I am looking at purchasing a classic Mini out of Canada and was wondering what is involved with the process. What paperwork will I have to have, what kind of fees will I have to pay and what else should I expect? The ones I am looking at are ’79 or older so the emissions thing shouldn’t be a problem however one of them doesn’t have a title. Will this be a real pain to try to get? Thanks in advance.

 

I have a 1978 Mini that was imported from Australia to Texas in 2003. It got by Federal emissions etc. ok as it is over 25 years old.

I purchased it in August 2004, and registered it.

My State, (Illinios) called it in for an emissions test. All cars (in the specified metropolitan areas) model year 1968 on get a test here, UNLESS they are registered as an Antique. I passed the test.

I have heard that in California you can NOT register a foriegn car later than 1967, unless it was "type certified" by a lab for import to CA.

Best to check out your State regulations before importing the car.

As for a Title. There are a number of services that will help you "generate" a title for a car over 25 years old. Some states will not accept them.

International Title Service and Broadway title service, are two names you can find with a web search.

Some states have a procedure called a "bonded title" which can get you a real title after several years of ownership.

In any case get a title before you put a dime in the car, or you could end up selling it as parts!

John

 

this ain't everything but it is a big part....

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/...hs799short.pdf

this dot form is used to certify meeting certain regulations for safety etc. you must check the category that applies for your vehicle's compliance or exemption.

block number one reads:

 

With a 79 you have nothing to worry about at customs. You need a bill of sale in USD, tilte/registration, fill out the DOT form (25+ yr exemption), and the EPA form (21+yr exemption) pay your duty of 2.5%. Then the rest depends on your state regs. Make sure the car wil comply with state. Most states that title will require an inspection to verify VIN at least. Pay states sales tax & reg fee & that's it, unless your state has emissions certification.

There is NO way to get a federal certification for a classic Mini. You must age exempt it.

 

I never said you would succeed in passing....only that you could try checking that block

 

If you haven't imported a classic mini you are surmising what might be required or what might work. I've brought in several from the UK and can answer the questions factually except for MINI-IZED's state regulations. That he must get from his state's DMV before importing, lest he find out he can't register it in his state (like California won't take a 79). Let's not lead him astray...

 

Thanks for the help guys. At least now I kind of know what I will be getting myself into.

 

I forget that not all see my subtlety; so to clarrify:

you could try checking that block and posting a bond. You don't have a chance in Hades of succedding and less of making the car compliant which could result in loss of the car and your bond...but you could try.

Or you could enlist in the Canadian Army and secure orders to training in the US. Then there's a block on the form that would allow you to bring the car in with you during the training. All you need to do then is desert... An option - not one I'd recommend - but an option.

 

Sorry, I don't do subtle when someone wants a direct and reliable answer.

You could try smuggling it in in a body cavity, but that might not work either....

 

I want to buy a 1972 classic mini with PA title. Can I change to California title .

 

Is that a Mini in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?

 

sportspoon, search for thread on that topic at minimania.com message board.
CA is very different and restrictive, be sure of the CA regs before you buy.

 

I know Minis are small but still, you would be very, very happy!!

 

I am currently looking at a Mini that doesn’t have a title but the VIN numbers are intact. I would be able to get a bill of sale. Will this be a big pain to get across the border? What other forms should I have filled out in this case?

 

There is a Canadian dealer called the Mini Mover. His name is Al Guest. Give him a call as he traverses the border with minis all the time.http://www.big-al-minimover.com/