HOW TO READ JAPANESE CAR AUCTION SHEETS
Understanding the auction sheets is the first step to importing a high-quality JDM vehicle. Use our interactive tool below to understand grading, exterior marks, and inspector notes.
AUCTION HEADER
出品No. (Lot No): The auction ID.
車歴 (History): Private, Rental, or Lease.
排気量 (CC): Engine size.
CHASSIS NUMBER
The unique identifier (e.g., BNR34-002811). We use this to verify the manufacturing year and factory specifications.
CAR MODEL
The manufacturer's model name (e.g., SKYLINE GT-R).
TRIM LEVEL
The specific trim package (e.g., V-SPEC II NUR).
OVERALL GRADE
S/6: Brand New.
5/4.5: Excellent.
4.0: Good/Average.
R/RA: Accident History.
INT / EXT GRADE
Rated A (Immaculate), B (Clean), C (Average wear). Located directly under the main grade.
VEHICLE SPECS
走行: Mileage (km).
色: Color Code.
シフト: Transmission (6MT/AT).
冷房: AC Type.
FACTORY OPTIONS
SR: Sunroof. AW: Alloy Wheels. PS: Power Steering. PW: Power Windows. 革: Leather.
SELLER NOTES
Positive points listed by the seller. Examples: One Owner, Service Records, Garage Kept.
INSPECTOR REPORT
Critical Section. Negative points found by the USS inspector. Look for Rust, Accident Repairs, Oil Leaks, or Paint Damages.
VEHICLE DIAGRAM
A: Scratch. U: Dent. W: Repair Wave. XX: Replaced Panel. S: Rust. C: Corrosion Numbers 1 (Small) to 3 (Large) indicate severity.
Auction Overview
Japan's renowned used car auctions feature massive volume, with over 100,000 cars auctioned nationwide each week across major operators like USS, JU, TAA, and others. New inventory is added daily—often right up to auction day—keeping the selection fresh.
The variety spans everything: iconic JDM performance cars (drift-ready Nissan Silvias, pristine Skyline GT-Rs, Honda NSXs), European sports cars like Porsche 911s, luxury sedans, SUVs, kei cars, trucks, campers, and more.
Every vehicle receives a inspection by auction staff, complete with photos (exterior, interior, engine, undercarriage) and the key auction sheet—a Japanese report using a 0–6 or S condition grade (6 = near-new, S = brand-new), codes/symbols for issues (scratches, dents, rust, repairs, modifications), mileage verification, and a diagram highlighting problems. As shown above.
We simplify the process for you:
- Full English translation of the auction sheet for any car you're eyeing, with clear explanations of grades and notes.
- Optional on-site inspection or extra photos/videos before bidding.
This transparency, huge selection, and competitive pricing make Japan's auctions the global go-to for quality, often low-mileage vehicles—whether you're after a rare JDM gem or a reliable daily driver. We handle the details so you can focus on winning your next car.
With the massive volume of cars available, the search can be overwhelming and many platforms restrict public access.
We handle that for you: we filter the daily listings based on your exact criteria (model, year, condition, budget, features, etc.) and present only the best matches that fit your needs. This saves you time and ensures you see the most relevant opportunities first—making it the smartest, most efficient way to find your ideal car!
Auctions aren't the only source of great deals. Japanese dealerships often have excellent offers on premium or low-mileage vehicles too.
Sidenote, we share the best of these daily on our Instagram Stories—follow us there to catch hidden gems and flash deals before they're gone!
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Contact us about auctions
Ready to bid? Send us a message, email us, or DM us on instagram for the quickest contact.
DIRECT EMAIL
info@midoriworks.com
DM US ON INSTAGRAM
instagram.com/midoriworksjapan
OFFICE LOCATION
Osaka, Japan