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elcomputo

Jan 13, 2004, 3:03 PM

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New law on selling used car

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Can anyone explain to me the effect of the new law on selling cars? The law went into effect Jan. 1, and I have gotten several explanations, each one different. I have a junker 1984 GMC van which even the Salvation Army probably would not want in the US, but I think I could sell it for SOMETHING in Mexico. I am currently driving it (as little as possible) around San Miguel de Allende with the permiso sticker on the windshield. I would eventually like to get rid of it.

My understanding was that the new law that went into effect loosened up the regulations on auto imports to encourage bringing more used cars into Mexico, where there is now a shortage of affordable transportation. I was under the impression the law applied the same rules in effect for the frontera area to all of Mexico -- autos of a certain age can be brought in and sold with no objection from the government.

Does this mean I no longer have to be concerned with re-registering the car every six months? If I do have to re-register it, does that mean I have to drive it up to the border, get the sticker removed, drive it across the border, and get a new sticker? I don't think the junker would make it that far.

If no one has the definitive answer to this, where would I find it?

tonyburton

Jan 13, 2004, 3:51 PM

Post #2 of 3 (363 views)

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Re: [elcomputo] New law on selling used car

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I believe you'll find that the change is with respect to new cars (and vehicles carrying less than 10 passengers) only and will thus have no effect on the price or availability of older vehicles. Even new vehicles crossing the border will still have to pay several taxes at point of entry, though no "import tax" any longer! News reports suggest that the import of a new vehicle will require the services of a customs broker and that the import of vehicles for resale is still subject to more stringent conditions.

jennifer rose

Jan 13, 2004, 4:56 PM

Post #3 of 3 (351 views)

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Re: [elcomputo] New law on selling used car

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Tony gave you good advice.

If you have an FM-3, and if you keep it renewed, you can keep that foreign-plated car in Mexico until you draw your last breath. And then your heirs, successors or assigns will have the responsibility of removing it from the country.

Read the terms of your temporary importation permit. You made a promise to remove it from the country, and you agreed not to sell or transfer it. Plain and simple. Now, if your wheels won't make it out of the country, there is a mechanism by which you can donate it to the Mexican government. Go to your local Hacienda office for more information about this process.