Japanese Car Imports - FAQ

Why import from Japan?
The Japanese market often has models that are not made available or imported in restricted numbers to the UK, for example the Toyota MR2 Turbo, Nissan R32 Skyline to name just a couple. The UK is also in the fortunate position to drive RHD cars which are the same as the Japanese Domestic Models (JDM's). If you are interested in the performance Japanese cars then it is possible to specify a modified car be imported - saving a lot of expense importing parts at a later date. Japanese import cars generally have a higher standard specification to that of a UK equivalent with air conditioning as standard and other enhancements.

The Japanese used car market suffers high depreciation making the cost of importing to the UK attractive. Also due to the Japanese not needing to travel far or use a car for work (due to a very good public transport system) the mileage of the vehicles are low for their age with an average mileage of 5-7k.

What is the Shaken?
All new Japanese cars do not require testing until they are three years old. The shaken, unlike the MOT costs an average price of US$1,500 but will last 2 years. Most vehicles in the Japanese used market are 3,5,7 and 9 years old as they are often part exchanged or sold when the "shaken" expires as the cost of putting the car through the shaken is no longer cost effective.

How much will it cost?
If you have browsed any Japanese sites and done a currency conversion you will quickly realise that the cars are very cheap compared to the UK, but there are many more costs than just the vehicle. Vehicles attract a Duty rate of 10%, and VAT is added to this amount which bumps up the cost dramatically. Added to this you then need shipping from Japan, shipping insurance and any conversion work such, and an SVA and or MOT. But even after all this, you still get a better deal and real Japanese performance.

What needs to be converted?
Vehicles require speedometer conversion from KPH to MPH, a foglight/foglight conversion and a fuel neck restrictor. Vehicles less than 3 years old at the time of importation, new vehicles require an SVA (Single Vehicle Approval) test prior to registration.

What else?
Japanese cars are generally bought at auctions. They are given a grade 1-4 with 4 being the highest, with details of pin dents, scratches etc. If the car has been modified it may be left ungraded, but does not mean the car is not in grade 4 condition. Japan has little car crime so most will not have immobilsers or alarms so it's best to get one fitted. The good climate Japan has also makes undersealing the car unnecessary but will leave the car exposed to our salty roads in the winter. Japanese cars have speed restrictors at around 112mph. These are usually removed at the time the speedo is converted.

How to import?
Importer
No hassle. You turn up look at the stock in the UK which has been converted registered and all ready to go and drive away.

Agent
An agent will be a Japanese based buyer who can hunt down your requirements (eg. colour, spec, grade etc.). They will of course take a cut and require the money for the car and export before you have even sat in the vehicle.

DIY
It is possible to attend online auctions providing access to the thousands of cars or make a holiday of it to track down the car you are after. Obviously the Japanese paper work may prove tricky without a translator or someone in the know. Once your vehicle is chosen, you must then set about coordinating the exportation, conversions, and registration.

Links

More articles