcalamitie]

as an aside, I continue to enjoy my US Tribeca. Phark BMW and their $100,000 screw me attitude. The Tribeca was a joy to drive in todays snow storm.

[bluemule999]

See article on 2008 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT spec.B - a new Subaru fan is born!!!

http://www.canada.com/montrealgazette/news/driving/story.html?id=b5f7239b-2d2e-401c-8ba3-b4eccac5a89c

[cko64]

as an aside, I continue to enjoy my US Tribeca. Phark BMW and their $100,000 screw me attitude. The Tribeca was a joy to drive in todays snow storm.
You go from a 7 Series to Tribeca??? :confused:

[dotcalamitie]

No worse! I had a 645 convertible and Honda Ridgeline. Both leases just expired. I purchased the 2007 Prius Cash from the US, and leased the US Tribeca all in the last month. To hell with the auto industry. Although I plan to sell both US vehicles, so we'll see what I get next...I'm thinking X5 from the USA.

[cko64]

No worse! I had a 645 convertible and Honda Ridgeline. Both leases just expired. I purchased the 2007 Prius Cash from the US, and leased the US Tribeca all in the last month. To hell with the auto industry. Although I plan to sell both US vehicles, so we'll see what I get next...I'm thinking X5 from the USA.
well, I have a Maxima, Murano and lately, a Z4. I am trying to replace my Murano with a RX400h or X5 from the States. I am looking for a SUV, but I wouldn't be looking for something like the Tribute. The 7 Series and the Tribeca are in completely different class, one is a luxury sedan and the other is somewhat lower end Crossover.

[fred foreskin]

Unless,

Admissible
2007 AND 2008 All models built
after September 1st, 2007 and
newer models if equipped with the
Ford Securilock Antitheft
Immobilizer System.



Point taken.

RIV site says 2008 fords cars and utilities are admissible please explain

[showMeAnImport]

The clear language in the explanations section of the admissibility list we have been looking for....things are way clearer now....haven't seen anyone here explicitly point out this change yet...this is great! -->


ADMISSIBLE VEHICLES:

A vehicle manufactured after September 1, 2007 (may be a 2007 or a 2008 model) is ADMISSIBLE if:

1) The vehicle is listed in the "ADMISSIBLE" column of the List of Vehicles Admissible from the United States. This means that it
is manufacturer-equipped (standard) with an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114.

2) The vehicle is listed in the "ADMISSIBLE" column of the List of Vehicles Admissible from the United States but is followed
by "~" and/or "(see notes)". This means that the vehicle does not come standard with an electronic immobilization system that
meets the requirements of CMVSS 114, but either:

a. An electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114 is available as a manufacturer option. In this
case, it must be factory-installed; it is NOT possible to install the system after market, because the manufacturer will not be
able to ensure that it complies with CMVSS 114.
When an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114 is available as a manufacturer option,
the importer must provide a letter from the manufacturer stating that the vehicle meets the CMVSS 114.

OR

b. The manufacturer does NOT provide with an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114,
but the manufacturer does allow after-market installation of this system by a third party.
When an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114 is installed after market by a third
party, the importer must provide evidence (installer's invoice) that the electronic immobilization system meets the
requirements of CMVSS 114.

INADMISSIBLE VEHICLES:

The vehicle appears in the "INADMISSIBLE" column of the List of Vehicles Admissible from the United States. In this case, it is probably that the manufacturer does NOT authorize the installation of an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114, for safety reasons. The vehicle therefore may NOT be imported into Canada.

[ottawa_hull]

Finally it is offical.

BMW Canada's website posted their new interest rates which are 3.9% for 60 months for Finance and 3.9% for 36 month lease.

Too bad their cars couldn't go down by 10 percent. Becuase if they did, i think their sales would skyrocket........... and if they lowered their prices so would everyone else in the industry...

Greedy Canadian bastards, i hope their sales go down 20 percent each month from now till March 2008, perhaps by then they will offer real discounts for the consumer.

10% well, it does not take much to make you happy...More like 20% and we can start talking.

[ottawa_hull]

Are the discounts for real. I read that 8 to 14K discounts are being applied to the MDX (08 model year). Does anyone have a story to share about a purchase made in the past few weeks, days?
thanks

[spdztr]

Well, it looks like the pipeline for all Hyundai cars has been shut down.
One of my neighbours just managed to bring in a Santa Fe this week, and was told by the dealer that Hyundai USA has forbidden all sales to Canadians as of November 19th. Previously started deals will be allowed to proceed, but if you haven't given a deposit on a Hyundai, I'm afraid the fun's over for another great car.

[BeeBee]

:arrowu: :arrowu: :evil: :evil:
This is just toooo much. Spread the word around and boycott / delay buying cars in Canada.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

The BMW types in the Canadian Head office are full of crap. I had so much fun talking to them breaking down their excuses for the high prices.

At one point i told them they need new material because it does not make logical sense, I also told them i pity them for having such a lousy jobs, they have to peddle BS from 9 to 5pm each day. :lol:


Yesterday i had fun with the Audi types, since their stinking S5 is 15K more expensive over here than the USA. lol WoW Audi sure makes overpriced cars, i wonder what suckers they will attract in the next 3 months.

I also called one Nissan Dealer, he told me he will give me a great deal on a
Z350 the only thing is that it is not a hardtop.... and it is the 2007 model, so naturally he should give me a discount, but........ he wanted me to purchase the car with "CASH" :P lol

i told him if i have to pay 50K cash i might as well go to the USA, and save myself 20K for that cash purchase. :rolleyes:


Here is a fun one...I got my letter last night from BMW saying they are providing unprecedented lease and finance rates of 2% on all 2007's and 3% on all 2008's. So I wrote them back this morning...

"exactly how are these rates unprecedented? I leased a 2001 BMW 740IL from you with 1.9% lease rate financing."

They wrote back and it was funny because the email made it thru a couple of people at BMW with their comments like "how do we answer this?" Anyway...the answer is...

"the BMW lease rates being offered are unprecedented because of the number of models that are getting the financing at 2 and 3 percent."

I checked the web site and of course the model I was looking at is still $139,000 vs $104,000 in the US and the financing rate is an incredible 4.9 percent. The funny thing is that BMW is alienating their most profitable customer group. The 7 series, for example, I read created something like 25% of BMW profit. Do you think it costs any more to make a 7 series at $100,000 than a 5 series at $60,000? Greedy bastards.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

:arrowu: :arrowu: :evil: :evil:
This is just toooo much. Spread the word around and boycott / delay buying cars in Canada.

No doubt, everyone should stop purchasing new or used cars in this country. F-them all !

Drive your car until it falls apart, :)

[Vidman]

well, I have a Maxima, Murano and lately, a Z4. I am trying to replace my Murano with a RX400h or X5 from the States. I am looking for a SUV, but I wouldn't be looking for something like the Tribute. The 7 Series and the Tribeca are in completely different class, one is a luxury sedan and the other is somewhat lower end Crossover.

While I would agree with you that the 7 series is a more luxurious vehicle than the Tribeca, Lower end? If the Tribeca is lower end, your you must consider your Murano to be a real econo box!

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

10% well, it does not take much to make you happy...More like 20% and we can start talking.

10 percent would be a good start on the 3 series BMW, with 1.9% interest for 60-72 months. Not saying it is perfect, but a start.


I doubt any manufacturer will lower their prices, they will try to wait us out.... the only way probably to get them to budge is if their new car sales dip 4 or 6 months in a row. But with the Canadian sheep, we will just be too civilized and cave in.....

[jcl4]

Hi I am schedule to picking up my 2008 forester xt on Monday. I ordered it from Zach at eastside subaru, and supposedly he has done all the paper what that require to send to the border. But he told me he did not check with them to see if they have received the documents because the border is too busy, Should I phone them tomorrow to check? Where do I phone? and what should I ask?

[Lost Horizon]

While I would agree with you that the 7 series is a more luxurious vehicle than the Tribeca, Lower end? If the Tribeca is lower end, your you must consider your Murano to be a real econo box!

+1.. even tho I have the bimmer and my son has the Tribeca.. it's hardly low end..

[dotcalamitie]

The immobilizer law is an example of government bureuacrats out of control. If I was an American thinking of moving to Canada I would wonder just what the hell was going on in our government if they blocked me from bringing my car. Our government is saying they don't want Americans moving to Canada.

[mdbuffy]

1. How does the issue of motor vehicle regulation effect your pocketbook?
Side by side price comparison of all models – Canadian vs US car prices
http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/


2. Why do Canadians have to pay more for cars?
Transport Canada has failed since 2002 to harmonize motor vehicle regulations with the US and Mexico as evidenced by these documents:

Canadian Automotive Partnership Council
Regulatory Harmonization Working Group May 2007
Table
http://capcinfo.ca/english/reports/documents/2007/RegHarmon_e.pdf
Summary Table of harmonization status (NO HARMONIZATION) for each Canadian motor vehicle regulation of Transport Canada

Report of the Canadian Automotive Partnership Council June 2005
http://capcinfo.ca/english/reports/report_jun28_05.html#impact
Detail on each item to be harmonized with commentary from industry with respect to the unwillingness of Transport Canada to harmonize regulations.

3. How can you help to reduce motor vehicle prices in Canada?
a. Contact individuals who may have an influence on Transport Canada and ask that Transport Canada harmonize motor vehicle regulations with the United States:

Your MP:
http://www2.parl.gc.ca/Parlinfo/Comp....aspx?Menu=HO

Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, P.C.
Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca

Prime Minister
The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, P.C.
pm@pm.gc.ca

Minister of Industry
The Honourable Jim Prentice, P.C.
Prentice.J@parl.gc.ca

President of the Treasury Board
The Honourable Vic Toews, P.C.
Toews.V@parl.gc.ca

Leader of the Opposition
The Honourable Stephane Dion
Dion.S@parl.gc.ca

Liberal critic: Transport
The Honourable Joseph Volpe
Volpe.J@parl.gc.ca

Liberal critic: Industry
The Honourable Scott BRISON, M.P,
Brison.S@parl.gc.ca

Liberal critic: Industry - Consumer Affairs and Consular Services
The Honourable Dan McTeague, M.P.
McTeague.D@parl.gc.ca

Bloc Quebecois critic: Prime Minister
Mr. Gilles Duceppe, M.P.
Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca

Bloc Quebecois critic: (Int'l Trade) Globalization and International Trade
Mr. Pierre Paquette, M.P.
Paquette.P@parl.gc.ca

NDP critic: Prime Minister
Mr. Jack Layton, M.P.
Layton.J@parl.gc.ca

NDP critic: (Transport) Infrastructure and Communities, (Labour) Labour, (Treasury) Public Accounts, (Industry) Steel Policy
Mr. David Christopherson, M.P.
Christopherson.D@parl.gc.ca

NDP critic: Industry - Auto Policy, Science, Research and Development, Competitiveness & the New Economy, Consumer Affairs - Public Safety - Canada Border Services
Mr. Brian Masse, M.P.
Masse.B@parl.gc.ca



b. Join and help a group of citizens that have been affected by the policies of Transport Canada and who formed a group to more effectively deal with importation of motor vehicles from the U.S. Many of these people bought vehicles which were admissible only to find out that Transport Canada changed the rules before they could get the motor vehicle across the border. They initially were not allowed to bring these motor vehicles into Canada but as a result of the effort of the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada allowed “inadmissible” vehicles to be taken to the residence of the owner of the vehicle but the vehicle cannot be licensed.

http://www.carswithoutborders.com
For media reports on this subject refer to the media tab on the http://www.carswithoutborders.com website

4. What might you say in your e-mail request to an MP(s):

Dear Member:

I am writing to you as I am very concerned that the failure of Transport Canada to harmonize motor vehicle safety regulations under NAFTA has resulted in Canadian voters being greatly disadvantaged by having to pay more for motor vehicles in Canada than they would in the United States.

The unharmonized regulations have resulted in major manufacturers such as GM and Ford not certifying 2008 vehicles sold in the United States for compliance with the motor vehicle standards of Transport Canada. Thus Canadians are unable to import these cars into Canada and do not have the benefit of lower motor vehicle prices in the United States. If harmonization was to occur, the Canadian subsidiaries of the motor vehicle manufacturers would have to lower the prices of cars sold in Canada in order to be competitive with the motor vehicles available from the United States.

What is the Government going to do to ensure that harmonization occurs by the end of 2008 and that no further government action will result in the benefits of harmonization being lost to Canadians?

Name, Address, Email address, Telephone Number

[03terminator]

RIV site says 2008 fords cars and utilities are admissible please explain

Riv changed Nov 21. All 2007 and 2008 Ford Passenger vehicles and trucks built after Sept 1 2007 are INADMISSIBLE unless equipped with Ford Securilock Antitheft Immobilizer System.


So far the 2008 Ford NON-MOFIFIED MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES are admissible.

Since Riv changes the list almost daily I expect all Fords will need the Ford Securilock Antitheft Immobilizer System. I don't know how many US Ford vehicles have this.

[davehender]

Here, here davehender. I cannot agree with you more!!! Everyone, get in on the outrage!!! Send an email to your MP today.

I sent my email below with davehender's letter attached to the following email addresses. Include the opposition as cc's and you will get a response!! See below.

To: Harper.S@parl.gc.ca; Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca; Emerson.D@parl.gc.ca; Flaherty.J@parl.gc.ca
Cc: Folco.R@parl.gc.ca; Dion.S@parl.gc.ca; Layton.J@parl.gc.ca

From: Prime Minister/Premier ministre <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: "Jim Prentice, P.C., M.P." <Minister.Industry@ic.gc.ca>
Sent: Wednesday, November 21, 2007 2:13:01 PM
Subject: Office of the Prime Minister / Cabinet du Premier ministre

Dear Mr. xxx:

On behalf of the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, I would like to acknowledge receipt of your recent e-mail correspondence.

Please be assured that your comments have been carefully reviewed. I have taken the liberty of forwarding your message to the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry. I am certain that the Minister will also appreciate being made aware of your views.

Thank you for writing to the Prime Minister.


B. Funes
Executive Correspondence Officer
for the Prime Minister's Office
Agent de correspondance de la haute direction
pour le Cabinet du Premier ministre

>>> Received : 17 Nov 2007 05:36:18 PM >>>

All,

This is my third email about the subject of inflated Canadian auto prices. Other than the RIV change today to allow non-inadmissible cars into Canada until an inspection can be done, the Canadian Government has done nothing.

The recent change in requirements for auto immobilizers in Canada could be construed that the auto manufacturers have applied undue influence on Transport Canada. I can tell you that many people on Internet forums believe this to be true.

We live in a free and democratic country. The USA is a very close cousin who share in a good number of Canadian beliefs. The NAFTA agreement was drafted to make good on this very similar social-economic lifestyle between Canada and USA. Now that Canadians are able to take advantage of what NAFTA provides, artificial barriers have been established to stop Canadians from stretching their hard-earned dollars. The Canadian Government, at best, has stood by and done nothing. At worst, has participated in erecting the barriers. The government works for the Canadian population. I, and others, expect immediate action...no studies, debate, hot air, action, action, action!!!

The auto manufacturers say that they establish prices that the market will bear. Do you really believe that without all these artificial barriers, Canadians would freely pay approx 10K more than in the USA. Would you!!! ACT NOW!!!

I have attached a letter written by a fellow Canadian that has eloquently expressed his outrage to his MP.

Thank You


Thanks Bluemule! Sending your messages right to the top, where I thought we would never get a response, yet getting a response from the PMO itself. Sending it to the opposition is a great idea! Maybe that shows we're being taken seriously now too?? Thanks again.

[mak]

Well craps to Hyundai if they really have put pressure on their U.S. dealers. After all the only cars left to import were the 2007 models and anything made before Sept. 1. I'm sure all those unsold cars will suddenly be showing up on our friendly Canadian dealer lots in no time, with a handsome mark-up no less. And here I was seriously eyeing an Elantra.

In other car notes. I'm also looking at the 2007 Altima 2.5 S w/ SL & Connection packages which has a bottom invoice price of $24,464 on Edmunds. It has a $1000 rebate now. What is an appropriate further percentage discount on year old models?

Thanks for the help.

[gilboman]

Our government is saying they don't want Americans moving to Canada.

i dont think canadians mind this one bit

[Lax5]

Hi I am schedule to picking up my 2008 forester xt on Monday. I ordered it from Zach at eastside subaru, and supposedly he has done all the paper what that require to send to the border. But he told me he did not check with them to see if they have received the documents because the border is too busy, Should I phone them tomorrow to check? Where do I phone? and what should I ask?


The phone number for the Blaine (Truck) Crossing is 360-332-2632. Remember that is is open only M-F, 8:00-3:30. It definitely would be a good idea to check to see that your info made it to the US Customs and has been processed, especially with today being a holiday and the the high volume of traffic. It is a breeze once you get there, though.

Good luck.

[Xinc]

Well, it looks like the pipeline for all Hyundai cars has been shut down.
One of my neighbours just managed to bring in a Santa Fe this week, and was told by the dealer that Hyundai USA has forbidden all sales to Canadians as of November 19th. Previously started deals will be allowed to proceed, but if you haven't given a deposit on a Hyundai, I'm afraid the fun's over for another great car.

Hyundai no longer sells to Canadians? Is this official? Link?

[yayaya]

How would you determine this on a vehicle you are interested in ?????

b. The manufacturer does NOT provide with an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114,
but the manufacturer does allow after-market installation of this system by a third party.
When an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114 is installed after market by a third
party, the importer must provide evidence (installer's invoice) that the electronic immobilization system meets the
requirements of CMVSS 114.

[jac_3232]

Is it legal to drive in Canada with temp license from the US? I'm still waitin on my form2, and I'm itching to drive the new truck. Both my temp license on my back windshield and insurance is good for another 3 weeks.

[spdztr]

Hyundai no longer sells to Canadians? Is this official? Link?

I"m just going by what my neighbour told me. He also mentioned that he actually got a call from Hyundai headquarters on the 20th (the day after the "shutdown") to confirm whether or not he had picked up his car.

I don't have a link or any other confirmation, but try to contact some dealers, I'd be curious to know what happens. I'm sure there will still be some that will let a few deals go through, just like people that are still buying Toyotas despite the dealers not being allowed to.

[Bullseye]

I also received the Ministry letter. I assumed it was just a delay issue, that the letter was issued after import, but before I registered it with the Ministry and paid PST on it. I ignored it, but kept the letter. If they are serious, they will bug me again about it, I suppose.

[scouzi]

Is it legal to drive in Canada with temp license from the US? I'm still waitin on my form2, and I'm itching to drive the new truck. Both my temp license on my back windshield and insurance is good for another 3 weeks.

Call RIV for you form2 and they will e-mail it to you instantly.

[Dreyfus]

How would you determine this on a vehicle you are interested in ?????

b. The manufacturer does NOT provide with an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114,
but the manufacturer does allow after-market installation of this system by a third party.
When an electronic immobilization system that meets the requirements of CMVSS 114 is installed after market by a third
party, the importer must provide evidence (installer's invoice) that the electronic immobilization system meets the
requirements of CMVSS 114.

Unfortunately Trasnsport Canada/RIV are now demanding a letter from the manufacturer that the immobilizer is compliant with CMVSS114. All the engineers/installers/aftermarket suppliers are outweighed by the manufacturer of the automobile. Transport Canada/RIV have given the manufacturers the right to hold you up for ransom or worse deny you all and every right you thought you had.

[Danno2005]

Here's a good one from CBC radio this morning.

Apparently the Canadian government is reviewing if they will be dropping the 6.1% duty on Hyundai autos. Ford Canada President stated that if that happens, Ford will review their investments in Canada.

Amazing cojones...don't you think?

:evil:

[spdztr]

Here's a good one from CBC radio this morning.

Apparently the Canadian government is reviewing if they will be dropping the 6.1% duty on Hyundai autos. Ford Canada President stated that if that happens, Ford will review their investments in Canada.

Amazing cojones...don't you think?

:evil:

That makes no sense whatsoever. Two of their models are already made in the US, so there's no duty, and how can they arbitrarily charge no duty for one manufacturer, and not others? In any case, if what I posted earlier is true (that Hyundai dealers can't sell to Canadians), then it's a non-issue to begin with.

[thelefteyeguy]

That makes no sense whatsoever. Two of their models are already made in the US, so there's no duty, and how can they arbitrarily charge no duty for one manufacturer, and not others? In any case, if what I posted earlier is true (that Hyundai dealers can't sell to Canadians), then it's a non-issue to begin with.

That definitely doesnt make sense...imports hurt the Cdn Manufacturing Industry...I don't see that selling any votes for the govt

[sb_tor]

That makes no sense whatsoever. Two of their models are already made in the US, so there's no duty, and how can they arbitrarily charge no duty for one manufacturer, and not others? In any case, if what I posted earlier is true (that Hyundai dealers can't sell to Canadians), then it's a non-issue to begin with.

This might not have anything to do with importing from the US.
Currently, Canada imposes a 6.1-per-cent tariff on cars imported into Canada from South Korea. A new free-trade agreement with south korea might remove that. This could include not only cars, but other commodities.


http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071123.RFORD23/TPStory/Business

[whampoa]

That definitely doesnt make sense...imports hurt the Cdn Manufacturing Industry...I don't see that selling any votes for the govt

I'm wondering if the US govt, specifically from Alabama, is putting pressure to lift the duty since some of Hyundai vehicles is manufacture there.

It might not sell vote for the govt, but a possible US trade retaliation on let say beef, lumber and grains is not helping it either.

[spdztr]

This might not have anything to do with importing from the US.
Currently, Canada imposes a 6.1-per-cent tariff on cars imported into Canada from South Korea. A new free-trade agreement with south korea might remove that. This could include not only cars, but other commodities.


http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20071123.RFORD23/TPStory/Business

Thanks for the link, now it makes more sense.

[scouzi]

Thanks for the link, now it makes more sense.

I'm willing to be that Hyundai prices WON'T drop by 6% if this is done.

[Tender]

"...the agreement reached between American and South Korean negotiators ... fell short of including any measures to open a foreign market that imposes heavy non-tariff restrictions on imported vehicles..."

The U.S. already struck a deal with South Korea. Why didn't Ford pull out of there and put all its investments in Canada? Also, I believe GM would be happy to see this since they have plants in South Korea.
I feel sorry for the 13,000 Ford employees, but more for the poor 30 million Canadians that are getting ripped off every day.

[Monsieurmaggot]

US Dealers can sell cars to illegal mexican aliens but not to canadian citizens!!
What's up with that. Lou Dobbs at CNN would have a field day with this story!!

I think you're onto something interesting here. Imagine the headlines down south:

Foreign car dealers taking jobs away from hard working Americans! Congress is outraged. Troops amassing at the 49th parallel (okay that might be pushing it)


I'm thinking it's time we start the write-in campaign.

While the Canadian dealers think they can stop it, they're in no position to tackle the Indiana or Alabama legislators who (now imagine Lou Dobbs saying) "will force the US congress to change the discriminatory sales practices used by car dealers. With the depressed US economy, it's important to keep Americans working. There's no way that foreigners (Canadian dealers) should be telling us who we can sell our products to"

I love this.

I have a project this weekend.

I will play up the whole "Americans losing jobs" because Canadians can't compete.

[giaotze]

-

[Rehan]

Saw a thread saying that Subaru Tribeca is on the inadmissible list now??

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show....php?t=1393247

Also in
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/s...d.php?t=517987

If this is for real then I am going to cry tonight.... I just ordered mine from Karl two days ago.... I was so happy..... I think you misread the message.
Immobilization Applications for vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2007 for the U.S. market that comply with CMVSS 114 and are allowed to be imported are:

All 2008MY Legacy models
All 2008MY Outback models
All 2008MY Tribeca

[giaotze]

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

BIG sign of reliefffffffffffffff
Hooooooooooooo
Thanksss
Should get a new glass soon :D:) :) :) :) :)

[scouzi]

Saw a thread saying that Subaru Tribeca is on the inadmissible list now??

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show....php?t=1393247

Also in
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/s...d.php?t=517987

If this is for real then I am going to cry tonight.... I just ordered mine from Karl two days ago.... I was so happy.....


It still is according to this:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/SUBARU.htm

Make sure to download the latest pdf as proof.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

[jed]

He77 with it - I'm either buying a foreign car that is admissible or buying a nearly new one. This is absolute BS!

I would suggest that our government, no matter the party is well paid and bought after seeing this mess.

Send letters boys and girls - to whomever may listen, even if they won't listen may they will get tired of this and fix it Properly so all manufacturers are on the admissible side of the list! Immobilizers - thats a good one. Gotta admit that is pretty good thinking.

[NAFTAGO]

Here is another one of those articles, depicting the importing of a car just as pleasant as a visit to the bank to get financing when you want to buy a car in Canada.

http://autos.canada.com/news/story.html?id=826b7ed6-9a36-42c0-87d6-458cd8d4e50d

And here it is if you don't want to jump:

"Is it really worth the risk?
Buying from the U.S. has extra cost
Julie Folk, The Leader-Post Published: Thursday, November 22, 2007

Everyone wants the best deal.

But sometimes appearances can be deceiving.

More and more Canadian buyers are going online to try and find cheaper vehicles in the U.S. They go on a Web site and see a car for a few thousand dollars less than the Canadian version. But in reality, buyers may end up paying even more down the road, or not get the same quality of vehicle they would at home.

Here is a look on what you should think about before leaving your local market and going down south.

1. Canadian approval
Many cars are not even admissible in Canada for various reasons, usually dealing with safety. One car buyer bought a vehicle from the U.S. and brought it back, only to find out it was not approved. It has now been sitting on his driveway for three weeks. Approved vehicles can be found on the Registrar of Imported Vehicles Web site at www.riv.ca, or by a call to 1-888-848-8240.

2. Vehicle modification
There are certain modifications on vehicles that are required for Canadian vehicles but not American ones. There are three main things to remember. The first is that Canadian vehicles need daytime running lights. Many cars are brought from the States without them, and cost to install is about $500. Also, the speedometer on American cars are often only in miles per hour, while in Canada they must be in kilometres per hour. This means a new instrument cluster, which can be from $1,000 to $2,000. As of Sept. 1, 2007, a new federal legislation came in that said all Canadian vehicles need a engine immobilizer, which is a theft deterrent. You cannot get this after-market, so the vehicle needs it to come across.

3. Bringing it over the border
When bringing the car over the border, there are certain things that need to be thought out. The first is transportation costs. The title of the vehicle and the Bill of Sale needs to be in the U.S. 72 hours prior to the vehicle arriving at the border. At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle. Paperwork can be sent ahead, but there is a $500 fine if not done properly. Buyers will need to pay for shipping, or airfare and hotels. The RIV also requires the buyer to complete a Form I, which will cost $195 plus GST. The Canadian Federal Inspection is within this fee. Taxes on the vehicle include GST, PST, and a 6.1 per cent duty on all vehicles built outside of North America which are 15 years old or newer.

4. Warranty
Some manufacturers do not recognize warranties on cars from the U.S. at all. Other manufacturers do not recognize the warranty or extended warranty in Canada, but if the customer pays for the work, they may be able to get reimbursed in the States.

5. Canadian standards/packages
Vehicles require different standards and packages in the different countries. For example an SUV built in Texas will not be the same as one built for Canada. For example, one buyer thought his SUV only came 4X4, but he unknowingly ended up with a 2WD. Cars built for Canadian winters may include the following that an American-built car would not: Heavy-duty heaters, batteries, alternators and starters; high capacity window washer fluid reservoirs; more robust weather stripping and seals; added paint chip protection; mudguards; all-season tires; outside temperature gauge; heated mirrors; towing packages; heated seats; air quality control systems.

Keep in mind some of these features cost a bit more but will save you in many situations.


6. Financing
There is no manufacturer financing available to Canadian citizens who have purchased a car in the U.S. Buyers can pay cash or get financing from a financial institution - which could mean a prime rate instead of a rate that is usually about 0.9 per cent. This can mean thousands of dollars down the road.

7. Service/Maintenance Service
Maintenance programs and roadside assistance is sometimes offered, but never on a car from the U.S. Courtesy items, such as courtesy car washes, will also not be offered as they are part of the price in the sale.

8. Problems and repercussions
Canadian manufacturers have CAMVAP - the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan to help customers if there is a problem with a new vehicle. It can force the manufacturer to fix or replace the vehicle. This will not be offered on a car for the U.S. Problems with faulty used vehicles can also not be solved in Canada.

9. Government rebates
Government rebates on eco-friendly cars will not be available, but a buyer would have to pay the tax on gas-guzzlers.

10. Resale pricing
How much a car from the U.S. can be sold used in Canada is unpredictable. What is a fact is that it will be worth less. For all of the problems listed above, if a customer has the opportunity to buy a car from Canada or a car from the U.S. at the same price, they will always choose the Canadian car.

So is it really worth the risk? Buying a car from the U.S. is taking a large chance. The savings are never near what is originally thought. And perhaps that extra thousand dollars is worth the service, quality and peace of mind of going to a local dealership, someone you know and can fall back on. A vehicle is the second biggest purchase of your life. Make that purchase with care and attention.
- - -
POSSIBLE EXTRA COSTS:

- Transportation
- Shipping or airfare and hotels
- About $1,500
- RIV Form I
- About $200
- Provincial Out of Province Inspection
- Variable cost
- Warranty/Extended warranty that may not apply
- Unpredictable cost
- Daytime running lights
- About $500
- Instrument cluster
- $1,000 - $2,000
- Extra financing costs
- Unpredictable cost
- Loss in resale
- Unpredictable cost
- Unpredictable costs can be up to thousands of dollars in each case."
THE END
-------------------------------------------------------------------------


What I find interesting is that there are so many articles like this coming from different sources that instead of missinforming campaign turns into an educational campaign since every article provide new bits of information touches different issues and the articles get more and more detailed. I think/hope that after hearing so much noise the general publict will go and say: "I am going to do my research and check what the fuzz is about"
Then they find one of us and then get mad to the Car manufacturers, realize that Honda and Toyota are not the "good brands" that they/we thought and end up buying south.

Like I said: every article brings something new to light, weather is true or false. My Favourite part is when they say:

"At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle"

And Of course they forgot to add to "Possible extra Cost":
Endless battles with your partner while deciding whether to buy a 46 inch TV or add $5,000 to the educational fund of your kid or the Napa valley holiday you've always wanted (another 5k) and then paying yourself ($400 @ $100 per fightin-hour/person)
All this coming from the $14,000 CAD that you would be saving if you get a Subaru for example. Get a Navigator and you save enough money to take pay rent/mortgage for free for 6 months or more.

Is it worth it?
You tell me. just leave A message I will be either watching TV or sipping wine in California. Call you back when I come back from my roadtrip.

I wonder if they already published the article:
"Urban Myths-The Canuck that went south to buy a car and never returned"
Now there is a ghost in every Canadian dealership that gives the finger to anybody that stays after hours while saying: get a new job!

Go NAFTA Go

[mangoman]

"...the agreement reached between American and South Korean negotiators ... fell short of including any measures to open a foreign market that imposes heavy non-tariff restrictions on imported vehicles..."

The U.S. already struck a deal with South Korea. Why didn't Ford pull out of there and put all its investments in Canada? Also, I believe GM would be happy to see this since they have plants in South Korea.
I feel sorry for the 13,000 Ford employees, but more for the poor 30 million Canadians that are getting ripped off every day.


I believe the reason that Ford is upset is because they don't want that duty removed unless there's a reciprocal agreement that allows cars from N. American manufacturers to be sold in S.Korean markets without restriction.

That said KIA (Hyundai's their parent co.) is building a plant in Georgia - not sure if any of you have seen the SOUL (haha those Koreans are punny) but that sure does look quite attractive (and I'm not an SUV/CUV kind of person)! (we'll see how much of the concept is retained in the final product and sure hope they clear up the immobilizer nonsense by then)

http://www.kia.com/031306.php

http://www.kia.com/040407b.php

[Tender]

I believe the reason that Ford is upset is because they don't want that duty removed unless there's a reciprocal agreement that allows cars from N. American manufacturers to be sold in S.Korean markets without restriction.

That said KIA (Hyundai's their parent co.) is building a plant in Georgia - not sure if any of you have seen the SOUL (haha those Koreans are punny) but that sure does look quite attractive (and I'm not an SUV/CUV kind of person)! (we'll see how much of the concept is retained in the final product and sure hope they clear up the immobilizer nonsense by then)

http://www.kia.com/031306.php

http://www.kia.com/040407b.php

Yes I read that. S. Korean is not opening their market to the manufacturers here, hence the cry from Ford.
My point is, Ford couldn't convince the U.S. government to do what they want (forcing the S. Korea to open up), but came here to bully Cdn government instead. And I have a strong feeling that our government will cave in in a way or another. That makes me feel sick.

[thelefteyeguy]

lol transportation / Hotel cost?

$1500? wtf...that's the cost to go to a resort in central america...JOKEZ!

