For car enthusiasts, looking to the continent in order to find their perfect car can be an expensive business.
Imported cars are often specified to meet regulations in their country of origin, but these little differences can often lead to difficulties when used on the roads in the UK.
However there are two classifications which can help to determine usability in the UK. The two main types of import cars are grey imports and parallel imports. Both of which can lead to differences when looking for a car insurance quote.
Grey imports are usually vehicles which have been built outside of the EU – such as Japan and the United States – with Japan being the most popular choice for import buyers.
Through this chain, enthusiasts are able to purchase cars that are of a higher specification as compared to a UK model or are not available in the UK at all.
However, the process of buying, importing and finding suitable car insurance can be costly. Differences in technical regulations mean that buyers will have to shell out more to get the vehicle modified and tested through the Single Vehicle Approval (SVA) scheme to ensure they meet environmental and safety regulations within the UK.
Repairs can also be expensive for owners of grey import vehicles, services can prove trickier due to differences in parts and specifications. Some dealers may offer parts and servicing, but it’s always best to double check before committing to a sale.
Parallel imports are vehicles that have been purchased from within the EU, but still retain the specifications of the UK models – such as right-hand drive and safety checks.
All cars sold within Europe have to meet the same minimum standards for areas such as emissions and protection. Some features may be optional on some vehicles – such as sunroofs and interior trims – which would usually be included in the UK model, however some buyers will be happy to accept these minor differences if the price suits them.
It is advisable to check vehicle specifications and warranties when purchasing a vehicle from abroad, as this information can be vital when searching for a motor insurance quote.
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Underinsured
By: lunchlady | 12-07-2008
what is the statute of limitations on motor vehicle accidents in nj for underinsured drivers? if the person at fault does not have enough coverage to cover the cost of replacing a totaled vehicle, can the insurace company of the other driver sue them personally for the difference? if they can, is there a time frame they have to do it by?
Uninsured in car accident
By: bran | 08-07-2008
my husband was involved in a car accident july05.very minimal damage to other vehicle,none to ours. i just found out our policy cancelled on june30.so we have no insurance to cover this accident. the family of 6 that was in the van were not hurt and 3 of the passengers left before the law arrived because they were going to a wedding. now it is july 08 and 2 of the passsengers are complaining of back problems. i have pictures of the damage to their vehicle and no tickets were given. where do we stand on this?i dont have a problem at all with paying for the damages to the van. but i do have a problem with the injuries. my husband bumped them in the rear pulling from a stop sign. barely any speed at all. any advice would be appreciated. thanks alot!
Car storage insurance
By: mmille6515 | 09-05-2008
do you know how i can insure my car in arizona for storage only
Car insurance policy
By: Jonofwg | 05-05-2008
I bought a used car and added it to my policy, and then the car broke down 2 days later, how do I take it off my policy, will I be charged? How does it work?
Wa car liability insurance
By: judykay | 23-03-2008
Does car liability insurance in WA state cover the passenger for medical insurance in case of a one car accident
My parked car was hit 22nd Oct 2008 and my car has ...
By: RoydenFoster | 22-01-2008
My parked car was hit 22nd Oct 2008 and my car has been off the road for over three months and the insurers are unable to still provide a date when they will get the part to complete the repairs to my car. They also appear not to want to consider any alternative solutions. Is not three months an unreasonable time to wait for your car to be repaired? Where do I stand in relation to the insurers having to pay me out? Fully comprehensive
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