Understanding the Japanese Dealer Auction Ratings
"What do the auction ratings mean for the Japanese Car Auctions?"
This is a common question and a big issue when starting to select and buy cars from the Japanese auctions. This is a guide to the definitions that are given, and also more of a flavour of what that means and what you can actually expect. With this you can be confident about understand the ratings at the Japanese used Car Auctions and moving forwards looking to buy.
Main Rating
This is the number listed from 0(xxx)-6 at the top right of most auction sheets giving you the overall quality rating of the car.
S
Brand new.
6
Almost new condition, still on it's first MOT after being bought.
5
Car is in like new condition with no faults of any kind.
4.5
4
3.5
3
2
​1
One panel may have minor paint blemishes. This is really high level condition, basically there are never any complaints over condition at this level.
More than one panel may have small marks to the paint. This is still very good condition, there maybe the odd small mark and some minor wear and tear but very clean and much better than a normal second hand care elsewhere.
It needs some attention to the body. This is usual a car that has the normal level of wear and use that you would expect of the age and use anywhere else inn the world. Still very much usable but might need a little tidying and preparation to make it shine.
Slightly rough and not so clean. This level of car will normal needs some sort of work to the body and quite strong signs of wear.
Serious body issues from rust etc. At this level yo would need to e prepared to do serious work to get the car back in good condition, buyer beware.
Mostly non original or modified cars.
0,A,R
Cars that have been damaged in accidents, sold as is or repaired. Normally the car has been in an accident so rated at this level, even if the car has been repaired if the auction spots that it was previously damaged it will be moved to this rating.
***
Serious mechanical, structural or engine problems. Basically a scrap rating.
Interior Condition Rating
This is the condition of the interior of the car, the Japanese Car Auction staff rate this separately to the mechanical and body condition checks. This ranges from A-E.
A
As new condition with zero faults or flaws.
B
Very good and clean interior, no complaints.
C
Decent level, about as good or slightly better and expected for age and use.
D
Interior has damage including; rips, tears, cigarette burns etc. Wear and tear and signs of use also significant.
E
Interior is in terrible condition and has significant damage.