US Cars in Germany: 7 Import Myths Buyers Will Still Believe in 2026 - US Car Import Myths
- Thorsten Diehle
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
US cars and American sports cars are more popular than ever in Germany. Nevertheless, at DHA Performance we encounter the same prejudices and uncertainties daily. Many of these stem from forum posts from 2012 or hearsay.
Time to clear things up and let's go with US car import myths.
As a professional dealer for US cars and sports cars, we show you what's really true about importing – and what's not .
Myth 1: "US cars are not TÜV-compliant in Germany"
Incorrect.
Modern US vehicles can easily be converted to comply with TÜV regulations .
Typical adjustments:
Lighting (turn signals, rear fog light)
Speedometer conversion (mph → km/h)
Exhaust and noise levels
Experience is crucial. A professional importer plans these points in advance of purchasing the goods in the USA .
Myth 2: "Importing is confusing and risky"
Only in case of incorrect processing.
A structured import includes:
Vehicle inspection in the USA
Transparent purchase history
Professional transport
Customs clearance & tax settlement
Technical conversion
German registration
Those who import "on their own" rarely save money – but instead end up paying twice as much later.
Myth 3: "A wrecked car is always bad"
A persistent cliché.
Yes, in the USA many vehicles are sold as salvage.
But:
Not every US car with salvage is a true wreck/total loss.
A thorough Carfax and title check is crucial.
Reputable dealers provide all documents (Carfax, Windows sticker, §21 inspection, HU/AU, German registration documents).
Non-irreparable prior damage can make a vehicle more affordable.
At DHA Performance, we know exactly which vehicles can be imported – and which cannot .
Myth 4: "US sports cars are of lower quality than EU models"
Outdated.
Current US sports cars are particularly impressive because of:
High-quality materials
High-performance engines
Modern assistance systems
High suitability for everyday use
Many models are now even being co-developed for the European market .
Myth 5: "US cars have extremely high maintenance costs"
Partly incorrect.
Yes, a V8 engine consumes more fuel than a compact car.
But:
Spare parts are often cheaper than those from German premium manufacturers.
Insurance and taxes vary depending on the model, and insurance in particular is often cheaper.
Maintenance is often simpler in design and less time-consuming.
US cars can run on E10 fuel! YES, THAT'S CORRECT! Especially after 2000.
A US car is not a cheap car , but it's also not a financial risk – if you calculate realistically.
Myth 6: "US cars are only for show & fun"
Outdated.
Many customers use their US vehicles:
as a daily driver
for long distances
for Business & Events
Modern US cars, in particular, combine comfort, performance, and reliability .
Myth 7: "You always pay too much at the dealer"
Short-sighted.
The price at the retailer includes:
Inspected vehicles
Predictable total costs
Warranty
Time saving
Legal certainty
We also offer an additional 12-month warranty.
Those who only compare the purchase price in the USA are not comparing the final result .
Conclusion: Buy US cars – but do it right
US cars and American sports cars will be more suitable for everyday use and safer than ever before in 2026 .
The crucial question is not whether to import, but how .
An experienced dealer will save you:
Time
Annoy
Money
And above all: nasty surprises.
Pay special attention to where you buy your car!
DHA Performance – US Cars & Sports Cars with Common Sense – Ending US Car Import Myths
If you're thinking about buying a US car or sports car, talk to professionals who live and breathe the market every day .
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