The Canadian models have a TPMS system that uses the speed/ABS sensors on each wheel, it doesn't tell you the actual PSI pressure of air in the tire, but it's enough to warn you if you have a flat tire.

You can easily install an aftermarket TPMS system in the car, take a look on amazon there are a few that use tire valve caps along with a display peripheral that you mount inside the car.

 

Sorry to highjack the thread...but are 100% certain they use the abs sensor? Dealer told me there was zero form of TPMS available incl the abs sensor version

 

Imported vehicle compliance issues are complex, and people usually hire a specialist to deal with them, not depend on statements of sales people who may or may not know as much.

In your worst case scenario, you aren't out of luck to transport it back to Canada, even if the visa process requires you to stay here. You could have any licensed driver take it back for you and set it up for sale up there, where it wouldn't have issues with regulations (I'm assuming it's Canadian spec).

 

Thanks for your reply. Yes I guess that would be the last option to ship it back and sell in Canada.

 

As noted, standalone TPMS systems like TireMinder work great but no idea if that is acceptable to border people. I like the RPM method as it has less errors in my experience.

 

.... no idea if that is acceptable to border people ....

The border agents (customs and immigration) are not the issue - I can take (and have taken) my US spec Outback into BC any time I wish, as long as it's for a limited vacation, and my Oregon registration, insurance, etc. are all valid. And should any service be required, I'd assume that dealers and independents could service my vehicle, and any difference between Canadian and USA replacement parts (thinking emissions equipment and things like TPMS) could be dealt with by getting USA-spec parts sent in.

It's registering the vehicle in BC that would be a problem, assuming I got permission to stay in Canada longer term.

I likewise see BC license plates all the time in Portland, and I know there's reciprocity agreements.

 

As far as I understand, you can get your Forester registered in the US but you have to have TPMS installed (along with the letter from Subaru Canada). Not only that, but in some cases the inspectors demanded it has to be installed and signed off by an auto repair shop, not by yourself. SilverOnyx posted links to the NHTSA website a while back which has more information. I would look at that.

Importing a Vehicle | NHTSA

I would also check this link:

Exporting car from Canada to US......any one done this? | Canada Immigration Forum (canadavisa.com)

 

This is interesting to me due to a used vehicle that I have bought started its life in Canada. A 2008 Dodge Magnum. Was a rental at first. Not sure why it got imported to MI for sale. If I could afford a new OBW I'd prefer to get it from Canada just due to the heated steering wheel.

OP good luck in the process. It may be in need of an expert.