Foreign Import question!?

~*.::SilverStar::.*~ · 20 Jul 2010, 03:24 pm

I've found a vehicle that caught my eye here in Japan, and I'm debating on whether it would be worth buying. It's a 2003 Toyota Hilux Surf, which is equivalent to a 4 Runner in the US, for $10,000. My question is what will it cost if I have to switch it from a LHD to a RHD, or if I even have to switch it at all? Shipping cost is not a problem, because I'm military and can get orders for the allowance of shipping a vehicle.

From my perspective I don't see it costing much, as there is a US equivalent, and I haven't been able to find a 4 Runner in this good of a condition for as cheap, which is why I'm not asking about one instead. But, I'm not a vehicle expert, which is why I'm asking.

Justyn · 20 Jul 2010, 03:25 pm

IMO i wouldn't see it being worth the hassle. switching would be alot of money...

Toyota Obsession · 20 Jul 2010, 03:45 pm

You don't need to get it converted to RHD it's perfectly legal to drive LHD cars.

You do need to get it certified, but as long as you aren't living in California it shouldn't be too hard. It will also require a State Patrol inspection.

It's more of a problem to get it licensed. That's what usually costs the most because of all the inspections.

They can't confiscate your Car unless you are trying to drive it on the Road without being licensed. You can drive anything you want off-Highway (offroad or on a Race Track).

You probably won't find one as cheap in the U.S. but the headache of trying to get it licensed will chew up a lot of cash. And until you do that you won't be able to drive it around.

Foreign Import question!?

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