[mangoman]

Yes I read that. S. Korean is not opening their market to the manufacturers here, hence the cry from Ford.
My point is, Ford couldn't convince the U.S. government to do what they want (forcing the S. Korea to open up), but came here to bully Cdn government instead. And I have a strong feeling that our government will cave in in a way or another. That makes me feel sick.

Ah ok - gotcha - although with KIA building in the US as well, certain of their models (and some Hyundai models already) won't have 6.1% duty on them because of NAFTA! So Ford would only be delaying things for a year at most - wish they would start concnetrating on offering vehicles Cdns actually want instead (I'd buy one of those Verves if they end up looking like the one they showed - heck I'd buy a current Mondeo or European Spec Focus/Fiesta instead of all these useless overpowered/oversized hunks of junk they try to sell here! Give me CLEAN DIESEL now! :razz:

[Tender]

;;;
3. Bringing it over the border
....At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle...

5. Canadian standards/packages
Vehicles require different standards and packages in the different countries. For example... outside temperature gauge; heated mirrors; towing packages; heated seats...Keep in mind some of these features cost a bit more but will save you in many situations.

7. Service/Maintenance Service
...such as courtesy car washes, will also not be offered as they are part of the price in the sale.

10. Resale pricing
How much a car from the U.S. can be sold used in Canada is unpredictable. What is a fact is that it will be worth less. For all of the problems listed above, if a customer has the opportunity to buy a car from Canada or a car from the U.S. at the same price, they will always choose the Canadian car...


3. I wonder what CBSA has to say on this.

5. How come I don't get these when I bought my car in Canada two years ago?

7. How many of us get courtesy car washes here? And is it worth $10,000?

10. We don't have to argue on this one, do we? Look at the dealers selling American used cars here, and take another look at their prices!

[scouzi]

lol transportation / Hotel cost?

$1500? wtf...that's the cost to go to a resort in central america...JOKEZ!

There is an incdredible amount of orchestrated FUD going on.

Of course when you read the article, there's a huge popup abour "unprecedented deals".

Here is the feedback address:

feedback@canada.com

[Tender]

Ah ok - gotcha - although with KIA building in the US as well, certain of their models (and some Hyundai models already) won't have 6.1% duty on them because of NAFTA! So Ford would only be delaying things for a year at most - wish they would start concnetrating on offering vehicles Cdns actually want instead (I'd buy one of those Verves if they end up looking like the one they showed - heck I'd buy a current Mondeo or European Spec Focus/Fiesta instead of all these useless overpowered/oversized hunks of junk they try to sell here! Give me CLEAN DIESEL now! :razz:

Exactly! That's the proper way to do business. Too bad they took a wrong direction.

[NAFTAGO]

I just thought that if they want to play with the media we can do it too:

Let's get the word out about how you can get PZEV ( Partially Zero Emissions Vehicles) in the US AND they are Cheaper.

Let's say:
"We are buying a car in the US because they are cleaner, more fuel efficient and we want to keep the (insert latest-fashion enviroword here)
Carbon footprint reduced to the minimum
CO2 emmisions or my family as low as possible
Kyoto accord within our family (unlike the federal Government)
minimize our contribution to the climate change
educate my family by example
be environmentally responsible
decided to take action to save mother earth
etc etc etc.

...And is cheaper and allows me to buy $14,000 of solar panels or organic beer and smoked salmon Locks (whatever is cheaper to install) with the savings of buying a car in the US

Can you put a price on the planet?
Is it worth "being treated like a criminal at the border"?*
I say yes, all for the planet

*
http://autos.canada.com/news/story.html?id=826b7ed6-9a36-42c0-87d6-458cd8d4e50d&p=1

We can always say that we are buying cars in the US because the government of Canada is not willing to adopt the California emissions standard, The government says that the Car Manufacturers say that it would add thousands of dollars to every car. But the reality is that if you buy a Subaru in California, Maine, Connecticut, Vermont, NY and other state that I cant remember right now, they are ALL PZEV. In any other state you can order it for $200 extra.


Oh Man!
This situation is so satyrical from so many points of view that the funny lines just keep on coming.

I am buying my car in two weeks. I just hope I will be able to get the car and then keep laughing about this situation, before they decide to put Subarus in the "Driveway-Inadmissible column" or the "inadmissible column of dead"
just because they spell Subaru with an u and not "ou" as is the Canadian way "Soubaru" Check CMVSS 115

(just kidding the last think I want is to add confusion to the issue)

If they could only interview one of the people that have imported a car!
I do not think there is a SINGLE bad story.

Let's keep making noise people, ENVIRO-noise that is.

Go NAFTA Go

[rust0r]

If I import a car from buffalo, ny or PA, do I have to pay the state tax and then Canada's imposed taxes on top of this? Assuming it is used, can I register it in Canada first to avoid US taxes or ? Thanks

[Jay-c]

I went to CT yesterday to do my form 2 inspection, and afterwards she asks me if I've had the safety done yet on it... I said no of course, as it's new! She claims that she has tons of people that go to get plates and come back for a safety because MTO requires it... hogwash I say, and on my way to MTO..

At MTO, she looks at my paperwork and sure enough, asks where my safety certificate is. I explained that the vehicle is new, what's the use of a safety? She states that all out-of-province vehicles require a safety... I continue to disagree, and she says "well, let's see if the system will take it"

At the same time, a co-worker of hers walks by and she asks if it's required... "of course not" she says... "it's a new vehicle direct from origin!". 5 minutes later I was out the door with my new plates.

I have to wonder how many people took MTO's word for it and went to get an unnecessary safety done....

[thelefteyeguy]

I went to CT yesterday to do my form 2 inspection, and afterwards she asks me if I've had the safety done yet on it... I said no of course, as it's new! She claims that she has tons of people that go to get plates and come back for a safety because MTO requires it... hogwash I say, and on my way to MTO..

At MTO, she looks at my paperwork and sure enough, asks where my safety certificate is. I explained that the vehicle is new, what's the use of a safety? She states that all out-of-province vehicles require a safety... I continue to disagree, and she says "well, let's see if the system will take it"

At the same time, a co-worker of hers walks by and she asks if it's required... "of course not" she says... "it's a new vehicle direct from origin!". 5 minutes later I was out the door with my new plates.

I have to wonder how many people took MTO's word for it and went to get an unnecessary safety done....

With all the imports...you would think they would train ppl at the MTO :|

[1treehill]

I am going to buy a used Altima 2007, dealer said he'll only mail title to US address (my friend's) in about 2 weeks, and I have to pay state tax.

1 How Can I get title right away without waiting for Dealer mail it to my friend?
2 the address on the title will be my friend's US address, any problem with this when I export from US custom, and import from Canadian custom?
3 Any difference buying from dealer with buying with private party?

Thank you

[thelefteyeguy]

If I import a car from buffalo, ny or PA, do I have to pay the state tax and then Canada's imposed taxes on top of this? Assuming it is used, can I register it in Canada first to avoid US taxes or ? Thanks

everything can be found here carburner.ca

[shopper-X]

I am going to buy a used Altima 2007, dealer said he'll only mail title to US address (my friend's) in about 2 weeks, and I have to pay state tax.

1 How Can I get title right away without waiting for Dealer mail it to my friend?
2 the address on the title will be my friend's US address, any problem with this when I export from US custom, and import from Canadian custom?
3 Any difference buying from dealer with buying with private party?

Thank you

AFAIK all dealers are allowed to sell used for export. That dealer is wrong.
Call Nissan USA and ask if you are allowed to buy used cars for export and they will tell you the same.

Ask the dealer for a tax exemption form from their state government because you are not a resident.

[rob3blk]

I went to CT yesterday to do my form 2 inspection, and afterwards she asks me if I've had the safety done yet on it... I said no of course, as it's new! She claims that she has tons of people that go to get plates and come back for a safety because MTO requires it... hogwash I say, and on my way to MTO..

At MTO, she looks at my paperwork and sure enough, asks where my safety certificate is. I explained that the vehicle is new, what's the use of a safety? She states that all out-of-province vehicles require a safety... I continue to disagree, and she says "well, let's see if the system will take it"

At the same time, a co-worker of hers walks by and she asks if it's required... "of course not" she says... "it's a new vehicle direct from origin!". 5 minutes later I was out the door with my new plates.

I have to wonder how many people took MTO's word for it and went to get an unnecessary safety done....

Same experience here at cdn tire on queensway/427. I asked them for form 2 inspection. Then, the counter guys says that if MTO says that I need a safety or inspections bring it over there for $70 bucks. I just nodded my head cause I knew they are wrong. Then. when i went to MTO cloverdale mall(dundas/427 north part of mall), the lady behind the desk says that i need an emission test and safety and i told her its a brand new car and it does not need it. she never spoke after that and processd my papers. Yeah so be sure to tell them they are wrong.

[ziploc]

Checked on Carburner, didn't find it,,,,(maybe a good addon...)


What kind of payment(CC,DEBIT,ETC) Customs accept for: ???

1-GST and Duty
2-A/C TAX
3-RIV fee..


Thank You

[shopper-X]

Checked on Carburner, didn't find it,,,,(maybe a good addon...)


What kind of payment(CC,DEBIT,ETC) Customs accept for: ???

1-GST and Duty
2-A/C TAX
3-RIV fee..


Thank You

I did and search on Carburner and found this:
Paperwork Required To Complete Process (http://www.carburner.com/index.php?title=Paperwork_Required_To_Complete_Pro cess)
In the "FORM 1" section paragraph above "Paying the RIV fee"


The federal tax bill must be paid at Customs before you are permitted to leave. Canada Customs accepts all forms of payment (Interac, Credit Cards, Cash and cheque). Upon payment you will be issued a formal Canada Custom receipt outlining the declared US price, the converted rate and the tax paid.

[ziploc]

I did and search on Carburner and found this:
Paperwork Required To Complete Process (http://www.carburner.com/index.php?title=Paperwork_Required_To_Complete_Pro cess)
In the "FORM 1" section paragraph above "Paying the RIV fee"

Oups did't look in good section...thx

And does someone know RIV office opening hours....i will be passing by Toronto on my way and my pass by them....

[Tender]

I did and search on Carburner and found this:
Paperwork Required To Complete Process (http://www.carburner.com/index.php?title=Paperwork_Required_To_Complete_Pro cess)
In the "FORM 1" section paragraph above "Paying the RIV fee"

This is for Federal taxes only. Many customs don't ask you to pay RIV fees now. Instead, you can pay online. If you do get asked to pay at the customs, I believe they only accept credit cards for RIV fee.

[googz]

Oups did't look in good section...thx

And does someone know RIV office opening hours....i will be passing by Toronto on my way and my pass by them....

seriously? couldn't just go to www.riv.ca?? Or google RIV (it's the first hit by the way)???

check the bottom of the page...
http://www.riv.ca/english/html/how_to_import.html

[1treehill]

any one bought a used car from private party and then import to canada, any difference than buying from dealer? extra documents required? Can I still get temporary transit for driving it back to toronto?
Thanks

[DSTU]

Here is another one of those articles, depicting the importing of a car just as pleasant as a visit to the bank to get financing when you want to buy a car in Canada.

http://autos.canada.com/news/story.html?id=826b7ed6-9a36-42c0-87d6-458cd8d4e50d

And here it is if you don't want to jump:

"Is it really worth the risk?
Buying from the U.S. has extra cost
Julie Folk, The Leader-Post Published: Thursday, November 22, 2007

Everyone wants the best deal.

But sometimes appearances can be deceiving.

More and more Canadian buyers are going online to try and find cheaper vehicles in the U.S. They go on a Web site and see a car for a few thousand dollars less than the Canadian version. But in reality, buyers may end up paying even more down the road, or not get the same quality of vehicle they would at home.

Here is a look on what you should think about before leaving your local market and going down south.

1. Canadian approval
Many cars are not even admissible in Canada for various reasons, usually dealing with safety. One car buyer bought a vehicle from the U.S. and brought it back, only to find out it was not approved. It has now been sitting on his driveway for three weeks. Approved vehicles can be found on the Registrar of Imported Vehicles Web site at www.riv.ca, or by a call to 1-888-848-8240.

2. Vehicle modification
There are certain modifications on vehicles that are required for Canadian vehicles but not American ones. There are three main things to remember. The first is that Canadian vehicles need daytime running lights. Many cars are brought from the States without them, and cost to install is about $500. Also, the speedometer on American cars are often only in miles per hour, while in Canada they must be in kilometres per hour. This means a new instrument cluster, which can be from $1,000 to $2,000. As of Sept. 1, 2007, a new federal legislation came in that said all Canadian vehicles need a engine immobilizer, which is a theft deterrent. You cannot get this after-market, so the vehicle needs it to come across.

3. Bringing it over the border
When bringing the car over the border, there are certain things that need to be thought out. The first is transportation costs. The title of the vehicle and the Bill of Sale needs to be in the U.S. 72 hours prior to the vehicle arriving at the border. At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle. Paperwork can be sent ahead, but there is a $500 fine if not done properly. Buyers will need to pay for shipping, or airfare and hotels. The RIV also requires the buyer to complete a Form I, which will cost $195 plus GST. The Canadian Federal Inspection is within this fee. Taxes on the vehicle include GST, PST, and a 6.1 per cent duty on all vehicles built outside of North America which are 15 years old or newer.

4. Warranty
Some manufacturers do not recognize warranties on cars from the U.S. at all. Other manufacturers do not recognize the warranty or extended warranty in Canada, but if the customer pays for the work, they may be able to get reimbursed in the States.

5. Canadian standards/packages
Vehicles require different standards and packages in the different countries. For example an SUV built in Texas will not be the same as one built for Canada. For example, one buyer thought his SUV only came 4X4, but he unknowingly ended up with a 2WD. Cars built for Canadian winters may include the following that an American-built car would not: Heavy-duty heaters, batteries, alternators and starters; high capacity window washer fluid reservoirs; more robust weather stripping and seals; added paint chip protection; mudguards; all-season tires; outside temperature gauge; heated mirrors; towing packages; heated seats; air quality control systems.

Keep in mind some of these features cost a bit more but will save you in many situations.


6. Financing
There is no manufacturer financing available to Canadian citizens who have purchased a car in the U.S. Buyers can pay cash or get financing from a financial institution - which could mean a prime rate instead of a rate that is usually about 0.9 per cent. This can mean thousands of dollars down the road.

7. Service/Maintenance Service
Maintenance programs and roadside assistance is sometimes offered, but never on a car from the U.S. Courtesy items, such as courtesy car washes, will also not be offered as they are part of the price in the sale.

8. Problems and repercussions
Canadian manufacturers have CAMVAP - the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan to help customers if there is a problem with a new vehicle. It can force the manufacturer to fix or replace the vehicle. This will not be offered on a car for the U.S. Problems with faulty used vehicles can also not be solved in Canada.

9. Government rebates
Government rebates on eco-friendly cars will not be available, but a buyer would have to pay the tax on gas-guzzlers.

10. Resale pricing
How much a car from the U.S. can be sold used in Canada is unpredictable. What is a fact is that it will be worth less. For all of the problems listed above, if a customer has the opportunity to buy a car from Canada or a car from the U.S. at the same price, they will always choose the Canadian car.

So is it really worth the risk? Buying a car from the U.S. is taking a large chance. The savings are never near what is originally thought. And perhaps that extra thousand dollars is worth the service, quality and peace of mind of going to a local dealership, someone you know and can fall back on. A vehicle is the second biggest purchase of your life. Make that purchase with care and attention.
- - -
POSSIBLE EXTRA COSTS:

- Transportation
- Shipping or airfare and hotels
- About $1,500
- RIV Form I
- About $200
- Provincial Out of Province Inspection
- Variable cost
- Warranty/Extended warranty that may not apply
- Unpredictable cost
- Daytime running lights
- About $500
- Instrument cluster
- $1,000 - $2,000
- Extra financing costs
- Unpredictable cost
- Loss in resale
- Unpredictable cost
- Unpredictable costs can be up to thousands of dollars in each case."
THE END
-------------------------------------------------------------------------


What I find interesting is that there are so many articles like this coming from different sources that instead of missinforming campaign turns into an educational campaign since every article provide new bits of information touches different issues and the articles get more and more detailed. I think/hope that after hearing so much noise the general publict will go and say: "I am going to do my research and check what the fuzz is about"
Then they find one of us and then get mad to the Car manufacturers, realize that Honda and Toyota are not the "good brands" that they/we thought and end up buying south.

Like I said: every article brings something new to light, weather is true or false. My Favourite part is when they say:

"At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle"

And Of course they forgot to add to "Possible extra Cost":
Endless battles with your partner while deciding whether to buy a 46 inch TV or add $5,000 to the educational fund of your kid or the Napa valley holiday you've always wanted (another 5k) and then paying yourself ($400 @ $100 per fightin-hour/person)
All this coming from the $14,000 CAD that you would be saving if you get a Subaru for example. Get a Navigator and you save enough money to take pay rent/mortgage for free for 6 months or more.

Is it worth it?
You tell me. just leave A message I will be either watching TV or sipping wine in California. Call you back when I come back from my roadtrip.

I wonder if they already published the article:
"Urban Myths-The Canuck that went south to buy a car and never returned"
Now there is a ghost in every Canadian dealership that gives the finger to anybody that stays after hours while saying: get a new job!

Go NAFTA Go

This is a paid spiel from a so called "journalist".

They make their livelihoods from Canadian Car manufacturers advertising on thier site.

[NAFTAGO]

Read this:
http://www.cbc.ca/money/story/2007/11/23/flahertymanufacturing.html

Specially this:

The finance minister is the Member of Parliament for Whitby-Oshawa, which is home to General Motors and scores of other plants that have been hit hard.

That explains a lot!
No wonder they car makers can do what they want.
That is extremely bad luck to us.

So let's recap:Car Makers in the US are selling cars at a lower price and they are fine. Car Makers in Canada are loosing market because their cars are MORE EXPENSIVE, charge more for delivery, have lower or no rebates and charge more for labour than their american counterparts and since they "have been hit hard" the government (us) gives them money??

First if you didn't buy a car you wouldn't get gouged, now even if you walk to work you will give them money?

So they went from: Take it or leave it ( wouldnt care if you bought in the US)
Then removing cars from the admissibility list
Then forbidding dealers to sell to Canadians.
And now even if you don't buy a car you "take it and pay it"

I am opening an nectarines stand tomorrow, overprice them and when people buy across the street I tell the government that I am losing money because I am not selling anything. Then the crown just uses the pedestrian taxes to pay me even when I don't have to give them a single nectarine.
Man you have to love the NAFTA maybe I will stop calling them nectarines. From now on they shall be NAFTArines

Sigh.

[NAFTAGO]

Hi,

I just found this article. Is from Detroit and obviously has a different agenda from almost everybody in Canada. For some reason everybody is in favour of the Car Manufacturers and nobody seems to be on the side of consumers.

Read this article.
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148

Comments:
What does that *** Des Rossiers do to be quoted everywhere??

In general this is the only article that I have read that says:
"Cars can be imported for $226 in some cases"
isn't that the title of this thread? How many times have you heard a Canadian article saying Cost of importing: $206

How many articles have you read in Canada that say:
"Many consumers don't buy it"

This is obviously coming from Detroit where all they care about is SELL CARS, doesn't matter to whom.

Notice the Car price comparison: in Canadian articles they always list obscure examples, I always complain about how they never compare the MAzda 3 Hinda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the three most popular cars in Canada.
In this case they go way beyond that and list the top 10.
Notice that quite probably those are MSRP and that you pay closer to INVOICE in the US of A, and that theres as about a $1,000 difference in delivery pricing and that there are CASH rebates on top of that in most cases.

Feel free to write to Scott Burgess is the auto critic for The Detroit News. He can be reached at (313) 223-3217 or sburgess@detnews.com.

And show him this thread and maybe we can make him to write a Follow up article mentioning this thread.
Maybe arrange and interview to Monsieurmaggot??

Or, how about this idea? Everybody who buys a car in the US donates $500 to Mount Sinai Hospital Premature baby intensive care Unit program ( just an example) it doesn't take a big bite of the savings and that would definitely get in the media.
and/or a newbie who just found this thread got a car and donated half the savings to any charity they want.

Demonstrating that Car Manufacturers are greedy..... we are not.

Let's try the Enviro-Approach and now the US-Media approach to get Car manufactures in Canada to price their cars fairly.

Go NAFTA Go

[lh0628]

The donation idea is great!

[lh0628]

Wait I take that back, it's freaking brilliant!

[shopper-X]

...

First if you didn't buy a car you wouldn't get gouged, now even if you walk to work you will give them money?
...

This is a very good point.
With everyone going green people are taking the bus, carpooling, riding a bike, walking, etc to work. If this continues are envirnment will be greener.
Someone mentioned the PZEV that Subaru offers in some states (CA, NY, etc) and importing those will also help the environment. Not pumping toxins from car plants will help too. So what do we want, rich car manfactures or a greener Canada?

The other point is if GM, Honda, Toyota and the other manufactures in Canada would allow us Canadians to buy the same Canadian made vehicle from the US instead of putting up a road block, the plants would be producing more since sales would be up.

The goverment should NOT be giving GM any money period. They can increase sales if they just stop being so greedy in Canada.

I'm writing my MP about this one...might even book an appointment to talk about this.

[vim]

Wait I take that back, it's freaking brilliant!

If you are talking about donations, I would also think would be great idea to put adds in newspapers with ACTUAL facts about importing cars into Canada. Imaging what manufacturers would do when they see an add that asks customers to hold their purchase, because car manufacturers are ripping them off. Anybody has an idea how much such add would cost? A small campaign like that in big newspapers would show them that not all canadians are sheep.

[perfchris]

The CAA or APA should be doing this, it is in their mission statement to protect the interest of drivers. Also, what makes you think your ad would be placed front and center when big Auto is paying for full page ads about their advantage deals. Basically, they are financing the well being of all these big newspapers. A lot of these carmakers have long term contracts with newspapers who depend on these ads for their bottom line.


If you are talking about donations, I would also think would be great idea to put adds in newspapers with ACTUAL facts about importing cars into Canada. Imaging what manufacturers would do when they see an add that asks customers to hold their purchase, because car manufacturers are ripping them off. Anybody has an idea how much such add would cost? A small campaign like that in big newspapers would show them that not all canadians are sheep.

[scope11]

If you are talking about donations, I would also think would be great idea to put adds in newspapers with ACTUAL facts about importing cars into Canada. Imaging what manufacturers would do when they see an add that asks customers to hold their purchase, because car manufacturers are ripping them off. Anybody has an idea how much such add would cost? A small campaign like that in big newspapers would show them that not all canadians are sheep.

Now that's brilliant!! A nice big add in the Wheels section, so that on Saturday morning I can grin ear to ear while having my coffee. I'd be willing to chip into an add like that!

[vim]

The CAA or APA should be doing this, it is in their mission statement to protect the interest of drivers. Also, what makes you think your ad would be placed front and center when big Auto is paying for full page ads about their advantage deals. Basically, they are financing the well being of all these big newspapers. A lot of these carmakers have long term contracts with newspapers who depend on these ads for their bottom line.

I do not think that we could afford fron page ad. But a simple ad would generate enough media attention - because that would be consumers fighting back.
Remeber, this is consumers agains big corporations with big wallets. And it is all about perception. You see know everywhere : big rebates, etc, etc. But would not believe how hard is to even find out how big that rebate is! What automakers are doing - creating environment where many newspapers are writing how hard is to import car and in the same newspapers there are ads - big rebates. Many buyers think they are now getting prices close to US, or some ads even say americans are comming here to buy!
Simple ad with correct information would make consumers think twice. That is all what we need.

[NAFTAGO]

If you are talking about donations, I would also think would be great idea to put adds in newspapers with ACTUAL facts about importing cars into Canada. Imaging what manufacturers would do when they see an add that asks customers to hold their purchase, because car manufacturers are ripping them off. Anybody has an idea how much such add would cost? A small campaign like that in big newspapers would show them that not all Canadians are sheep.

The reason why I suggested the hospital program is:

We would MAKE A DIFFERENCE, and this is no BS we would AUTHENTICALLY turn our effort: all this research, waking up in the morning, the extra driving, the family stress, financial stress etc. into something trully beautiful.
Lets face it, after all we are talking about freaking cars here. How often do you buy a car and feel proud of it?

Good for your wallet
good for the environment and
good for the babies

We could name the program "NAFTA siblings on wheels" or something like that
After all we would be just giving back the money that the government would be taking away from the Hospitals to give to car makers.
Showing that we, the people are willing to make a difference. Why wouldn't cars do the same?

If we gather the money and put it in a bunch of adds. We would be competing with the budget of car makers and believe me they would cover our stories in no time. We cant compete with their wallets. Plus the only winner would be the paper we decide to go to.

With the donation idea we would accomplish:
Maximum "make a difference index"
Maximum exposure, spread the word faster.
We would do it the Canadian way, no offensive in any way, no badmouthing the car makers.
Just state that by buying legally our cars in the states we saved thousands of dollars and we are donating $500 of that to make a difference ( and noise at the same time)

I am thinking on getting someone to donate time ( Graphic designer) to design a decal or something removable with a suction cup like the "Baby on board" sign and then the hospital would get them ordered ( donated maybe? ) made and "sell" them or exchange them for a $500 donation.
The cost of those things would be around 5-10 bucks a piece. Maybe less.
Any ideas welcome.

I do know that Mount Sinai has plaques that you "buy" and then they put them on the wall.
They could give us a plaque that we could put on a corner in a window or even a Bumper sticker. Although I am not sure a lot of people would like bumper stickers, I am sure that most of us would want the world to know that we got the car in the US and made a difference.

Even easier to spot ourselves on the street. As I write this I almost feel part of a subversive group but this is perfectly legal and is a situation that shouldn't exist in the first place,

Any lawyers here?
Is this legally feasible?
What are the legal implications of this?
Would we get sued for car maker-Defamation and reputation damages?
Would we get a receipt for the donation and deduct it from our taxes?

I cant wait to get my car.
Go NAFTA Go

[DarkCat]

I do not think that we could afford fron page ad.
But a simple ad would generate enough media attention -
because that would be consumers fighting back.
Remeber, this is consumers agains big corporations with big wallets. And it is
all about perception. You see know everywhere : big rebates, etc, etc. ...
Simple ad with correct information would make consumers think twice.
That is all what we need.

I agree.
My suggestion:

1) Target only the largest city, Toronto.
We do NOT have to go after the entire country;
most decisions are going to be made in the GTA anyways.
A onetime 1, 1/2, or 1/4 pager ought to be enough.

2) Do a FAQ using a 3 column approach ("The issue", "The Lie", "The Facts")
And don't be afraid of using manufacturer's names (factually, of course!)

3) Highlight the CarBurner.com address for followup questions.

4) MP / MPP email addresses

5) Ask for donations.

[accorder]

we may try to contact Olsen on our side on CTV. Here is one of his recent stories on immobilizers. http://www.ctv9.ca/olsen.jsp?id=/olsen/stories/2007/11/olsen-20071121htm.htm

The Insurance Bureau of Canada lists four after market immobilizers, which would meet the standard. Transport Canada could remove this hurdle by simply approving that list, allowing buyers to import 2008 vehicles from the u-s and install the immobilizer here. A simple solution.

Right now if the manufacturer says a vehicle can't be modified to meet Canadian safety standards-- Transport Canada takes their word on it. Transport Canada does not conduct any independent tests. But when we pointed out that could result in keeping car prices artificially high in Canada by preventing cheaper imports, Transport Canada told us—quote: "we are aware of the situation, we are looking at this closely, and we are committed to finding a solution."



I agree.
My suggestion:

1) Target only the largest city, Toronto.
We do NOT have to go after the entire country;
most decisions are going to be made in the GTA anyways.
A onetime 1, 1/2, or 1/4 pager ought to be enough.

2) Do a FAQ using a 3 column approach ("The issue", "The Lie", "The Facts")
And don't be afraid of using manufacturer's names (factually, of course!)

3) Highlight the CarBurner.com address for followup questions.

4) MP / MPP email addresses

5) Ask for donations.

[NAFTAGO]

Hi,

I just found this article. Is from Detroit and obviously has a different agenda from almost everybody in Canada. For some reason everybody is in favour of the Car Manufacturers and nobody seems to be on the side of consumers.

Read this article.
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071120/AUTO01/711200383/1148

Comments:
What does that *** Des Rossiers do to be quoted everywhere??

In general this is the only article that I have read that says:
"Cars can be imported for $226 in some cases"
isn't that the title of this thread? How many times have you heard a Canadian article saying Cost of importing: $206

How many articles have you read in Canada that say:
"Many consumers don't buy it"

This is obviously coming from Detroit where all they care about is SELL CARS, doesn't matter to whom.

Notice the Car price comparison: in Canadian articles they always list obscure examples, I always complain about how they never compare the MAzda 3 Hinda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the three most popular cars in Canada.
In this case they go way beyond that and list the top 10.
Notice that quite probably those are MSRP and that you pay closer to INVOICE in the US of A, and that theres as about a $1,000 difference in delivery pricing and that there are CASH rebates on top of that in most cases.

Feel free to write to Scott Burgess is the auto critic for The Detroit News. He can be reached at (313) 223-3217 or sburgess@detnews.com.

And show him this thread and maybe we can make him to write a Follow up article mentioning this thread.
Maybe arrange and interview to Monsieurmaggot??

Or, how about this idea? Everybody who buys a car in the US donates $500 to Mount Sinai Hospital Premature baby intensive care Unit program ( just an example) it doesn't take a big bite of the savings and that would definitely get in the media.
and/or a newbie who just found this thread got a car and donated half the savings to any charity they want.

Demonstrating that Car Manufacturers are greedy..... we are not.

Let's try the Enviro-Approach and now the US-Media approach to get Car manufactures in Canada to price their cars fairly.

Go NAFTA Go

[reddy54]

Updated RIV list posted today

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

[Raikkonen]

Addendum:

Thanks....as suggested by several of you...have started a new thread....come on people, let's have a fun little get together, meet, greet, see some nice vehicles.....carry a few signs....lol, and be on TV!

linky

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/s...59#post5988859

We should organize a media-covered protest/informaton session.

Well organized, a couple hundred peaceful Canadians carrying signs/pancartes.


Inform the media, and let them provide our free advertising to effectively get the word out to Canadians.

Saturday morning and afternoon, two hundred RFDers and their friends...will make cross-country news, guaranteed.

Effective, professionally done signs, clear polite messages, we can make a difference.

Oakville Honda would be a good choice....

Over the weekend, I will PM some of the major players here and ask for their input.


Let's aim for Saturday in 2 or 3 weeks...to give us some time.


I have read many passionate posts expressing our collective disgust/disappointment. Time to be un-Canadian and take action. Workers of the world unite....lol...we will be heard. I am in for $40 towards well done signs...hey we can use them again at a second dealership. Ona weekend, not much point going to Honda Canada or Toyota Canada, as offices will be closed. But on a weekend, on the sidewalk outside a dealership....I also think (imho) a small contribution from the U.S. Subaru dealers may be appropriate....we want to look like a force to be reckoned with when we are televised...and believe me, we will be

Last wekI previously posted on Page 610...

We really need to organize an "information session" outside of a chosen dealership or Honda Canada. A chance to get together, meet, greet, see some nice purchases, educate, and draw attention to what a million threadviewers have embraced as a very serious issue.

[flatman]

As a Canadian who has recently imported a used 2005 BMW Z4 from the United States at a savings of more than $14,000, I take exception to the misinfromation in the article
Is it really worth the risk?
available on your site. Please let me point out the misinformation.

1. Canadian approval
Many cars are not even admissible in Canada for various reasons, usually dealing with safety. One car buyer bought a vehicle from the U.S. and brought it back, only to find out it was not approved. It has now been sitting on his driveway for three weeks. Approved vehicles can be found on the Registrar of Imported Vehicles Web site at www.riv.ca, or by a call to 1-888-848-8240.

But Many are admissible. Most manufactured prior to Sept. 2007 require very little in alterations. It ia true you must check the list to be sure.

2. Vehicle modification
There are certain modifications on vehicles that are required for Canadian vehicles but not American ones. There are three main things to remember. The first is that Canadian vehicles need daytime running lights. Many cars are brought from the States without them, and cost to install is about $500. Also, the speedometer on American cars are often only in miles per hour, while in Canada they must be in kilometres per hour. This means a new instrument cluster, which can be from $1,000 to $2,000. As of Sept. 1, 2007, a new federal legislation came in that said all Canadian vehicles need a engine immobilizer, which is a theft deterrent. You cannot get this after-market, so the vehicle needs it to come across.

The average cost of DRLs is actually about $200 not $500. I had the U.S dealershiop do it for free!!. Most U.S. cars have Km and Miles on the speedometer. I have heard intrument clusters chnged for $600-$700. The Immobilizer is a recent issue and is still being addressed. My vehicle required NO modifiacation to be imported.
3. Bringing it over the border
When bringing the car over the border, there are certain things that need to be thought out. The first is transportation costs. The title of the vehicle and the Bill of Sale needs to be in the U.S. 72 hours prior to the vehicle arriving at the border. At the border, you can be treated like a criminal as border guards check the price of your vehicle. Paperwork can be sent ahead, but there is a $500 fine if not done properly. Buyers will need to pay for shipping, or airfare and hotels. The RIV also requires the buyer to complete a Form I, which will cost $195 plus GST. The Canadian Federal Inspection is within this fee. Taxes on the vehicle include GST, PST, and a 6.1 per cent duty on all vehicles built outside of North America which are 15 years old or newer.

