The 25% U.S. tariff on imported auto parts, effective May 2025, has created a crisis for owners and restorers of ultra-luxury vehicles. From rare Ferrari Classiche components to bespoke Rolls-Royce coachwork, the cost to maintain and restore these automotive masterpieces has surged. This article examines the tariff’s impact on high-end car parts and reveals strategies to navigate rising costs without compromising quality.
| Part Type | Pre-Tariff Cost | Post-Tariff Cost | Common Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferrari F40 Gearbox | $85,000 | $106,250 | Italy |
| Rolls-Royce Phantom V Hood Ornament | $12,000 | $15,000 | UK |
| Bugatti Veyron Titanium Bolt Set | $8,500 | $10,625 | France |
| Pagani Zonda HP Brake Calipers | $42,000 | $52,500 | Italy |
A recent client project saw costs jump 31% due to tariffs:
Engine Rebuild: $220k → $275k (25% on Italian crankshaft/pistons)
Body Panels: $180k → $225k (25% on Swiss-made aluminum)
Taxes/Duties: $127k → $190k
Parts manufactured in Mexico or Canada under USMCA rules qualify for 0% tariffs if they meet content requirements:
Example: A Montreal-based supplier now produces Ferrari 250 GTO replica exhausts (55% North American content) at 40% savings vs. Italian imports.
Components over 40 years old may qualify as antiques (HS Code 9705):
Duty Rate: 0% (vs. 25%)
Requires: Provenance documentation (e.g., factory build sheets).
Damaged parts shipped for repair can avoid tariffs under:
Subheading 9802.00.40: No duty if returned within 3 years.
Example: Sending a cracked Bugatti EB110 camshaft to Germany for laser welding saves $11k vs. buying new.
| Brand | Tariff-Free Alternative | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Rolls-Royce | Turkish leather via USMCA | 18% |
| Bugatti | South Korean titanium forgings | 22% |
| Pagani | Californian carbon fiber weavers | 35% |
Specialists now replicate rare components:
Process: Scan original part → Print in aerospace-grade alloys → Hand-finish.
Cost Example: Lamborghini Miura door handle:
Original: $14k (Italy) + 25% tariff = $17.5k
3D Printed: $9k (Texas) + 0% tariff = $9k
Stockpile frequently needed parts:
Ideal For: Gaskets, seals, fasteners.
Lock in EUR/USD rates when ordering European parts:
Tool: 90-day forward contracts to mitigate exchange risks.
Recover 99% of duties if parts are re-exported (e.g., restored cars sold abroad).
While tariffs have complicated ultra-luxury restorations, strategic sourcing and legal classifications can offset cost increases.
Our international shipping team specializes in tariff-compliant solutions for Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, and other ultra-luxury vehicles.