Just brought my 05 Passion home

[mdfortwoguy]

Originally Posted by CMPVEGAS

That is scary, who in the US can rebuild them and how much would it cost? I hope the Mitsubishi runs 100K plus. Mobil one and keeping it tuned and maintained out to help a a lot.

I'd think any good indy would be able to work on it - assuming you can get the parts. The internet would probably be the best place to get them.

It doesn't look to be a terribly hard rebuild - FQ101 : Taking Modification to the Next Level

That being said - it's one of the risks of a grey market car.

[sandalscout]

I truly expect to get 200,000 + out of my Mitsu 451. I've owned several mitsubishi 4-bangers, including two turbos, and I also drive a Hyundai Accent with what is essentially a Mitsubishi engine in it. The Accent has 192,000 on it and runs like nearly new. Needs valve seals, but that's the only non-standard maintenance item it will have ever received. Due to these, it smokes a little. My Galant VR-4 had 220,000 when I sold it, and my two Mirages had over 170,000 on them.

[RVGRINGO]

Remember, parts for the 450 are available in Canada and Mexico as well as Europe. So, make your list and take a vacation.

[Z06-LITE]

Look into Hagerty Classic car insurance company. I have a couple of cars with them and they will insure most any special interest car. I just renewed the insurance on my Model T street rod and the total annual premium was $248.00.

[mdfortwoguy]

Originally Posted by RVGRINGO

Remember, parts for the 450 are available in Canada and Mexico as well as Europe. So, make your list and take a vacation.

Engine parts would need to be sourced from Europe or Mexico - Canada only got cdi equipped 450s.

[smart fortimo]

TJ,

As you've seen by your insurance thread, there is a lot of support here.

But... because the 450 and 451 are unique when it comes to regulatory, mechanical, body parts, etc., I would post 450-centric questions to the 450 forum here-- http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/forums/f26/

Not saying the general discussion forum is the wrong place, just thinking you might get more bang for your buck in the 450 forum. There are members with 450's checking in there that can share their experiences.

Congrats on the new wheels and welcome to the forum.


Timo

[RVGRINGO]

I might agree, if the 450 forum were more active; it isn't. The 450 grey market cars are a limited number in the USA but the gasoline Mercedes powered European style 450 has been available in Mexico for years. As such, service and parts are supported. That being the case, one could vacation in Mexico and have their Smart 450 or 451 serviced or repaired before going back home; thereby avoiding additional layers of shipping and customs duties. Hey, you have to vacation somewhere & Mexico is fine all year long. We have both 'snowbirds' and 'sunbirds' who come down to escape the summer heat and humidity in much of the USA and even parts of Canada. Guadalajara and Mexico City are good destinations, with dealerships, in December, when Mexicans head for the beach.

[idahosmart]

There are several 450 owners on the forum, but we are outnumber but the 451 owners. Feel free to ask questions, as several of the 450 owners have been active on the forums long before any 451 models were sold.

Tom