Japanese car auction grades explained
Last updated · Cada car guides
Japanese auctions grade every car on an auction sheet. The overall grade usually runs from S or 6 (new or nearly new) through 5, 4.5, 4 and 3.5 (good used condition) down to 3 and below (visible wear or repairs), with R or RA meaning the car has had accident repairs. A separate letter, A to E, grades the interior. Small letter-and-number codes on the body diagram, such as A1 (small scratch), U2 (dent) or W1 (repaired panel), mark each defect. For a Kenyan buyer, 4 and above with interior B or better is the usual safe target.
| S / 6 | New or almost new, very low mileage |
|---|---|
| 5 | Excellent, near-new condition |
| 4.5 – 4 | Good used condition, minor marks |
| 3.5 – 3 | Average; visible wear, may need cosmetic work |
| R / RA | Repaired accident damage (RA is usually minor) |
| Interior A – E | A excellent; C average; E poor |
| A / U / W / S / C codes | Scratch / dent / repaired or wavy panel / rust / corrosion; 1 small to 3 large |
How to use an auction sheet
- Ask for the original sheet, not a retyped summary. Grades and mileage on a retyped copy cannot be checked.
- Read the inspector's handwritten notes; they often mention replaced parts, smells or warning lights.
- Compare the sheet mileage with the export certificate and the pre-export inspection report.
- An R or RA car is not automatically bad, but the price should reflect the repair.
Common questions
Is grade 3.5 good enough to import?
It can be, on an older or budget car, if the sheet's defects are cosmetic. Expect some paint or interior work.
On Cada
Sources
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the authority named in the sources before you pay.