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NHTSA Identifies Safety-Related Best Practices for Importers of Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Equipment

January 13, 2009

On December 24, 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published its Recommended Best Importer Practices To Enhance the Safety of Imported Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Equipment.  This publication was the result of a 2007 White House initiative that required federal agencies, including NHTSA, to find ways to improve the safety of products imported into the U.S.

NHTSA has identified a comprehensive list of importer best practices with the goal of reducing safety-related automotive defects and non-compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  The report includes a detailed discussion about each best practice.  The recommendations were influenced by the public comment submissions of various U.S. motor vehicle equipment organizations.

This publication provides a good summary of the regulatory obligations of vehicle and equipment importers.  At its heart are the recommended best practices that importers should consider implementing.  The topics include:

  • Selecting a Foreign Manufacturer

  • Inspecting Goods Before Entry into the U.S.

  • Design Considerations and Part Traceability

  • Establishing a Consumer Service Program

  • Assuring Quality Control and Records Keeping

  • Defect Reporting and Other Importer Obligations

  • Contracts and Contract Compliance

  • Obtaining NHTSA Assistance

Companies that import motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment into the U.S. need to have a working knowledge of these best practices.  Miller Canfield can help.

For more information contact your Miller Canfield attorney.