With a little pre planning the border crossing is a piece of cake. To say border guards will treat you like a criminal is laughable. I found the customs people on either side of the border to be pleasant and helpful. GST and PST are payable on vehicles here as well as those imported so the mention of these taxes is unneccessary. Vehicles built in NA including mine are duty free.4. Warranty
Some manufacturers do not recognize warranties on cars from the U.S. at all. Other manufacturers do not recognize the warranty or extended warranty in Canada, but if the customer pays for the work, they may be able to get reimbursed in the States.

Many manufacurers do honour warranty, mine is under warranty til May 2009.
5. Canadian standards/packages
Vehicles require different standards and packages in the different countries. For example an SUV built in Texas will not be the same as one built for Canada. For example, one buyer thought his SUV only came 4X4, but he unknowingly ended up with a 2WD. Cars built for Canadian winters may include the following that an American-built car would not: Heavy-duty heaters, batteries, alternators and starters; high capacity window washer fluid reservoirs; more robust weather stripping and seals; added paint chip protection; mudguards; all-season tires; outside temperature gauge; heated mirrors; towing packages; heated seats; air quality control systems.

Keep in mind some of these features cost a bit more but will save you in many situations.

So I guess there is no winter in Minnesota or Michigan? The cold weather stops at the border? Take a look at a map and you'll see hpw much of the U.S. is actually North of many Canadian cities. I have found American vehicles to be at least comparably equipped and usually better. My car has heated seats, mirrors and windshield washer. Sounds ready for the cold to me.
6. Financing
There is no manufacturer financing available to Canadian citizens who have purchased a car in the U.S. Buyers can pay cash or get financing from a financial institution - which could mean a prime rate instead of a rate that is usually about 0.9 per cent. This can mean thousands of dollars down the road.

Not that many dealers offer 0.9% and definitely not on a used car.
7. Service/Maintenance Service
Maintenance programs and roadside assistance is sometimes offered, but never on a car from the U.S. Courtesy items, such as courtesy car washes, will also not be offered as they are part of the price in the sale.

So what price do you put on a car wash?8. Problems and repercussions
Canadian manufacturers have CAMVAP - the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan to help customers if there is a problem with a new vehicle. It can force the manufacturer to fix or replace the vehicle. This will not be offered on a car for the U.S. Problems with faulty used vehicles can also not be solved in Canada.

I have heard that many U.S. states have lemon laws better than ours and that you will be covered.9. Government rebates
Government rebates on eco-friendly cars will not be available, but a buyer would have to pay the tax on gas-guzzlers.

Not really applicible to many vehicles. Not mine anyway.10. Resale pricing
How much a car from the U.S. can be sold used in Canada is unpredictable. What is a fact is that it will be worth less. For all of the problems listed above, if a customer has the opportunity to buy a car from Canada or a car from the U.S. at the same price, they will always choose the Canadian car.

Judging by the prices charged for used U.S. vehicles currently on Canadian dealers lots I'd say the resale value is just fine. And when you're saving thousnds you can sell for a bit less.
So is it really worth the risk? Buying a car from the U.S. is taking a large chance. The savings are never near what is originally thought. And perhaps that extra thousand dollars is worth the service, quality and peace of mind of going to a local dealership, someone you know and can fall back on. A vehicle is the second biggest purchase of your life. Make that purchase with care and attention.
- - -
POSSIBLE EXTRA COSTS:

- Transportation
- Shipping or airfare and hotels
- About $1,500 I drove to Chicagao and stayed overnight. Total cost about $400. $1500 is a wild overestimation.
- RIV Form I
- About $200
- Provincial Out of Province Inspection $70 Not required on new vehicles.
- Variable cost
- Warranty/Extended warranty that may not apply
- Unpredictable cost
- Daytime running lights
- About $500 Free if done by US dealer. $200 if not
- Instrument cluster
- $1,000 - $2,000 Rarely necessary and can be done much cheaper than this
- Extra financing costs
- Unpredictable cost Actually easily predictable. My car was used so savings in finiancing were very low.- Loss in resale See above
- Unpredictable cost
- Unpredictable costs can be up to thousands of dollars in each case." Costs are very predictible and can be figured out in advance.I figure either the author of this piece was misinformed or did very poor research when writing this story. Prices of vehicles in the U.S. are substantially cheaper than the EXACT vehicle in Canada in many cases. People doing their research can save big.


Thanks

[yyz2hkg]

Aside from the POLITICS and RED TAPE of the discussion so far, DID anyone in the GTA or Ontario at least enjoy the SNOW yesterday driving their Subaru??? I DID...:) Just my 2 cents.

[st7860]

Aside from the POLITICS and RED TAPE of the discussion so far, DID anyone in the GTA or Ontario at least enjoy the SNOW yesterday driving their Subaru??? I DID...:) Just my 2 cents.

i hope you had snow tires on it.

[fooit]

An author of the article on Canada.com was paid to write it - car manufacturers and probably Canadian car dealers don't want you to shop across the border.

[fulrach]

Aside from the POLITICS and RED TAPE of the discussion so far, DID anyone in the GTA or Ontario at least enjoy the SNOW yesterday driving their Subaru??? I DID...:) Just my 2 cents.

i had a blast in my tribeca! :cheesygri hey... did anyone else's TPMS light go on? Mine's been on since yesterday... guess it's the drop in temperature...

[bionicbadger]

This thread used to be informative with actual questions and answers about importing cars but has sadly turned into into a whine fest and political commentary...>:(

[yyz2hkg]

i hope you had snow tires on it.

I did, I did...but I still FISHTAILED IT..................ON PURPOSE in the parking lot. WOOHOO!!! Great on take offs though...I love Subaru...for NOW. Have Fun guys!

[jwstewart]

Aside from the POLITICS and RED TAPE of the discussion so far, DID anyone in the GTA or Ontario at least enjoy the SNOW yesterday driving their Subaru??? I DID

I still wish it had limited slip diff in the rear.

This thread used to be informative with actual questions and answers about importing cars but has sadly turned into into a whine fest and political commentary

Most of the questions have been answered repeatedly, 9000 posts worth. Maybe it's time for it to evolve into something more, which will provide the opportunity for more people to get a deal on a new or used car.

I got some paypal money available to whomever organizes a protest.

[SeeWhy2]

I know that this has been asked before but I couldn't find a definitive answer. Has anyone brought back a car that wasn't registered in their name.
I purchased from Van Bortels (so the car is in my name) however due to prior commitments I can't go so my wife is going instead. Karl called the US customs and they said no problem but I still wonder whether anyone has actually done this.
TIA,

[accorder]

This thread used to be informative with actual questions and answers about importing cars but has sadly turned into into a whine fest and political commentary...>:(

"whine fest and political commentary" may lead to the resolution the root problem -- artificially high auto prices and the government inability on this issue. this might be the best answer to any questions on importing cars.

[st7860]

An author of the article on Canada.com was paid to write it - car manufacturers and probably Canadian car dealers don't want you to shop across the border.

they'll have to learn the hard way that nobody will buy their severly marked up products then

[mr_package]

This thread used to be informative with actual questions and answers about importing cars but has sadly turned into into a whine fest and political commentary...>:(

Not to mention daily comparing high prices to anal rape. :rolleeyes:

[ziploc]

seriously? couldn't just go to www.riv.ca?? Or google RIV (it's the first hit by the way)???

check the bottom of the page...
http://www.riv.ca/english/html/how_to_import.html

On the riv page ''contact us'' with the office address hours aren't indicated...
and I've already tried to contact them and forget that You will have an answer in a week or so....
and i didn't read the bottom page....me bad..but those are telephoen/mail service hours....i doubt that office is open till midnight...

[toystoys]

There is much more to Canada than Toronto :razz:

I bought the wife a car through a Florida dealer a couple of months back when you could still buy from Toyota dealers. Paid a deposit of $500 and had a week to be down there for the remainder in full. Salesman told me to Fedex him the bank draft, huge mistake, Fedex lost it and we had to wait while we went to plan B. Plan B was a wire transfer and I had no sooner made that happen and Fedex found the package with the US draft. Florida sales made in Florida are taxed by the state. Bill of Laden was the only way around this, in other words, he could avoid charging me the tax if he shipped it out of state.

Catching a flight from Saskatoon to Fort Lauderdale cost me approx. $650. Add 3 or 4 nights motels, gas, cabs, a little food,misc. and it will be very close to $1500. Her new fully loaded Blizzard White Solara was $38,481 per the salesman in Saskatoon, bought it there for $26,500. Even with state taxes I still saved a lot of money. Went with a buddy and he drove back a new Camry for his wife and we enjoyed our brief stay in Hollywood Florida. Fedex reimbursed me for a couple of nights stay in Hollywood and some other costs where they were responsible. I'm retired but even if things had gone smoothly the cost would have been near $1500 each and a week of my buddies holidays.

Since that episode I have flown to Cleveland and brought back a Honda Pilot, again near $1500 for expenses. Most border states can't or won't meet the prices of the highly populated states that are much further South. This may also have something to do with the fact that some of these higher populated areas are suffering economic woes. Your Mileage May Vary.

It's a good thing that there are some economic advantages for importers in the GTA area, seems like a fair trade-off to me :razz:

[Whitedart]

On the riv page ''contact us'' with the office address hours aren't indicated...
and I've already tried to contact them and forget that You will have an answer in a week or so....
and i didn't read the bottom page....me bad..but those are telephoen/mail service hours....i doubt that office is open till midnight...

Open typical office hours. From the how to import page on RIV.



The methods of payment have not changed. There are still 4 ways to pay:

1. On-line payment (Visa or Master Card)
2. Cheque or Money Order to be mailed along with your form to:
REGISTRAR OF IMPORTED VEHICLES
405 THE WEST MALL
TORONTO ON M9C 5K7
3. Debit Card for importers that visit the RIV office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (EST)
4. Cash for importers that visit the RIV office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (EST)

[lilmikey]

UPDATE: BMW CANADA SCREWS OVER CANADIANS AGAIAN!!

This is taken right from http://www.ucanimport.blogspot.com/

"Dear Readers:

In an effort to make it even more costly to import a BMW from the US, BMW has issued an edict to its dealers NOT to print off an Internal Dealer Printout, which until now was a suitable and acceptable alternative to a Recall Clearance Letter.

Here is how the Recall Clearance Process will work when you contact BMW or the US Dealer:

Submitted by UCanImport Subscriber:

All North American BMW dealers have been notified that they can not release printouts of vehicle history reports to owners. Even the computer systems used by the dealers in the USA and Canada have been modified to flash a large warning in RED to this effect when a dealer pulls up a internal dealer history report for printing. RIV told me I could go this route instead of a recall letter, but BMW must have caught on.

BMW for whatever reason has instigated a new policy effective Nov. 26, 2007. Not only do they now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter, but as of the 26th, they require $350 for a letter of admissibility, before they will do a recall letter, and as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing compared to the Toyota that I brought in a few months ago. If you want to contact BMW Canada, they will confirm all of this.
--------------------
There you go folks, Free Trade has just become a little bit more expensive and time-consuming!"




Anyone can confirm this? If this is true I'm never gonan buy anythign from BMW Canada.
Might be cheaper to import a BMW from Overseas, Free Trade My A$$.

[Monsieurmaggot]

Aside from the POLITICS and RED TAPE of the discussion so far, DID anyone in the GTA or Ontario at least enjoy the SNOW yesterday driving their Subaru??? I DID...:) Just my 2 cents.

It's not so much the snow in 'To but the fact that the proximity to the Great Lakes makes for some interesting "ice pelleting". Around where I live you get a bunch of ice underneath a crusty blanket of snow. Then after a few hours and 100 pounds of salt per square metre, you get lovely brown slush. There's really never any "white packed" snow-covered roads unless you're referring to all the salt.

When I left for work yesterday morning, I purposely slammed on the brakes on my ice-covered street. I could hear the ABS pumping wildly (but at different intervals on each tire). I suspect it has to do with the VDC and EBD options that came with my car. Went down some seriously slippery hills and I must admit I was a bit apprehensive. I managed not only to make it down but up the other side, where others chose to turn around. That was a new experience for me. My old FWD would have spun its wheels.

Last night, I took a drive on the 401 from Toronto to Port Hope a distance of about 80kms. Aside from the knuckleheads either going 130 or 60, I must say the Subaru stayed right on track while the weather tried to decide to ice pellet, rain or snow. I went through a bucket of washer fluid keeping behind the conga-line of semis.

What's amazing is that I have the factory OEM all-seasons. Can only imagine what it would be like with snow tires.

What I also liked was how well the Subaru headlights illuminate the roadway. The headlights are fantastic.

I love the heated seats, mirrors, wipers and traction control. The wiper on the back window is pretty useless at 100+ highway speeds. It quickly smeared with that film I would call "road grease". The wiper fluid could not keep it clean and it only got worse. You could see the water pooling around the back as it seems to be held in place by an invisible vortex. It worked fine when you were below 60ish. I suspect it has something to do with the rear wind deflector.

I did also notice that the front side windows also get a vortex going and it seems to focus all the water around the upper part of the window. This morning when I checked my car, I had a lovely crystalline effect where the salt had dried.

Subaru should design a side window that cleans itself at highway speeds.

When I first came to Toronto I remembered how the rest of Canada looked at the city when it snowed. I was one of them. After driving along the 401 (in some places the 25+ lanes wide) in the winter, you realize just how challenging it could be. If you leave a safe car length between you and another car, some joker (sometimes in a semi) will just hone in and spray your car with all kinds of road crap in the process. If you don't keep up with the traffic, they'll tailgate you to get out of the way.

[yyz2hkg]

It's not so much the snow in 'To but the fact that the proximity to the Great Lakes makes for some interesting "ice pelleting". Around where I live you get a bunch of ice underneath a crusty blanket of snow. Then after a few hours and 100 pounds of salt per square metre, you get lovely brown slush. There's really never any "white packed" snow-covered roads unless you're referring to all the salt.

When I left for work yesterday morning, I purposely slammed on the brakes on my ice-covered street. I could hear the ABS pumping wildly (but at different intervals on each tire). I suspect it has to do with the VDC and EBD options that came with my car. Went down some seriously slippery hills and I must admit I was a bit apprehensive. I managed not only to make it down but up the other side, where others chose to turn around. That was a new experience for me. My old FWD would have spun its wheels.

Last night, I took a drive on the 401 from Toronto to Port Hope a distance of about 80kms. Aside from the knuckleheads either going 130 or 60, I must say the Subaru stayed right on track while the weather tried to decide to ice pellet, rain or snow. I went through a bucket of washer fluid keeping behind the conga-line of semis.

What's amazing is that I have the factory OEM all-seasons. Can only imagine what it would be like with snow tires.

What I also liked was how well the Subaru headlights illuminate the roadway. The headlights are fantastic.

I love the heated seats, mirrors, wipers and traction control. The wiper on the back window is pretty useless at 100+ highway speeds. It quickly smeared with that film I would call "road grease". The wiper fluid could not keep it clean and it only got worse. You could see the water pooling around the back as it seems to be held in place by an invisible vortex. It worked fine when you were below 60ish. I suspect it has something to do with the rear wind deflector.

I did also notice that the front side windows also get a vortex going and it seems to focus all the water around the upper part of the window. This morning when I checked my car, I had a lovely crystalline effect where the salt had dried.

Subaru should design a side window that cleans itself at highway speeds.

When I first came to Toronto I remembered how the rest of Canada looked at the city when it snowed. I was one of them. After driving along the 401 (in some places the 25+ lanes wide) in the winter, you realize just how challenging it could be. If you leave a safe car length between you and another car, some joker (sometimes in a semi) will just hone in and spray your car with all kinds of road crap in the process. If you don't keep up with the traffic, they'll tailgate you to get out of the way.


Couldn't have said it better myself...and for the umpteenth time...Thanks MM..if not for your thread I started reading a year ago, I wouldn't have even thought about pruchasing a car from the US and driving it happily for over a year now. Cheers!

[Monsieurmaggot]

Couldn't have said it better myself...and for the umpteenth time...Thanks MM..if not for your thread I started reading a year ago, I wouldn't have even thought about pruchasing a car from the US and driving it happily for over a year now. Cheers!

I would have never imagined my first thread with simple comments about "possibly saving" thousands of dollars buying a car in the US would explode into a thread that now exceeds 1.1 million hits.

At this rate, it will be the MOST popular thread on RFD (only 81620 hits behind the current leader) and I will be vindicated with the "most popular" thread award that was literally stolen from me by people who saved 10 bucks on bed sheets!

[baboo]

i hope you had snow tires on it.

I didn't have snow tire on, but my tribeca cut through snow with ease and maneuver on ice like its a dry summer afternoon...:D

[ziploc]

Open typical office hours. From the how to import page on RIV.



The methods of payment have not changed. There are still 4 ways to pay:

1. On-line payment (Visa or Master Card)
2. Cheque or Money Order to be mailed along with your form to:
REGISTRAR OF IMPORTED VEHICLES
405 THE WEST MALL
TORONTO ON M9C 5K7
3. Debit Card for importers that visit the RIV office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (EST)
4. Cash for importers that visit the RIV office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (EST)

thx that was the answer i was looking for...and i didn't read again....oups...
Do You know how long it takes at riv office and if there's a canadianTire in the area...i will check on their site but don't know which are performing the inspections..
I will be on my way from detroit to montreal...and maybe will have time to do the riv thing right there ???

[Whitedart]

thx that was the answer i was looking for...
Do You know how long it takes at riv office and if there's a canadianTire in the area...
I will be on my way from detroit to montreal...and maybe will have time to do the riv thing right there ???

I haven't been to Riv's office yet, but I suspect in person it should only take a few minutes.

Riv at located at 427 & Burnhamthorpe Rd, on the west side of the highway on the West Mall.
For CDN Tire, there is an outlet on Dundas St. (next s/b highway exit) east of hwy 427, about a mile away. Travel south on the West Mall and then east on Dundas St. CT is on the south side of Dundas just before the Kipling subway station.

CT
DUNDAS & KIPLING, ON
5363 DUNDAS ST. WEST
ISLINGTON, ON
M9B 1B1
Phone: 416-239-2388

[cRaCkHeaDaLLeY]

In 2002 I moved to Canada from the US and brought a new BMW and an older Mercedes:

At a certain BMW dealer in Vancouver (and by BMW Canada) I was greeted as customer, not as someone trying to take advantage. The dealer charged me 1/2 hr of labour for turning DRL on, modifying the behavior of the automatic windows and on-board computer, washed and cleaned the interior of the car, gave me a 10% discount on the invoice AND requested the recall letter to me on my behalf, which was mailed to my house, for free.

At a certain MB dealer in Vancouver, I was charged NOTHING for turning-on DLR and the dealer also activated the fog lights that were inactive due to a law in the state we came from. All I had to do was add a couple of 55w bulbs later, a 10 minute job in the garage. The service was performed while I waited and had a coffee at their reception. At my request, the service dept accessed and pulled out a VIN service history for the car (I was told they were in separate systems and MB Canada would have no access to US records - but they had), it showed 0 recalls pending. Printed on letterhead. Signed. Stamped. A thank you and a handshake. That was sufficient for RIV at the time. All they asked in return was for me to have the car serviced at their shop in the future (which I did).

All this was in 2002. It all made business sense. The dollar was around .63 or so.

Fast Forward to 2007. Dollar above parity. Customers being treated like criminals by the manufacturers, and in some cases by the Government of Canada, for trying to exercise their rights as consumers.

Shame on manufacturers for their actions (and purposeful omissions), shame on the Government for not acting on the side of the People.

I am NOT BUYING a new car/motorcycle from a dealer in Canada until this fiasco is solved. If push comes to shove, I will use an address in the US, register and pay taxes over there - even if it will help finance a bloody nonsense war - but I will NOT be allowed to be taken advantage by bloodsucking manufacturers caught looking to the other side with their pants down.

http://www.ataleoftwoprices.com/Default.aspx

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

[Dreyfus]

UPDATE: BMW CANADA SCREWS OVER CANADIANS AGAIAN!!

This is taken right from http://www.ucanimport.blogspot.com/

"Dear Readers:

In an effort to make it even more costly to import a BMW from the US, BMW has issued an edict to its dealers NOT to print off an Internal Dealer Printout, which until now was a suitable and acceptable alternative to a Recall Clearance Letter.

Here is how the Recall Clearance Process will work when you contact BMW or the US Dealer:

Submitted by UCanImport Subscriber:

All North American BMW dealers have been notified that they can not release printouts of vehicle history reports to owners. Even the computer systems used by the dealers in the USA and Canada have been modified to flash a large warning in RED to this effect when a dealer pulls up a internal dealer history report for printing. RIV told me I could go this route instead of a recall letter, but BMW must have caught on.

BMW for whatever reason has instigated a new policy effective Nov. 26, 2007. Not only do they now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter, but as of the 26th, they require $350 for a letter of admissibility, before they will do a recall letter, and as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing compared to the Toyota that I brought in a few months ago. If you want to contact BMW Canada, they will confirm all of this.
--------------------
There you go folks, Free Trade has just become a little bit more expensive and time-consuming!"




Anyone can confirm this? If this is true I'm never gonan buy anythign from BMW Canada.
Might be cheaper to import a BMW from Overseas, Free Trade My A$$.


BMW's overhead must be substantial, I frequently pass by BMW showrooms at the bottom of the Don Valley Parkway and on Kennedy Rd south of Hwy 7 in Markham both are glass palaces with car lifts modeled on German (Bauhaus) showrooms. I also notice Toyota has similar glass palaces at DVP/Steeles and Dufferin/Steeles. Honda has just built one on slightly smaller scale at 16th Ave/Yonge in Richmond Hill. Some of the overcharging has gone into showrooms and no doubt debt has been incurred, it would be safe to assume the Manufacturers urged them to incur debt. All this is to move up market to get better mark ups and to offer a quality buying experience. The climate has changed and consumers are conscious of overcharging and not only will they not pay for a "better buying experience" they will drive 12 hours in the snow battle CBSA, RIV and MTO to save $1,000 not to mind the $5,000 to $15,000 savings which are now common and expected. I would not be at all surprised if the dealers and manufacturers are shocked at the awakening of the Canadian consumer.

[LoveRFD]

I didn't have snow tire on, but my tribeca cut through snow with ease and maneuver on ice like its a dry summer afternoon...:D

I hope you guys don't get over excited by your new cars. You still need to be very cautious with winter driving. I agree that Subaru is great but that doesn't make the winter driving as easy as summer.

[ziploc]

I haven't been to Riv's office yet, but I suspect in person it should only take a few minutes.

Riv at located at 427 & Burnhamthorpe Rd, on the west side of the highway on the West Mall.
For CDN Tire, there is an outlet on Dundas St. (next s/b highway exit) east of hwy 427, about a mile away. Travel south on the West Mall and then east on Dundas St. CT is on the south side of Dundas just before the Kipling subway station.

CT
DUNDAS & KIPLING, ON
5363 DUNDAS ST. WEST
ISLINGTON, ON
M9B 1B1
Phone: 416-239-2388

Thank You again

I will try to make it

[whampoa]

I hope you guys don't get over excited by your new cars. You still need to be very cautious with winter driving. I agree that Subaru is great but that doesn't make the winter driving as easy as summer.

I agree, however, I feel more confident in a real SUV that actually been tested and driven off road (mud, sand, snow and heavy rain) than certain C-R-V-4.

[jnmontario]

While I should appreciate that my local MP is the only one who has even bothered to respond to me, he seems to give the 'well, we're Canadian - so take it up the a$$' attitude

Dear Mr. [edit],

Thank you for your e-mail of November 19th in which you discussed the difference in market prices of new vehicles in Canada and the United States.

There are many factors that produce the effect that you noticed, that the prices of things in Canada are often times different than the price for the exact same product in the United States.

The exchange rate was at one time a huge factor, but it can't explain the price differences the way it could when the Canadian dollar was at 80 cents U.S. But I can think of at least two other factors that no doubt contribute to this phenomenon. Firstly, as you mentioned, Canada has its own regulations and safety requirements that a car manufacturer must meet in order to sell his product in this country. This is an extra cost to the producer and extra costs to producers often get passed down in whole or in part to the consumer.

Secondly, the structure of the new car market in Canada varies from that in the United States. This is known as 'market segmentation'. Because consumer demand is different in Canada, and because the car markets in both countries are separated by a national boundary, producers can practice 'price discrimination'. In short, companies sometimes charge higher prices in Canada because the competitive domestic market will bear it---although the consumer backlash that has arisen in the past month or so suggests to me that the domestic market is no longer prepared to tolerate the large price variation.


I just bought a new Toyota myself, about three months ago (a RAV 4), and I had to pay the same extra money that you face, so I can truthfully say, I feel the same frustration that you feel.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact me. Please feel free to get in touch with me again any time that you need to ask a question or share your thoughts or concerns.

Yours sincerely,


Scott Reid

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Slimy BMW Canada, i hope they choke on the profits and die.

UPDATE: BMW CANADA SCREWS OVER CANADIANS AGAIAN!!

This is taken right from http://www.ucanimport.blogspot.com/

"Dear Readers:

In an effort to make it even more costly to import a BMW from the US, BMW has issued an edict to its dealers NOT to print off an Internal Dealer Printout, which until now was a suitable and acceptable alternative to a Recall Clearance Letter.

Here is how the Recall Clearance Process will work when you contact BMW or the US Dealer:

Submitted by UCanImport Subscriber:

All North American BMW dealers have been notified that they can not release printouts of vehicle history reports to owners. Even the computer systems used by the dealers in the USA and Canada have been modified to flash a large warning in RED to this effect when a dealer pulls up a internal dealer history report for printing. RIV told me I could go this route instead of a recall letter, but BMW must have caught on.

BMW for whatever reason has instigated a new policy effective Nov. 26, 2007. Not only do they now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter, but as of the 26th, they require $350 for a letter of admissibility, before they will do a recall letter, and as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing compared to the Toyota that I brought in a few months ago. If you want to contact BMW Canada, they will confirm all of this.
--------------------
There you go folks, Free Trade has just become a little bit more expensive and time-consuming!"




Anyone can confirm this? If this is true I'm never gonan buy anythign from BMW Canada.
Might be cheaper to import a BMW from Overseas, Free Trade My A$$.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

That guy is a dork, corporate ***** at best.

While I should appreciate that my local MP is the only one who has even bothered to respond to me, he seems to give the 'well, we're Canadian - so take it up the a$$' attitude

Dear Mr. [edit],

Thank you for your e-mail of November 19th in which you discussed the difference in market prices of new vehicles in Canada and the United States.

There are many factors that produce the effect that you noticed, that the prices of things in Canada are often times different than the price for the exact same product in the United States.

The exchange rate was at one time a huge factor, but it can't explain the price differences the way it could when the Canadian dollar was at 80 cents U.S. But I can think of at least two other factors that no doubt contribute to this phenomenon. Firstly, as you mentioned, Canada has its own regulations and safety requirements that a car manufacturer must meet in order to sell his product in this country. This is an extra cost to the producer and extra costs to producers often get passed down in whole or in part to the consumer.

Secondly, the structure of the new car market in Canada varies from that in the United States. This is known as 'market segmentation'. Because consumer demand is different in Canada, and because the car markets in both countries are separated by a national boundary, producers can practice 'price discrimination'. In short, companies sometimes charge higher prices in Canada because the competitive domestic market will bear it---although the consumer backlash that has arisen in the past month or so suggests to me that the domestic market is no longer prepared to tolerate the large price variation.


I just bought a new Toyota myself, about three months ago (a RAV 4), and I had to pay the same extra money that you face, so I can truthfully say, I feel the same frustration that you feel.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact me. Please feel free to get in touch with me again any time that you need to ask a question or share your thoughts or concerns.

Yours sincerely,


Scott Reid

[lilmikey]

Slimy BMW Canada, i hope they choke on the profits and die.

I do too, this is just brutal

[teep]

I know that this has been asked before but I couldn't find a definitive answer. Has anyone brought back a car that wasn't registered in their name.
I purchased from Van Bortels (so the car is in my name) however due to prior commitments I can't go so my wife is going instead. Karl called the US customs and they said no problem but I still wonder whether anyone has actually done this.
TIA,

Yes, Bro in law went to Seattle and brought back the car, which belongs to my wife. No problems. Note we and the dealer made sure the US border had his details in advance (they dont like surprises), and we armed him with letter explaining what he was doing (wasnt needed, but you never know). On the Canadian side, no-one cared as long as the taxes and fees were gettin paid.

[jed]

Apologies to the OP for this straying from time to time in becoming a political forum, but that is what the process has become.

Just read more on this, and the car manufacturers are dictating what the gov't does??? There has got to be a way to get things changed. We're a bunch of intelligent people with a point to be made.

[davehender]

This thread used to be informative with actual questions and answers about importing cars but has sadly turned into into a whine fest and political commentary...>:(

Yeah, but you've gotta love the irony - it just might be our "whine fest and political commentary" that results in you still being able to discuss actual questions and answers about importing cars this time next year.

You can thank us later.

[Symcrapico]

Hey!

For thosewho are like me and have readed this entire thread, some of you might remember my windshield crack history (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5796405&postcount=6755). Well...This week, about one week and a half after sending my repair invoice, I received my reimbursment from SoA. I even got a bonus because CAD dollar has gone down since the repair. So basically, ive paid 1001$CAD and this week ive got a 1071$US cheque! Converted to CAD it give about 1060$CAD. So SoA is giving me about 60$....MORE SAVING!!!!

To sum it up, SoA warranty coverage is actually valid and pretty fast for reimbursement AFAIK.

Cheers

[Monsieurmaggot]

Hey!

For thosewho are like me and have readed this entire thread, some of you might remember my windshield crack history (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5796405&postcount=6755). Well...This week, about one week and a half after sending my repair invoice, I received my reimbursment from SoA. I even got a bonus because CAD dollar has gone down since the repair. So basically, ive paid 1001$CAD and this week ive got a 1071$US cheque! Converted to CAD it give about 1060$CAD. So SoA is giving me about 60$....MORE SAVING!!!!

To sum it up, SoA warranty coverage is actually valid and pretty fast for reimbursement AFAIK.

Cheers

So SoA actually did the cash conversion too. That's amazing. I would have expected that you get a cheque for $1001US because you know that's what would have happened if it was the other way around.

It's unfortunate that your windshield needed replacing but comforting to everyone to know that Subaru does honour cross-border purchasing.

I must imagine (I'm sure at SoC's protest) that Fuji Heavy Industries made a smart marketing move to allow US dealers to sell to Canadians and appeased Subaru Canada with all the extra maintenance, warranty and service they'll be getting through their doors. It's a win-win for Subaru and the consumer.

There is a notation that Subaru Canada has on their website about buying US vehicles and warranty coverage. I suspect they were told to put it there by Fuji.

http://subaru.ca/FAQDetail02.asp?ArticleID=3939&OwnerID=&WebPageID=6483&WebSiteID=282&Category=

[jmlleung]

Yes, Bro in law went to Seattle and brought back the car, which belongs to my wife. No problems. Note we and the dealer made sure the US border had his details in advance (they dont like surprises), and we armed him with letter explaining what he was doing (wasnt needed, but you never know). On the Canadian side, no-one cared as long as the taxes and fees were gettin paid.
Hi teep,

How about auto insurance? Does your brother in law buy insurance to drive back? How does it work? Thanks.

[scouzi]

i had a blast in my tribeca! :cheesygri hey... did anyone else's TPMS light go on? Mine's been on since yesterday... guess it's the drop in temperature...

The Tirbeca's TPMS light is useless. It doesn't indicate which tire has the problem. I didn't put any on the wheels I ordered for Tirerack.

What kind of Winter tires are you using?

I have the Pirelli Scorpions and so far so good!

[yjokd]

The Tirbeca's TPMS light is useless. It doesn't indicate which tire has the problem. I didn't put any on the wheels I ordered for Tirerack.

What kind of Winter tires are you using?

I have the Pirelli Scorpions and so far so good!


Did you buy an extra set of Wheels to go with the Pirelli Scorpions?

I have a 2008 Subaru Tribeca for Karl and looking for Wheels from tirerack.com
Do we need 55mm offsets?

yjokd

[scouzi]

Did you buy an extra set of Wheels to go with the Pirelli Scorpions?

I have a 2008 Subaru Tribeca for Karl and looking for Wheels from tirerack.com
Do we need 55mm offsets?

yjokd


Yes I did. I bought these: I have a 2007 Tribeca. They're on and they fit.

