Buying guide
Japanese auction grades explained
Every car sold at a Japanese auction is inspected and graded by an independent assessor. Understanding the scale is the single most useful thing a buyer can learn.
The overall grade
Grade S and 6 are effectively new or as-new. Grade 5 is exceptional for age. Grade 4.5 and 4 cover well-kept cars with light wear — this is where most of our stock sits. Grade 3.5 and 3 indicate visible cosmetic damage or higher mileage and are bought selectively.
Grades R and RA denote a car with recorded accident repair. We buy these only where the repair is minor, documented and reflected in the price, and we always disclose it on the listing.
Interior grades
A separate letter grade from A to D covers the cabin. A is close to unmarked; B shows light wear; C indicates noticeable wear, staining or burns; D is poor. We publish both grades on every import listing.
The auction sheet map
The diagram on the sheet marks each defect with a code: A for scratches, U for dents, W for repaired panels, X for panels needing replacement, and a number from 1 to 4 for severity. We translate every mark before you commit.