Import vehicle preparation report - 2020 Toyota Copen GR Sport LA400A Red (Part 7)
The 2020 Toyota Copen GR Sport LA400A (red), which arrived at our garage on November 11th last year, passed the IVA test on its first attempt! Wait, it's February 6th today. What have you been doing for the past three months? Well, actually, there was a two-month waiting list for the IVA test centre... With the New Year holidays, it ended up being February already!
Today, I'd like to review the work we did after the vehicle arrived. This will be helpful for those who want to handle the import process themselves.
Once the vehicle arrives, we perform a full vehicle check of all statutory inspection items. In particular, as important items for the IVA test, don't forget to install a mile speedometer panel, conduct the actual vehicle speed test, and examine the rear fog light harness.
Also, check the locations of the VIN and engine number stampings, and clean any dirt from them. You will be asked to explain this during the IVA test, so be prepared so you don't panic.
That's about it for the vehicle work.
Next, to book an IVA test centre appointment, it's usually done electronically via the DVSA website. However, JDM vehicles with a different number of digits in their VIN number will encounter an error during the application process, so a paper application must be mailed in.
After mailing, you'll receive an email from the DVSA in about a week. Follow the instructions in the email to pay the test fee and book your test centre appointment.
Upon passing the IVA test, you'll receive a certificate of passing on the spot. Be sure to carefully check that the information is correct. In this case, there was an error in the VIN, but I requested a correction on the spot, and everything was resolved without any issues.
So, we're almost there in completing vehicle registration! This is it for today.
We also offer import services for JDM vehicles other than the Copen to the UK. We specialise in providing meticulous service tailored to your budget. If you have a budget in mind, please contact us using this form.
