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Import Guides

Complete JDM import process: 25-year rule, customs, legal compliance, shipping, and import brokers

How to Finance a JDM Import Purchase

A practical guide to financing JDM car imports, covering specialty lenders, personal loans, HELOC, importer programs, and self-financing strategies with total cost breakdowns.

6 min readMar 16, 2026

How to Inspect a JDM Car Before Purchase

A complete pre-purchase inspection guide for JDM cars. Covers documentation, body, engine, drivetrain, electrical, and test drive with a printable checklist.

7 min readMar 16, 2026

Importing a Car From Japan: Costs, Timeline, and Logistics

From auction purchase to your driveway — the complete cost breakdown of importing a JDM car including shipping, customs, and compliance.

3 min readMar 16, 2026

How to Inspect a JDM Car Before Buying: The Complete Checklist

Rust, accident damage, and odometer tampering are common issues with JDM imports. This 50-point checklist helps you avoid expensive mistakes.

3 min readMar 16, 2026

JDM Car Financing: Can You Get a Loan for an Import?

Traditional lenders shy away from JDM imports. Here are the specialty lenders, credit unions, and creative options for financing your dream car.

3 min readMar 16, 2026

Japanese Car Auctions: How to Buy Direct From Japan

USS, HAA, TAA — understanding Japanese car auction houses, grading systems, and how to bid through a broker.

3 min readMar 16, 2026

Understanding Japanese Auction Grades

A complete guide to Japanese auto auction grades. Learn to read auction sheets, understand the grading scale, and spot red flags before buying.

3 min readMar 12, 2026

State-by-State JDM Registration Guide

A comprehensive state-by-state guide to registering JDM imports in the US. Covers easy states, difficult states, required documents, and insurance.

6 min readFeb 28, 2026

How to Find a Trustworthy JDM Importer

How to vet a JDM importer before spending thousands. Covers red flags, what to ask, cost breakdowns, and a list of well-known importers.

6 min readFeb 19, 2026

How to Maintain a JDM Import: Parts, Service, and Common Issues

Owning a JDM import is one thing — keeping it running is another. From sourcing parts to finding mechanics, here is your maintenance survival guide.

3 min readFeb 10, 2026

The 25-Year Import Rule: How to Legally Import a JDM Car to the US

The 25-year exemption is the gateway to owning a true JDM car in the US. Step-by-step guide covering EPA, DOT, customs, and registration.

3 min readFeb 10, 2026
2026 calendar and legal documents showing JDM vehicle import eligibility dates

2026 Import Eligibility: Which JDM Cars Become Legal This Year?

The 25-year import rule makes 1999-2001 JDM legends legal in 2026. Discover which cars you can finally import: R34 GT-R, DC5 Integra Type R, Evo VII, S15 Silvia, and more. Includes pricing, specs, and import timelines.

16 min readFeb 7, 2026
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