Hey folks, I know a few folks have talked about getting a lower spec 200 in the states. Is there any reason why a petrol engine 200 in Dubai with a lower spec couldn’t be imported to the states? It seems that it should be fairly straightforward considering the stateside 200 already exists assuming the imported model has the same safety features. Thoughts?
Exporting a 200 from dubai
- Thread starter Joshuak172
- Start date
This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.
guerasfj60
SILVER Star
Have you checked emissions and NAFTA rules
- Thread starter
- #3
The 5.7l is the same engine we use here, I assume the 4.0l is the same one we have here also. Not sure if they are outfitted with the same emissions kit
Not so sure about NAFTA application, but certifications for emissions and safety issues, plus import duties, etc., all seem likely to make it cost more than a US model.
Search for importing at the US DOT.
Extract from the EPA site:
Can be imported in two circumstances:
EPA regulations also allow nonconforming vehicles and engines to be temporarily imported under U. S. Customs and Border Protection bond, if they qualify for an EPA exemption. EPA and Customs regulations allow for the temporary importation of nonconforming vehicles with EPA pre-approval for the following purposes:
Search for importing at the US DOT.
Extract from the EPA site:
Can be imported in two circumstances:
- By Certification: (my note: this usually is interpreted as certified by the manufacturer)
EPA regulations also allow nonconforming vehicles and engines to be temporarily imported under U. S. Customs and Border Protection bond, if they qualify for an EPA exemption. EPA and Customs regulations allow for the temporary importation of nonconforming vehicles with EPA pre-approval for the following purposes:
- By Exemption:
- Testing
- Display
- Repair or alteration
- Nonresident
- Competition/Racing
Anything can be done with $$ and connections.
It would cost you 2-3 times the cost of the truck. You have to have the vehicle conform to DOT and EPA regulations. Stuff like seat belt chimes, all the glass, Brake lights, turn signals, warning lights, crash tests, etc. I can't imagine the nightmare dealing with the EPA. The safety features are not the same across the regions where vehicles are sold.
I lived in the Middle East a while back and I looked into it to bring back a Mercedes SL I had and it would cost a fortune and there was no guarantee the vehicle would ever meet US Specs. You also have to leave a bond equal to the vehicle's purchase price with Customs while the vehicle is being worked on.
It's dumb but if it is 25 years old or older then you can just bring it right it.
