subject: The Ins And Outs Of Bringing A Car Into Mexico: Mexican Car Insurance [print this page] If you are planning a move to Mexico, either full time or for part of the year, you will most likely want to bring your car. There are many reasons for this. It's easier to get around in a car. Since roads are good in Mexico, it's fun to be able to get out and explore whenever you want without having to worry about the bus schedule. Buying a car in Mexico is expensive for two reasons. One, there are not many car manufactures in Mexico, so most new cars are imported, meaning they are more expensive. Two, used cars are expensive and shot out. That's why so many Mexicans choose to buy cars in the U.S. and drive them back. So, if you want a car in Mexico, you will most likely want to bring your own.
Importing a car into Mexico is a fairly simple process that starts at the border. The one thing you will need to have on you at all times is Mexican car insurance. Mexico law states that in the event of an accident, both parties involved in the accident will be held liable until blame is assessed. If you don't have Mexican car insurance, you can be in big trouble, especially if you are involved in an accident that is your fault. Mexican auto insurance can be bought either at the border or you can buy it online before you begin your trip. As you cross, you will also need to get a vehicle importation permit for the car.
If you find yourself in Mexico past your 180-day vehicle import permit limit, you will need to renew it. The place to do this is at the border. You can renew a tourist visa at any immigration (INM) office, but vehicle import permits are usually handled only at the land crossings. If you are nowhere near the border, you can contact the nearest INM office, however, they will probably simply re-direct you to the border.
If your Mexican car insurance expires during an extended stay in Mexico, you can quickly renew it online. Simply go to the website where you purchased it and renewal will be as easy or easier than the original purchase.
If you do find the need to deal with legality issues while in Mexico - you can hire a Mexican lawyer. Or, you can often purchase extra coverage on a Mexican car insurance policy that will cover you in the event you need personal legal assistance. This extra coverage is available for a small additional fee. Mexican law can be quite confusing, especially if you are not a fluent Spanish speaker. A good lawyer or additional insurance coverage might cost a little more initially but will pay off in the end, especially if you choose to import your car into Mexico and get Mexican auto plates, making it legal (which might be a good idea if you plan on keeping your car in Mexico indefinitely).
Driving a car into Mexico is a fairly simple process as long as you retain and keep current paperwork. If you fail to return to the Mexico border and renew your car's vehicle import permit, you could be heavily fined. In addition, it is illegal to sell your car in Mexico while it is under the permit, so keep that in mind. Returning to the border without your car and no proof of what happened to it could result in mucho problemas. However, it is easy to forgo issues by simply keeping your paperwork current, including your Mexican auto insurance. In the end, all the paperwork is worth it in order to have your car when you are in Mexico. It will add to your experience by allowing you to fully explore this beautiful country.
by: Jim Labelle
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