mlaudisa

I may be moving to the US on a job assignment, and would like to eventually import my 2010 E 350 Coupe into the States.

I had to obtain a letter from MB Canada stating the car complies with EPA and DOT regulations, which they gave me, except for FMVSS 101 (instrument cluster is in Km/h instead of Mph), and FMVSS 138 (Canadian tire pressure monitoring system is non conforming to US TPMS).

I was told that the first issue is not a problem, but the TPMS must conform. Does anyone know how to get around this? There are aftermarket TPMS systems, but then someone must certify they conform, or issue a petition to DOT for exemption, and so on... If anyone knows the process, PLEASE, let me know or send me an email at mlaudisa@rogers.com... Thanks

YYZ-E55

The US-spec Mercedes-Benz TPMS system can be retrofitted into your Canadian coupe. I would estimate around $2,000 to do so (parts + labour).

mlaudisa

Thanks YYZ-E55.... since that's not what MB Canada stated in the letter they gave me, do you know that a retrofit is doable because you actually did it, or perhaps a MB USA quoted it? If so, would you be able to give me details on who I could call to get this done? Many thanks, it would really help me!

YYZ-E55

Here's the parts needed:

000 900 08 00 - TPMS Control Unit
212 545 52 40 - TPMS Bracket
003 990 02 51 - Screws (x4)
207 540 73 10 - Wiring Harness (might be different for your E350 - may be 207 540 70 10)
003 540 02 17 - Tire Pressure Sensor (x4)

Will have to be installed (which requires removing all 4 tires from rims to install sensors) and programmed. I haven't done it myself, but I am considering it.

Where are you located?

mlaudisa

I'm in Toronto... the issue then becomes, how do you "prove" to customs that the work conforms to their TPMS specification (that's the FMVSS 138). My understanding of this process is that it needs to be carried out by a Registered Importer (RI), who then modifies the vehicle and guarantees compliance. It also requires a bond payable by me in the amount of the value of the car, to guarantee that the fix occurs. Alternatively, the RI has to petition DOT to adjudicate an exclusion if a fix is not available.

So, even if technically it's all doable, it all has to fit within the importation procedure, or else it may not stick... if you want to talk, send me an email at mlaudisa@rogers.com and we perhaps we can talk on the phone.

YYZ-E55

If you installed these parts through an MB dealer, you would have the identical system that is installed on US vehicles (factory option code 475). I don't know anything about import requirements, I was investigating this retrofit for functionality purposes only.

gl350e320

Were you able to find a solution.

I have the same issue with both vehicles (2011 GL350 and 2008 E320), both do not qualify FMVSS 138. Selling them is not really an option and I am looking for a solution.

Would appreciate any help on this.

Thank you

mlaudisa

Unfortunately not, it was too convoluted to follow the process through and there was no assurance that the process would yield the desired outcome. I ended up driving the vehicle with Ontario plates for as long as I stayed down there, and eventually came back to Canada permanently. If I were you I'd consider selling what you have and buying in the US if you plan to stay there for a while. Neither Mercedes Canada not Mercedes USA were knowledgeable or helpful with this issue.

gl350e320

Thank you for the prompt reply. Looks like I will have to sell both although it will be a big loss for me. I bought 2011 GL just 3 months ago.

Thank you.