Why has my VRT increased?!

Hello, Further to my last question. I imported my car from the UK on 8th Sep 2017. On 7th Sep 2017 the VRT website said the VRT would be EUR904. When I attended the VRT appointment on 25th Sep 2017, they charged me VRT of EUR1,668. UK reg GK05 XXX, Irish reg 05DXXXX. I now need to appeal the VRT. I don't understand how the value can almost double, out of season (convertibles are more expensive to buy in Spring and Summer, cheaper in Autumn and Winter). Can you please offer any help? I think they have based it on the only similar car for sale in Ireland which is advertised on your website by The Car Crew in Sandyford. However, it's been on there a long time and not sold, therefore I believe it is overpriced compared to similar cars on Autotrader UK (where I bought mine). Thank you.

19.10.2017

Our answer:

Hi Saran,

The usual reason for a VRT value jumping up like that is equipment. Every single optional extra on the car is accounted for and added to the total, and then you’re charged for it. It’s an outrageously iniquitous system, but one that we do seem to be stuck with. That said, we understand that appealing the charge can often be successful, so it’s well worth doing. I can only suggest that you trawl through as many adverts as possible to find as many values for this car and see if you can convince them that they’ve over-charged.

Answered by Shane O'Donoghue
23.10.2017

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