Buying a car in Andorra vs importing: which is best for you

If you're looking for a car in Andorra, you've probably already noticed something: stock is limited. Whether you're looking for a new or used car, the exact model you want, with the mileage, age and specifications you have in mind, is most likely not available. And that's when many people consider importing for the first time.

But is it really worth it? When does it make sense to import and when is it better to buy locally? Let's break it down clearly.

The real problem with the Andorran market: it's not the price, it's the selection

Andorra has dealerships for most brands, both mainstream and premium. The problem isn't which brands are available, but which units are in stock.

The Andorran market is small. This means that if you want a new car with a specific configuration (colour, engine, extras), it's very likely it won't be in stock and you'll have to wait months for it to arrive from the factory. And if you're looking for a used car with specific characteristics, the options are even more limited.

When you search across all of Europe, the picture changes completely. There are thousands of units available. This means you can find exactly what you want, without settling for "something similar".

Is importing cheaper?

It depends. For new cars, the price difference isn't usually that significant. The main advantage is being able to get the configuration you're looking for with less waiting time.

For used cars, they generally do come out cheaper than in Andorra. But the real benefit isn't just the savings: it's being able to choose from a much wider selection and find the car you actually want.

The most common fears about importing (and the reality)

Car importing has a somewhat strange aura for many people. As if it were something odd, complicated or even unreliable. The reality is very different: importing and exporting products is the most normal thing in the world in international trade. With cars, there's simply an additional step which is homologation and registration, something a specialised company handles without complications.

These are the most common fears:

"I can't see the car before buying it"

It's true that you can't go and see it in person in Germany. But you can see detailed photos, vehicle history reports and all the documentation. Plus, working with a company that knows the market and selects the cars greatly reduces the risk.

"A car from another country might be different"

A BMW manufactured in Munich is exactly the same car whether it's sold in Germany, Spain or Andorra. It comes from the same factory with the same specifications. There are no differences.

"German cars come damaged or with problems from road salt"

This is a widespread myth. Germany has motorways in excellent condition and used cars sold there are usually very well maintained. Plus, with a good selection process, problematic cars are avoided.

"What about the warranty?"

A serious import company sells you the car with a warranty that you can manage here, in Andorra. You don't have to deal with anything in Germany.

"The car comes driving from Germany, that's a lot of kilometres"

Not necessarily. Cars can be transported by car carrier truck, so they don't make that entire journey by road. Only the last few kilometres to Andorra.

When does importing NOT make sense?

Let's be honest: importing isn't always the best option.

If you've found exactly the car you're looking for in Andorra, with the specifications you want and at a good price, it doesn't make sense to go looking further afield. Importing is simply buying from a larger market. If you already have what you need nearby, buy it nearby.

The key point is this: to know if something is a good price, you need to compare. Importing gives you that reference. It allows you to see what's available elsewhere and at what price, so you can make an informed decision.

It's not about always importing. It's about having options and choosing the best one.

What about financing?

Many people assume that if you import, you can't finance the car. This is false.

You can buy an imported car with bank financing exactly the same as one bought in Andorra. We prepare a pro forma invoice for the vehicle, which is what the bank needs to process the financing. There's no difference in this regard.

What you need to know: age restrictions

In Andorra, not just any imported car can be registered. Currently, vehicles must have a manufacturing date of 2020 or later to be imported.

The exceptions are:

• Classic cars: vehicles over 30 years old that can be categorised as classic or collector's items.
• Limited editions: cars with a certified number of units by the manufacturer, indicating which serial number the unit in question is.

If you're looking for a 2018 or 2019 car, importing is not a viable option.

Over 300 cars imported to Andorra

At ImportoCotxe, we've imported over 300 vehicles since we started operating in Andorra. All our customers look at both markets (local and import) and, when they choose to import, it's because it works out better for them: whether for price, availability or because they found exactly the model they needed.

Importing isn't for everyone or for every situation. But when it fits, it fits very well.

What's right for you?

The answer depends on your specific situation:

• If you know exactly what car you want and can't find it in Andorra, importing opens up a huge market where you'll almost certainly find it.
• If you're looking for the best price for a specific model, comparing with the European market will give you a clear reference.
• If you've already found something you like in Andorra, compare before deciding. You might confirm it's a good option, or you might discover something better.

The important thing is not to settle for the first option without exploring alternatives.

Frequently asked questions

Is it legal to import a car to Andorra?

Yes, completely legal. Vehicle importing is normal international trade. It only requires completing the homologation and registration procedures, which a specialised company handles.

How long does the import process take?

It depends on the car and its location, but typically between 2 and 4 weeks from when the purchase is confirmed until you have the car registered in Andorra.

Can I import any car?

No. In 2026, cars must have a manufacturing date of 2020 or later. The exceptions are classic cars (over 30 years old) and certified limited editions.

What happens if the car has a problem after purchase?

If you work with a company that offers local warranty, you manage it here in Andorra like any other car.

Can I finance an imported car?

Yes. Bank financing works the same as for a car bought in Andorra. A pro forma invoice for the vehicle is needed, which the importing company provides.

Is it worth importing if I only want to save 1,000 or 2,000 euros?

It depends on what you value. If the car you find abroad is exactly what you're looking for and you also save money, yes. If you already have a good option in Andorra and the savings are minimal, the wait might not be worth it.

Do cars from Germany come with the steering wheel on the right?

No. Germany, like all of continental Europe, has cars with the steering wheel on the left, just like Andorra and Spain.

Explore your options

If you want to see what's available on the European market for the car you're looking for, visit our website and use the search tool. You can explore thousands of options, compare prices and specifications, and decide with all the information in front of you.

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