Japanese car auctions are professional B2B marketplaces where licensed dealers trade used vehicles every week. They offer a much wider selection than regular retail stock, with thousands of options across all makes, models, years, grades, and conditions.
Auction Sheets and Grades
Every vehicle at a Japanese auction comes with a standardized inspection report — known as the auction sheet — which includes an overall condition grade along with detailed notes from the inspector. Understanding how this grading system works is essential before placing any bids, as it helps you assess the vehicle’s true condition and value.
Near‑new
New‑car equivalent vehicles are under 12 months old, have exceptionally low mileage (under 10,000 km), and remain in pristine, showroom‑level condition inside and out.
Excellent
Under 3 years old, with less than 30,000 km. Only minimal imperfections present.
Very Good
Under 3 years old, with less than 30,000 km. Only minimal imperfections present.
Good
Usually driven less than 100,000 km and showing some noticeable scratches or small dings, yet still presenting as a clean, well‑kept vehicle overall.
Fair
Usually driven less than 150,000 km and showing visible scratches, dings, or signs of previous repairs — all consistent with normal ageing and use.
Below Average
Vehicles showing multiple visible scratches, dings, or signs of previous repairs, along with interior wear. Some level of reconditioning will typically be required before resale.
Poor Condition
Shows numerous scratches, dings, and visible wear across the body and interior. Drives fine, but overall condition is heavily worn.
Very Poor
Shows large scratches and noticeable dings, yet remains mechanically drivable despite the heavy cosmetic wear.
Special Defect
Flood‑damaged (冠水車) or vehicles with equivalent major defects. Not typical export‑buyer inventory.
Repair
Shows structural repair history on one or more of the eight primary frame components. The vehicle drives normally following the repair work.
Minor Repair History
Indicates minor structural repair history — lighter rework than an R grade and limited to non‑critical sections.
Non-Operational
Vehicles that are non‑operational, severely accident‑damaged, or classified as not‑for‑sale. These units fall outside normal export‑buyer demand.
Exterior & Interior Grading (A-E)
In addition to the overall auction grade, every vehicle is assigned both an exterior letter grade and an interior letter grade, rated from A to E.
Excellent
No noticeable scratches or dents — exterior presents as clean and well‑kept.
Very Good
Generally clean in appearance, though minor scratches or small dings may be visible. This is the most typical passing grade.
Fair
Shows visible scratches, dings, or interior wear that align with normal ageing, while still remaining generally presentable.
Noticeable wear
Obvious damage present; repairs needed.
Major damage
Condition is poor enough that replacement or full re‑upholstery is required to restore acceptable presentation.
Sample Auctions Sheet
