Hi,
I'm moving to Germany and wonder if I can take my Honda Fit (2008) along.
Somebody told me there will be issues with the emission.

Does anyone have experience in taking a Fit to Germany?

Any help appreciated,
Cheers,
Axel

 

I know lots of military folks who take cars to Europe. Biggest issue is lighting - there are small but significant differences between ECE and NHTSA regulations (I'm assuming you are American/living in America currently)

Anywhere near a large American base (e.g. Ramstein) you should be able to find shops who can bring an American-spec car into line with local guidance (ECE guidance, which is the world standard. Much like Metric, only we are different)

 

I think you will need to pay cust fees if you want to register it there and have it insuranced. I've got fit 07 to Lithuania payed custom + vat fees then registered. It's allowed here to register USDM cars here, didnt change headlights.

 

If you are Active Duty, then check with Transportation about what will need to happen. I always thought it was the other way around, IE: problems bringing European spec cars into the US. Some, like the old Porsche 959, can't be made US street legal.

 

The best way to take your car to Germany is RORO Newark to Antwerp about $600 use a freight forwarder in Antwerp to clear customs, which takes a couple of hours. You then have six months to register the car in the E.U. until then you can drive on American plates. I got insured through Geico which covers me for all of Europe for less money than I was paying in New Jersey. Took my Fit to the inspection station where I live in Spain, and passed with no problem the only issue was they wanted brighter lights, and suggested I just change the bulb. The one thing you may need to do is to install side indicators and a rear fog light. If you need any more info let me know. Good luck with your move.