What do I need to know before buying a JDM car?

Here are five things you should look for when buying an imported JDM car.

• Make sure the car was legally imported and cleared through U.S. Customs.
• Make sure the car is rust-free.
• Thoroughly inspect the car for previous damage.
• Look out for smaller issues that could be costly in the long run.

How do people get JDM cars?

For your car to be a JDM car, it has to have been sold only in the Japanese market. Likewise, the model has to be older than a 2001 model by at least five years. 2020 is the 25-year cutoff that now makes 1995 JDM models legal to be imported to the U.S.

Why you should buy a JDM car?

One of the most appealing aspects of buying a JDM car is that it can be a great option to source a car in better-than-average condition. Japanese import vehicles are often in better condition both mechanically and cosmetically than you find when looking at a used vehicle that was sold new in your country.

Is Toyota Corolla a JDM car?

Toyota is a Japanese car manufacturer that makes cars for both the international market and the Japanese domestic market (true JDM). Just being a Japanese vehicle does not make a car JDM.

What are good cheap JDM cars?

10 Cheap JDM Cars That Will Skyrocket In Value

• 10 Honda Prelude 3rd Generation.
• 9 Toyota Celica GT-S 7th Generation.
• 8 Acura RSX Type-S.
• 7 Infiniti G35.
• 6 Mazda Miata NB.
• 5 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
• 4 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec. B.
• 3 Lexus SC 300.

How much is a JDM?

You can find good examples for around $10,000–$13,000 and high-mile cars much cheaper than that. The potential service issues are not small, however. “Inexpensive JDMs can suck people in,” Simpson says.

Are JDM cars an investment?

Due to constantly increasing in value, classic JDM cars can make an amazing investment. Some JDM models like legendary Toyota 2000GT are worth over a million dollars, but most classic Japanese sports cars cost a lot less.

Is the Camry a JDM?

Toyota has produced both JDM and non-JDM cars. An example of a non-JDM Toyota is the Camry. The Camry is available in many markets around the world, and was designed and built by Toyota to be sold outside of Japan.