Things To Consider For Right Hand Drive Conversations

After importing cars made in the United States many buyers will require right hand drive conversions. Although not a legal requirement a lot of drivers will opt for this. However there are many things to be taken into consideration as it is not just a simple case of moving the controls from left to right.

Two basic options present themselves to the new owner. Firstly a specialist company can be retained to perform all the works. Alternately an enthusiast with some knowledge of mechanics, and perhaps the help of a local car club, can purchase a kit and do the work themselves. The kits are widely available online and through automotive stores and cost a few thousand dollars. The prices depend on make, model and type of conversion required.

Handing your car over to the professionals is usually the way to go. The work will be covered by warranties and all paperwork to show the modifications pass the safety standards will be provided. Having this work done by a specialist will often be costly but the peace of mind that the work has been done properly and the expert attention is worth the expense.

The home engineer that decides to have a go themselves and buy the parts should consider many things before starting. Often these D. I. Y. Packages are quite basic and unsightly. Although they work perfectly well and pass all safety requirements they are not as aesthetically pleasing as the professional option but the knowledge that you did it yourself is most satisfying.

While your kit will contain all the parts you need, it might not have specialist tools to complete the job. Taking on a job like this in your garage at home is not a simple task. When you have completed the mechanical changes, there are still the inspections required for your country to be done. This will ensure your car meets all safety standards.

Whichever option you choose there are many things to consider. The conversion process can often be very complex and time consuming. Apart from moving the controls to the other side many other parts may have to be relocated such as heaters, wiring looms, headlights and so on. Also it is worth bearing in mind that if you intend to show your car it is advisable to check before modifying as many clubs will penalize the owner for not having an original vehicle.

Other things to be mindful of are that when it comes to insuring your car after alteration you will pay more than for a non modified car. If the work has been guaranteed, any future work or maintenance will have to be done by them so as not to invalidate this warranty. Also if you decide to sell the vehicle it may have a lower value as it is not factory specification.

If you are thinking of buying a pre-converted car get it checked by a professional. When you first go to see the car, take someone who knows that model well and can inspect it for you. There are clubs and associations that can help with this for a small fee.