Japanese car auction sheets are packed with information. But most buyers find them confusing at first glance. There’s a mix of Japanese characters, numbers, grades, and a car diagram full of codes. But once you know how to read them, these sheets become your best friend in the auction game. This guide will help you decode the sheet like a pro—step by step. Yes we know this is a double up but its clear.
When a car is listed at a Japanese auction like USS or JU, it comes with an official inspection sheet. This document tells you everything about the car:
Most foreign buyers never see the car in person before buying. So the auction sheet is your eyes and ears. It helps you:
Every sheet layout is a little different depending on the auction house, but the core information is the same. Here’s how to read it section by section.
At the top, you’ll see the car’s vital stats:
This tells you the general condition of the car.
This line often includes optional extras:
This section is usually handwritten in Japanese. It may mention:
This visual is the most critical part for many buyers. It shows damage location and type.
Common Damage Codes:
Let’s say you’re looking at a 2013 Toyota Crown:
“Auction sheets were confusing at first, but now I can spot a bargain in 10 seconds.” – Liam, Ireland
“Once I learned what W2 and A3 meant, I stopped buying bad stock.” – Moez, Dubai
“I only buy grade 4 and up. It saves me money on repairs later.” – Nina, Trinidad
Grade 4 or 4.5 with an A or B interior is ideal for resale or personal use. Lower grades often mean repairs.
Yes, especially from USS, TAA, and Aucnet. These are professionally inspected and highly reliable. Still, use a trusted agent to verify everything.
Both mean repaired accident cars. RA is light repair; R might mean more serious damage.
Yes. Your agent can provide them for every car. www.ussninja.com gives full access with translations.
Not always. Replaced panels can still mean good quality if the repair was done professionally.
If you want to buy from Japanese auctions confidently, you must learn to read the sheet. It’s your weapon for avoiding junk cars and finding diamonds in the rough. With practice, you’ll read these sheets faster and spot great deals others miss.
Look at the grade. Check the diagram. Translate the remarks. Review the options. Make your move.
Buying smart begins with understanding what you’re really buying.
Q: What if I don’t read Japanese?
A: Use an agent like www.ussninja.com. They translate sheets and walk you through it.
Q: Are the inspectors honest?
A: Yes. Auction inspectors are professionals. Sheets from USS, TAA, and JU are highly accurate.
Q: Can I ask for more photos?
A: Some auctions allow this. Others do not. Your agent will request what’s possible.
Q: Are accident cars bad?
A: Not always. Lightly repaired vehicles can be fine. But avoid Grade 0 or cars with heavy rust and W3 marks.
Q: What about export laws?
A: The sheet helps verify eligibility for import (e.g., emissions or safety). Always confirm with your agent.
Still confused by auction sheets? Don’t worry. Our experts at www.uss-ninja.com decode every sheet for you—clearly and honestly. We show you what others won’t. From damage codes to dealer comments, we make sure you know exactly what you’re bidding on.
Avoid costly mistakes. Bid smarter. Buy like a pro.
Join thousands of buyers who trust www.ussninja.com to handle their Japan car auction journey. Start today.
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I am not one for writing articles actually so most of these articles come from contributors that I have met over the years or with a little help of supporters.
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