dk wolf

Hey guys, so Ive looking into importing my FD from Japan to the states. It seems I can register it in AZ without too much of an issue, I just need to get rid of all the VIN numbers and register it as a kit car. I did a google search and searched this site and wasn't able to find any answers.

Anyone know where there's an archive of sorts that says where all the VIN number locations are? Also if I have been misinformed on me importing this vehicle PLEASE let me now. I'm still learning about this and expect to be misled and make mistakes.


Thanks again guys.

misterstyx69

iTrader: (142)

If it is anything like an FC,you will find Vin's on the dashboard/driver's side..the Inner driver's door on a sticker,the passenger firewall on a Vin plate and also imbedded stamp of the Vin around the same location.

dk wolf

Thanks a bunch!! Also out of curiosity, does anyone know if customs in CA will allow you to just take a rolling chassis out of their lot without much hassle?

Gringo Grande

iTrader: (97)

VIN are typically on the dash in the left hand corner for USDM (May be other side for JDM) and the engine bay firewall.

This is your FD but you don't know this? I strongly urge you to read the many threads about importing your car into the US in the 3rd Gen Section. If you ask this there, you will be flamed...fair warning.

To the best of my knowledge it cannot be done. At best you will have a grey market car than can still be seized if it strikes the whim of whatever LEO. I strongly, strongly you suggest reading up on this topic.

And no...just because other people have them in the country does not mean they are legal here at a Federal level.

Evil Aviator

If you remove all the VINs then the government will think that the car is stolen, and they will impound it. I think it is a better idea to simply contact the US DMV and ask them how to import a foreign car.

The kit car idea sounds like a bad plan. Arizona, like most other states, usually wants you to provide all of the receipts for the parts so they know how much to tax the car. No receipts, no title.

dk wolf

Well I just checked the Nhtsa list and it shows the rx7. On the list of approved imported vehicles... Although I can't tell if it's rhd or not.

I tried calling customs and they were of no help.. Provided zero information..

I also want to know how extreme I have to transform my car to import it under a race car. Pretense

Gringo Grande

iTrader: (97)

Please go into the 3rd Gen Section and seach: Import JDM or Import RHD or Import RX7. Then spend about 10hrs reading. This topic has been covered many times with tons of government information, forms and member argument.

mdp

I've bought and imported several FD parts from private parties in New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. US Customs is your problem, not registering it for a license. If it's going to go through LA or Long Beach (the two places I've imported through) you stand little chance of getting it through. They have seen every ploy in the book and a private person trying to import a single car sets off about every red flag in the book. It's not impossible but trying to put one over the customs agents won't work.

dk wolf

So ummm... Explain how you did it please?