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Buying a car (BMW) in Europe

Discussion in 'Fred's House of Pancakes' started by kgall, Dec 23, 2011.

  1. kgall

    kgall Active Member

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    Some of you may consider this treasonous but:

    We are going to Europe for a few months (OK, that's not treasonous).
    My wife remembers that some time ago, Mercedes Benz used to advertise that you could buy one of their cars in Europe, drive it, had it sent back to the US and still save a bundle.

    She's thinking that BMW might still do this, and she would consider buying her next car that way.

    Any idea if this idea still works or if BMW might do it?

    Anyone ever done this sort of thing? Like the result?
     
    #1 kgall, Dec 23, 2011
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    haven't heard that in 35 years, they used to say it would pay for your vacation.:rolleyes:
     
    #2 bisco, Dec 23, 2011
  3. cwerdna

    cwerdna Senior Member

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    #3 cwerdna, Dec 23, 2011
  4. 2k1Toaster

    2k1Toaster Brand New Prius Batteries

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    You would have to buy a US-spec model. To comply with US standards many things have to change (headlights, bumpers, sidemarkers, suspension on some models, and more). So make sure you know exactly what you are buying and how you are planning on importing it. Also how much it will take to import. If you cannot make your vehicle comply within 2 inspections and 60 days, it will be impounded and destroyed at the port of entry. You will not get any money back or compensation. You may actually be charged for the destruction of the vehicle.
     
    #4 2k1Toaster, Dec 24, 2011
  5. cwerdna

    cwerdna Senior Member

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    ^^^
    Yep. That's why you should go thru European Delivery at BMW North America. You should obviously check w/BMW about what to do if you plan to drive that car for >2 weeks in Europe.
     
    #5 cwerdna, Dec 24, 2011
  6. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    Yes but you need to talk with your BMW dealership to iron out the details. You can't just walk up, buy the car and tell them that you want to pick it up at the factory.
     
    #6 Tideland Prius, Dec 24, 2011
  7. AK_james

    AK_james Junior Member

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    Many European makes have these types of programs, but don't forget to check on the tax consequences with your local DMV. Have a great trip!
     
    #7 AK_james, Dec 24, 2011
  8. stevemcelroy

    stevemcelroy Active Member

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    When I was a kid this is how my folks used to buy their Volvos. From what I remember the savings back then were substantial but that changed - they bought their final Volvo here in the US (an 850 back in the early 90's). The tech has likely changed a fair bit, but back then the car came with an Eurpoean emissions system and the US one was strapped down in the back - it was a new muffler and a few other bits that would be installed before it was picked up in the US.

    As for tax consequences with the DMV- it should be fairly easy - like buying a car out of state (which I have done twice) - you just pay the tax to the DMV when you register the car in your home state. It is fairly easy, just be sure to be careful and keep all of the paperwork - you never know when you might need it.
     
    #8 stevemcelroy, Dec 24, 2011
  9. kgall

    kgall Active Member

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    Thanks to all.

    We're now thinking a bit more about an Audi A3 TDI (turbo diesel). Anyone have comments on that?

    I remember hearing in the old days that turbochargers had problems after 50K miles or so. Still true? Or are they now more reliable, like the rest of the car?
     
    #9 kgall, Dec 27, 2011
  10. SageBrush

    SageBrush Senior Member

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    I have no interest in European cars, but if I did I would consider it wise to buy a car made in Europe rather than Mexico.
     
    #10 SageBrush, Dec 27, 2011
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