- Joined
- Dec 22, 2017
- Messages
- 73
- Reaction score
- 15
- Location
- San Diego, USA
- VCDS Serial number
- C?ID=345556
The insanity that is Importing a vehicle from Canada to the USA...
So I decided to go down to the Customs and Border Patrol office in San Diego today. This is where you might be able to import a car.
I explained that I'm unable to get a Letter of Conformity from VW of A. It states that the car falls short of conforming due to the lack of matching the USA OEM Direct TPMS. I explained the progress I've made with confirming operation of Indirect TPMS and the attempt at Direct TPMS retrofit by myself. The officer stated that without a letter of conformity that I'm wasting my time. He then referred me to the Department of Transportation. He said that only they can make an exception if the manufacturer cannot provide a letter of conformity. I explained that even VW has gone back and forth on Indirect and Direct TPMS. But none of that matters.
From what I gather with the DOT exception list, it is very difficult and expensive to get a car listed on there. Most are exotic or old (but not 25 years yet).
So I've written an email to importcertification@dot.gov asking for a review and certification though I'm not holding my breath. If you are bored and like speaking up for the little guy, maybe send an email to them too and tell them how stupid there policy is.
My wife and I have basically given up.... all over TPMS needing to be Direct instead of Indirect... and/or VW being of absolutely no assistance. Hmm. I guess a road trip back to Canada to sell it, then Subaru?
So I decided to go down to the Customs and Border Patrol office in San Diego today. This is where you might be able to import a car.
I explained that I'm unable to get a Letter of Conformity from VW of A. It states that the car falls short of conforming due to the lack of matching the USA OEM Direct TPMS. I explained the progress I've made with confirming operation of Indirect TPMS and the attempt at Direct TPMS retrofit by myself. The officer stated that without a letter of conformity that I'm wasting my time. He then referred me to the Department of Transportation. He said that only they can make an exception if the manufacturer cannot provide a letter of conformity. I explained that even VW has gone back and forth on Indirect and Direct TPMS. But none of that matters.
From what I gather with the DOT exception list, it is very difficult and expensive to get a car listed on there. Most are exotic or old (but not 25 years yet).
So I've written an email to importcertification@dot.gov asking for a review and certification though I'm not holding my breath. If you are bored and like speaking up for the little guy, maybe send an email to them too and tell them how stupid there policy is.
My wife and I have basically given up.... all over TPMS needing to be Direct instead of Indirect... and/or VW being of absolutely no assistance. Hmm. I guess a road trip back to Canada to sell it, then Subaru?