Expert answer

Hi Dilan,

The lower CO₂ rating of that earlier car was according to the old “NEDC” standard. Any cars imported since 2021 with an NEDC-standard CO₂ figure (as this Jap import would have had) would have had the number 'uplifted' by Revenue to make it comparable to the newer WLTP standard. It was trying to reduce the number of older, more polluting diesels being imported, but it just means that people may more motor tax at times, even if the cars are identical to those already registered in Ireland.

Of course, a Japanese model's CO₂ figure could be a little different on top of all that.

Expert answer

Hi Matt,

If you mean are there companies that will do all the paperwork etc. and just give you a bill at the end, then yes there are. We've not used any of them ourselves so can't recommend any, but do a search online for those specialising in importing cars from the UK or Northern Ireland - and then look for public reviews of the services.

Expert answer

Hi Daniel,

We asked Gowan Autos again and it confirmed it is still coming, but not until 2026 now.

Expert answer

Hi Phil,

If the car is registered in Northern Ireland already then you can just bring it over to any other part of the UK without a problem. There will be no taxes or charges other than transporting it. 

Expert answer

Hi Joe,

It's €1,100 for each car.

Expert answer

Hi Danny,

While it sounds like the car shouldn't attract VAT or import duty (you'll need to prove it was used in Northern Ireland), all passenger cars being imported are subject to VRT and the NOx levy. If it's a commercial, there is no NOx levy, but there would still be VRT, calculated differently. Revenue has quite a strict definition of what a commercial SUV is though, so make sure you know what you're doing before you make that move.

Read our How Much VRT Is Paid In Ireland? guide for more information

Expert answer

Hi Conor,

Our understanding is that it will be good enough to show that the car has been in use, even if it was a company car. Essentially, once the car has not been brought in by a car dealer to sell on right away it is likely to be exempt from VAT and import duty.

As ever, we encourage would-be importers to check their individual case with Revenue direct before committing to a purchase.

Expert answer

Hi Fiona,

So long as the TSS shows that the car was imported into Northern Ireland according to the Windsor Framework, then yes, it should be exempt from VAT and import duty. We always advise readers to double-check with Revenue before committing to a sale.

Expert answer

Hi Ger,

There isn't a strict list of required documents as the situation depends on the car itself and when it was first brought into or registered in the North. There's no such thing as too much information, however, so gather what you can.

For the NCT VRT inspection you will need:

• The UK logbook (V5C)
• Purchase invoice or receipt
• Proof of identity
• Proof of address
• PPS number

To ensure that no VAT or import duty are payable, obtain the car's MOT test history (showing that it was used in the North) or any information relating to a customs declaration in the North if the car was imported there as a used vehicle by a dealer or the previous owner.

And always check with Revenue before you commit to bringing the car over the border.

Expert answer

Hi Conor, 

The information you've provided suggests that the Premium SV model emits 81-100g/km, while the SV emits 121-130g/km. It sounds to us like you're comparing cars with different engines completely.