There are no more Scorpions in stock at Tirerack.

http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/WheelCloseUpServlet?target=runWheelSearch&autoMake=Subaru&autoModel=B9+Tribeca+Limited&autoYear=2007&autoModClar=&initialPartNumber=ST4880425114SML&i1_Qty=4&wheelMake=Sport+Edition&wheelModel=ST4&wheelFinish=Silver+w%2FMachined+Lip&showRear=no

I might keep them for my summer wheels!

[yjokd]

Yes I did. I bought these: I have a 2007 Tribeca. They're on and they fit.

There are no more Scorpions in stock at Tirerack.

http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/WheelCloseUpServlet?target=runWheelSearch&autoMake=Subaru&autoModel=B9+Tribeca+Limited&autoYear=2007&autoModClar=&initialPartNumber=ST4880425114SML&i1_Qty=4&wheelMake=Sport+Edition&wheelModel=ST4&wheelFinish=Silver+w%2FMachined+Lip&showRear=no

I might keep them for my summer wheels!


Nice looking Wheels!! Did you have any problems with offset numbers on your 07 Tribeca? e.g. 42mm vs 55mm etc.

[scouzi]

Nice looking Wheels!! Did you have any problems with offset numbers on your 07 Tribeca? e.g. 42mm vs 55mm etc.

I don't know. What kind of problems could I expect? There's clearance for everything and I feel no difference in the handling.

[paul_lee]

Hey!

For thosewho are like me and have readed this entire thread, some of you might remember my windshield crack history (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5796405&postcount=6755). Well...This week, about one week and a half after sending my repair invoice, I received my reimbursment from SoA. I even got a bonus because CAD dollar has gone down since the repair. So basically, ive paid 1001$CAD and this week ive got a 1071$US cheque! Converted to CAD it give about 1060$CAD. So SoA is giving me about 60$....MORE SAVING!!!!

To sum it up, SoA warranty coverage is actually valid and pretty fast for reimbursement AFAIK.

Cheers

Feel sorry that you had to replace the windshield.

It is nice to hear that SoA is doing their part to serve the cross border customers.

Thanks for sharing the information. Good luck with the car.

[Wiesel]

Hey everyone, I don't post often but wanted to share that I am now among the ranks of those who successfully imported a car thanks to the info in this thread, the Motor Vehicle thread and carburner.com.

I don't have any pictures downloaded from my camera yet, but it's a new 2008 G35 Sport 6mt in silver! :cheesygri The total savings were just a tick over $14k... and if the dollar held up from when I decided the purchase, it could have been even greater! ;)

In a nutshell, the process was very straightforward if you were prepared. The one thing I found that sped it up was to drop by RIV on the way back to pick up my Form2. It took only 10 minutes, and I was having it inspected at Canadian Tire within the hour. I couldn't seem to get through the phone to ask them to e-mail it to me, but that would speed it up as well. After picking up the car in the morning from Williamsville, it was sitting in my driveway plated and done by 3pm! If anyone has any specific questions, post them up and I'll try my best to answer them.

I purchased the car from Autoplace Infiniti, and if you are interested in picking up an Infiniti or Nissan, I would highly recommend giving Roxanne a shout:

Roxanne Caleca - roxanne1autoplace@gmail.com
716-633-9900

She is very friendly and responsive to your questions and had a nicely streamlined process for the purchase and export/import paperwork. Definitely a great dealership experience for me!

Next step... get some winter tires!

Rob

[ziploc]

Hey!

For thosewho are like me and have readed this entire thread, some of you might remember my windshield crack history (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5796405&postcount=6755). Well...This week, about one week and a half after sending my repair invoice, I received my reimbursment from SoA. I even got a bonus because CAD dollar has gone down since the repair. So basically, ive paid 1001$CAD and this week ive got a 1071$US cheque! Converted to CAD it give about 1060$CAD. So SoA is giving me about 60$....MORE SAVING!!!!

To sum it up, SoA warranty coverage is actually valid and pretty fast for reimbursement AFAIK.

Cheers

Good news

And it's good to know that Subaru USA keep their part of agreement
They are the rare who respects free trade and Canadian customers....

[Zenfe]

I'm importing a 2008 Impreza this week and I just found out the the Impreza has been added to the inadmissible list if it was manufactured after Sept 1st, 2007. Lucky for me mine was manufactured in august.

Taken from TC website:

ADMISSIBLE
1992 TO 1996 Justy
1992 TO 1996 Legacy
1992 TO 1994 Loyale
1992 TO 1996 SVX
1993 TO 1996 Impreza
1999 Impreza RS (2DR)**
2000 AND 2001 Impreza RS (2 & 4 doors)**
2008 Legacy
2008 Outback
2008 Tribeca
1997 TO 2008 All other models except those listed in the inadmissible column.

INADMISSIBLE
1992 TO 1996 All other Subaru passenger car models are inadmissible
2007 AND 2008 Forester 2.5X built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Forester Sports 2.5X built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Forester 2.5X with premium package built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Forester 2.5X L.L. Bean built after September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 Impreza built AFTER September 1st, 2007
2007 AND 2008 STI built AFTER September 1st, 2007

[agepag]

Thats absolute bullsh*t!!!! I was getting ready to go and buy the 2008 STI since its $10,000 less in the US I hope they come up with some retrofit imobilizer kit. Just another way the Canadian Government screws the little people, man you can never get ahead in this counrty!

[shoprbccom]

CAN YOU GUYS PLEASE EMAIL THIS "JOURNALIST" AND ASK HER TO STOP SPEWING NON-SENSE?

"For another thing, while the differential for high-end luxury cars remains considerable, in the compact car segment the gap has declined - according to auto industry analyst Denis Desrosiers - to just a few hundred dollars."

"To save that amount, however, there are quite a few hassles and hurdles to confront."

"By no means the least of these are warranty issues. In many cases, the modifications required to comply with Canadian environmental standards means the manufacturer's warranty is void and the purchaser needs to pony up for an after-market warranty. That in turn, can limit the number of places where service can be performed."

"When it comes to re-sale, there can also be complications because it's easiest to sell a Canadian car back into the Canadian market. If you plan to re-sell in the U.S. market, there's the cost and complication of undoing the previous modifications."

http://www.importcarcanada.com/main/index.php?topic=172.0


jesus.. how are these people still putting out the same garbage as 2 months ago!

[inkognito81]

Thats absolute bullsh*t!!!! I was getting ready to go and buy the 2008 STI since its $10,000 less in the US I hope they come up with some retrofit imobilizer kit. Just another way the Canadian Government screws the little people, man you can never get ahead in this counrty!

I feel your pain. I was gonna pick up my Impreza probably next week. The dealer is just wating for the papers from Subaru (van bortel). But now, it's a no go...

the Impreza is inadmissible because its immobilizer system does not meet the Canadian requirement. I'm trying to find out what part of the immobilizer does not meet the requirement, but it seems like you have to purchase the actual requirements document from ULC.

What a mess!

[shoprbccom]

UPDATE: BMW CANADA SCREWS OVER CANADIANS AGAIAN!!

This is taken right from http://www.ucanimport.blogspot.com/

"Dear Readers:

In an effort to make it even more costly to import a BMW from the US, BMW has issued an edict to its dealers NOT to print off an Internal Dealer Printout, which until now was a suitable and acceptable alternative to a Recall Clearance Letter.

Here is how the Recall Clearance Process will work when you contact BMW or the US Dealer:

Submitted by UCanImport Subscriber:

All North American BMW dealers have been notified that they can not release printouts of vehicle history reports to owners. Even the computer systems used by the dealers in the USA and Canada have been modified to flash a large warning in RED to this effect when a dealer pulls up a internal dealer history report for printing. RIV told me I could go this route instead of a recall letter, but BMW must have caught on.

BMW for whatever reason has instigated a new policy effective Nov. 26, 2007. Not only do they now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter, but as of the 26th, they require $350 for a letter of admissibility, before they will do a recall letter, and as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing compared to the Toyota that I brought in a few months ago. If you want to contact BMW Canada, they will confirm all of this.
--------------------
There you go folks, Free Trade has just become a little bit more expensive and time-consuming!"


Anyone can confirm this? If this is true I'm never gonan buy anythign from BMW Canada.
Might be cheaper to import a BMW from Overseas, Free Trade My A$$.


Wow.. this is insane.. i knew this was coming.. watch for more funny business from all our favorite manuf.. coming soon.

Does the above apply to a used vehicle as well?

[nornet]

i had a blast in my tribeca! :cheesygri hey... did anyone else's TPMS light go on? Mine's been on since yesterday... guess it's the drop in temperature...

Mine did as well. 25 psi all around. Light was on when car was stationary. I thought it was supposed to come on when you were travelling over 20 mph and the pressure was less than 20 psi.

[netdog999]

To ALL:

Robert Lamb and possibly a few others will be interviewed on the popular radio talk show the Roy Green show at 2:00pm (est) today which will be broadcast nationwide on your local station. He will be touching on many important points regarding the immobilizer issue and frequent changes to the admissibility list that have left many of us stuck with cars without borders. Here are some of the local stations you can listen in on:

940 AM in Montreal
Cfpl 980 London
Sask 650 Saskachewan
CHQR Calgary QR77
Chad ed 630
CJME rejina
CjOB win
CKNW Vancouver

If you cannot find a local station to listen in on then you can listen in LIVE on the station's web site at http://www.940news.com/sch_Saturday.php. There is a button near the top left of the page labbelled "RADIO Listen LIVE".

Please listen in and if at all possible call in and lend your support.

To Robert, Serge and the gang, thanks for all of you r hard efforts.

netdog

[J233]

Hey everyone, I don't post often but wanted to share that I am now among the ranks of those who successfully imported a car thanks to the info in this thread, the Motor Vehicle thread and carburner.com.

I don't have any pictures downloaded from my camera yet, but it's a new 2008 G35 Sport 6mt in silver! :cheesygri The total savings were just a tick over $14k... and if the dollar held up from when I decided the purchase, it could have been even greater! ;)

In a nutshell, the process was very straightforward if you were prepared. The one thing I found that sped it up was to drop by RIV on the way back to pick up my Form2. It took only 10 minutes, and I was having it inspected at Canadian Tire within the hour. I couldn't seem to get through the phone to ask them to e-mail it to me, but that would speed it up as well. After picking up the car in the morning from Williamsville, it was sitting in my driveway plated and done by 3pm! If anyone has any specific questions, post them up and I'll try my best to answer them.

I purchased the car from Autoplace Infiniti, and if you are interested in picking up an Infiniti or Nissan, I would highly recommend giving Roxanne a shout:

Roxanne Caleca - roxanne1autoplace@gmail.com
716-633-9900

She is very friendly and responsive to your questions and had a nicely streamlined process for the purchase and export/import paperwork. Definitely a great dealership experience for me!

Next step... get some winter tires!

Rob

Congratulations ! I absolutely agree that it is very important to feel comfortable with the dealer you are dealing with as it is all "long distance" and not a routine sale for them.

[lilmikey]

Wow.. this is insane.. i knew this was coming.. watch for more funny business from all our favorite manuf.. coming soon.

Does the above apply to a used vehicle as well?

Of course, you need a recall letter from them to show RIV there are no outstanding recalls on the car to be able to register it.

[fulrach]

Mine did as well. 25 psi all around. Light was on when car was stationary. I thought it was supposed to come on when you were travelling over 20 mph and the pressure was less than 20 psi.

hmmm... not sure... i haven't put any more air in yet... waiting for it to get a bit less 'wet' outside before i go do it...

[Wiesel]

Congratulations ! I absolutely agree that it is very important to feel comfortable with the dealer you are dealing with as it is all "long distance" and not a routine sale for them.


Thanks! Absolutely! There was always a little bit of nervousness on my end about buying a car sight unseen, from a dealership I've never visited... never mind wiring such a large amount of money...! :lol: However, it worked out great in the end and hopefully others can benefit from my experience knowing the dealership was a good one.

[bluemule999]

Excellent news. Thanks for the update!!!

Hey!

For thosewho are like me and have readed this entire thread, some of you might remember my windshield crack history (http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5796405&postcount=6755). Well...This week, about one week and a half after sending my repair invoice, I received my reimbursment from SoA. I even got a bonus because CAD dollar has gone down since the repair. So basically, ive paid 1001$CAD and this week ive got a 1071$US cheque! Converted to CAD it give about 1060$CAD. So SoA is giving me about 60$....MORE SAVING!!!!

To sum it up, SoA warranty coverage is actually valid and pretty fast for reimbursement AFAIK.

Cheers

[faston]

Hey everyone, I don't post often but wanted to share that I am now among the ranks of those who successfully imported a car thanks to the info in this thread, the Motor Vehicle thread and carburner.com.

I don't have any pictures downloaded from my camera yet, but it's a new 2008 G35 Sport 6mt in silver! :cheesygri The total savings were just a tick over $14k... and if the dollar held up from when I decided the purchase, it could have been even greater! ;)

In a nutshell, the process was very straightforward if you were prepared. The one thing I found that sped it up was to drop by RIV on the way back to pick up my Form2. It took only 10 minutes, and I was having it inspected at Canadian Tire within the hour. I couldn't seem to get through the phone to ask them to e-mail it to me, but that would speed it up as well. After picking up the car in the morning from Williamsville, it was sitting in my driveway plated and done by 3pm! If anyone has any specific questions, post them up and I'll try my best to answer them.

I purchased the car from Autoplace Infiniti, and if you are interested in picking up an Infiniti or Nissan, I would highly recommend giving Roxanne a shout:

Roxanne Caleca - roxanne1autoplace@gmail.com
716-633-9900

She is very friendly and responsive to your questions and had a nicely streamlined process for the purchase and export/import paperwork. Definitely a great dealership experience for me!

Next step... get some winter tires!

Rob

Congrats! That's the exact same car that I will be looking at (when my BMW lease runs out in about 3 months). The Infiniti doesn't come with DRL. How did you deal with that?

ps: the tip on going to the RIV office only applies to those who are local to Toronto. No offices elsewhere.

[Lost Horizon]

Congrats! That's the exact same car that I will be looking at (when my BMW lease runs out in about 3 months). The Infiniti doesn't come with DRL. How did you deal with that?

ps: the tip on going to the RIV office only applies to those who are local to Toronto. No offices elsewhere.

Ah yes.. I remember it all.. Toronto... center of the Canadian Universe.. for stock markets, banking HQ's, and early morning callbacks to the west coast.. and now, RIV :|

[h2000]

wow..no more impreza's huh?? i just finished getting mine registered two days ago! lucky i made it...i ended up saving 6000 grand however the model i purchased i included the nav system which was a 3500 usd option..i should check the manufacture date...can't believe canadian's keep getting screwed over with this bs!!!

[yjokd]

I don't know. What kind of problems could I expect? There's clearance for everything and I feel no difference in the handling.

I guess it doesn't make a difference then. :)

[Wiesel]

Congrats! That's the exact same car that I will be looking at (when my BMW lease runs out in about 3 months). The Infiniti doesn't come with DRL. How did you deal with that?

ps: the tip on going to the RIV office only applies to those who are local to Toronto. No offices elsewhere.

Hi Faston, thanks! Definitely enjoying the car... I think it's definitely tough to beat in terms of value/money. The dealership took care of the daytime running lights for me, so it was already completed when I picked the car up. If you can, take care of it in the US. It is normally $150 to do there, and someone on a forum mentioned dealers up here were asking $450!

Ouch about the RIV office... didn't realize there is just the *one* for the whole country?!

[Yoel]

Any one imported Ford Edge, can you please tell me where did you buy it?
Thx

[younghelio]

Ambassardor Bridge Canada custom does not handle RIV payment. So I paid online by credit card. I just scaned Recall Clearance Letter into PDF and sent by email to recall@riv.ca.

Is that all I need to do and I can just wait for form 2?

Thanks.

[newatthis]

went to a couple of Mazda dealers today, the places are so dead, i couldn't believe it was saturday adternoon, even the sales guys admitted business is slow now.

[inspire]

Ambassardor Bridge Canada custom do not handle RIV payment. So I paid online by credit card. I just scan Recall Clearance Letter into PDF and send by email to recall@riv.ca.

Really? This policy must have changed since last December. It also depends on the officer if / if not they want to collect it for RIV. Thanks for the heads up. Gonna import a 2008 Acura TL with my friend so that'll be something that's good to know for this upcoming week.

[eastsidesubaru]

So SoA actually did the cash conversion too. That's amazing. I would have expected that you get a cheque for $1001US because you know that's what would have happened if it was the other way around.

It's unfortunate that your windshield needed replacing but comforting to everyone to know that Subaru does honour cross-border purchasing.

I must imagine (I'm sure at SoC's protest) that Fuji Heavy Industries made a smart marketing move to allow US dealers to sell to Canadians and appeased Subaru Canada with all the extra maintenance, warranty and service they'll be getting through their doors. It's a win-win for Subaru and the consumer.

There is a notation that Subaru Canada has on their website about buying US vehicles and warranty coverage. I suspect they were told to put it there by Fuji.

http://subaru.ca/FAQDetail02.asp?ArticleID=3939&OwnerID=&WebPageID=6483&WebSiteID=282&Category=


So much for that :|
No more Foresters or Imprezas... (unless built before sept 1, and with the turnaround rate on them, there are not that many left that were built before sept 1.. I've had to go looking.)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee181/08LEGACYGT/scan002.jpg?t=1195776223
"Please revise your list as soon as possible" and the "We don't like retrofit immobilzers" does not sound so friendly to me from Subaru Canada towards importers but eh what are you gonna do :cheesygri Makes no sense to me though since as far as I know, the Immobilizer on the 08 imprezas in the US is exactly the same as the immobilizer in the 08 impreza in Canada.
Also, how is an immobilizer a safety feature?
Seems like a convenient loophole all the manufacturers have found... Bravo, bravo.

[GooseMan]

^^^ Yup! :rolleyes: I'd like to see some proof that Subaru manufactures two different kinds of immobilizers for US and Canadian cars. Thats complete and utter bullcrap! It is obviously just a ploy from Subaru to discourage imports into Canada. Subaru tells Transport Canada that the immobilizers dont comply, and Transport Canada says "OK!" pffffffffffffftttt....have they even done tests?

I have already imported my Subaru last year, when the dollar was around $0.80, and I still saved $10K. I'm not looking to import another one for a while (happy with my WRX!), but this whole situation pisses me off to no end. It's just so blatantly obvious what theyre doing here, and that our own friggin government isnt doing anything about it. :mad:

[toolman]

Really? This policy must have changed since last December. It also depends on the officer if / if not they want to collect it for RIV. Thanks for the heads up. Gonna import a 2008 Acura TL with my friend so that'll be something that's good to know for this upcoming week.

It was the same for me when I came in 3 weeks ago. I drove straight to RIV paid the fee and got my form one. Went to CT got form 2 and registred next day.

[ziploc]

So much for that :|
No more Foresters or Imprezas... (unless built before sept 1, and with the turnaround rate on them, there are not that many left that were built before sept 1.. I've had to go looking.)

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee181/08LEGACYGT/scan002.jpg?t=1195776223
"Please revise your list as soon as possible" and the "We don't like retrofit immobilzers" does not sound so friendly to me from Subaru Canada towards importers but eh what are you gonna do :cheesygri Makes no sense to me though since as far as I know, the Immobilizer on the 08 imprezas in the US is exactly the same as the immobilizer in the 08 impreza in Canada.
Also, how is an immobilizer a safety feature?
Seems like a convenient loophole all the manufacturers have found... Bravo, bravo.

S*****rs.....

And for Your question, immobilizer is a safety measure that will prevent ''joy riding'' and theft which sometimes ends up in a police pursuit and accident...

that's it for a safety reason....

As for the immobilizer compliance I'm pretty sure that You're right.....Canada Insurance Bureau have a list of vehicles that meet the immobilizer standard and it's not the same a s RIVs......
But there again, Transport Canada doesn't care about that they just have to ensure that vehicles on the road meet specific norms.....and if manufacturers say no...it's no...they will pass to another one.....

[Monsieurmaggot]

Also, how is an immobilizer a safety feature?
Seems like a convenient loophole all the manufacturers have found... Bravo, bravo.

That's a good statement. Why on earth is Transport Canada concerned about an immobilizing system unless they're getting some kickback from the Insurance and automotive sector.

Transport Canada shouldn't be involved in security issues. Realistically, that's something an insurance company should insist on.

I'm not surprised that Subaru or any manufacturer would say that they don't endorse third-party units. I wouldn't either. The manufacturer of the immobilizer should ensure that they're unit is properly tested so it does not interfere with the automobile's electrical system.

Realistically, there's no reason why someone couldn't buy an immobilizer from the manufacturer directly. The parts are available. But now that I say that, they'll be monitoring the sale of those units I'm sure.

Isn't the Impreza and STI their #1 selling vehicle? All the young guys seem to be driving them. You know that's their gravy. The profit margin on those vehicles must be astronomical.

Canada Insurance Bureau have a list of vehicles that meet the immobilizer standard and it's not the same a s RIVs......

Interesting site. I never thought about looking there. I found this on the IBC.ca site:

http://www.ibc.ca/en/Insurance_Crime/Prevention_Investigation/Immobilizers/Immobilizers_List.asp

Also, the Top Ten Stolen Vehicles are:

1. 2000 Honda Civic SiR 2-door
2. 1999 Honda Civic SiR 2-door
3. 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi 4-door AWD
4. 1999 Acura Integra 2-door
5. 1994 Honda Civic Si 2-door Hatchback
6. 1998 Acura Integra 2-door
7. 1993 Dodge Shadow Convertible
8. 1996 Honda Civic Si 2-door Hatchback
9. 2000 Audi TT Quattro 2-door Coupe
10. 1996 Chev/GMC Blazer/Jimmy S Series 2-door 4WD

[Snocow]

Phone campaign???

Dennis McWilliams
Manager
Warranty and Government Affairs
Subaru Canada
(905)-568-4959 ext 282

Please leave your name and number...ask for specific detail as to how it does not meet the standard. Show us the evidence!

[Snocow]

email sent...


From: XXXX XXXXX
To: webfeedback@tc.gc.ca
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2007 9:28 AM
Subject: Canadian Auto Manufacturers operating Transport Canada on behalf of Canadians????


Good Morning;
As a interested party looking to import a new 2008 vehicle from the USA I have been monitoring the list of vehicles deemed admissible into Canada.

It appears that our Canadian Government and your agency has given complete control of this list to the Canadian Automobile Manufacturers and they are increasingly using that list to thwart people like me who are looking save $$$ on my new vehicle purchase south of the border.

I see now that Subaru Canada has now sent you guys a new update 21 Nov 2007 making a number of popular 2008 Subaru models now inadmissible and claiming that the immobilizers DO NOT comply with CMVSS 114.

I may be a dumb Canadian taxpayer but this begs the question....DO YOU GUYS REQUIRE THAT THEY SUPPORT THEIR CLAIM IN ANY WAY....where is the evidence?
With the amount of updates being made to the RIV list, do you not question what is going on here.....do you not question why you are getting these updates so late after 01 Sept 2007????
What does the immobilizer have to do with the safe operation of a vehicle???

Right now I am sitting here wondering if you guys really comprehend how incompetent you look in the eyes of the Canadian public...what are you doing to challenge this in order to lend credibility to your department. I want to know!

I am have serious trouble understanding what is going on here.....I feel there needs to be a full public inquiry into the operations of Transport Canada as it pertains to the operation of the RIV List.


Name and Address here

[BeeBee]

:arrowu: :arrowu: :arrowu:
Copied, pasted and sent!! :twisted: :twisted:

[Monsieurmaggot]

Here is a list of US media outlets to contact regarding the Canadian Automotive sectors' attempt to stop free trade.

If you play up the "foreigners taking jobs away from hard working Americans" or "with the US economy doing so badly, US dealers are prohibited to sell their wares to Canadians." "Canadian automobile dealers do not abide by the free trade agreement and prohibit US manufacturers to sell to Canada". "Canadian manufacturer opposes US competition and free trade"

Another campaign would be to send notes to congressmen in the automotive states and those along the border. Once a US congressman or senator brings it up, it will take on a life of it's own. The Canadian government (the 51st State) will do whatever "Gee Dubya" says.

All you need is one major news source to carry the story and the rest will follow up. Since most news organizations subscribe to AP and Bloomberg. You should focus your emails to them. Also, send an email to all the news reporters or shows within a particular organization.

It will take you a few minutes to write a note. Then simply copy and paste it to everyone.

Here's what mine started with:

Good day;

I am writing this note to you in hope that you can bring some information to light about an illegal sales tactic which is crippling the economy, could cost hard working Americans their jobs and an estimated loss of $500,000,000 (conservatively) in annual sales.

This relates to foreign companies who are blatantly violating the Sherman act and the free trade agreement. These companies don't agree in competition and circumvent the NAFTA rules to keep out American businesses.

A $2 Billion dollar lawsuit has been filed to stop this illlegal activity but until the matter is heard in court, they continue to rip off tens of thousands of people. Car dealers have agreements in place and are ready to deliver their products to foreign markets but are stopped by foreigners who don't think Americans should be selling their lower-priced products outside the US market.


Send your comments to them and any local TV or newspaper in your area:

Bloomberg News:
http://about.bloomberg.com/contactus/newsbureau.html


Associated Press
http://www.ap.org/pages/contact/contact.html


Fox
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,77538,00.html


CBS
http://www.cbsnews.com/


NBC/MSNBC
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10285339/


ABC
http://abcnews.go.com/Site/page?id=3068843


CNN
http://www.cnn.com/feedback/


Time Magazine
http://www.time.com/time/contactus/


New York Times
http://nytimes.com/ref/membercenter/help/infoservdirectory.html

[DSTU]

Hmmmm

Impreza 2008 WRX -

Subaru.com

Antitheft security system
Engine immobilizer

Subaru.ca

Security: Anti-theft system
Security: Engine immobilizer system


Same damn vehicle

[Raikkonen]

addendum:

Thanks....as suggested by several of you...have started a new thread....come on people, let's have a fun little get together, meet, greet, see some nice vehicles.....carry a few signs....lol, and be on TV!

linky

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/s...59#post5988859


Who's Up For This ??

Here's A Chance to Actually Do Something..... Sat. Dec 8, approx. 11am to 2+pm

We should organize a media-covered protest/informaton session.

Well organized, a couple hundred peaceful Canadians carrying signs/pancartes.


Inform the media, and let them provide our free advertising to effectively get the word out to Canadians.

Saturday morning and afternoon, two hundred RFDers and their friends...will make cross-country news, guaranteed.

Effective, professionally done signs, clear polite messages, we can make a difference.

Oakville Honda would be a good choice....

Over the weekend, I will PM some of the major players here and ask for their input.


Let's aim for Saturday in 2 or 3 weeks...to give us some time.


I have read many passionate posts expressing our collective disgust/disappointment. Time to be un-Canadian and take action. Workers of the world unite....lol...we will be heard. I am in for $40 towards well done signs...hey we can use them again at a second dealership. Ona weekend, not much point going to Honda Canada or Toyota Canada, as offices will be closed. But on a weekend, on the sidewalk outside a dealership....I also think (imho) a small contribution from the U.S. Subaru dealers may be appropriate....we want to look like a force to be reckoned with when we are televised...and believe me, we will be

Last wekI previously posted on Page 610...

We really need to organize an "information session" outside of a chosen dealership or Honda Canada. A chance to get together, meet, greet, see some nice purchases, educate, and draw attention to what a million threadviewers have embraced as a very serious issue.

[GregGH]

Found this message board with a very large thread with this one ...

http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/WebX/.ef18c13/20

It was started in 2005 --check it out --- see more of 'us' with same issues.

Wonder how many more there are out there .... I will post a similar message there as well ...

Any protests could use more voices ...

Great thread ( ummm ... could this ever be split ? ummm ... could we get our own folder just for importing vehicles ?? )

Greg

ps - still lots of data missing in www.carburner.com -- come one guys ( and gals) register and share your knowledge .. especially for things like manufactures warranty - or lack thereof

http://www.carburner.com/index.php?title=Warranty_Information

[03terminator]

Well after some digging through The Canada Gazette, it seems that this entire situation was unforeseen by the Ministry of Transport and at the time of consultation the auto industry was not in favour of a unique CMVSS114 vs FMVSS114. When the CMVSS114 was developed the Can/US price difference was not an issue. However, the OEM have now exploited the unique CMVSS114 standard with the help of Transport Canada. The following excerpt from Canada Gazette.

http://canadagazette.gc.ca/partII/20...l/sor45-e.html

"The Department also considered the question of mandating the marking of parts, which would have harmonized Canada's requirements with those of the U.S. However, it concluded that this option would have done little to improve road safety in Canada. While the Department is concerned about reducing vehicle theft that results in property damage, the more important road safety issue relates to motor vehicle thefts committed by youth. The Department has concluded that this amendment would address this road safety issue more effectively."

It appears that a label is at least one (or only) difference.
The key is the difference between CMVSS114 and FMVSS114. Transport Canada is the cause of this mess and all complaints should be directed at them. They thought that a separate immobilizer standard would have little impact at a time when the US/Canadian prices were close. Well, the facts have changed and this is a clear case of unintended consequences.

Transport Canada should either:

Accept the US FMVSS114 or

Allow modifications to comply with CMVSS114.

However, government bureaucracies are notorious for sticking to bad policy.


We should contact the Minister of Transport Canada and demand documentation for the difference between CMVSS114 and FMVSS114. Also we need to demand that the issue be reopened and reassessed. The Canadian Consumer is being ripped off by bad policy. CMVSS114 has unintentionally created a non tariff trade barrier for the OEMs to exploit.

Remember, these people work for us.



The Honourable Lawrence Cannon
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
Tower C - 330 Sparks St.
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
K1A 0N5
Telephone:

613-991-0700
Fax:

613-995-0327
E-mail:

mintc@tc.gc.ca






http://www.tc.gc.ca/aboutus/menu.htm



* Phone: 613-990-2309
* TTY:1-888-675-6863
* Fax: 613-954-4731 / 613-998-8620
* Mailing Address:
Transport Canada
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0N5

[ziploc]

For who did it already..

does SAAQ requires an additional inspection (for new cars)on the top of the RIV one ??

Thx

[propofol]

I really like the idea of peacefully picketing dealerships. That'll make people *really* nervous, and should get head office's attention.

I also support (and have emailed) pushing the American news organizations to cover this story from the "hurting American economy" vantage point - great idea!

[eipod]

For who did it already..

does SAAQ requires an additional inspection (for new cars)on the top of the RIV one ??

Thx

No they do not. Some Canadian Tire stores are telling those who come in for for The RIV inspection that SAAQ requires a provincial inspection..but that is not so for a new car. I just got my plates for a new Lexus RX350 and all I had to show them was :
Form 1 stamped by Cdn Tire with the RIV stamp (they did not want Form 2)
the paper from Customs showing purchase price in Cdn funds and amount of GST paid so they can calculate the QST
the original title ( MCO ) which they keep
proof of insurance
my driver's license
and for some strange reason..my contract from the dealership.

[rob3blk]

email sent...


From: XXXX XXXXX
To: webfeedback@tc.gc.ca
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2007 9:28 AM
Subject: Canadian Auto Manufacturers operating Transport Canada on behalf of Canadians????


Good Morning;
As a interested party looking to import a new 2008 vehicle from the USA I have been monitoring the list of vehicles deemed admissible into Canada.

It appears that our Canadian Government and your agency has given complete control of this list to the Canadian Automobile Manufacturers and they are increasingly using that list to thwart people like me who are looking save $$$ on my new vehicle purchase south of the border.

I see now that Subaru Canada has now sent you guys a new update 21 Nov 2007 making a number of popular 2008 Subaru models now inadmissible and claiming that the immobilizers DO NOT comply with CMVSS 114.

I may be a dumb Canadian taxpayer but this begs the question....DO YOU GUYS REQUIRE THAT THEY SUPPORT THEIR CLAIM IN ANY WAY....where is the evidence?
With the amount of updates being made to the RIV list, do you not question what is going on here.....do you not question why you are getting these updates so late after 01 Sept 2007????
What does the immobilizer have to do with the safe operation of a vehicle???

Right now I am sitting here wondering if you guys really comprehend how incompetent you look in the eyes of the Canadian public...what are you doing to challenge this in order to lend credibility to your department. I want to know!

I am have serious trouble understanding what is going on here.....I feel there needs to be a full public inquiry into the operations of Transport Canada as it pertains to the operation of the RIV List.


Name and Address here

just edited and sent

[Honda-sucks]

If there is a protest COUNT ME IN !!!!

[Snocow]

I'm up for a peaceful protest too...when and where?

I also like the idea of a full page ad in the Toronto Star Saturday Wheels section...I would be willing to contribute some $$$

[03terminator]

We must put pressure on Transport Canada first. They created the situation that allowed the OEM's a loophole. Transport Canada created the immobilizer standard to help save the approximately 27 Canadian lives per year taken by stolen vehicle crashes. Noble cause, but they did not foresee the unintended consequences. The answer is to harmonize the immobilizer standard with the US immobilizer standard. This will force OEM's to price cars competitively in Canada. By instituting a unique Canadian standard, Transport Canada has ensured that Canadians will pay 20%-40% more for vehicles than they need to. If TC accepts the US FMVSS114 immobilizer standard, all is well. The 27 Canadians will be safe and prices will be competitive.

