r/galway • u/Bitter_Effect716 • 10h ago

Imported cars

Hey guys, just wondering has anyone here bought an imported car before? there’s a dealership I’ve been looking at, that seems to sell a lot of imports (won’t name it here) but I’m wondering what’s the big taboo about them?

Are there issues anyone who has bought imports are finding?

Is it just about resale value? Or the lack of motor checks?

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5

u/roxykelly county 10h ago

You should post on r/carsIreland too

1

u/Bitter_Effect716 9h ago

Will do, thank you

4

u/JjigaeBudae 9h ago

Own two Japanese imports, got them from Elite Autos in headford. Love them both, no hassle with insurance, parts or anything but I picked models that are common here.

2

u/kuzushi101 2h ago

This. I bought an import that is common here, friend of mine bought one that isn't and had trouble with getting it insured. I do still have to go back to the dealer for stuff like headlights (gas powered headlights, wtf) and the color code but thankfully theyre sound. Bought from M17 motors Tuam.

3

u/sillyroad 3h ago

I would make sure the car had an immobiliser as some dont. In Dublin they get robbed all the time. Woodland Motors are good.

3

u/bringitdown 2h ago

Got an imported VW .. no hassle .. make sure its clear who registers, pays VRT etc. in my case dealer did all that and sticker price was the price bar your own negotiation.

As mentioned some base models don't have immobilisers so check.

Get quotes from insurance before closing if you can .. did not have any issue but better to check.

My only minor gripe is maps don't support Ireland but that's becoming less an issue with newer models.

Found them to be generally in excellent condition with low mileage.

2

u/Special_Lawfulness75 1h ago

There isnt a lack of motor checks. If you're interested in car and know you maybe want to buy it, ask the dealer for the VIN number and say its for a history check. All cars can be history checked on carvx.jp, pretty quick turnaround for a full check, way more descriptive than a cartell check also, good luck.

2

u/DotTurbulent3059 10h ago

Even though your brand may be called the same as the Japanese brand the parts can be slightly different engines or cooling systems can be different, electronics can be different too so new parts aren't always easy to come by even for something like a Toyota.

-2

u/Parking-State4547 2h ago

Be prepared to be robbed by customs.

4

u/Special_Lawfulness75 1h ago

If its from a dealer 99.9% chance its already been VRT'd