Compare Japanese Import Car Insurance

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Compare Japanese Import Car Insurance

Japanese import cars are popular, but it can be difficult finding insurance that is reasonably priced. The popularity has risen as more people realise that these grey imports come loaded with extras and have almost always low mileage. They represent great value for money, especially when you start comparing the cost to add the extras in the UK or NI. The names are also becoming more familiar, for example the Mazda Bongo which is a favourite for those thinking of a self build campervan or day van. On the sport side you have the Nissan Elgrand.

In the past, finding the best car insurance for grey imports was difficult. Read our useful guide to find out more about Japanese import car insurance and how you can reduce the cost of insuring a Jap import. Imported cars from both American and Jab cars need not be expensive if you do the ground work and get comparative quotes.

Drive on the Left : Japan is one of the few world markets other than the UK that drives on the left, so the steering wheel is on the same side as ours, on the right

Is it more expensive to insure a Japanese import cars?

When you compare a UK model against the equivalent Japanese import, insurance for a made in Japan model will be more expensive. The number one reason is that the specification can be different, making getting body parts both difficult and expensive. As such they pose a higher risk in terms of higher repair bills which is offset set by charging extra for insurance 

Insurance for All Japanese Car Imports

The specialist panel can provide insurance for all imported cars from both Japan and the USA. Most popular insurance requests include the following models.

  • Mazda Bongo
  • Toyota MR2
  • Subaru Impreza
  • Nissan Elgrand
  • Toyota Alphard
  • Honda Integra Type R DC5

How can I find cheap Japanese import insurance?

Finding cheap Japanese car import insurance need not be difficult. Apart from taking the steps we have highlighted in the list below, shop around and use sites like ours to compare multiple providers of grey car import car insurance.

  • Secure parking : Keep your Jap import away from prying eyes and if able securely locked up when not in use will enable the insurance provider to reduce the standard insurance cost. 
  • Join a Club : If you are an enthusiast and/or are a member of a club, let the insurance provider know, as often this can lead to a small discount
  • Second Car : For many, owning and maintaining a Jap car is a hobby and not their daily driver. If this is the case, let the insurance provider know and they can arrange a policy based on usage.
  • Pay Upfront : Monthly payments are always available, but if you can pay as one off annual payment, it will save you money.
  • Voluntary Excess : Speak with your insurance provider on agreeing to a higher excess in return for a discounted insurance premium. Remember that you will be responsible for that increased excess amount should you have to make a claim.

Favourite Japanese MPV and Sports Car Imports

The list does change, but the ones we have selected are perennial.  Japanese vans offer a practical and spacious option, serving as versatile vehicles for transporting both people and heavy loads. Japanese sports cars are so much cheaper, but will be more expensive to insure, Here are our top five favourite MPV's and Japanese sports imports

Top Grey Imports Vans and Sport Cars

  • Nissan Skyline GT-R:  The Skyline GT-R, particularly the R32, R33, and R34 generations, has been a highly sought-after grey import in the UK. Its legendary performance and iconic status have made it a favourite among car enthusiasts.
  • Toyota Supra : The Toyota Supra, especially the fourth-generation model (MK4), has been a popular grey import choice. Known for its powerful engines and timeless design, the Supra has a dedicated following 
  • Mazda Bongo (1999-2013) : The Bongo is a firm favourite for the DIY campervan enthusiastic or those that are looking to convert it into a day van. 
  • Toyota Alphard (2008-2015) : The Alphard has earned a strong following for its practicality and reliability, making it one of the most sought after MPV Jap import. It is available as 2 or 4-wheel drive. The 2WD will be cheaper and easier to maintain.
  • Honda Stepwagon (1996-present)
  • The Nissan Elgrand is a Japanese MPV that is in high demand in the grey import car market.

Japanese Imported Cars and Vans FAQ's

How Can I get Cheaper Imported Jap Car Insurance?

  • Add additional security to deter theft. For example, immobilizers and tracking devices. Please check with your broker to confirm the devices meet with any of insurance industry guidelines / stipulations
  • Consider short term insurance if you are only going to use your Jap Import occasionally.
  • Join an enthusiast Jap import club, example Bongo Fury. Membership is normally rewarded with insurance discounts. 
  • Ask for details of any limited mileage deals currently available in the marketplace,
  • When it comes to renewal time, always check what other insurance providers are offering. Remember, in the online world, loyalty does not always equate to best deal. If fact, some providers reserve their best deals for new customers.
  • Most insurance providers will look favourable upon conversions that are carried out by professional coach builders.

Should i buy a Japanese imported car?

At the end of the day, this will be a personal choice, but you should be aware of the both upside and the downside. On the upside, you are getting a lot of car extras for your money. Jap cars are fitted out with expensive extras and have low mileage. The downside is that getting parts can be difficult and you will pay more for road insurance. Also on the downside, you may have to make some adjustments, mostly minor, for example, adjustments to the headlights. 

What is a Grey Import?

A grey import is the term associated with cars that are imported from Japan.

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