[Lost Horizon]

We must put pressure on Transport Canada first. They created the situation that allowed the OEM's a loophole. Transport Canada created the immobilizer standard to help save the approximately 27 Canadian lives per year taken by stolen vehicle crashes. Noble cause, but they did not foresee the unintended consequences. The answer is to harmonize the immobilizer standard with the US immobilizer standard. This will force OEM's to price cars competitively in Canada. By instituting a unique Canadian standard, Transport Canada has ensured that Canadians will pay 20%-40% more for vehicles than they need to. If TC accepts the US FMVSS114 immobilizer standard, all is well. The 27 Canadians will be safe and prices will be competitive.

+1 .. Pay attention, kiddies.. That is the essence of the real argument, and placed at the correct door. Because it can be made a political issue, it's the correct pressure point. It's absolutely arrogant for the Canadian bureaucratic functionnaire to think they know more and better than the americans on an issue related to car thefts. But so Canadian, eh? Why the hell would you not harmonize something like an immobilizer system, other than to force the manufacturers to design and build a second version for a niche market like canada, knowing full well you will be driving up the costs to our citizens for no added protection or value?

You need to ferret out the bureaucrats in suits that pushed this.. I'm sure there are those on this thread who know who they might be, and the associated political votes that were supposed to provide the oversight for their citizens.. go get 'em, and shine the bright lights on the scurrying cockroaches to "immobilize" them .. but, I digress.. :cheesygri

[BeeBee]

I am interested in a peaceful protest. We can also make it a get together for those of us that imported a car from the US... :lol: Fill up the street with imported car.

[tico 1948]

This may be rather sacreligeous to us new vehicle owners, but what about a clear window banner stating that "I bought this vehicle in the USA and saved $$$, YOU CAN TOO!! Log onto RED FLAG DEALS, Auto-WOW---New cars from US 30% cheaper (cost to import..etc,etc.)" IMHO that would get a lot of people's attention. I'm going to do it! Just think, if you saw something that cought your eye in someone's window, wouldn't you be tempted to read it? A sidebar to this post, I returned my Lease Expired F-150 Lariat yesterday back to Taylor Ford in Moncton, N.B. There were a few people there making deals (I assume) on new vehicles. It was everything I could do to keep my mouth shut and not shout out loud:"BAAAAA BAAAA, you're getting FLEECED!!!! :lol: Look outside and see my new vehicle that I saved over $15,000 on from buying in the USA.":twisted: I'm sure the salesmen would have ganged up on me over that one.:eek: I'm certain that I would have at least been politely (NOT) asked to leave. I also agree that the amount of bogus newspaper articles stating that US purchases are not worthwhile are becoming just a bit much. It's like the old adage that " If you tell a lie often enough, people then begin to believe it's the truth.":evil:

[LoveRFD]

Let's see who can get the 10,000th post.;)

[badkarma]

The Official Government Transcript of the Q&A with Lawrence Cannon has been posted on Cars Without Borders (http://www.carswithoutborders.com) (click on Lawrence Cannon Transcript on the menu bar)

Anyone that has been caught in Transport Canada's constant rule changing should register their case on the site. They are trying to organize all of us in this stupid mess. Cannon goes on record to say they will try to "correct the issue", but of course coming from a politician that doesn't mean alot, especially when people are receiving export letters.

[st7860]

someone should spring for the $10 required for a domain name just for this thread. lol.

[fred foreskin]

Has anybody imported a Ford Edge or Explorer? Can you tell me what you had to do if anythimg to import. Thanks

[dsds]

Is this the 10,000th post ? :cheesygri

[ziploc]

No they do not. Some Canadian Tire stores are telling those who come in for for The RIV inspection that SAAQ requires a provincial inspection..but that is not so for a new car. I just got my plates for a new Lexus RX350 and all I had to show them was :
Form 1 stamped by Cdn Tire with the RIV stamp (they did not want Form 2)
the paper from Customs showing purchase price in Cdn funds and amount of GST paid so they can calculate the QST
the original title ( MCO ) which they keep
proof of insurance
my driver's license
and for some strange reason..my contract from the dealership.

Thank You....

Contract probably to double check the price...

And congrats for Your car

[accorder]

read here and it might answer most your questions,
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showpost.php?p=5481021

Has anybody imported a Ford Edge or Explorer? Can you tell me what you had to do if anythimg to import. Thanks

[fulrach]

Who's Up For This ??

Here's A Chance to Actually Do Something..... Sat. Dec 8, approx. 11am to 2+pm

I'm game... will show up with my imported tribeca :) I'll throw in some cash too for signs.... perhaps we should start a new thread for everyone willing to join in in the peacful protest? :)

[bmm34]

On Friday I just brought back a 2008 Subaru Tribeca 5 seater Ltd. I paid the RIV fee online Friday and am waiting for Form 2 to be emailed to me. At the moment the Tribeca is on the Admissable list. Is there any chance they can update the list and put it on the Inadmissable list? I was catching up on this forum on the week-end and read that the Impressa is now on the inadmissable list. That SUCKS. I might just make the drive into Mississauga tomorrow to speed up the process.

[Raikkonen]

I'm game... will show up with my imported tribeca :) I'll throw in some cash too for signs.... perhaps we should start a new thread for everyone willing to join in in the peacful protest? :)



Thanks....as suggested by several of you...have started a new thread....come on people, let's have a fun little get together, meet, greet, see some nice vehicles.....carry a few signs....lol, and be on TV!

linky

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5988859#post5988859

[Dreyfus]

A little public theatre could liven up proceedings and attract publicity. We have to keep in mind that the dealerships are controlled lock stock and barrel by the manufacturers. I saw a missive from a heretofore well respected manufacturer Vice President to dealers outlining counter arguments to be used with customers. A more pathetic piece of work you could not come up with even in your wildest dreams/nightmares. To be a Canadian auto dealer these days it helps enormously to have masochistic leanings. The root of this non tariff barrier which has handed control over imports to manufacturers was conceived, gestated, born and raised by our "new Gov't" and more specifically Transport Canada and its Minister Lawrence Cannon. The bureaucrats have a lot to atone for but in the end they are answerable to the Minister. Protests to be successful must be directed at the federal Gov't and Transport Canada in particular. The dealers are being hit in the pocketbook for months now and the problem increases in magnitude as each month goes by. If the manufacturers have the non tariff barrier that is CMVSS removed then the manufacturers will have to match wholesale prices in the US and Canada. If the dealers get the same deal on each side of the border and consumers are free to shop on each side of the border then prices will equealize on bot5h sides of the border. In a nuthshell focus on the problem 1st Gov't 2nd Gov't 3rd Govt. As for Joe Volpe in my opinion he is a disgrace to his race and doesn't have a clue about the auto business. ESC becomes mandatory in US 2012 problem solved. Photcopy and change F to C it couldn't be simpler than that.

[Raikkonen]

While I respect your point of view, it is difficult to get the GTA population to Ottawa. And I don't think the emails and letters are enough (a start, yes, but appealing to the media coverage via an old school, good old time protest...better imho).

Protest #1 Oakville Honda.

....#2, please feel free to organize (y)our anti-Gov't protest and I will do my very best to attend and contribute financially.

[scouzi]

For who did it already..

does SAAQ requires an additional inspection (for new cars)on the top of the RIV one ??

Thx

It's a crapshhoot. Try to make sure that the word "NEW" is somewhere on the invoice.

In my case I had to argue 2 points at the SAAQ in Laval.:

1) They wanted me to pay taxes on the "market value" and not sale value. I argued that taxes should be applied as Canada Customs did since I had the receipt. - I won

2) They said out of province vehicles need a safety inspection. I pointed out that the word new was on the invoice and the facts that I had a "statement of Origin" in hand proved that it was new. I won.

Also, they won't give you plates right away. The have to send the VIN to Quebec City and get approval. They don't care if you insurance company and the US Government has already done that.

[ziploc]

It's a crapshhoot. Try to make sure that the word "NEW" is somewhere on the invoice.

In my case I had to argue 2 points at the SAAQ in Laval.:

1) They wanted me to pay taxes on the "market value" and not sale value. I argued that taxes should be applied as Canada Customs did since I had the receipt. - I won

2) They said out of province vehicles need a safety inspection. I pointed out that the word new was on the invoice and the facts that I had a "statement of Origin" in hand proved that it was new. I won.

Also, they won't give you plates right away. The have to send the VIN to Quebec City and get approval. They don't care if you insurance company and the US Government has already done that.

Ok thank You very much for the pointers..
I will make sure to have ''NEW'' written somewhere

[drayog]

count me in

[MrWizard]

I don't want to sort through 650+ pages of thread, so I'll just ask this quickly.

Anyone tried to import a Buick Enclave? My mom is looking at one when her lease is up soon.

[dsds]

On Friday I just brought back a 2008 Subaru Tribeca 5 seater Ltd. I paid the RIV fee online Friday and am waiting for Form 2 to be emailed to me. At the moment the Tribeca is on the Admissable list. Is there any chance they can update the list and put it on the Inadmissable list? I was catching up on this forum on the week-end and read that the Impressa is now on the inadmissable list. That SUCKS. I might just make the drive into Mississauga tomorrow to speed up the process.

Recommend you email your recall letter and form 1 to them at recall@riv.ca. I did this and they emailed form 2 the very next day. Good idea to go in person to Mississauga if you're close. Don't blame RIV, they just follow TC's confusing orders (check out "about RIV" at riv.ca). Good luck.

[st7860]

While I respect your point of view, it is difficult to get the GTA population to Ottawa. And I don't think the emails and letters are enough (a start, yes, but appealing to the media coverage via an old school, good old time protest...better imho).

Protest #1 Oakville Honda.

....#2, please feel free to organize (y)our anti-Gov't protest and I will do my very best to attend and contribute financially.

bus them in

[dotcalamitie]

Man these Canadian car companies resort to any measure except lowering their price...bottom line is that rebates and interest rates do nothing but confuse the marketplace at a time when it is trying to figure out what is going on. I would not buy or lease a car or other expensive product in this country right now period. I went to Ikea this weekend and spent $1,600 on crap. I bet in the US I would have spent a $1,000 on the same stuff at Ikea there. Too bad for me...just because we're getting screwed, doesn't mean we stop spending here. Don't forget that Walmart, Superstore, Zellers, Crappy Tire...they are all screwing us right now. The ones that say blanket statement - "we're doing something" - they aren't doing anything. Show us the comparable US price and shut up. Then we'll buy. I'm going down to Niagara Falls New York shopping this week. Gonna load up my US car with American goods!

The car prices will align at some time...the hard thing to swallow in Canada is when you normally drive off a lot with a new car, the saying is you lose 30% of your value. Now the saying is before you've even driven off the lot, you've lost 20% of your value because of the exchange...and another 30% when you drive it off the lot.

[jwstewart]

On Friday I just brought back a 2008 Subaru Tribeca 5 seater Ltd. I paid the RIV fee online Friday and am waiting for Form 2 to be emailed to me. At the moment the Tribeca is on the Admissable list. Is there any chance they can update the list and put it on the Inadmissable list? I was catching up on this forum on the week-end and read that the Impressa is now on the inadmissable list. That SUCKS. I might just make the drive into Mississauga tomorrow to speed up the process.

On page 652, post 9771 there is a link to a copy of a letter from Subaru Canada to TC that states that the 2008 Tribeca, Legacy and Outback comply with the immobilizer spec.

It would take another letter contradicting the first letter, before your Tribeca could be "made" inadmissible. I'm betting that won't happen. I'm waiting to receive Form 2 as well. I won't have to pay PST until the vehicle is approved so I'm being patient, but I will get the form & inspection done witin a week.

[orion747]

Crap... with the Forester and Impreza gone (with the latter just having going through a redesign), how much longer before the Outback, Legacy, and RFD favorite Tribeca go by the way of inadmissable?

Edit - saw the post above. Very dissapointed to see Subaru do this, considering the market share they stood to gain - and Canadian service they stood to reap. Quite simple - if I can't import a Tribeca, it's not likely I'll go buy the Canadian Subaru. Subaru will lose a sale and Subaru Canada will never see my service dollars....

[jwstewart]

Curiously, the 2009 Forester is inadmissible due to the Imobilizer.

I would be surprised if the 2009 Forester's imobilizer has been invented yet:!:

Maybe they should re-phrase that sentence - "we will make the 2009 Forester inadmissible".

[Meridian]

No they do not. Some Canadian Tire stores are telling those who come in for for The RIV inspection that SAAQ requires a provincial inspection..but that is not so for a new car. I just got my plates for a new Lexus RX350 and all I had to show them was :
Form 1 stamped by Cdn Tire with the RIV stamp (they did not want Form 2)
the paper from Customs showing purchase price in Cdn funds and amount of GST paid so they can calculate the QST
the original title ( MCO ) which they keep
proof of insurance
my driver's license
and for some strange reason..my contract from the dealership.

Congrats on your purchased! How did you manage to get a dealer to sell you a new Lexus?

[Draug]

I'm importing a 2008 Impreza this week and I just found out the the Impreza has been added to the inadmissible list if it was manufactured after Sept 1st, 2007. Lucky for me mine was manufactured in august.

I'm upset right now. I imported a 2007 Legacy GT in the spring, and was planning on buying a new WRX STi this winter. So pissed off at this crap!

Will any 2008 WRX STi's have been manufactured BEFORE September 1? Maybe I could get one of those right away.



Robert Lamb and possibly a few others will be interviewed on the popular radio talk show the Roy Green show at 2:00pm (est) today which will be broadcast nationwide on your local station. He will be touching on many important points regarding the immobilizer issue and frequent changes to the admissibility list that have left many of us stuck with cars without borders.

Did anyone catch this? Does it sound like there will be a solution to the immobilizers? Or, are we done?

[eastsidesubaru]

No... there will be no 08 USDM STis admissable to canada (none will have a build date before sep 1.) Unless something changes with the immobilizer law.

[scrolllock]

bus them in

Demonstrating is always a great way of getting your point across.

Another way, might be to use the internet move effectively, to get the message out to the average Canadian, that is too busy to spend the time investigating the pricing injustices...

Here is a simple message... create an email like the one below and e-mail it to everyone in you address book, relatives, freinds ..etc..etrc.

The folks at www.carswithoutborders.com will be adding more functionality to their site today. They plan to add an option for visitors to register their protest, thay have an option to also leave their e-mail address, in order to receive notices of the latest news.

see e-mail sample below...

Tired of Paying too much for your car? ( subject line)

Canadians pay on average $6,000 more per car than Americans

Canada USA Savings
Honda Civic EXL $29,954 $24,333 $5,621

Honda Odyssey EXL $47,469 $37,443 $10,026


Prices include MRSP 2008 + delivery + taxes -as of Nov 24. Can $ at par with US $

Fair for Canadians? Who's blocking the border?

For the full story - go to Cars Without Borders

http://www.carswithoutborders.com/about/

Standing up for consumers

Please pass on this message to everyone you know.


very simple message, but effective!

And for you really savy surfers and bloggers out there www.carswithoutborders.com also has a Facebook group carswithoutborders. This will grow significantly as the average Canadian sees the simple question Why Can't we have fair pricing?

[scrolllock]

Demonstrating is always a great way of getting your point across.

Another way, might be to use the internet move effectively, to get the message out to the average Canadian, that is too busy to spend the time investigating the pricing injustices...

Here is a simple message... create an email like the one below and e-mail it to everyone in you address book, relatives, freinds ..etc..etrc.

The folks at www.carswithoutborders.com will be adding more functionality to their site today. They plan to add an option for visitors to register their protest, thay have an option to also leave their e-mail address, in order to receive notices of the latest news.

see e-mail sample below...

Tired of Paying too much for your car? ( subject line)

Canadians pay on average $6,000 more per car than Americans

Canada USA Savings
Honda Civic EXL $29,954 $24,333 $5,621

Honda Odyssey EXL $47,469 $37,443 $10,026


Prices include MRSP 2008 + delivery + taxes -as of Nov 24. Can $ at par with US $

Fair for Canadians? Who's blocking the border?

For the full story - go to Cars Without Borders

http://www.carswithoutborders.com/about/

Standing up for consumers

Please pass on this message to everyone you know.


very simple message, but effective!

And for you really savy surfers and bloggers out there www.carswithoutborders.com also has a Facebook group carswithoutborders. This will grow significantly as the average Canadian sees the simple question Why Can't we have fair pricing?

Mr. Harper, I am writing you again! I have been working non-stop on this file since Oct 15th. 15-20 hours per day. I am tired, my family is tired and all of the members of www.carswithoutborders.com are tired and fed up as well. We are now well over one hundred strong, each and every one of us has a horror story to tell concerning our dealings with Transport Canada and the RIV. Mr. Charrette, a representative has gone on record indicating that close to a thousand people are in this predicament. Some RIV personnel have been quoted over the phone indicating that the number is close to 3,000. We have done nothing wrong! We followed the rules!



I worry about the other many families in Canada that have not been able to find support within our group. We are all being treated very poorly.



On Nov 20 after Question period, Mr. Cannon stated that he would help us, he reassured us that our cases would be resolved.

Please refer to the script on our web site.. http://www.carswithoutborders.com/official-lawrence-cannon-transcript/ We all waited a few days for the announcement on the TC/RIV web site.



But Instead of a compassionate, common sense solution for the 1000 or 3000 Canadians trapped and in limbo, Mr. Cannon’s staff has started issuing “Expulsion” notices to Canadians. His compassionate message has not been relayed to his employees. This must be a major mistake! Again, I feel very sorry for those families handling all of this alone.



This is starting to get out of hand and very unreasonable, as I requested in the letter I wrote to you last week, please get involved and resolve the issues.



I first decided to really step up and go to the media, right after one of Mr. Cannon’s Quebec assistant’s told me that he was not going to help me is if I made my case public! He did not like to be threatened! This was after 4 e-mails and several conversations with him. I didn’t feel that was really the way to talk to a Canadian that had followed all the rules! Prior to that I had spoken and e-mailed several people.



I am being driven by a picture of my daughter driving her new car that is now parked in my garage. I am being driven by the arrogant and ruthless way that TC and the RIV is treating Canadian Citizens.



I have attached for your reference on this file a debriefing package that we have been sending out to the press for the last week. Hopefully those on your staff can quickly grasp the severity of the problem and provide you with a quick and compassionate solution.



I also attached a brief audio file, of one of our supporters, Mr. Roy Green, who was kind enough to host our team on his nationally broadcast show last Saturday. I am told that the caller response was very heavy and sympathetic to our cause.



It would be wise of you and your staff to put an end to this madness today. Please instruct Mr. Cannon to process all and every car that is in limbo today over this preposterous anti-theft hoax. Please then ensure that the safety standard is modified to accept the American Standard. There is little difference between the two.



I have many other great suggestions to improve the process, improve productivity, and make the department of Transport more service oriented.



Please end this silliness.



Please do not take this as a threat, but we will be launching our awareness and knowledge plans shortly and we expect to have over 500,000 registered supporters by the end of February! We want our cars on the road and we want fair pricing for Canadians.



Please “Tear down the WALL Mr. Harper”









The members of www.carswithoutborders



" I followed all the Rules"



"Owner of a car without a Country"





e-mail; carswithoutborders@hotmail.com



Home: www.autossanfrontieres.com

www.carswithoutborders.com

[scouzi]

Mr. Harper, I am writing you again! I have been working non-stop on this file since Oct 15th. 15-20 hours per day. I am tired, my family is tired and all of the members of www.carswithoutborders.com are tired and fed up as well. We are now well over one hundred strong, each and every one of us has a horror story to tell concerning our dealings with Transport Canada and the RIV. Mr. Charrette, a representative has gone on record indicating that close to a thousand people are in this predicament. Some RIV personnel have been quoted over the phone indicating that the number is close to 3,000. We have done nothing wrong! We followed the rules!



I worry about the other many families in Canada that have not been able to find support within our group. We are all being treated very poorly.



On Nov 20 after Question period, Mr. Cannon stated that he would help us, he reassured us that our cases would be resolved.

Please refer to the script on our web site.. http://www.carswithoutborders.com/official-lawrence-cannon-transcript/ We all waited a few days for the announcement on the TC/RIV web site.



But Instead of a compassionate, common sense solution for the 1000 or 3000 Canadians trapped and in limbo, Mr. Cannon’s staff has started issuing “Expulsion” notices to Canadians. His compassionate message has not been relayed to his employees. This must be a major mistake! Again, I feel very sorry for those families handling all of this alone.



This is starting to get out of hand and very unreasonable, as I requested in the letter I wrote to you last week, please get involved and resolve the issues.



I first decided to really step up and go to the media, right after one of Mr. Cannon’s Quebec assistant’s told me that he was not going to help me is if I made my case public! He did not like to be threatened! This was after 4 e-mails and several conversations with him. I didn’t feel that was really the way to talk to a Canadian that had followed all the rules! Prior to that I had spoken and e-mailed several people.



I am being driven by a picture of my daughter driving her new car that is now parked in my garage. I am being driven by the arrogant and ruthless way that TC and the RIV is treating Canadian Citizens.



I have attached for your reference on this file a debriefing package that we have been sending out to the press for the last week. Hopefully those on your staff can quickly grasp the severity of the problem and provide you with a quick and compassionate solution.



I also attached a brief audio file, of one of our supporters, Mr. Roy Green, who was kind enough to host our team on his nationally broadcast show last Saturday. I am told that the caller response was very heavy and sympathetic to our cause.



It would be wise of you and your staff to put an end to this madness today. Please instruct Mr. Cannon to process all and every car that is in limbo today over this preposterous anti-theft hoax. Please then ensure that the safety standard is modified to accept the American Standard. There is little difference between the two.



I have many other great suggestions to improve the process, improve productivity, and make the department of Transport more service oriented.



Please end this silliness.



Please do not take this as a threat, but we will be launching our awareness and knowledge plans shortly and we expect to have over 500,000 registered supporters by the end of February! We want our cars on the road and we want fair pricing for Canadians.



Please “Tear down the WALL Mr. Harper”









The members of www.carswithoutborders



" I followed all the Rules"



"Owner of a car without a Country"





e-mail; carswithoutborders@hotmail.com



Home: www.autossanfrontieres.com

www.carswithoutborders.com


You have to try to get your story on DIGG.

www.digg.com

[zenon]

Not sure if this has been mentioned but there is a pretty big advertising supplement by the auto manufacturers in today's Globe and Mail. The whole front page has "articles" about why cars cost more in Canada. If you read the whoel thing its a pretty good summary of all their dubious arguements. I think they are definitely feeling the heat now.

[scouzi]

Not sure if this has been mentioned but there is a pretty big advertising supplement by the auto manufacturers in today's Globe and Mail. The whole front page has "articles" about why cars cost more in Canada. If you read the whoel thing its a pretty good summary of all their dubious arguements. I think they are definitely feeling the heat now.

Are there any concrete facts and examples presented or is it their generic blah blah?

Also, is it by a manufacturers in general or a single car comapny? If it is from the "car industry", it smells like collusion to me.

[DSTU]

I'm upset right now. I imported a 2007 Legacy GT in the spring, and was planning on buying a new WRX STi this winter. So pissed off at this crap!

Will any 2008 WRX STi's have been manufactured BEFORE September 1? Maybe I could get one of those right away.




Did anyone catch this? Does it sound like there will be a solution to the immobilizers? Or, are we done?


Contact RIV and TC and asked why the 08 Subaru's are inadmissable when they clearly have an immobilizer/anti-theft.

Hell my 2002 Sentra had a key fob with a chip in it...LOL

[DSTU]

I don't want to sort through 650+ pages of thread, so I'll just ask this quickly.

Anyone tried to import a Buick Enclave? My mom is looking at one when her lease is up soon.

Read Post 1.

[ziploc]

I don't understand how GOV can bind someone to export his car....

It's illegal....

You can't legally use it on the roads , but You can keep it for show, private roads or keep it for 15 years and then the riv rules won't apply anymore...
and I'm pretty sure specially in Quebec, you can and You have to register Your car under Your name for ''off-road'' usage; ie V plate....

I know it's maybe not the best solution but it shows that they CANT BIND you to export your car.....it's not illegal to posses it.....they made a mistake to letting You get it into the country...they simply can't steal it from You.....

my 2 points....

For those who are in that situation I'm suggesting to confirm that with a legal lawyer but I'm pretty sure I'm right....and You can even fight for that stupid letter that tells You to export... find the legal proof that what's their doing is completely illegal and You will have a ''media bomb'' to use as a leverage...

[eipod]

Congrats on your purchased! How did you manage to get a dealer to sell you a new Lexus?

I lucked out..made cold calls to NY, VT, NH, CT, MA etc.. some were willing to sell to me if I provided a US address, but I did not want to pay the state tax or wait several weeks for the title to arrive so I started to look into preowned and inadvertantly came across a dealer willing to sell me a new 1 without the tax and US address...however they have since told me they will not do it anymore; but I have heard of some people who are bringing them in via brokers...still a big savings!

[Strikerjs]

We must put pressure on Transport Canada first. They created the situation that allowed the OEM's a loophole. Transport Canada created the immobilizer standard to help save the approximately 27 Canadian lives per year taken by stolen vehicle crashes. Noble cause, but they did not foresee the unintended consequences. The answer is to harmonize the immobilizer standard with the US immobilizer standard. This will force OEM's to price cars competitively in Canada. By instituting a unique Canadian standard, Transport Canada has ensured that Canadians will pay 20%-40% more for vehicles than they need to. If TC accepts the US FMVSS114 immobilizer standard, all is well. The 27 Canadians will be safe and prices will be competitive.

Even if TC accepts the US standard, there are still barriers to importing cars, aren't there (e.g. manufacturers won't let US dealers sell to Cdns)? How do we get around that part? Buy used cars in the US?

Won't the manufacturers find other ways to screw us over?

[scouzi]

Even if TC accepts the US standard, there are still barriers to importing cars, aren't there (e.g. manufacturers won't let US dealers sell to Cdns)? How do we get around that part? Buy used cars in the US?

Won't the manufacturers find other ways to screw us over?

They are closing the used car market as well by preventing the recall clearance letter on used cars.

[mangoman]

We're starting to have an effect whether the Manufacturers/Dealers will admit it or not (according to Scotia Economics):

http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/story.html?id=dd0b5ef7-db2c-43c7-aa87-fd9b07162aca&k=91870

U.S. auto imports surge; prices fall
CanWest News Service
Published: Monday, November 26, 2007

OTTAWA -- Surging U.S. auto imports driven by the high-flying loonie are pushing down prices of new and used vehicles in Canada, according to a report released Monday by Scotia Economics.

A record 137,000 new and used vehicles were imported by Canadians through December, a 21 per cent rise from a year ago. In October alone, the number shot up to 24,872 vehicles, a 68 per cent increase from the previous month, the report said.

As a result, Canadian new car prices have declined by five per cent so far this year, says Carlos Gomes, Scotiabank's auto industry specialist.

"The import surge and vehicle price differential between Canada and the United States reflect the rapid rise of the Canadian dollar and are not due to increases in the manufacturers' suggested retail price in Canada," said Gomes.

Instead "they have enhanced incentives and have been offering better lease and financing deals. As such, transaction prices have fallen, led by an eight per cent decline for North American light-built trucks."

[Luds]

I've been unable to access the TC admissibility list for the last 2h.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/impusae.htm

Hope they're not modifying it again...

[dynamiteroll]

Just worked for me. Did not see a change.

[mangoman]

I've been unable to access the TC admissibility list for the last 2h.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/impusae.htm

Hope they're not modifying it again...

.pdf opens for me - latest changes were on Fri. Nov. 23rd - haven't bothered to check what the updates were:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

[Lost Horizon]

Here are a few links to the "Made in Canada" immobilizer thinking by the bureaucrats, and some starter links on the US version. Read 'em and weep.

Canadian rationalization of immobilizers.. (http://www.puntofocal.gov.ar/notific_otros_miembros/can198_t.pdf) Note Footnote 9 and the co-conspitator foxes in the henhouse.

US 114 (post Sept 07) (http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/551628.htm#)

US 114 Pre Sept 07 (http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/fmcsrruletext.asp?rule_toc=777&section=571.114&section_toc=2080)

Costs you $90 CDn to get the made in Canada 114 chapter and verse.. (http://www.ulc.ca/ABOUT_ULC/Work_program.asp) . (I think ULC is owned by BMW?)

The question to put to your MP/Minister or whatever is what's so compelling about the Canadian immobilizer solution over the american that forces you to stubbornly stick to it in the face of this dustup?

[1treehill]

the US car I am going to purchase has Daytime Running Light but it can be totoally switched of if you turn it off. RIV told me DRL must be modified to be automatic, therefore OFF position should be disconnected.
Anyone konw where to do it, and usually how much it costs?
Thank you

[st7860]

Canadians who want to import vehicles from the U.S. are being warned to be wary of with whom they deal.

Ken Smith, registrar of motor dealers in B.C., said the soaring loonie has meant that criminals are entering the car business.

"Our principal concern is that the most unsavoury people in the B.C. car business, many with criminal records, have seized upon this currency anomaly for profit," Smith said.

In order to protect themselves, consumers should only buy through licensed dealers, he said.

"Canadians are certainly entitled to purchase vehicles outside of this country and bring them here, as long as they comply with all federal and provincial import, taxation and licensing guidelines.

"But any unlicensed third party who earns income from facilitating the process is breaking the law."

Car dealers and all salespeople must be licensed and standards of practice are clearly defined.

Smith said many B.C. dealers are legally importing large volumes of used vehicles from the U.S. to Canada and offering them for sale at bargain prices.

"Many smart consumers have also made excellent purchases in the U.S and successfully and properly imported them to Canada," he said.

"But others have discovered that their new vehicle fails to comply with Canadian standards, that new-car warranties don't apply, and other problems."

Smith urged anyone considering importing a vehicle from the U.S. to visit http://www.riv.ca.

"The simple test for consumers is to ask anyone selling either vehicles or agent services to produce their [motor vehicle sales authority of B.C.] licence. If they don't have one, they are breaking the law."

[moguy]

I was planning on buying a used vehicle in Canada but instead imported a 2007 IS250 AWD. I have noticed that in the last 2 months the price of late model used cars has dropped signifigantly.

I was looking at 2005 Acura TL (w nav), back in Sept/Oct, and they were going for at least 2-4K more than they are now.

So the import market is definitely having an impact.

[4got10]

I was watching a game yesterday and say a US vehicle ad.. it was the end that caught my attention.. it said "resdiential restrictions apply" FTW!

[abpat75]

I'm a canadian resident (not citizen) and I dont have US visa (it expired). So my American friend will drive my new car and clear the US custom. But he wants me to clear the Canadian Customs.

My questions. These may be a silly question, but let me ask.
1. Will there be any hassle for him to clear the US custom?
2. Can I drive to Canada Custom (without crossing the boarder to US)?

Appriciate your help.

[Bincent]

Car imports from U.S. hit record

THE CANADIAN PRESS

Nov 26, 2007


OTTAWA – Scotia Economics (TSX: BNS) says Canadians riding high on the soaring loonie imported a record number of new and used vehicles from the United States in October,

Through October – after the Canadian dollar had overtaken the slumping greenback – Canadians imported 137,000 new and used vehicles from south of the border, according to data from the Registrar of Imported Vehicles.

Scotiabank auto industry specialist Carlos Gomes said Canadians imported 24,873 vehicles in October alone – twice as many as in October 2006 and a 68 per cent jump over this September's numbers.

Gomes said, "The import surge and vehicle price differential between Canada and the United States reflect the rapid appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and are not due to increases in the manufacturers' suggested retail price in Canada."

Scotiabank said the suggested retail price on many vehicles is between $4,000 and $5,000 higher in Canada than in the U.S.

Canadian new car prices were flat between 1998 and 2006, and have declined by five per cent so far this year. The pricing slump stems from manufacturers not adjusting their suggested retail price but offering better incentives and lease and financing deals.

However, new vehicle prices in Canada have fallen since the spring, leading to lower prices for used vehicles, the report said, noting that the bank's used car price index had fallen five per cent below a year earlier.

Most of that decline came from a drop in the price of year-old models.

http://www.wheels.ca/article/34442

[inkognito81]

I'm a canadian resident (not citizen) and I dont have US visa (it expired). So my American friend will drive my new car and clear the US custom. But he wants me to clear the Canadian Customs.

My questions. These may be a silly question, but let me ask.
1. Will there be any hassle for him to clear the US custom?
2. Can I drive to Canada Custom (without crossing the boarder to US)?

Appriciate your help.

I'm a permanent resident in Canada and do not need a visa to cross the border. I just flash my permanent resident card and away I go!

(You might be a different type of Canadian resident, but I thought I would put it out there...)

