When I was comparing prices between the US and Canada, I took into account the "hassle factor" and was willing to go an extra $5K just to keep my money in Canada, but the deal I found made it worth the extra work to go south.
The closest state to BC that doesn't have a sales tax is Oregon, but when I found a car in Washington and started negotiating with the dealership, they informed there is no sales tax if the car is being sold out of state, new or used. Not sure if that goes for all the states or not, but I believe it to be true for most.
I agree, you really have to compare the actual landing cost when shopping down south. For the deal I got it was well worth it. It was frustrating dealing with the dealerships in Canada. No one wanted to make it even close! A couple dealerships were trying to sell used Z's as new 'cause they were driven by Nissan execs. Big deal! Anything more than a 1000Km is used in my book (and that's being generous).
As far as the warranty goes, if you buy used, the warranty is void if you buy it within the first six months of the original purchase date. Wait six months and the warranty is fully transferable.
If you buy new, you must register the car to a US address with US plates. You can, the same day drive it back to Canada and re-register to your home address.
What will void the warranty on a new purchase is if you sell it within six months.
This warranty information was faxed to me directly from Nissan USA.
As far as re-sale value goes. I've never been a big fan of car salesmen telling me how good a car's re-sale value is. I drive 'em till they drop. So that wasn't a factor for me, but most likely is for the majority of new car buyers. Certainly something to consider.
In my case the total landed cost (OTD), taxes, RIV, inspection, & DRL mod was $39,600 - 2010 Touring 6MT Sport & Nav. Closest I could get in Canada was $42K + taxes (plus shipping from Ontario).
In my case it was worth it, but it took several months of searching, which my wife tells me was half the fun.... and if she tells me it was fun, it was fun.... I guess, maybe, OK OK, it was fun, now leave me alone! Man she never stops! j/k she's been great, loves the car too.
So if one has the time and patience, the deal is out there, and like you did, add up the costs and whether the hassle is worth it.
Cheers,
Cheech
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