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Imported cars can be fascinating, whether you want a rare model or to save money. But there are also some problems that come with it.

You need to think about UK laws, which may require changes to safety and environmental standards, as well as import taxes and registration fees. Imported cars have higher insurance premiums and harder-to-find replacement parts.

Review all car import requirements and costs. Doing so will streamline the procedure and ensure your vehicle is UK-roadworthy.

 

What's the Difference Between Parallel Imports and Grey Imports?

 

What Is A Parallel Import?

Authorised distribution channels bring EU vehicles into the UK as parallel imports. Identical to UK models, these models are often cheaper in EU markets.

With their European design, parallel imports meet UK safety and environmental rules, which makes them easier to register and insure. Warranty coverage may vary, so check that UK dealerships support servicing and spare parts for convenient maintenance.

 

What Is A Grey Import?

UK grey imports are vehicles from non-EU countries like Japan and the US. These cars are typically rare in the UK, appealing to buyers wanting something different.

They may need major changes to meet UK laws. Changing the speedometer to miles per hour and fulfilling local emissions and safety norms are common changes. Grey imports have higher insurance premiums and harder-to-find spare parts. A car value check is also recommended to confirm the car is worth the total costs involved.

 

Are Imported Cars Worth It? Pros and Cons to Consider

Pros And Cons Of Parallel Import

 

Pros:

  • They are usually the same as UK models, so they meet UK safety and environmental standards.
  • They are often cheaper because of changes in the EU markets.
  • They are easier to register and insure because they already follow European laws.
  • Repairs and replacement parts can usually be found at UK stores.

Cons:

  • The warranty terms may be different from those for cars bought in the UK.
  • Cars bought outside of the UK may not get as much manufacturer help.
  • It might be hard to sell because some buyers want UK-registered cars and will demand a full number plate check and car details by reg before purchase.
 

Pros And Cons Of Grey Import

Pros:

  • It gives you access to rare models that are not sold in the UK market
  • Often has good prices, especially from places like Japan.
  • Usually well-kept and low mileage if they come from countries with strict car standards.
  • Interesting to collectors who want unique styles or features.

Cons:

  • To follow UK rules, it might need changes like an emission test or a switch for the speedometer.
  • Because insurers do not know as much about them, they usually cost more to cover.
  • It might be harder to find spare parts and do some types of repair in the UK.
  • It might be hard to register, and the next-day numbers might be lower.

What to Watch Out for When Purchasing an Imported Vehicle

 

Compliance with UK regulations

Make sure a car passes UK safety and emissions regulations before importing it. In some situations, changes may need to be made, like changing the speedometer or the lights.

 

Availability of parts and servicing

Check the model's UK parts and servicing availability, as restricted availability can increase long-term maintenance costs.

 

Registration and insurance

Get complete information about the registration process and fees. Due to higher insurance costs, importing an automobile may increase your premiums. Always run a vehicle check before purchase to ensure the car's legitimacy.

 

Assessing Your Needs and Budget

When deciding to import a car, consider your motives and finances. First, figure out what you really want: do you want a model that is not available in the UK or do you want to save money on things you buy in the UK?

Next, look at the costs of owning the item beyond the purchase price. This should include:

  • Import taxes and charges required for car import into the UK.
  • UK rules may require emissions, speedometer, or lighting changes.
  • Maintenance and servicing costs, especially for specific parts or expertise.

Finally, evaluate long-term costs. Imported cars may cost more to insure and repair. Considering these issues will help keep the purchase affordable.

How Do I Import a Car Into the UK? A Step-by-Step Process

 

1. Research vehicle regulations

Make sure the imported car meets safety and emission rules in the UK. Find out if compliance needs changes like a new speedometer or better lighting.
 

2. Obtain the necessary documentation

Purchase an EU import Certificate of Conformity and IVA for non-EU cars. Get invoices, purchase receipts, and car history.
 

3. Pay taxes and duties

Cars from outside the EU cost 20% VAT and 10% import fees based on customs value. It is recommended to use the UK Customs Declaration Service to calculate and settle payments.
 

4. Arrange vehicle insurance

Avail specific insurance for unregistered imported vehicles. Be aware of higher premiums for unfamiliar models.
 

5. Register the vehicle

Apply for UK DVLA registration. Provide proof of identity, car documents, and tax payment proof. Registration can take up to six weeks.
 

6. Complete an MOT (if applicable)

Vehicles that are more than three years old need to pass a MOT test to be safe to drive. The test checks the car's emissions, safety features, and general state.
 

7. Pay road tax and fit licence plates

After registration, you must pay road tax and purchase UK-style number plates. Put on plates before you drive on UK roads. A number plate check ensures compliance.
 

8. Final checks

Verify correct and secure documentation storage and verify vehicle compliance and readiness before use. After completion, enjoy your fresh imported car on UK roads with confidence.

FAQs Buying An Imported Car

 

What Are The Risks Of Buying An Imported Car?

Importing a car may increase insurance costs, make parts harder to find, and need UK-standard adjustments. Buyers may face import tax and tariff expenses and registration delays. Resale values may drop because purchasers may be apprehensive of new varieties.
 

Is Insurance More Expensive For An Imported Car?

Imported cars cost extra to insure. Insurers may not know some models, making new parts harder to buy and repair costs higher. Grey imports cost more due to UK customisations and non-standard standards.
 

What Are The Registration Costs For An Imported Car In The Uk?

The DVLA charges £55 to register an imported car in the UK. UK safety and environmental standards necessitate VAT, import fees, and car adjustments. Older or non-EU cars may cost more to MOT. Older or non-EU cars may cost more for MOTs.
 

Are imported cars worth buying?

These cars may be cheaper, more flexible, and more options than domestic ones. However, import tariffs, regulatory changes, higher insurance premiums, and parts and service issues emerge. To assess if buying an imported car is "worth it," consider the constraints, cost, car details by reg, long-term maintenance, model preference, and savings.
 

What to do when buying an imported car?

Imported cars sold in the UK must meet UK requirements and pass inspections and registrations. A Vehicle Approval Test, import duty, VAT, and other costs, and DVLA registration are required. Buyers should also check the vehicle's history, compare insurance alternatives, confirm any needed adjustments like a speedometer conversion, and make sure the brand and model have reliable parts and service.
 

Does an imported car cost more to insure?

Imported cars are more expensive to insure than UK models. Imported cars may be unfamiliar to insurers, making risk assessment difficult. It can be expensive or hard to find replacement parts, which makes repairs more expensive. Because they do not meet UK standards, grey imports sometimes cost more because they do not come with normal specs.

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Tony Gastro

A dynamic automotive industry expert with 15+ years of experience in design, engineering, and market strategy. Specialises in cutting-edge innovation, sustainability, and performance, leading transformative growth across global automotive markets.