[spdztr]

the US car I am going to purchase has Daytime Running Light but it can be totoally switched of if you turn it off. RIV told me DRL must be modified to be automatic, therefore OFF position should be disconnected.
Anyone konw where to do it, and usually how much it costs?
Thank you

As long as you keep it in the ON position, and the lights turn on automatically when you go to Canadian Tire to do your inspection, you don't have to worry. I got through my inspection WITHOUT Drl's done.. just left the headlights on, which turn on /off with the engine. Usually they don't know any better.

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

Prices fell? that is news to me, the only thing that Manufacturers did was BS their way into "Incentives" which are USELSS.
THe prices are still 30-50 percent higher here than in the USA.


We're starting to have an effect whether the Manufacturers/Dealers will admit it or not (according to Scotia Economics):

http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/story.html?id=dd0b5ef7-db2c-43c7-aa87-fd9b07162aca&k=91870

U.S. auto imports surge; prices fall
CanWest News Service
Published: Monday, November 26, 2007

OTTAWA -- Surging U.S. auto imports driven by the high-flying loonie are pushing down prices of new and used vehicles in Canada, according to a report released Monday by Scotia Economics.

A record 137,000 new and used vehicles were imported by Canadians through December, a 21 per cent rise from a year ago. In October alone, the number shot up to 24,872 vehicles, a 68 per cent increase from the previous month, the report said.

As a result, Canadian new car prices have declined by five per cent so far this year, says Carlos Gomes, Scotiabank's auto industry specialist.

"The import surge and vehicle price differential between Canada and the United States reflect the rapid rise of the Canadian dollar and are not due to increases in the manufacturers' suggested retail price in Canada," said Gomes.

Instead "they have enhanced incentives and have been offering better lease and financing deals. As such, transaction prices have fallen, led by an eight per cent decline for North American light-built trucks."

[AdamBr]

Prices fell? that is news to me, the only thing that Manufacturers did was BS their way into "Incentives" which are USELSS.
THe prices are still 30-50 percent higher here than in the USA.

Pricess did fell, but just for people that do their research. If you will go to Honda dealership without preparation, you'll pay price close to MSRP. If you'll do some research, you can get your rebates. Of course, price is still not near close to what US consumers pay.
For Toyota it is much worse. Their rebates are ridiculous. Like 1000$. Yet you can buy used model imported from US here in Canadian used car dealerships for basically 30-50% off! I just can believe there are still some people who are buying new Toyota cars! Their depreciation first year is like 30%.

Moral of this - if you can, don't buy car now. Good things will come to people who wait :-)

[Luds]

As long as you keep it in the ON position, and the lights turn on automatically when you go to Canadian Tire to do your inspection, you don't have to worry. I got through my inspection WITHOUT Drl's done.. just left the headlights on, which turn on /off with the engine. Usually they don't know any better.

Wouldn't the car make a noise though? They didn't even notice that?

[mangoman]

Prices fell? that is news to me, the only thing that Manufacturers did was BS their way into "Incentives" which are USELSS.
THe prices are still 30-50 percent higher here than in the USA.

Hahahaha - I didn't say it was a significant drop! ;) But to me it was more significant that an "independent" body has documented that "official" prices have been forced to drop (even if it was only 5%). Unfortunately, I would have to say that they attributed it to the wrong reason - it's not just because of a high-flying loonie. I would say that the high-flying loonie has alerted more Cdns to just how much they've been getting gouged! 5% today, let's hope for at least 15% by the new year! :D

[mangoman]

Wouldn't the car make a nouse though? They didn't even notice that?

Ummm - don't all combustion engines make noise when they're running? :cheesygri As far as I know all cars with DRLs have their lights come on when you start up the car not when you stick the key in the ignition. (Mine actually come on only after I release the handbrake).

[03terminator]

Even if TC accepts the US standard, there are still barriers to importing cars, aren't there (e.g. manufacturers won't let US dealers sell to Cdns)? How do we get around that part? Buy used cars in the US?

Won't the manufacturers find other ways to screw us over?

You are correct, but those issues are trumped by Transport Canada's actions and most dealer dodges have a work around or may be legally challenged. The lack of harmony with the US immobilizer standard shuts the door completely. Transport Canada has thrown Canadians under the bus. Who the f*** do they work for.

[Lost Horizon]

..The lack of harmony with the US immobilizer standard shuts the door completely. Transport Canada has thrown Canadians under the bus. Who the f*** do they work for.

but.. at least the bus is immobilized in a truly Canadian way once it rolls over you..

[accorder]

Car imports from U.S. hit record


http://www.wheels.ca/article/34442

"Canadian new car prices were flat between 1998 and 2006, and have declined by five per cent so far this year....."

how could the author say the prices were flat? the new are prices are 10 to 15 percent higher than that in 1998...

[mr_package]

Ummm - don't all combustion engines make noise when they're running? :cheesygri As far as I know all cars with DRLs have their lights come on when you start up the car not when you stick the key in the ignition. (Mine actually come on only after I release the handbrake).

I have a 2006 Civic, it makes a beeping noise if you have the lights on and the key in the ignition. So if they notice this and check the lights you'll fail inspection. I don't see how saving $150 is worth this risk/hassle, especially if you've already saved $15,000-20,000 in the case of something like a G37. :)

[Luds]

Ummm - don't all combustion engines make noise when they're running? :cheesygri As far as I know all cars with DRLs have their lights come on when you start up the car not when you stick the key in the ignition. (Mine actually come on only after I release the handbrake).

I mean noise if they take the keys off. I assumed that they would have checked of the lights were turned on before looking at the front of the car.

[mangoman]

I have a 2006 Civic, it makes a beeping noise if you have the lights on and the key in the ignition. So if they notice this and check the lights you'll fail inspection. I don't see how saving $150 is worth this risk/hassle, especially if you've already saved $15,000-20,000 in the case of something like a G37. :)

But that sounds pretty car/model specific - in this case the poster had mentioned he was using the "AUTO" setting which on cars that have that feature shut the lights off for you when you take the key out of the ignition and exit the vehicle. The case you mention is on a HONDA (which few ppl are trying to import now thanks to the lame-o's at Honda :evil: ) where you've turned the setting to ON and not Auto. And in lots of cars, leaving the key in the ignition and opening the door will cause a similar beeping. That said, I agree and would spend the extra $100-300 to get it done properly when you're saving thousands!

[GougingCarCartelGroup]

I think when the G35 coupe and Nissan Z350 came out the price was like 42K
a few years later the damn price is 50K and up. and this happened in the last few years not even talking about 1998.


"Canadian new car prices were flat between 1998 and 2006, and have declined by five per cent so far this year....."

how could the author say the prices were flat? the new are prices are 10 to 15 percent higher than that in 1998...

[scouzi]

I think when the G35 coupe and Nissan Z350 came out the price was like 42K
a few years later the damn price is 50K and up. and this happened in the last few years not even talking about 1998.

I bought a Kia Sedona Ex with Luxury package in 2002 for 28k (MSRP 32k).

It is now selling for 39.6k MSRP.

That's a 20%+ increase in MSRP in 5 years.

I remember reading that inflation is calculated based on value also.

If you pay one year later the same price for a car that now has ABS, they calculate that the price went down!

[Dreyfus]

http://www.reportonbusiness.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071126.wrfrontieres26/BNStory/robNews/home

Comment on this the more the merrier.

[scouzi]

Prices fell? that is news to me, the only thing that Manufacturers did was BS their way into "Incentives" which are USELSS.
THe prices are still 30-50 percent higher here than in the USA.

This one in French is a little less biased.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/article/20071126/CPSOLEIL/71126090/5721/MVAUTOCAMION01

It basically states that there is still a 4k-5k difference on average.

[Kamloops]

How they gonna make me?

Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2007 15:43:28 -0500
From: BLAINE-EXPORT <>
Subject: RE: export a car

That is what Canada requires not the U.S. The United States requires all
land based self propelled vehicles to be exported regardless of what the
Canadian requirements are. So the answer is yes you need to comply with
the U.S. export procedure by submitting your vehicle information 72
hours prior to completing the export process.



-----Original Message-----
From:
Sent: Thursday, November 22, 2007 10:48 AM
To: BLAINE-EXPORT
Subject: RE: export a car
Importance: High


Ok I am confused. Have things changed. Canada does not require for an
individual the 72 hours stamp from the USA. So if this is correct, I don't need to fax you 72hrs before or stop at usa customs now?


If you are an individual you don't need 72 hours wait to import, see the
link attached,
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn07-031-eng.html



United States Proof of Export Requirement for Imported Motor Vehicles


* This notice is to clarify when the United States proof of export
is
required for vehicles being imported into Canada.
* The United States proof of export is a confirmation by U.S.
Customs
and Border Protection (CBP) of the authenticity of the title or other
ownership documents submitted for all motorized vehicles being exported
from the United States. A U.S. CBP stamp on the Certificate of Title or
Salvage Title, confirming that documents have been authenticated, is
sufficient for the Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) purposes.
* The following are the instances when the United States proof of
export is required by the CBSA:
* Commercial importations - all commercial entries of motorized
vehicles must be accompanied by the United States proof of export.
* Salvage vehicles - all entries of motorized salvage vehicles
must
be accompanied by the United States proof of export.
* Vehicles imported for parts - all motorized vehicles imported
for
parts, either with a clear title or as a salvage vehicle, must be
accompanied by the United States proof of export.
* If the importer does not have the United States proof of export in


any of the above cases, the importer must return to the U.S. CBP and
obtain
it.
* Transport Canada does not regulate vehicles over 15 years old and
buses manufactured before January 1, 1971. Therefore, the United States
proof of export is not required for these vehicles.
* Inquiries should be directed to:
* Health Safety and Security Unit
* Partnerships Division
* Border and Compliance Programs Directorate
* Admissibility Branch
* Canada Border Services Agency
* 5th floor
* Killeany Building
* 150 Isabella Street
* Ottawa ON K1A 0L8
* Telephone:613-946-0240
* Fax:613-946-1520

[jmlleung]

I plan to go to US tomorrow to pick up my car. Can I export the car at the US Lewiston custom before 4pm, and turn back into US? I would like to do some shopping and stay a night in Buffalo before returning back to Canada and import the car the next day. Then I don't have to restrict myself to go back before 4pm the next day. Would that be a problem?

The Canadian border opens 24 hours a day, I believe.

[reddy54]

.pdf opens for me - latest changes were on Fri. Nov. 23rd - haven't bothered to check what the updates were:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

The list was updated today

[derslade]

Interesting article on CBC BC website on the above topic. It begins,

If you're hoping to save a few thousand dollars by buying a vehicle in the United States, the Canada Border Services Agency wants to give you a hand.

And ends,

Some Subaru models are assembled in the U.S., so Canadians don't pay duty, and that means buyers can save up to $15,000 on top models, said Spitz(from Carter Subaru in Seattle).

See details at
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2007/11/26/bc-carseminars.html?ref=rss

[LoDown]

Does the Ministry of Tranportation in Ontario 'have' to keep the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) vwhich is in my name or should they be able to accept a legible copy. This web site

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/vehicle/rgoutcan.htm

says the a copy of the 'Title' is good enough if you want to keep the original Title. Does this apply to MCO's in Ontario as well ?? If yes, how do I convince them - showing them a copy of the above website does not work because they say it does not say 'MCO".

[dsds]

A previous post shows links to pre and post Sept. 1 /07 FMVSS114 and CMVSS114 details.
And RIV shows a News Alert about this going back to April 24, 2007:

I doubt Transport Canada is going to back down. Any vehicle with a manufacturing date of Sept. 1 /07 or later is vulnerable even if imported according to the rules. Carswithoutborders has a big fight ahead of them. Even with public pressure of a few thousand cases, that is small time compared to the pressure from manufacturers and unions with car plants in Canada.

CMVSS 114 - Locking and Immobilization Systems
April 24, 2007
The Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS) 114 - Locking and Immobilization Systems, has been amended and, effective September 1, 2007, will require that every Multipurpose passenger vehicle, passenger car, truck, and three wheel vehicle manufactured after September 1, 2007, except for an emergency vehicle, or a vehicle that has a GVWR of 4,536 kg or more, or a walk-in van, be equipped with an immobilization system that meets the requirements specified in the amendment.

Please be advised that if you are planning to import a vehicle manufactured after September 1, 2007, that the vehicle may be affected by this requirement and if an immobilizer that meets CMVSS 114 is not already installed in the vehicle, that an immobilization system will have to be installed. You may also want to verify the cost of such an installation prior to importing a vehicle.

[Hannicho]

This is the export information taken from the US Customs and Border protection Webpage explaining the required steps to export a vehicle:

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/export/export_docs/motor_vehicle.xml

There is a link called "Importing and Exporting A Car." located on the right hand side. I have extracted the relevant section.

EXPORTING A CAR
BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND PREOCEDURES

To export a motor vehicle from the United States, the exporter must provide documents that demonstrate proof of ownership. In almost all cases, this will be the certificate of title. The original ownership documents, or a certified copy, and two copies must be presented to U.S. Customs.

If you are exporting through a land border port, you must submit the ownership documents to that port at least three days before exportation. On the date of exportation, you must present the vehicle to U.S. Customs to verify that the car being exported is the one described in the ownership documents.

The car will be subject to Customs inspection at the time of exportation. If the exportation is by ship or plane, both the vehicle and ownership documents must be presented to Customs at least 72 hours before lading, at which time Customs will conduct its inspection.

The vehicle will be authorized for export only after Customs has inspected it and certified that the ownership documents are in proper order. Your original title will then be stamped or perforated to show that your vehicle was exported from the United States.


- It appears that the answer is YES, you need to export your new vehicle from the US.

- USED is a generic Term defined as: "Used" refers to any self-propelled vehicle the equitable or legal title to which has been transferred by a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer to an ultimate purchaser.

72 hours is a minimum not a maximum processing time.

[Kamloops]

This is the export information taken from the US Customs and Border protection Webpage explaining the required steps to export a vehicle:

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/export/export_docs/motor_vehicle.xml

There is a link called "Importing and Exporting A Car." located on the right hand side. I have extracted the relevant section.

EXPORTING A CAR
BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND PREOCEDURES

To export a motor vehicle from the United States, the exporter must provide documents that demonstrate proof of ownership. In almost all cases, this will be the certificate of title. The original ownership documents, or a certified copy, and two copies must be presented to U.S. Customs.

If you are exporting through a land border port, you must submit the ownership documents to that port at least three days before exportation. On the date of exportation, you must present the vehicle to U.S. Customs to verify that the car being exported is the one described in the ownership documents.

The car will be subject to Customs inspection at the time of exportation. If the exportation is by ship or plane, both the vehicle and ownership documents must be presented to Customs at least 72 hours before lading, at which time Customs will conduct its inspection.

The vehicle will be authorized for export only after Customs has inspected it and certified that the ownership documents are in proper order. Your original title will then be stamped or perforated to show that your vehicle was exported from the United States.


- It appears that the answer is YES, you need to export your new vehicle from the US.

- USED is a generic Term defined as: "Used" refers to any self-propelled vehicle the equitable or legal title to which has been transferred by a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer to an ultimate purchaser.

72 hours is a minimum not a maximum processing time.


Yes but Canada does not require it so who gives a crap. I wont waste my time with the USA's rule. Big deal.

[ptxpress]

Wouldn't the car make a noise though? They didn't even notice that?

I went to Crappy Tire w/o DRL installed. The idiot asked me to turn my lights on, so I did, and said "OK, you're good to go". They can't be bothered over there...

[vim]

I just watched Global News at around 6:40pm there was a very short segment about Scotia Economics report.
http://www.wheels.ca/article/34442
What was different from everywhere else, in the news they clearly said - don't buy new or used car in the next few months, as all experts agree - prices will go down. I don't think any auto manufacturers wanted to hear that. So let's see how they will react.

[ziploc]

Hi,
can someone help ??

I should be driving Wednesday from Windsor to Montreal ....I should pass by Toronto around 15h00-15h30....I will try to go to RIV office and here's my question...

Is it better for me to arrive by 401->427 or maybe take 403->QEW->427 ???
which should be easier and faster to pass...???

[GoKartRacer]

So even though we imported the 2008 ES350, and its a great vehicle might I add, especially for the same price as a new Altima (canadian price of course) the CS with Lexus is absolute crap.

I deter alll of you from going to Erin Mills Lexus and getting your car serviced. The service manager is a real stupid guy. Lexus offers the first two services free but we paid for the first one because our car is an american car. Fine, im not mad about this because maybe the dealer you buy from should offer the free service (im not sure if its a North American thing)...but what pissed me off was the following that he said:

1. Roadside assistance is not covered in Canada (bull, roadside assistance is part of the warranty which is covered in NA, it even says so in the Lexus manual)

2. No courtesy car will be provided because its an American car (bull)

3. You cant register on www.clublexus.ca. I called today and they wouldnt let me register because I have an "american" VIN.

Basically if i was a resident of the US, bought a car and then moved to Canada Lexus customer service would go to the gutter and I would loose the "perks" of owning a lexus. Oh how i hate these boneheads...

[baz5]

I went to Dodge and the turned my DRL on for free, said it was covered under warranty.

[Lost Horizon]

So even though we imported the 2008 ES350, and its a great vehicle might I add, especially for the same price as a new Altima (canadian price of course) the CS with Lexus is absolute crap.

I deter alll of you from going to Erin Mills Lexus and getting your car serviced. The service manager is a real stupid guy. Lexus offers the first two services free but we paid for the first one because our car is an american car. Fine, im not mad about this because maybe the dealer you buy from should offer the free service (im not sure if its a North American thing)...but what pissed me off was the following that he said:

1. Roadside assistance is not covered in Canada (bull, roadside assistance is part of the warranty which is covered in NA, it even says so in the Lexus manual)

2. No courtesy car will be provided because its an American car (bull)

3. You cant register on www.clublexus.ca. I called today and they wouldnt let me register because I have an "american" VIN.

Basically if i was a resident of the US, bought a car and then moved to Canada Lexus customer service would go to the gutter and I would loose the "perks" of owning a lexus. Oh how i hate these boneheads...

Wait.... I bought my BMW in Canada last year, paid the big price, but they treated me like that anyway.. maybe a courtesy car if they do an engine change :).. And, they won't install Sirius Radio even tho the car is prewired for the same, they forgot the external oil cooler and basically said "get lost".. the car hasn't gone into limp mode yet..

To contrast that unhappy state of afffairs is our new 2008 Imported Subaru... local dealer said he was happy to get the warranty/service from us down the road, asked only that we put on his licence advertising frames for around town, and then ordered a couple of misc accessories at a reduced price... welcomed us as he said he understands that I got the car for much less than the Canadian Distributor charges him, so how could he object.. a class act compared to the brickheads at BMW who said they would sue for costs if I went after them about the missing oil cooler I paid for as part of the performance package, lol..

[dsds]

Has anyone visited a dealer lately to ask about their new 08 vehicles on the lot being immobilizer compliant? Should have proof to show customers right?

[cordarone]

Yes but Canada does not require it so who gives a crap. I wont waste my time with the USA's rule. Big deal.

Border Services may not require the proof of export but the RIV certainly will.
They seem to think the US Customs info is important, being that they included it in their checklist and all:
http://www.riv.ca/english/html/how_to_import.html

[jzy]

I plan to go to US tomorrow to pick up my car. Can I export the car at the US Lewiston custom before 4pm, and turn back into US? I would like to do some shopping and stay a night in Buffalo before returning back to Canada and import the car the next day. Then I don't have to restrict myself to go back before 4pm the next day. Would that be a problem?

The Canadian border opens 24 hours a day, I believe.

Never done it myself, but sounds okay to me.

[Whitedart]

Hi,
can someone help ??

I should be driving Wednesday from Windsor to Montreal ....I should pass by Toronto around 15h00-15h30....I will try to go to RIV office and here's my question...

Is it better for me to arrive by 401->427 or maybe take 403->QEW->427 ???
which should be easier and faster to pass...???

If you are travelling east on 401 from Windosr, just continue that way. As you go through MIssissauga and pass 403/410 watch for the 427 south cutoff as you will need to get into the collector lanes from the core lanes.
Go south on 427 and exit onto Burnhamthorpe Rd. At that point go west to the first traffice light which should be the West Mall. I'm not sure if RIV is then a little north or a little south of Burnhamthorpe on the West Mal, but a Livingston sign may help if seen, as Riv is operated by Livingston for TC.

I think you have baisc directions to Can Tire from Riv already.

If crossing at Lewiston, simple way is folllow the QEW all the way to Toronto, and north on 427 to Burnhamthorpe.

[jzy]

Does the Ministry of Tranportation in Ontario 'have' to keep the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) vwhich is in my name or should they be able to accept a legible copy. This web site

http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/vehicle/rgoutcan.htm

says the a copy of the 'Title' is good enough if you want to keep the original Title. Does this apply to MCO's in Ontario as well ?? If yes, how do I convince them - showing them a copy of the above website does not work because they say it does not say 'MCO".

Why don't you print the above page and bring with you so you can show it to them? I'd make a copy of MCO just in case they still insist on keeping the original.

[mangoman]

The list was updated today

They really are updating it daily! In the morning they still had the revision with "Nov. 23, 2007" at the bottom of the pages.

[Lost Horizon]

They really are updating it daily! In the morning they still had the revision with "Nov. 23, 2007" at the bottom of the pages.

These folks need a lesson in organized release management as opposed to chaotic cockroach clubbing ...

[Ebola]

Border Services may not require the proof of export but the RIV certainly will.
They seem to think the US Customs info is important, being that they included it in their checklist and all:
http://www.riv.ca/english/html/how_to_import.html

CBSA's position has changed. We recieved a memo stating the title must have the US export stamp.

[rob3blk]

If you are travelling east on 401 from Windosr, just continue that way. As you go through MIssissauga and pass 403/410 watch for the 427 south cutoff as you will need to get into the collector lanes from the core lanes.
Go south on 427 and exit onto Burnhamthorpe Rd. At that point go west to the first traffice light which should be the West Mall. I'm not sure if RIV is then a little north or a little south of Burnhamthorpe on the West Mal, but a Livingston sign may help if seen, as Riv is operated by Livingston for TC.

I think you have baisc directions to Can Tire from Riv already.

If crossing at Lewiston, simple way is folllow the QEW all the way to Toronto, and north on 427 to Burnhamthorpe.

The RIV office is north/east corner of Burnhamthorpe and The West Mall.(right on the corner) There will be a parking gate obtain ticket park in front of back of building. Make sure you take you ticket with you to pay at main lobby when finish.(less than 1/2 hr is free) RIV on the 5th floor.

[LoDown]

Why don't you print the above page and bring with you so you can show it to them? I'd make a copy of MCO just in case they still insist on keeping the original.

Tried that - was unsucessful. Has anyone been able to keep their original MCO (also known as Certificate of Origin - COO) by giving the MTO a legible copy ?? If yes, then we should all be able to do so.

[ziploc]

If you are travelling east on 401 from Windosr, just continue that way. As you go through MIssissauga and pass 403/410 watch for the 427 south cutoff as you will need to get into the collector lanes from the core lanes.
Go south on 427 and exit onto Burnhamthorpe Rd. At that point go west to the first traffice light which should be the West Mall. I'm not sure if RIV is then a little north or a little south of Burnhamthorpe on the West Mal, but a Livingston sign may help if seen, as Riv is operated by Livingston for TC.

I think you have baisc directions to Can Tire from Riv already.

If crossing at Lewiston, simple way is folllow the QEW all the way to Toronto, and north on 427 to Burnhamthorpe.

Thanks again for the answer, but i wanted to know more ''traffic wise'' as i will travel during rush hour......
which is a better choice and should be less congested ??

thx

[ziploc]

The RIV office is north/east corner of Burnhamthorpe and The West Mall.(right on the corner) There will be a parking gate obtain ticket park in front of back of building. Make sure you take you ticket with you to pay at main lobby when finish.(less than 1/2 hr is free) RIV on the 5th floor.

Thx for extremely specific instructions...
and ''rush hour traffic'' ???

thx

[a_y3n]

About 80% of the cars made in Canada are exported to the US. It's stupid how we have to go to the US to buy the cars that were made in Canada because it's cheaper there.

[tfpltk]

Please help!
The first bus/train arrives Rochester at approx. 1pm and 2:30pm respectively. Neither option would leave me enough time to get back to the border before the U.S. Customs close at 3:30 p.m. Even if I spend a night in Rochester will be very inconvenient (being car-less) and/or expensive (Motel + $50-60 cab ride, I was told). So, those who live in Toronto and have picked up a car from Karl, how did you do that?
Thanks

[Whitedart]

Thx for extremely specific instructions...
and ''rush hour traffic'' ???


At 1500-1530, probably ok until you pass through Milton area into Mississauga.
At that point after RIV and CT, you might want to take a break, or head north on 427 toward the 407 toll route and bypass the TO traffic, but I suspect 407 would also be heavy until after 1830 or so.
Just want to be careful that you do not receive a trafic ticket from OPP for not having a rear plate on the camera monitored 407, as you will likely have a temporary permit on the windshield.

[ziploc]

At 1500-1530, probably ok until you pass through Milton area into Mississauga.
At that point after RIV and CT, you might want to take a break, or head north on 427 toward the 407 toll route and bypass the TO traffic, but I suspect 407 would also be heavy until after 1830 or so.
Just want to be careful that you do not receive a trafic ticket from OPP for not having a rear plate on the camera monitored 407, as you will likely have a temporary permit on the windshield.

Ok thanks again for advice,
I will take your suggestion and probably find a good restaurant after riv/ct..

[eastsidesubaru]

What exactly is it Transport Canada would like me to do, exactly, for my customer who just brought up a Forester XT? (made after september 1st) now that it's suddenly on the list? >:(
Is there any kind of exception if the buyers order was dated before they updated that stupid PDF? Unbelievable...

[badkarma]

What exactly is it Transport Canada would like me to do, exactly, for my customer who just brought up a Forester XT? (made after september 1st) now that it's suddenly on the list? >:(
Is there any kind of exception if the buyers order was dated before they updated that stupid PDF? Unbelievable...

Short answer? Nothing you can do unless you can get Subaru USA(not a dealer) to write them a letter saying their vehicle meets the CMVSS 114. There's hundreds, possibly thousands in the same predicament.

However, those of us stuck in this @#$!ing Transport Canada fiasco are trying to organize ourselves. Ask you customer to goto http://www.carswithoutborders.com and submit their info. We are trying to maintain a list of everyone affected and pooling all the info we can on this mess. If they don't feel comfortable submitting information, at the least we will try to have the most up to date info for everyone to read.

[badkarma]

Even with public pressure of a few thousand cases, that is small time compared to the pressure from manufacturers and unions with car plants in Canada.


The irony is manufacturers do not want differences between Canadian and US vehicles. It's cheaper to manufacture for a single standard than making special provisions for bumpers, immobilizers, etc. just for Canada. I have no idea why we have some homegrown immobilizer rule.

For example: http://canadagazette.gc.ca/partI/2007/20071013/html/notice-e.html
Search for "bumpers", they're "trying" to harmonize our bumper laws with the US...

[jcl4]

I just imported a Forester xt sports from Zach at eastside subaru, got a fairly nice deal.

Since we just got back today, I was wondering how long would I need to wait till I phone RIV to email me for the form 2?
Also I can fax them the stuff even if it is not their office hour right?

[Agata]

Ive been watching this post for awhile, but then lost site (and many many pages of posts later) I'm back. I don't want to bug, but I just wanted to know or have someone confirm whether Honda's are allowed to be Imported? When I went on the website it seemed to me as they are allowed.

We're looking to get a Honda Ridgeline.
Any info towards this would be much appreciated! :)

Thanks in advance

[can2000]

Why don't you print the above page and bring with you so you can show it to them? I'd make a copy of MCO just in case they still insist on keeping the original.

Where is this info. for keeping the original title for QC?

Cann't find it here. Any ppl from QC can help?
http://www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/vehicle_registration/index.html

Thanks

[mangoman]

Ive been watching this post for awhile, but then lost site (and many many pages of posts later) I'm back. I don't want to bug, but I just wanted to know or have someone confirm whether Honda's are allowed to be Imported? When I went on the website it seemed to me as they are allowed.

We're looking to get a Honda Ridgeline.
Any info towards this would be much appreciated! :)

Thanks in advance

Check the latest admissible list on www.riv.ca, then if it's allowed, good luck finding a dealer to sell you one new, and good luck getting a recall clearance letter, and then of course Honda won't honour the warranty. :!:

On a separate note, do you really need a Pickup? Most ppl driving Ridgelines don't seem to use them for utilitarian purposes - if you don't, save the planet and why not buy something more fuel efficient, smaller and save yourself more $$$! :)

[jcl4]

I was in the state getting my forester xt sport for the past few days, then on NOv 26th they release forester isn't admissable. I just came back with a forester on NOV 26th!
I got pass the border, but just sent the stuff to riv, so am I screwed?
What can I do?
Even if I get the form 1 from the border riv will not give me form 2? or am I ok since I got pass the border? I don't know what should I do now!
Please some info please

[stock_junkie]

When I was at the RIV office doing the paperwork for my 2008 Toyota Highlander they told me they go by the date you made a deposit on the vehicle. So if you gave a deposit while the Forester was still admissible you should be fine.... but then again it seems that each person on this thread who speaks with someone at RIV gets a different answer!

What exactly is it Transport Canada would like me to do, exactly, for my customer who just brought up a Forester XT? (made after september 1st) now that it's suddenly on the list? >:(
Is there any kind of exception if the buyers order was dated before they updated that stupid PDF? Unbelievable...

I was in the state getting my forester xt sport for the past few days, then on NOv 26th they release forester isn't admissable. I just came back with a forester on NOV 26th!
I got pass the border, but just sent the stuff to riv, so am I screwed?
What can I do?
Even if I get the form 1 from the border riv will not give me form 2? or am I ok since I got pass the border? I don't know what should I do now!
Please some info please

[jrvic]

Your free services and warranty work are coverred by Lexus USA. You have to call them to open a case #. Then submit your invoices for reimbursements. Just for your info, Lexus service advisors are getting commisions on your service dollars, so you may want to tell the service manager that he's shooting his own foot by p#ssing a customer off.


So even though we imported the 2008 ES350, and its a great vehicle might I add, especially for the same price as a new Altima (canadian price of course) the CS with Lexus is absolute crap.

I deter alll of you from going to Erin Mills Lexus and getting your car serviced. The service manager is a real stupid guy. Lexus offers the first two services free but we paid for the first one because our car is an american car. Fine, im not mad about this because maybe the dealer you buy from should offer the free service (im not sure if its a North American thing)...but what pissed me off was the following that he said:

1. Roadside assistance is not covered in Canada (bull, roadside assistance is part of the warranty which is covered in NA, it even says so in the Lexus manual)

2. No courtesy car will be provided because its an American car (bull)

3. You cant register on www.clublexus.ca. I called today and they wouldnt let me register because I have an "american" VIN.

Basically if i was a resident of the US, bought a car and then moved to Canada Lexus customer service would go to the gutter and I would loose the "perks" of owning a lexus. Oh how i hate these boneheads...

[joejack]

I plan to go to US tomorrow to pick up my car. Can I export the car at the US Lewiston custom before 4pm, and turn back into US? I would like to do some shopping and stay a night in Buffalo before returning back to Canada and import the car the next day. Then I don't have to restrict myself to go back before 4pm the next day. Would that be a problem?

The Canadian border opens 24 hours a day, I believe.

I was at the US border yesterday to get my Odyssey title stamped. Once they stamped my title I was free to go/do anywhere/anything. There was no restriction. However, for people which were turned down for not having waited 72 hours or not having original title, were told that they must go back to US and were told not to try and cross the border. However, I just don't see physically, how they could have controlled that.

Two hours later when I was at the RIV office I met two guys who drove the night before from Grand Rapids MI and reached Canadian border at 1:00am. They never even stopped at US border and had their Title stamped. RIV had no issue with that and they walked out of RIV office with me with their Form 2.

Just answer only the question US customs asks, don't offer any more details then they ask for and go about doing what you have to.

Good luck.

[DSTU]

I was in the state getting my forester xt sport for the past few days, then on NOv 26th they release forester isn't admissable. I just came back with a forester on NOV 26th!
I got pass the border, but just sent the stuff to riv, so am I screwed?
What can I do?
Even if I get the form 1 from the border riv will not give me form 2? or am I ok since I got pass the border? I don't know what should I do now!
Please some info please


is it equipped with an anti-theft/immobilizer?

see if an after market one can be installed.

[jcl4]

is it equipped with an anti-theft/immobilizer?

see if an after market one can be installed.

It has both, but still in the inadmissable list...-_-

[jrvic]

CBSA's position has changed. We recieved a memo stating the title must have the US export stamp.

Do you have the official link?

[joejack]

Hi Guys,

Just got back with my 2007 Honda Odyssey Yesterday morning. Thank you for all who posted to the forum and also answer my specific questions. Much appreciate it.

