Japanese car auctions are the main way vehicles are sold in Japan. Instead of cars sitting on dealer forecourts, most are listed through nationwide auction houses. Buyers place bids electronically, and the highest bid wins the car.
Each car is carefully inspected, photographed, and entered into the auction system with a full report.
Cars are offered at daily auctions across Japan. Licensed dealers place bids on behalf of clients.
If your bid is successful, the car is secured, paperwork completed, and shipping to the UK arranged.
This system makes it possible to access thousands of vehicles weekly, with complete transparency about condition and history.
JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market. These are cars originally built for Japan, not for export. They’re prized worldwide because:
In short, JDM cars are often cleaner, rarer, and better equipped than similar vehicles sold in the UK or Europe.
Every car is given a grade, making it easy to judge condition at a glance. Auction sheets also note details such as scratches, dents, and interior condition (graded A–E).
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| S | As-new. Usually less than 1 year old with very low mileage. |
| 6 / 5 | Excellent condition. Nearly new, minimal wear. |
| 4.5 | Very good condition. Well-maintained, light signs of use. |
| 4 | Good condition. Some normal wear, but no major issues. |
| 3.5 | Average condition. May need minor cosmetic or mechanical work. |
| 3 | Below average. Noticeable wear, higher mileage. |
| R / RA | Repaired car. Has had accident repairs, quality varies. |
| 2 / 1 | Poor condition. Rough, rusty, or heavily worn. |
| 0 / A | Scrap/parts only. Not roadworthy. |