Importing a Car from the USA? Check Its Federal Record First
Every US-market vehicle carries a federal paper trail tied to its VIN: open recalls, owner complaints, and manufacturer service bulletins filed with the US government — plus, for 12 brands, the original factory window sticker proving trim, options, and MSRP. If you're buying from a US auction or exporter in Europe, Canada, the Middle East, or anywhere else, decode the VIN free below before you bid or wire money.
Enter a VIN to Decode
The $9.99 import check
One-time, works worldwide: full federal decode, open recalls, owner complaints, service bulletins, the original window sticker where the manufacturer publishes one, and US market price context — the record a US seller hopes you won't read. Get the report
FAQ
What should I check before importing a car from the USA?
Three things tied to the VIN: (1) the federal safety record — open recalls, owner complaints, and manufacturer service bulletins filed with the US government (NHTSA); (2) the original factory configuration — for 12 brands CarWhere retrieves the original window sticker (Monroney), which proves trim, options, and original MSRP; (3) title status — salvage and flood brands live in the US federal NMVTIS system, checkable through approved providers. Many US cars sold for export come from damage auctions; the federal record is how you avoid surprises.
Do US recalls matter for an imported car?
Yes — an open US recall usually means the defect exists in your car regardless of where it ends up, and manufacturer recall repairs may not transfer easily across borders. Check open campaigns by VIN before purchase, and ask whether repairs were completed (a dealer can verify by VIN).
What is a window sticker and why does it matter for imports?
The Monroney label is the US federal price-and-equipment sticker every new car is sold with. For an exported vehicle it is the definitive proof of original trim, factory options, drivetrain, and MSRP — protection against sellers misdescribing a base car as a loaded one. CarWhere retrieves original manufacturer stickers for Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Ford, Lincoln, Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler, Hyundai, and Genesis.
Does the $9.99 Full VIN Report work internationally?
Yes — it is a one-time purchase available worldwide and covers the US federal record for any US-market VIN: full decode, open recalls, owner complaints, service bulletins, the original window sticker where available, and US market price context. No subscription.