I bought in Dallas Texas from a private seller. Had the owner faxed copy of the title to US border on 15th Nov and arrived in Dallas on 21st. Did the deal on 22nd and pickup the car and signed all doc that day. Left Dallas on Friday morning at 8:00am. Reached Jackson Tennessee that night (560 miles). Left next day at 6:00 am and reached Mansfield Ohio that night (570 miles). Left next day at 7:00 am and reached Buffalo at 11:30 that day (Sunday). Spent the afternoon shopping in Buffalo.

Left for the border on Monday morning at 6:45 am and reached the US border vehicle export office at about 7:00am. Went inside and I was the 4th person in line. By the time the office opened at 8:00 am, there was a long line up behind me (maybe 15-20 deep).

First guy in the line was sent back to US as he didn't have the original title. Second guy in the line was there for the second time as he was sent back to US on Friday as it had not been 72 hours since he had faxed the title. So he ended up spending the weekend in Buffalo.

I stood in line for an hour at the US border export office but once the office opened and my turn came, it only took about 10 minutes for them to process me.

Document to US Border Export office:
I wrote a cover letter explaining that I wanted to export a car from US and provided VIN # and said that attached was the title of said vehicle. I e-mailed the letter to the owner who then signed the title over to my name (yeah I know, I also sent him sample of my sig) who then faxed the cover letter along with the signed title to US border. He kept the fax confirmation as my receipt. Once I reached the officer at the US border office, she asked me for my title (original). Looked up some thing on the computer and then pulled the Nov 15th folder about 1 inch thick and pulled copy of my title. I noticed the Nov 14th folder on the table it was good 3 inches think, maybe more. Stamped the title and ask me when did I buy the car, where is the car, how did I find the car in Dallas, and how did I get to Dallas. Then I was told to take seat it will be few minutes. Couple of minutes later another office came back into the office who had gone out with the guy ahead of me to look at his car. When she arrived back, she had spotted several cars in lot outside and basically told the other officer to release titles for all the people who were waiting as she saw the cars already. Simple process, but very rude people. Be careful, only answer question what they ask and be precise and short. You will see the difference when you visit Canada Customs...much nicer people

Canada Customs Office:
Drove up to Canada customs booth. Gave him my passport and told him about the car, winter tires, rim, toys for kids, and gifts from family (lets just say my van was packed to the top). He gave a yellow sheet and told me to go inside the office. Went in and talked to a guy who asked me to fill out form 1. Filed out form 1 and went back to the same guy. He took the form and asked me to give him all the documents. I had a folder in my hand which had all the car related docs and other stuff. He asked me to leave everything with him. So I did. Went and sat down for few minutes and chatted with all the other Canadians whom I was chatting with at the US export office only few minutes a go. My name was called and given a number which I had to pay. I also asked the officer if I could put the car in my wife's name. Answer: not a problem, what is here name? Gave name and paper work was changed to her name. Went over to cashiers window and paid my taxes. Then walked out at 8:50 am and drove to RIV office.

Good to be back into Canada.

RIV office in Toronto:
Reached RIV office around 10:30 or so. Line up was out the door. Stood in line and chatted with people whom I met at the US export office earlier that morning and at the Canada Customs. My Turn came, gave them title, form 1, recall letter, and bill of sale. Bill of sale was returned right away. She entered stuff in to computer and asked for 206.xx. Charged my card and said nothing. Several minutes later, my named was called and was handed paper work. Told me to go to Canadian Tire and then to MTO. Since I need day time running lights, I didn't do the Canadian Tire. OH, BTW, there was talk of Toyota Camry 2008 not allowed on the forum just before I left town (something about immobilizer). Guy behind me brought 2008 Toyota Camry (nice black) and had no problems at RIV.

I think that is it. If I miss something, you can ask. Sorry for the long post, but I feel obligated to put all the details as others detailed helped me with my process.

Thanks again for all your help and if there is something I can I answer, please don't hesitate to ask.

[Yorker86]

This morning's Globe and Mail....


http://www.reportonbusiness.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071127.wrcars27/BNStory/robNews/home

Auto prices expected to slide further
Scotiabank economist credits strong dollar, incentives and imports with helping to reduce sticker shock
GREG KEENAN

From Tuesday's Globe and Mail

November 27, 2007 at 6:38 AM EST

Vehicle prices, which have fallen by about 5 per cent this year as companies operating in Canada battle cross-border vehicle shopping, should continue to fall, says Bank of Nova Scotia economist Carlos Gomes.

Auto makers in Canada have increased incentives to try to reduce the price gap that has led to record imports of vehicles from the U.S. market this year, Mr. Gomes said yesterday in his monthly report on the auto industry.

Imports of vehicles bought by Canadians in the United States hit a record of almost 25,000 last month, are on pace to reach another 22,000 to 23,000 in November and will likely hit an annual record when the results for all of 2007 are tallied.

That has helped bring prices down this year, compared with the previous eight years when prices were flat, Mr. Gomes said.

"While [manufacturers suggested retail prices] on many vehicles remain $4,000-$5,000 higher in Canada than in the United States, the decline in new vehicle prices in Canada has intensified since the spring, leading to lower prices for used vehicles, especially one-year-old models," Mr. Gomes said.

Price should continue to fall, he said, if the dollar stays relatively strong.

"This reflects the fact that with macroeconomic trends continuing to weaken in the United States, used car prices will face downward pressure south of the border," Mr. Gomes said.

Auto makers are reluctant to cut MSRPs in Canada, he said, because a record 550,000 vehicles are scheduled to come to the end of their leases next year, up from a five-year low of 470,000 units last year.

Cutting prices would reduce the residual values of those vehicles and potentially lead to massive losses for dealers or auto financing companies that could have to buy them back from the people who leased them.

The Automobile Protection Association, a Toronto-based consumer advocacy group, is urging buyers to sit on their hands and not buy new vehicles until next year, anticipating that the U.S. slowdown will lead to heavy purchase incentives in that market.

"With some concerted inaction by Canadian buyers, some of those price reductions may actually follow here," APA president George Iny said.

Several auto makers sponsored an eight-page advertising supplement in The Globe and Mail yesterday that included messages from senior executives of Audi Canada, Toyota Canada Inc. and Volvo Canada Inc., outlining why prices differ between Canada and the United States and what they're doing about it.

The issue has become a political hot potato for the federal government because some Canadians who bought cars in the U.S. have been prevented from bringing them into Canada, or, if they've been allowed to bring them in, must park them - at least temporarily. That's because of a Transport Canada regulation that came into effect Sept. 1 requiring a theft immobilization device.

People who bought such vehicles but were turned away at the border are now able to bring the cars and trucks in, but can't drive them until the department rules on the issue.

[torontostar1966]

Hi, Joejack
Where did you have your DRL installed? and how much you payed?

Thanks


[QUOTE=joejack;5999301]Hi Guys,

Just got back with my 2007 Honda Odyssey Yesterday morning. Thank you for all who posted to the forum and also answer my specific questions. Much appreciate it.

I bought in Dallas Texas from a private seller. Had the owner faxed copy of the title to US border on 15th Nov and arrived in Dallas on 21st. Did the deal on 22nd and pickup the car and signed all doc that day. Left Dallas on Friday morning at 8:00am. Reached Jackson Tennessee that night (560 miles). Left next day at 6:00 am and reached Mansfield Ohio that night (570 miles). Left next day at 7:00 am and reached Buffalo at 11:30 that day (Sunday). Spent the afternoon shopping in Buffalo.

[eipod]

Where is this info. for keeping the original title for QC?

Cann't find it here. Any ppl from QC can help?
http://www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/vehicle_registration/index.html

Thanks

could not find it written either..but they definately kept mine and I know of others whose MCO's were kept as well. There is a contact # but I wouldn't go by what they say cause they told me I could get temp plates for my new car til all the paperwork was done, but of course when I went to an outlet they said no way.

[Ebola]

Do you have the official link?

Internal memo, I'll see if there is anything on the public site.

Basically, as part of our agreement with Transport Canada, the directive is to stop letting cars be imported without the US export stamp for the inland ministries to deal with later, and just ensure that if the title isn't stamped, the vehicle isn't being imported.

[joejack]

Hi, Joejack
Where did you have your DRL installed? and how much you payed?

Thanks


I have not installed DRL as of yet. My Father-in-law is a retired mechanic who ran his own garage until two years ago. I have left DRL for him to figure it out.

I can/will post details once he has installed them for me.

[paul_lee]

Please help!
The first bus/train arrives Rochester at approx. 1pm and 2:30pm respectively. Neither option would leave me enough time to get back to the border before the U.S. Customs close at 3:30 p.m. Even if I spend a night in Rochester will be very inconvenient (being car-less) and/or expensive (Motel + $50-60 cab ride, I was told). So, those who live in Toronto and have picked up a car from Karl, how did you do that?
Thanks

Rent a car from Alamo and drop off at Rochester Airport. Karl should be able to pick you up from the airport.

[ziploc]

could not find it written either..but they definately kept mine and I know of others whose MCO's were kept as well. There is a contact # but I wouldn't go by what they say cause they told me I could get temp plates for my new car til all the paperwork was done, but of course when I went to an outlet they said no way.

I think they need that as ''the proof'' of ownership that they transfer/register in respective province.....they need something official, and that's what represents the vehicle ownership in the US...

[DSTU]

It has both, but still in the inadmissable list...-_-

I would contact Transport Canada and appeal their decision to not include it on the admissible list.

Then they would have to give you a detailed reason why its not compliant.

That's your only option for now.

[jrvic]

Internal memo, I'll see if there is anything on the public site.

Basically, as part of our agreement with Transport Canada, the directive is to stop letting cars be imported without the US export stamp for the inland ministries to deal with later, and just ensure that if the title isn't stamped, the vehicle isn't being imported.

This is another piece of BS from TC. Are they working with the car manufacturers or what? It must be confusing for CBSA agents and importers.

[ManchSubaruDealer]

Hi Guys,

The RIV has made any 2007 or 2008 Subaru Impreza (including WRX's and STi's) inadmissable if they're built after September 1st 2007. You guys still have a small window of oppurtunity to purchase an Impreza that was built BEFORE September 1st, 2007. You have to act now though. If you're interested in saving THOUSANDS on a new Impreza call or email me, Xan Peterson. My toll free number is (888)223-7455 or you can email me at manchester@subarumail.com supply is LIMITED. Also, you cannot be picky on color because of the limited supply. Don't miss out on your last chace to buy an Impreza in the United States. I just delivered an RFD member who saved over $10,000 on an Impreza. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,
Xan Peterson

[st7860]

http://www.canada.com/theprovince/news/money/story.html?id=a76ef779-f29c-4c80-bd9c-97c5bdd947e5&k=57854

B.C. residents are at the front of the pack in the dollar-driven race to import used vehicles -- mostly from the U.S.

As of the end of October, 27 per cent of all used vehicles coming into Canada this year have come to B.C. -- more than double its share of expected overall sales based on population, according to a report released yesterday by Scotia Economics.

"The high percentage of imports into B.C. reflects the large population base in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland -- more than 2.5 million people -- as well as the region's proximity to major cities in the U.S. Northwest, especially Seattle," says Scotiabank's Global Auto Report.

The high dollar led Canadians to import a record 137,000 new and used vehicles through the end of last month, a 21-per-cent rise from a year ago.

In October alone, the number shot up to 24,872 vehicles, a 68-per-cent increase from the previous month, the report said.

The surge of lower-priced U.S. imports has driven down Canadian new-car prices by five per cent so far this year. Used-car prices are also down five per cent, with one-year-old vehicles down eight per cent, says Carlos Gomes, Scotiabank's auto-industry specialist.

As a result, the gap between new-car prices in Canada and the U.S. -- despite the loonie being worth more than the U.S.dollar -- is starting to fall.

The current price declines reflect the fact that while manufacturers have not adjusted their sticker prices in Canada -- still $4,000 to $5,000 higher than in the U.S. -- they have been offering better lease rates and financial deals to lower transaction prices.

After that failed to excite much interest, "automakers started to boost the cash incentives that they were offering in the marketplace, on selected models, anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 to $10,000," Gomes said.

While that hasn't eliminated the Canada/U.S. price differential, the numbers are falling and will continue to do so, says Gomes.

[newid07]

Be the one reading the forum for long time, I feel it is time I should voice out my opinion. WE NEED ACTION. NOT JUST SITTING AROUND watching these big CM posting lies on the newspaper.

We should and I believe we can buy some ad space on the big newspaper on a few consecutive days, to alert general public about this issue.

TRUTH or MITH... we have our side of story!

[lh0628]

Hi Guys,

The RIV has made any 2007 or 2008 Subaru Impreza (including WRX's and STi's) inadmissable if they're built after September 1st 2007. You guys still have a small window of oppurtunity to purchase an Impreza that was built BEFORE September 1st, 2007. You have to act now though. If you're interested in saving THOUSANDS on a new Impreza call or email me, Xan Peterson. My toll free number is (888)223-7455 or you can email me at manchester@subarumail.com supply is LIMITED. Also, you cannot be picky on color because of the limited supply. Don't miss out on your last chace to buy an Impreza in the United States. I just delivered an RFD member who saved over $10,000 on an Impreza. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,
Xan Peterson

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

[Kamloops]

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

Why you been so rude? Nothing wrong with his post. He great he is doing this, more dealers should.

[SPaulS]

Hi Guys,

Just got back with my 2007 Honda Odyssey Yesterday morning. Thank you for all who posted to the forum and also answer my specific questions. Much appreciate it........................
........................................
.................................................. ..........
Told me to go to Canadian Tire and then to MTO. Since I need day time running lights, I didn't do the Canadian Tire. OH, BTW, there was talk of Toyota Camry 2008 not allowed on the forum just before I left town (something about immobilizer). Guy behind me brought 2008 Toyota Camry (nice black) and had no problems at RIV.

I think that is it. If I miss something, you can ask. Sorry for the long post, but I feel obligated to put all the details as others detailed helped me with my process.

Thanks again for all your help and if there is something I can I answer, please don't hesitate to ask.


:) Grrrrrrrrreeaaattttt !!! That was a nice post with first hand experience. Any way it was me concerned with the Camry 2008 Immobilizer issue.

:?: Another Question: Are you supposed to pay GST/PST on the personal goods you bought under $200/48 Hr rule to Customs Canada.

Thanks!

[Yorker86]

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

So far all I have read is replies that thank Xan for saving them thousands of dollars on newly bought vehicles. If anyone has the right to say anything its him. On the other hand, I havent read anything from you except for that ridiculous post of yours.

You should be ashamed of yourself. This is how great threads are ruined, by idiots like you.

[ziploc]

Be the one reading the forum for long time, I feel it is time I should voice out my opinion. WE NEED ACTION. NOT JUST SITTING AROUND watching these big CM posting lies on the newspaper.

We should and I believe we can buy some ad space on the big newspaper on a few consecutive days, to alert general public about this issue.

TRUTH or MITH... we have our side of story!

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=518955

[accorder]

check out this thread here.
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5988859

Be the one reading the forum for long time, I feel it is time I should voice out my opinion. WE NEED ACTION. NOT JUST SITTING AROUND watching these big CM posting lies on the newspaper.

We should and I believe we can buy some ad space on the big newspaper on a few consecutive days, to alert general public about this issue.

TRUTH or MITH... we have our side of story!

[ziploc]

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

Don't be so rude...
This guy offers great deals on Subarus and

HE IS RIGHT

[jcl4]

I was in the state getting my forester xt sport for the past few days, then on NOv 26th they release forester isn't admissable. I just came back with a forester on NOV 26th!
I got pass the border, but just sent the stuff to riv, so am I screwed?
What can I do?
Even if I get the form 1 from the border riv will not give me form 2? or am I ok since I got pass the border? I don't know what should I do now!
Please some info please

Help anyone? Anyone know others that have experience the same thing? Please let me know

[gibson00]

Are there any known issues with regards to buying a Ford Edge in the US and bringing it into Canada??
Is there the issue of DRL's and/or theft immobilization??

Thanks!

[lh0628]

So far all I have read is replies that thank Xan for saving them thousands of dollars on newly bought vehicles. If anyone has the right to say anything its him. On the other hand, I havent read anything from you except for that ridiculous post of yours.

You should be ashamed of yourself. This is how great threads are ruined, by idiots like you.

The benefits are mutual, he's not doing it for free, and it's not like he's the only option you have.

This thread is not about profiting any individual dealer or car salesman, but about educating everyone on the import process. He has 10 posts total here on RDF and they are all about advertising himself.

And I thought this thread stopped being great a long while ago.

This is a internet forum so call me whatever you like kiddo.

[joejack]

:?: Another Question: Are you supposed to pay GST/PST on the personal goods you bought under $200/48 Hr rule to Customs Canada.
Thanks!

Short answer: NO

Long Answer:
I had about $1400.00 worth of stuff and I declared all of it as I was suppose to. They never asked to see it or for receipts. Since I was in the US for 5 days, I got a $400.00 exemption. I had to pay GST/PST on the rest ($1000). If they had searched my car, they would have probably charged 6.1 % duty on most of the stuff as not much was manufactured in the states.

I remember reading about your Camry issue the day I was leaving and when saw a guy behind me with a Camry I asked if it was 2007 or 2008. He said it was 2008, so naturally, I had to ask if there was an issue with immobilizer and he said NO. The car has that factory installed (I should have asked which trim it was, CE, LE). This is the same guy I met at US Customs, Canada Customs, and then at RIV office. Anyways, hopefully that helps.

[Whiterock2]

I'm planning on getting a used 2007 Rav4 from a US reseller (not a Toyota dealer). Will Toyota USA actually provide me a Recall Clearance Letter? Anyone with advice or experience on getting this?

Thanks,

Mike

[joejack]

I'm planning on getting a used 2007 Rav4 from a US reseller (not a Toyota dealer). Will Toyota USA actually provide me a Recall Clearance Letter? Anyone with advice or experience on getting this?

Thanks,

Mike

Here is what I did for my Honda re-call clearance letter. I asked that the seller call/fax/e-mail Honda and get a re-call letter before he signs the title to my name. In my case, Honda asked to see front and back of the tittle, insurance, and drivers license of the seller. Since the car was still under sellers name, he had all the documents. I waited until re-call letter arrived in the mail to the seller and he faxed me the copy to see if it was satisfactory to me before signing any deal. Yes the recall letter was in the sellers name, but RIV didn't care when I submitted to them yesterday.

Hope this helps.

[shopper-X]

I'm planning on getting a used 2007 Rav4 from a US reseller (not a Toyota dealer). Will Toyota USA actually provide me a Recall Clearance Letter? Anyone with advice or experience on getting this?

Thanks,

Mike

Yes.
My friend finally found himself a 2005 Tacoma and called Toyota USA when he got back. The dealer was to call and have it ready but failed on that.
After calling Toyota the rep on the phone said it will be two business days, but he cracked a few jokes with the guy on the phone and 10 minutes later the recall letter was faxed in. You could call ahead of time to make sure you have it, but you can always call after too.

Toyota does not charge for a recall clearance letter (yet).

[badkarma]

I was in the state getting my forester xt sport for the past few days, then on NOv 26th they release forester isn't admissable. I just came back with a forester on NOV 26th!
I got pass the border, but just sent the stuff to riv, so am I screwed?
What can I do?
Even if I get the form 1 from the border riv will not give me form 2? or am I ok since I got pass the border? I don't know what should I do now!
Please some info please

You need to speak to Transport Canada or RIV. I know they were allowing vehicles caught in the CMVSS 114 net to get across the border and be parked while TC figures out their armpits from their a#$es, however I don't know if it only applies to vehicles purchased before Nov. 1st or not. They will not give out a Form 2 as of yet. I suggest you call the RIV and open a case number right away.

http://www.carswithoutborders.com there's alot of us in the same boat.

[RRKnight]

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=518955

Be the one reading the forum for long time, I feel it is time I should voice out my opinion. WE NEED ACTION. NOT JUST SITTING AROUND watching these big CM posting lies on the newspaper.

We should and I believe we can buy some ad space on the big newspaper on a few consecutive days, to alert general public about this issue.

TRUTH or MITH... we have our side of story!



WE NEED SILVERMAN'S HELP!



Q: How do I get in touch with "Silverman Helps" and get some help?
A: To help you with your problem, we need specific and concrete information. We require a detailed letter outlining the complaint and a photocopy of your documentation before any assessment can be made as to whether we can get actively involved. This process does take at least 8 weeks; our apologies, we receive thousands of complaints. Please be sure to include your complete mailing address and a phone number where you can be reached during the day.
This information may be faxed, emailed or snail mailed in to us ...

Address:
Silverman Helps c/o
299 Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario
M5V 2Z5

Silverman Helps Hotline:
(416) 591-7400 ext 2192
email:helps@pulse24.com
Fax: (416) 591-0292

[tico 1948]

So far all I have read is replies that thank Xan for saving them thousands of dollars on newly bought vehicles. If anyone has the right to say anything its him. On the other hand, I havent read anything from you except for that ridiculous post of yours.

You should be ashamed of yourself. This is how great threads are ruined, by idiots like you.

I agree, instead of crapping on a guy who saved yours truly over $15,000 on my vehicle purchase and who saved others big $$$ as well; why don't you, lh0628, vent your spleen towards the Cdn. Mfg/Dealer cartel who are sticking it to the Cdn. public!

[yklivan]

The benefits are mutual, he's not doing it for free, and it's not like he's the only option you have.

This thread is not about profiting any individual dealer or car salesman, but about educating everyone on the import process. He has 10 posts total here on RDF and they are all about advertising himself.

And I thought this thread stopped being great a long while ago.

This is a internet forum so call me whatever you like kiddo.

Even though the post from Xan may appear a bit commercial, it helps a lot for people who are really looking for 2007 Impreza. I am also one of those who is benefited from his service.

Everyone has his right to express his own idea but please respect each other.

[5136440]

Even though the post from Xan may appear a bit commercial, it helps a lot for people who are really looking for 2007 Impreza. I am also one of those who is benefited from his service.

Everyone has his right to express his own idea but please respect each other.


You don't need a degree to figure out, even my grade 5 kid, that you need to act quick to buy a Impreza built before Sept. 01. So, there is no advice buy a pure sales pitch.

#2, Think about it, if all dealer sales, brokers or insurance agents, etc post their FREE advertise on the forum, would you still like to spend the time on it? Don't waste the time.

My advice: word of mouth will do the job.

[shopper-X]

Even though the post from Xan may appear a bit commercial, it helps a lot for people who are really looking for 2007 Impreza. I am also one of those who is benefited from his service.

Everyone has his right to express his own idea but please respect each other.

Xan could have added that they have x number of 2007/2008 pre-September built vehicles on the lot.

[J233]

Looking for some input here pls:

1. How flexible can US Customs be with the 72 hr requirement ? Let's say the title is faxed on Thursday afternoon and I show up at the border 8 hrs earlier, in the middle of the night Sat/Sun. What are my chances that they will not turn me back to wait for those missing 6-8 hrs ? I am thinking about Blue Water Bridge crossing.

2. To avoid the challenge in #1...can the dealer I bought the car from fax their original title they have in hand (without my name as a purchaser) with the bill of sale tomorrow or even today and then I show up 72 hrs + later with a transfered title with my name on it (will get one on Thursday) - is this gonna work for the US Customs ? I just hope I can expedite the process and not to wait overnight at the border (have to pick up the car on Saturday).

[showMeAnImport]

Help anyone? Anyone know others that have experience the same thing? Please let me know

I think I can help you out on this one....relax a little bit....I think you are okay on this one if my understanding of your dates/timing is correct.

I am personally in the process of gathering information for myself right now to see if I am comfortable that I can go through the whole process without fear of financial hardship...

I spoke with a representative at TC today (deal with RIV as little as possible if you know what is good for you) and she unequivocally told me in no uncertain terms that you will be okay if you can prove to TC (not RIV...the buck stops with TC) that you exercised due dillagence in confirming that your vehicle was admissible at the time of your purchase. As long as you did this they will grant you amnesty.

Now for the ultimate question --> How do you prove to them that you exercised due dilagence and determined to the best of your ability that the vehicle was admissible prior to purchase?

As she explained to me --> As long as the date on your bill of sale for the vehicle is one that is prior to the date indicated on the Admissibility list that changed unfavorably towards your situation they will give you a pass. If this is not the case then you are likely screwed.

She said this applies to the state of the list from Nov. 1st onwards. So basically, as I interpret this, if you have a bill of sale with a date that is Nov. 1st or after and you can substantiate that the list was indeed favourable towards the admissibility of your vehicle on the day that you purchased you are clear cut good to go...

She went on to say that a lot of the folks caught up in the mess currently with their 2008 vehicles could not have possbility exercised due dillienge because at the time of their purchase there was no admissibility information for 2008s on the list. In a lot of cases people apparently went ahead with importing an 08 on the assumption that it would be okay because it was okay for an 07 model....

I hope this helps...I can certainly understand the anxiety you may be experiencing right now. I would call Transport Canada yourself and confirm what I am telling you...but again, this was told to me just today. The women I was talking to really seemed to know her ****...I feel very confident that what she was telling me was good information...

Funny enough....just for shits and giggles I cold called RIV right after I talked to TC to see if they would tell me the same thing. The guy there said that he couldn't say for certain what would happen under such a situtation, and that TC would likely evaluate your situation on an individual basis...at least he didn't give me a bunch of ******** random information like I got from them in the past...He said if you got into a situtation like this that TC would make the final decision....which is essentially what TC told me :-)

Could I ask a favour of you? Could you actually post up how things end up going for your situation? It would be nice to see a real example of this type of scenario getting resolved exactly how TC said is would be to me...thanks in advance...

Hope this helps...good luck...

Cheers

[accorder]

Xan could have added that they have x number of 2007/2008 pre-September built vehicles on the lot.

I think the information presented by Xan is helpful and propriate overall. In fact, we should welcome more U.S. dealers like Xan to post service information on this thread so we would have more options. Any parties who can help us save are our friends.

[st7860]

whats the difference with salespeople like X posting cars and realtors going in the home section listing houses? both aren't really wanted

[dayfut]

For anyone that cares: just noticed that all 08 honda models are admissible if built before sept 1 '07. This is new as it didnt show this yesterday.

[dsds]

EXCELLENT POST. TC is not going to back down.

[MMMM]

In case anyone has some spare cash, the recall letter for Ferraris went from 2000.00 to 5000.00 yesterday.:D

[james-007]

I'm planning on getting a used 2007 Rav4 from a US reseller (not a Toyota dealer). Will Toyota USA actually provide me a Recall Clearance Letter? Anyone with advice or experience on getting this?

Thanks,

Mike

I just purchased my 2nd vehicle from States. This time it's a private sale. I called Toyota in California and the lovely lady faxed the recall letter while I was on the phone with her.

[Draug]

In case anyone has some spare cash, the recall letter for Ferraris went from 2000.00 to 5000.00 yesterday.:D

They charge $5000 for the clearance letter? WOW! :)

[badkarma]

Positive development for Subaru buyers. 2008/2009 Forester is now OFF the list as of today

Too bad my Impreza is still stuck down there.


http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

Not quite. They moved it to Section 5.4 MPV.

[showMeAnImport]

They charge $5000 for the clearance letter? WOW! :)

Oh my sweet Jesus....It's all relative I guess :-) But talk about padding up the profits...

Cheers

[jcl4]

I think I can help you out on this one....relax a little bit....I think you are okay on this one if my understanding of your dates/timing is correct.

I am personally in the process of gathering information for myself right now to see if I am comfortable that I can go through the whole process without fear of financial hardship...

I spoke with a representative at TC today (deal with RIV as little as possible if you know what is good for you) and she unequivocally told me in no uncertain terms that you will be okay if you can prove to TC (not RIV...the buck stops with TC) that you exercised due dillagence in confirming that your vehicle was admissible at the time of your purchase. As long as you did this they will grant you amnesty.

Now for the ultimate question --> How do you prove to them that you exercised due dilagence and determined to the best of your ability that the vehicle was admissible prior to purchase?

As she explained to me --> As long as the date on your bill of sale for the vehicle is one that is prior to the date indicated on the Admissibility list that changed unfavorably towards your situation they will give you a pass. If this is not the case then you are likely screwed.

She said this applies to the state of the list from Nov. 1st onwards. So basically, as I interpret this, if you have a bill of sale with a date that is Nov. 1st or after and you can substantiate that the list was indeed favourable towards the admissibility of your vehicle on the day that you purchased you are clear cut good to go...

She went on to say that a lot of the folks caught up in the mess currently with their 2008 vehicles could not have possbility exercised due dillienge because at the time of their purchase there was no admissibility information for 2008s on the list. In a lot of cases people apparently went ahead with importing an 08 on the assumption that it would be okay because it was okay for an 07 model....

I hope this helps...I can certainly understand the anxiety you may be experiencing right now. I would call Transport Canada yourself and confirm what I am telling you...but again, this was told to me just today. The women I was talking to really seemed to know her ****...I feel very confident that what she was telling me was good information...

Funny enough....just for shits and giggles I cold called RIV right after I talked to TC to see if they would tell me the same thing. The guy there said that he couldn't say for certain what would happen under such a situtation, and that TC would likely evaluate your situation on an individual basis...at least he didn't give me a bunch of ******** random information like I got from them in the past...He said if you got into a situtation like this that TC would make the final decision....which is essentially what TC told me :-)

Could I ask a favour of you? Could you actually post up how things end up going for your situation? It would be nice to see a real example of this type of scenario getting resolved exactly how TC said is would be to me...thanks in advance...

Hope this helps...good luck...

Cheers

Great post, thanks for the reply.

So I would need to phone TC instead of riv? How would I be able to get the amnesty from TC? to Riv. As someone from Riv have reply me with a email basicly saying " No, if it is in the inadmissible list, we cannot process it"
Do you remember the TC officer's name? maybe I can get a hold of her.

[jcl4]

Positive development for Subaru buyers. 2008/2009 Forester is now OFF the list as of today

Too bad my Impreza is still stuck down there.


http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

I am not sure what is going on, but it seems they have just moved the inadmissibility of forester from section 3 to section 5. before it was in the passenger section, now on the multipurpose passenger column.
I wonder if they go by this form, the cbsa officer at the border mark my forester as passenger car, would they just look at the passenger section?
But I doubt it.-_-

[crasher]

Looking for some input here pls:

1. How flexible can US Customs be with the 72 hr requirement ? Let's say the title is faxed on Thursday afternoon and I show up at the border 8 hrs earlier, in the middle of the night Sat/Sun. What are my chances that they will not turn me back to wait for those missing 6-8 hrs ? I am thinking about Blue Water Bridge crossing.

2. To avoid the challenge in #1...can the dealer I bought the car from fax their original title they have in hand (without my name as a purchaser) with the bill of sale tomorrow or even today and then I show up 72 hrs + later with a transfered title with my name on it (will get one on Thursday) - is this gonna work for the US Customs ? I just hope I can expedite the process and not to wait overnight at the border (have to pick up the car on Saturday).

US custom is open M-F, so if faxed on thursday, it would be Monday, or Tuesday. They are so flexible, that when I reached their office @ 3:59, they sent me back, I had to stay there 1 night, for 1 min. job.
Your 2nd option should be good, just call them to confirm.

[dynamiteroll]

I am not sure what is going on, but it seems they have just moved the inadmissibility of forester from section 3 to section 5. before it was in the passenger section, now on the multipurpose passenger column.
I wonder if they go by this form, the cbsa officer at the border mark my forester as passenger car, would they just look at the passenger section?
But I doubt it.-_-


Fark. :evil:

[killbillvol1]

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

Oh Mr Luddite, will you please go back to your cave and leave this discussion to those that are interested?

Thank you.

[badkarma]

I am not sure what is going on, but it seems they have just moved the inadmissibility of forester from section 3 to section 5. before it was in the passenger section, now on the multipurpose passenger column.
I wonder if they go by this form, the cbsa officer at the border mark my forester as passenger car, would they just look at the passenger section?
But I doubt it.-_-

Open the door on your car and look at the sticker. If it's classified as MPV then it's an MPV. The CBSA officer will likely let you bring your car home... the problem is getting your Form 2.

[jcl4]

Open the door on your car and look at the sticker. If it's classified as MPV then it's an MPV. The CBSA officer will likely let you bring your car home... the problem is getting your Form 2.

Actually I didn't have any problem at the border, they let me in, maybe they didn't know since i came in on the 26th and thechagne was made on the same date?
There is nothing in the door other than VIN number not even when it was made, very confused.

[bmm34]

I successfully imported my 2008 5 passenger LTD and wanted to thank all those who have contributed to this forum. I especially appreciated the support given when I had questions. The whole process really was easy as long as you did your homework. I crossed on Friday and it took me less than an hour and twenty minutes from the time I entered US customs until the time I left CDN customs. On Monday I got Form 2, went to crappy tire and then to the MTO in Cambridge. I asked the lady if they have been seen lots of CDN's as of late. She replied that they use to be lucky to see 1 a week and now they see at least a couple a day. Sure enough the very next person beside me was importing his car. The word is spreading!!!

In total I think I saved close to $20K off the CDN MSRP. I exchanged my money at $1.058 which I was pretty happy with. Total price landed in Canada in CDN dollars was just under $33K. Not bad for the quality of vehicle I have.

Again thanks!

[1treehill]

My friend bought me a Toyota Camry Le 2007 today, I will go to pick it up end of this week or next week. Hope I will be lucky.
Many people in this forum are very helpful. I am here to say "Thank You!". The little thing I could do is that I registered Carfax last week, and it is valid for 30 days. If any of you wants me to check vehicle history, send me a email 8848.ca@gmail.com before the account is expired.

[SeeWhy2]

Hi all,
We are now the proud owners of a Subaru Outback (2.5i Limited with VDC - Diamond Gray Metallic with a few extras) courtesy of Karl at Van Bortel's. :cheesygri

It looks great and runs superbly! My wife had no issues whatsoever at the border. The car is in my name - all the US customs wanted to see was the title- matched it to the fax and sent her on her way. I guess they really don't care who is driving the car. Canada customs was painless as well she filled out Form 1, paid the GST and gone lickety split. I paid the RIV fee on-line tonight and will e-mail tomorrow for the form 2 and then off to CT etc. All-in-all with the exchange, difference in price(including savings on GST & PST) we figure that we saved about 15K.

Many thanks to the OP (MM) and all the others that added their 2 cents - we couldn't have done it without you ;)

I will post some pics once the weather clears up (damn winter)

Thanks to all,

[SeeWhy2]

BTW,
It looks like we are going to hit 10,000 posts tonight :!:

[showMeAnImport]

Great post, thanks for the reply.

So I would need to phone TC instead of riv? How would I be able to get the amnesty from TC? to Riv. As someone from Riv have reply me with a email basicly saying " No, if it is in the inadmissible list, we cannot process it"
Do you remember the TC officer's name? maybe I can get a hold of her.

Seriously...half of them at the RIV are meatheads....they seriously do not have the know how or the will to deal with the complicated situations...

I am sorry that I do not have a name for you. I didn't ask because I am not buying immediately at this time. Just call the main transport canada general inquiries line available on their website and listen to the menu items...follow the menus that say press number X for importing vehicles etc...

I would imagine they will open some kind of case number for you or whatever...

Again, please let me know how you make out....

Thanks

[bluemule999]

lh0628, can the smart remarks! If you have been reading this forum, Xan has helped many RFD members save alot of money...along with a few other Subaru sales folks. They have made buying Subarus in the US very easy and painless.

Very impressive sales pitch, thanks for the pity. I'm sending you my money as I'm typing this... not!

[brohmank]

Positive development for Subaru buyers. 2008/2009 Forester is now OFF the list as of today

Too bad my Impreza is still stuck down there.


http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf


Looks like they are still inadmissible - just moved from the passenger car section to the Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle section - see page 24.

[Jay-c]

Hi all,
We are now the proud owners of a Subaru Outback (2.5i Limited with VDC - Diamond Gray Metallic with a few extras) courtesy of Karl at Van Bortel's. :cheesygri

It looks great and runs superbly!

Exactly what I got.. what a great colour eh?? Enjoy it - I love mine!!

[bluemule999]

Help! I have been trying to post photos of my new Subaru, but I am unable to figure it out. I remember a past post, but my searches have turned up zilch.

[dsds]

Toyota talks about Canadian rules

calgary.ctv.ca

jsh

POSTED AT 4:56 PM Tuesday, November 27

Toyota Canada's managing director says it's no surprise that Canadians who shop across the border are running into roadblocks.

Stephen Beatty spoke about the problem on Tuesday at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

As of September 1st Transport Canada mandated all new vehicles must have a special anti-theft device.

But the United States has no such mandate and that means many American models can no longer be registered in Canada.

Beatty says car manufacturers have lobbied the government for years to harmonize safety rules with the U.S.

Nearly half of all Toyota vehicles can no longer be imported into Canada under the new safety rules.

[ziploc]

Positive development for Subaru buyers. 2008/2009 Forester is now OFF the list as of today

Too bad my Impreza is still stuck down there.


http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/importation/VAFUS/list/VAFUS.pdf

Be careful what You see..

FORESTERS STILL INADMISSIBLE....
they just changed the section for MPV instead of passenger cars...check section 5.4...

EDIT: oups someone already posted this...

[JeremyNNT]

Hi guys,

I was wondering if anyone here is familiar with this particular car and any modifications and associated costs of importing the vehicle to Canada.

Also, this is not a dealer sale, so what would be the best way for me to pay for the vehicle?

Please PM me if you have any sage words of wisdom. Thanks.

[dsds]

Just received my Canada Certification Label from RIV today!
Proudly attached to my 2008 Tacoma (pre-Sept 1).

Got home Nov 8. Did DRL mod Nov 9. C Tire inspection done on Nov 10. RIV letter shows sent Nov. 16. Crazy Canada Post Nov 27.

Here is a pic before covered in salt and grime :cry:

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff160/westpoint37/smalltruck.jpg

[rob3blk]

congratulations. very nice

[Tender]

Nice!

[toolman]

I picked up my 2008 Sienna XLE yesterday, stayed overnight in southern MI and brought it across the Detroit / Windsor border today without any problems. It was quite a wait on the US site to get the title stamped for export. Import at Canada Customs was quick and efficient. On my way home I stopped at the RIF office. It was very busy there but I got Form 2 in about 30 minutes. Nobody mentioned anything about immobilizers. Went to CT got the inspection done by 5PM. By then the MTO offices where closing. If I would not have had to wait that long at the US side of the border and got delayed with construction in Windsor I could have completed the process today. I will get my plates tomorrow or Monday.

Just an update: I received my door sticker from RIV today 24 days after the CT inspection. I guess I was just lucky to have imported a Sienna build 12.10.07

[NAFTAGO]

A good article that exposes the reason of why car makers don't want to reduce prices.

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/news-blog/canadian-car-dealers-recalcitrance-revealed/

Let's tell this guy what we know.

[jcl4]

Hey guy, I just found out my forester xt sport is actually made on 08/07( should be aug 07 right?) which is before the SEP 1 deadline on riv!
I couldn't find it before, but from further exploration I found a tiny tiny sticker at almost the bottom on the driver side under the body of the car -_-, what a place, had to lay face up on the floor to read it with a flashlight.

I am worry that riv would not know the MFD of the vehicle as I do not see it listed in any of the document?
Would they know it ? or They will ask me to prove it? How would I do that?

Huge relief, after 1 day/night of feeling like shxt.

[zoomzoom]

Just received my Canada Certification Label from RIV today!
Proudly attached to my 2008 Tacoma (pre-Sept 1).

Got home Nov 8. Did DRL mod Nov 9. C Tire inspection done on Nov 10. RIV letter shows sent Nov. 16. Crazy Canada Post Nov 27.

Here is a pic before covered in salt and grime :cry:

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff160/westpoint37/smalltruck.jpg



Nice! May I ask how much the final cost of the truck?

[dsds]

Toyota website shows C$42 (before GST) for same truck with options.
Paid US$29 which I paid C$28 to get. I crossed the border paying GST with exchange at 1.09 so it was very good timing! Thanks for asking zoomzoom. What a privilege to answer to such a senior member!!

[1treehill]

I know this is very very sneaky but I called Toyota USA and tell them that I have a Camry 08 and I need the Compliance letter CMVSS114 and recall letter. How do I get them?

They said to provide them the VIN# and they will send me via FAX and mail the Letters

Is that easy or what?

Why do you need the Compliance letter CMVss114? I did not see the requirement from RIV? someone can confirm if this Complaince letter is required?

[eastsidesubaru]

Hey guy, I just found out my forester xt sport is actually made on 08/07( should be aug 07 right?) which is before the SEP 1 deadline on riv!
I couldn't find it before, but from further exploration I found a tiny tiny sticker at almost the bottom on the driver side under the body of the car -_-, what a place, had to lay face up on the floor to read it with a flashlight.

I am worry that riv would not know the MFD of the vehicle as I do not see it listed in any of the document?
Would they know it ? or They will ask me to prove it? How would I do that?

Huge relief, after 1 day/night of feeling like shxt.

I just looked it up.. your car was made August 30th....
That's insanely lucky!!!!!

edit: it'll show on the recall clearance letter I gave you and there should also be a door plate on the driver's side door (not under the car..??) with MFG DATE.

[gibson00]

I know it has been detailed here in various posts, and there is info online, and I have looked at it (some of which was a bit confusing). But could someone please post a current list of the steps to import a car? There are 600+ pages to this thread, and some of the info is probably out of date.
I know I need to check if the vehicle is admissible, get a recall form from the dealer, etc. I don't know what 'form 1' and 'form 2' are, etc.
Could someone please post a step by step??! I'm very interested in purchasing a 2007 Ford Edge in Maine. I called RIV, and they seemed to say that it is fine, and doesn't even require the immobilizer security thing...... but I still feel lost in all the steps required
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SeeWhy2]

Help! I have been trying to post photos of my new Subaru, but I am unable to figure it out. I remember a past post, but my searches have turned up zilch.
Good morning,
I use Firefox with the imagebot extension (https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/1174) and upload pics to Image Shack. Then you just copy the url and right click and paste the url in post.
http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/2536/startp2.gif (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1174)
Like so!
I don't typically use Internet Explorer but I do know that once you access the Image Shack website you can upload pics from your computer, which is what you want.

HTH,

[allknowing]

I know it has been detailed here in various posts, and there is info online, and I have looked at it (some of which was a bit confusing). But could someone please post a current list of the steps to import a car? There are 600+ pages to this thread, and some of the info is probably out of date.
I know I need to check if the vehicle is admissible, get a recall form from the dealer, etc. I don't know what 'form 1' and 'form 2' are, etc.
Could someone please post a step by step??! I'm very interested in purchasing a 2007 Ford Edge in Maine. I called RIV, and they seemed to say that it is fine, and doesn't even require the immobilizer security thing...... but I still feel lost in all the steps required
Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!
See carburner.com and their link
An RFD Summary of the Import Process Detailed Guide to Importing Cars from the US
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477998

[gibson00]

See carburner.com and their link
An RFD Summary of the Import Process Detailed Guide to Importing Cars from the US
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=477998

Thanks!!!!!!!!!

[scouzi]

A good article that exposes the reason of why car makers don't want to reduce prices.

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/news-blog/canadian-car-dealers-recalcitrance-revealed/

Let's tell this guy what we know.


This is BS. It's the market that will decide the "value" of those cars. Not the lessees' contracts.

They will get hit regadless of MSRP pricing since those cars will be competing against US used car imports at the auction houses.

[mangoman]

Profits soar and they have the gall to pull the same nonsense with their skidoos preventing Cdns from buying south of the border? Shame on you Bombardier!

http://ctv2.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071128.wbomber1128/business/Business/businessBN/ctv-business

[eipod]

CAA quebec is offering info and advice in its latest newsletter..their comparative study should help spread the word..

http://www.caaquebec.com/Automobile/TrucsConseils/CapsulesConseilsDetail.htm?lang=en&TipsID=3b9c7af7-bbca-43d9-b58c-1004907a278e&HighlightPostingInNavigation=Voiture-Neuve-Usagee


CAA-Quebec comparative study on U.S. and Canadian prices for similar vehicles.
Click here to consult the study (PDF - 34 KB)

Click here to consult the document Thinking of buying a vehicle in the U.S.?


Warning:
CAA-Quebec reminds you that before initiating procedures to purchase a vehicle in the United States, it is crucial to be properly informed about the vehicle’s eligibility for importation into Canada, its compliance with existing Canadian standards and whether Canadian dealers will respect its warranty. Make sure that the information you have regarding eligibility for importation is up to date when you sign the sales agreement. For example, the most recent model of a vehicle might not comply with Canadian safety standards even though the previous edition, apparently similar in every respect, easily did so. If in doubt, you should contact Transport Canada directly. What’s more, be sure that any promises you are given, in particular those concerning respect of the warranty in Canada, are written into the sales agreement or any official document. You will find useful information and the Internet address of the main stakeholders in the document Thinking of buying a vehicle in the U.S.?, but to learn more, CAA-Quebec members are encouraged to contact one of its Automotive Advisory Services experts.

[03terminator]

Profits soar and they have the gall to pull the same nonsense with their skidoos preventing Cdns from buying south of the border? Shame on you Bombardier!

http://ctv2.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071128.wbomber1128/business/Business/businessBN/ctv-business

The real burn is the massive subsidies (non repaid loans) from the Canadian taxpayer to the bomber and auto industry in Canada. Then, they price fix on the consumer side. I am sure there are consumer laws being broken.

I am currently compiling a list of products that will not be purchased by me or my family in my lifetime. I bet the OEM's read this forum.
YOU ARE SCREWING YOURSELVES.

Stick to import friendly brands.

[flatman]

Found this while surfing, what a difference 4 years make (or not)

Carmakers Blocked Canadian-U.S. Imports




February 20, 2003
A Boston law firm has filed a class action suit against major automakers, claiming they conspire to prevent Americans from buying new cars in Canada, where prices are about 30 percent less than in the U.S.

"Carmakers have rigged the deck," said Joseph Tabacco Jr., a partner in the Boston law firm of Berman DeValerio. He said automakers refuse to honor warranties and punish Canadian dealers who sell new cars and trucks to Americans, as ConsumerAffairs.Com reported last May(story).

The situation is similar to prescription drugs, which are much cheaper in Canada than in the U.S. Seniors groups have been highly critical of GlaxoSmithKline for cutting off supplies to Canadian pharmacies that had been selling drugs to Americans. (story)

Prices are generally lower in Canada than in the U.S. because Canadians have less take-home pay as the result of lower pay scales and higher taxes. A weak Canadian dollar also hinders their ability to buy imported goods.

Tabacco said the auto industry was all in favor of the North American Free Trade Agreement, but only when it works to their advantage. When free trade began reducing their profits, they "broke the law to keep prices high," he said.

The suit names General Motors, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, BMW and the American and Canadian dealers associations.

The lawsuit says there are no major differences between the American and Canadian versions of cars, other than metric instruments and minor variations in safety and emissions standards.

Industry publications estimate the number of new cars and trucks that make their way from Canada to the U.S. at somewhere between 5,000 and 100,000 a year. Many are brought into the U.S. and resold by brokers, rather than by individual consumers.

[blugene]

Why do you need the Compliance letter CMVss114? I did not see the requirement from RIV? someone can confirm if this Complaince letter is required?If you can get this letter and your car is after Sept1 you will need it. If you do get it would you be good enough
to send me a copy minus personal ond VIN of course.

Thanks

[Dreyfus]

Toyota talks about Canadian rules

calgary.ctv.ca

jsh

POSTED AT 4:56 PM Tuesday, November 27

Toyota Canada's managing director says it's no surprise that Canadians who shop across the border are running into roadblocks.

Stephen Beatty spoke about the problem on Tuesday at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

As of September 1st Transport Canada mandated all new vehicles must have a special anti-theft device.

But the United States has no such mandate and that means many American models can no longer be registered in Canada.

Beatty says car manufacturers have lobbied the government for years to harmonize safety rules with the U.S.

Nearly half of all Toyota vehicles can no longer be imported into Canada under the new safety rules.

Toyota are consistent on this point, when the theft deterrent/immobilizer debate was going on in 2002-2003 Toyota was a member of the group that were opposed to unique Canadian standards. Transport Canada ignored the auto manufacturers and insurance industry and went ahead and imposed a "unique" standard on Sept 1 2007. Transport Canada in its cost benefit analysis estimated the cost to be $32 per car we are now paying $3k to $30k per car thats a 100 to 1000 times more than estimated. Why is the Minister Lawrence Cannon not instructing his bureaucrats to bring Canada into line with the rest of NAFTA. This is not only costing Canadian consumers it is costing auto assembly and parts jobs as well. I am angry at Dion for not pulling the plug and making this "new Gov't" Canada's "ex Gov't". The parties are braying like jackasses during question period every day about Mulroney, even set up a committee on a days notice. What are they doing about CMVSS and the daylight robbery of hundreds of thousands of Canadians.

[fulrach]

Thanks....as suggested by several of you...have started a new thread....come on people, let's have a fun little get together, meet, greet, see some nice vehicles.....carry a few signs....lol, and be on TV!

linky

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5988859#post5988859

anyone else willing to attend? let's see how many people are willing to throw in some cash to get these signs made! Anyone know any printers than could help us out too? I'm good for $40 for a couple signs...

let's spread the word, get people informed and show off our imports! :razz:

[GunnerX]

I majorly lucked out on my Impreza. Manufactured on 08/07 and has been cleared by RIV. Going to MTO today to get plates. Thanks to Karl at Van Bortel Subaru and the RFD GB thread. :)

http://www.gunnerx.com/pics/iphone/IMG_0021.jpg

I picked up the car on Wednesday last week and on Thursday, news of the Impreza to be inadmissible appeared on NASIOC. Talk about perfect timing.

[Dreyfus]

Global Economic Research
Global Auto Report
Carlos Gomes (416) 866-4735
Senior Economist, Industry &
Commodity Market Research
November 26, 2007
Surge in Vehicle Imports Dampens Prices in Canada
— Ontario & British Columbia are the Key Destinations
N orth American vehicle sales (Canada, the United States and
Mexico) weakened to an annualized 18.7 million units in October,
down from an average of 19.0 million during the previous two months.
In the United States, purchases remained below a year earlier for the fifth
consecutive month, with volumes dampened by the ongoing turmoil in the
U.S. housing market, as well as record oil prices. However, purchases
steadied on a month-to-month basis at an annualized 16.1 million units —
in line with the average of the previous nine months.
Volumes remained sluggish at the ‘traditional’ Big Three in October,
with sharp declines at both Ford and Chrysler more than offsetting the
third consecutive gain for General Motors. In particular, sales at Chrysler
slumped 9% y/y, prompting the company’s new owners to eliminate
an additional 11,000 hourly and salaried workers in the United States
and Canada.
In Canada, vehicle sales edged up 2% in October, reversing the
previous month’s y/y decline. Despite the improvement, sales totalled an
annualized 1.57 million units in October, well below the August peak of
1.77 million. In fact, purchases have softened below 1.60 million units
over the past two months, as consumers appear to have moved to the
sidelines in anticipation of lower vehicle prices.
VEHICLE IMPORTS SURGE
With the Canadian dollar recently climbing above parity with the
U.S. greenback for the first time since 1976, media reports have
highlighted that vehicles are more expensive in Canada than in the
United States, leading to a surge in imports (mostly used vehicles)
from the United States and slower sales in Canada. According to data
from the Registrar of Imported Vehicles, Canadians imported a record
137,000 vehicles from the United States through October — 21% above a
year earlier.
The import surge was particularly striking in October, with
Canadians importing a record 24,873 vehicles into Canada — double
the level of a year ago and a 68% increase from the previous month. The
import surge and vehicle price differential between Canada and the
United States reflect the rapid appreciation of the Canadian dollar, and
are not due to MSRP increases in Canada.
In fact, Canadian new car prices were flat between 1998 and 2006 and have declined by 5% so far this year. This
reflects the fact that while manufacturers have not adjusted their MSRPs in Canada, they have enhanced incentives and have
been offering better lease and financing deals. As such, transaction prices have fallen, led by an 8% decline for North
American-built light trucks.
While MSRPs on many vehicles remain $4,000-$5,000 higher in Canada than in the United States, the decline in new
vehicle prices in Canada has intensified since the spring, leading to lower prices for used vehicles, especially one-year old
models. As of early November, the Scotiabank Used Car Price Index had fallen 5% below a year earlier, led by an 8% drop
in the price of one-year old models — a significant fall-off from a 2% y/y slide in late 2006. In contrast, the prices of older
models have not been impacted and remain roughly unchanged from a year earlier. This likely reflects the fact that most
vehicles coming into Canada from the United States are nearly new models.

Canadian Dollar
thousands of units
Vehicle Imports
US¢
2007 data through October.
Vehicle Imports Surge As
Canadian Dollar Strengthens

Manheim
Used Vehicle
Index —
United States
y/y % change
Scotiabank
Used Car Price
Index —
Canadian One-Year
Old Models
Used Car Prices
Are Under Pressure
Scotia Economics
Scotia Plaza 40 King Street West, 63rd Floor
Toronto, Ontario Canada M5H 1H1
Tel: (416) 866-6253 Fax: (416) 866-2829
Email: scotia_economics@scotiacapital.com
This Report is prepared by Scotia Economics as a resource for the
clients of Scotiabank and Scotia Capital. While the information is from
sources believed reliable, neither the information nor the forecast shall
be taken as a representation for which The Bank of Nova Scotia or
Scotia Capital Inc. or any of their employees incur any responsibility.
Global Auto Report is available on: www.scotiabank.com, Bloomberg at SCOE and Reuters at SM1C
2
Global Economic Research
Global Auto Report November 26, 2007
Record Off-Lease Vehicles in 2008
The potential impact on used car prices and residual values
is the main reason why automakers are reluctant to reduce
MSRPs, especially since the number of vehicles coming
off-lease is set to jump to a record 550,000 units in 2008 —
up from a five-year low of 470,000 units last year, and nearly
triple the current level of new and used vehicles imported
from the United States. Furthermore, the number of vehicles
coming off-lease next year represents a record 14% of the entire
Canadian market (new and used sales), suggesting that increased
supply will pressure residual values.
However, recognizing that Canadians are demanding
lower vehicle prices in view of the deals available in the
United States, automakers boosted incentives further earlier
this month, offering discounts up to $10,000 on selected
models in an attempt to entice Canadians to move off the
sidelines and buy vehicles at home. Some manufacturers
have also recently announced lower prices for their all-new
2008 models.
Looking at used vehicle imports by province, Ontario and
British Columbia account for two-thirds of overall imports
from the United States — nearly 20 percentage points above
their share of overall Canadian motor vehicle sales. We estimate
that roughly 40% of all used vehicles imported from the
United States are destined to Ontario — a level only slightly
above the province’s share of the entire Canadian vehicle fleet.
However, British Columbia is the big surprise, with the province
representing 27% of all vehicles imported into Canada —
more than double its share of overall Canadian motor vehicle
sales. The high percentage of imports into British Columbia
reflects the large population base in Vancouver and the Lower
Mainland — more than 2.5 million people — as well as the
region’s proximity to major cities in the U.S. Northwest,
especially Seattle.
In contrast, used vehicle imports from the United States have
experienced only moderate gains in Quebec and across most of
Atlantic Canada. For example, while vehicle imports have tripled
across Canada since 2004, the increase in Quebec is much smaller
and is being driven by imports by large dealers. Meanwhile, in
Atlantic Canada, only New Brunswick has experienced a double-digit
increase in imports from the United States. However, even with this
jump, imports from the United States only represent a small
percentage of overall sales in the province.
With motor vehicle purchases accounting for nearly 20% of
overall retail activity in Canada, the reduction in vehicle prices
in recent months — even prior to the most recent increase in
incentives by most automakers — has been a key factor helping
to reduce inflation. The Bank of Canada's core index increased
by only 1.8% in the year to October, a significant moderation
from a peak of 2.5% in June and the smallest advance since
mid-2006. Statistics Canada indicates that a decrease in the
purchase and leasing price of passenger vehicles was the main
factor dampening the advance in consumer prices. Looking
forward, the auto sector will continue to experience
disinflation even if automakers hold off on lowering
MSRPs. This reflects the fact that with macro economic
trends continuing to weaken in the United States, used car
prices will face downward pressure south of the border. This
should further bolster imports into Canada, provided that the
Canadian dollar remains close to parity — a good bet given
Canada’s comparatively strong economic fundamentals.
Peak
1990-99 2000 2001-04 2005-06 2007f 2008f
TOTAL SALES 39.20 46.64 47.02 51.52 53.69 54.21
North America* 16.36 19.77 19.44 19.45 18.56 18.03
Canada 1.27 1.55 1.60 1.60 1.65 1.61
United States 14.55 17.35 16.85 16.72 15.80 15.30
Mexico 0.54 0.87 0.99 1.13 1.11 1.12
Western Europe 13.11 14.75 14.49 14.56 14.45 14.45
Germany 3.57 3.38 3.27 3.41 3.26 3.29
Eastern Europe 1.18 2.38 2.13 2.66 3.22 3.41
Russia 0.78 1.03 1.09 1.42 2.01 2.17
Asia 6.91 7.85 9.14 12.33 14.15 14.75
China 0.33 0.61 1.55 3.68 5.32 6.11
India 0.31 0.60 0.66 0.94 1.15 1.24
South America 1.64 1.89 1.82 2.52 3.31 3.57
Brazil 0.94 1.17 1.22 1.46 1.95 2.10
*Includes light trucks.
International Car Sales Outlook
(millions of units)

This was in pdf and did not copy very well. See the link above and request a copy. Carlos Gomes is a straight shooter with a well established reputation for the unvarnished truth. A refreshing contrast to the spin we get from our obfuscating media.

[Danno2005]

I am angry at Dion for not pulling the plug and making this "new Gov't" Canada's "ex Gov't". .

:cheesygri

[wally_walrus]

http://www.reportonbusiness.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20071127.wrchocolate28/BNStory/Business/home


They are protecting us from being gouged on chocolate bars, while they don't care about cars price fixing!

Unbelievable!

Please everybody contact your MP, minister Cannon and copy some opposition critics and ask them to require that TC changes their admissibility criteria

[Strikerjs]

Found this while surfing, what a difference 4 years make (or not)

Carmakers Blocked Canadian-U.S. Imports




February 20, 2003
A Boston law firm has filed a class action suit against major automakers, claiming they conspire to prevent Americans from buying new cars in Canada, where prices are about 30 percent less than in the U.S.

"Carmakers have rigged the deck," said Joseph Tabacco Jr., a partner in the Boston law firm of Berman DeValerio. He said automakers refuse to honor warranties and punish Canadian dealers who sell new cars and trucks to Americans, as ConsumerAffairs.Com reported last May(story).

The situation is similar to prescription drugs, which are much cheaper in Canada than in the U.S. Seniors groups have been highly critical of GlaxoSmithKline for cutting off supplies to Canadian pharmacies that had been selling drugs to Americans. (story)

Prices are generally lower in Canada than in the U.S. because Canadians have less take-home pay as the result of lower pay scales and higher taxes. A weak Canadian dollar also hinders their ability to buy imported goods.

Tabacco said the auto industry was all in favor of the North American Free Trade Agreement, but only when it works to their advantage. When free trade began reducing their profits, they "broke the law to keep prices high," he said.

The suit names General Motors, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, BMW and the American and Canadian dealers associations.

The lawsuit says there are no major differences between the American and Canadian versions of cars, other than metric instruments and minor variations in safety and emissions standards.

Industry publications estimate the number of new cars and trucks that make their way from Canada to the U.S. at somewhere between 5,000 and 100,000 a year. Many are brought into the U.S. and resold by brokers, rather than by individual consumers.

Was the lawsuit successful?

[shoprbccom]

from my buddies at importcarcanada.com

#1) as of Nov 26th, BMW NA now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter. They also now require $350 for a letter of admissibility before they will do a recall letter. Also, as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights mod (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing

#2) as of TODAY, apparently BMW has release more new rules which vary by car. Check this out with BMW CA before you buy. Apparently BMW is forcing people to purchase and install the Canadian SPEC cluster which costs upwards of $1500.00. Not cool.

This is out of control.

[Lost Horizon]

from my buddies at importcarcanada.com

#1) as of Nov 26th, BMW NA now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter. They also now require $350 for a letter of admissibility before they will do a recall letter. Also, as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights mod (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing

#2) as of TODAY, apparently BMW has release more new rules which vary by car. Check this out with BMW CA before you buy. Apparently BMW is forcing people to purchase and install the Canadian SPEC cluster which costs upwards of $1500.00. Not cool.

This is out of control.

BMW (Marketing) has always been out of control.. It's just that you notice the reef system more when the tide is out and the fish are flapping in the tide pools ...

[shopper-X]

from my buddies at importcarcanada.com

#1) as of Nov 26th, BMW NA now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter. They also now require $350 for a letter of admissibility before they will do a recall letter. Also, as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights mod (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing

#2) as of TODAY, apparently BMW has release more new rules which vary by car. Check this out with BMW CA before you buy. Apparently BMW is forcing people to purchase and install the Canadian SPEC cluster which costs upwards of $1500.00. Not cool.

This is out of control.

Is this on NEW only or both USED and NEW?

[Danno2005]

Just wondering if anyone has copied Flaherty on the huge opportunity to lowering the inflation rate if car prices more closely reflected US pricing?

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2007/10/20/flaherty-retailers.html

He should be having a discussion with the Transport Minister.

[Tender]

Was the lawsuit successful?

I think the lawsuit is still on.

from my buddies at importcarcanada.com

#1) as of Nov 26th, BMW NA now require a $500 two-hour Canadian dealer VIN inspection before issuing a recall clearance letter. They also now require $350 for a letter of admissibility before they will do a recall letter. Also, as of the 26th, a BMW dealer is the only one that can do the daytime running headlights mod (otherwise no recall letter). This adds about $1100 to the cost of importing

#2) as of TODAY, apparently BMW has release more new rules which vary by car. Check this out with BMW CA before you buy. Apparently BMW is forcing people to purchase and install the Canadian SPEC cluster which costs upwards of $1500.00. Not cool.

This is out of control.

They didn't make it $15,000?

[kingrukus]

What Port to cross at in the Buffalo/Niagara area? (i.e. which is the best, easiest, fastest from experenice)?
What port will accept faxed Title/Ownership for the above?
What else needs to be faxed to the port besides the title/ownership?
Does MY name need to be on the title/ownership that is being faxed? (i.e. I am looking at faxing an ownership still belonging to the seller in advance to ensure that I do not have to wait around in the USA once I get the documents in person).

Finally, where are you guys getting your bilingual airbag stickers from? I hear chrysler is the only place to get it from?

Thanks

[LoveRFD]

:cheesygri bump for the 10,000th.

[can2000]

Which CT in Montreal southshore is better to inspect the car?

Thanks!


WOW - 10000th post!

[st7860]

i hereby and solemnly declare that this is the 10,000th post in this thread.

furthermore, happy birthday to the thread

lastly, lets all get at least one US car and stick it to the manufacturers.

[Tender]

Which CT in Montreal southshore is better to inspect the car?

Thanks!

You just hit the 10,000th post!

[LoveRFD]

i hereby and solemnly declare that this is the 10,000th post in this thread.

furthermore, happy birthday to the thread

lastly, lets all get at least one US car and stick it to the manufacturers.

You just missed it!:D

[can2000]

You just hit the 10,000th post!

Any prize for that? lol

Thanks OP for such a great thread!

[Tender]

i hereby and solemnly declare that this is the 10,000th post in this thread.

furthermore, happy birthday to the thread

lastly, lets all get at least one US car and stick it to the manufacturers.

You missed it by 1. Happy birthday to the thread!

Edit: Wait, what's going on here? How come you're 10,000 now?

[shopper-X]

i hereby and solemnly declare that this is the 10,000th post in this thread.

furthermore, happy birthday to the thread

lastly, lets all get at least one US car and stick it to the manufacturers.

You just missed it!:D

He must have deleted a post to make his the 10,000th.

[LoveRFD]

He must have deleted a post to make his the 10,000th.


Smart $ss.

[shoprbccom]

Is this on NEW only or both USED and NEW?

Both apparently.

[Raikkonen]

POSTPONED !!







We need to immediately raise some funds for our information session.

I just set up a "Community Account" at TD Canada Trust: "Canadians For Fair Car Pricing"

You can directly deposit your contribution at any bank.

This is a secure way for anyone to make a contribution to our cause...small large, it all will help. This account also allows complete transparency, as I want everyone who donates to be very comfortable that their money is accounted for, and it will be.

A monthly statement will show our pooled deposits, and anyone can join me at a TD bank if they ever want detailed accounting. I'll keep records of actiual expenses, with receipts of course. Don't know how I can be more fair transparent. After our protest, I'll meet anyone who wants to review this material in person, in Oakville. There is a $1 bank service charge per deposit (only 5 free deposits per month, and $5 a month account fee, fyi).

Here is the account information.

Canadians For Fair Car Pricing
Bank Branch Number 01682-004
Account Number 0168-5216953

Any questions, please just ask.

addendum: extra proceeds will be donated to a hospital or majority's choice of charity

We need donations and volunteers so that we will be ready for Dec. 8.

We also need YOU to attend!!

Link to other protest organizing thread on RFD:

http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?p=6006088#post6006088

[sos1]

Really enjoy reading all those posting here, very informative and well thought out. The only solutions here are political ones. We must bring pressure to bear on both sides of the border. The quicker we all do it, the quicker the results will benefit our situ. Once we shine the light of day on these bandits, and how we are being ripped off, the better it will be for all of us.

The Lawsuit mentioned previously is still on going in the State of New Hampshire were it was filed. Our friends at Toyota USA paid $35 Million to get out of the suit, admitting no blame, in March 2005. The matter continues against GM, Ford,Chrysler and Nissan etc. Do you think these guys ever learn!! Oh Well..