4 minutes

Why Modern Japanese Car Imports Are a Safe and Profitable Choice for UK Dealers

The market for Japanese car imports has evolved significantly since the late 1990s. Where once the industry was marred by issues like odometer tampering and questionable quality, today it offers UK dealers an opportunity to expand their inventory with high-quality vehicles that are not only reliable but also financially rewarding. Here’s why modern Japanese imports should be on the radar of every UK car dealer.

The Dark Days: A History of Odometer Tampering

Back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Japanese import market had a less-than-stellar reputation, particularly due to widespread odometer tampering. Dealers would often roll back odometers to make vehicles appear less used, artificially inflating their value and leading to disappointed buyers once the true condition became apparent. This practice understandably led to a significant mistrust of imported vehicles.

But those days are long behind us. Modern Japanese imports are subject to rigorous checks and certifications, ensuring that what you see is truly what you get.

Modern Safeguards: JEVIC Certification and Beyond

Today, the landscape is vastly different. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of the Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center (JEVIC) certification. This internationally recognized certification ensures that the vehicle’s odometer reading is accurate, effectively eliminating the mileage tampering that once plagued the industry. Additionally, vehicles are inspected by highly trained technicians—often to New Zealand’s stringent standards—before they leave Japan, guaranteeing that they meet the highest quality standards.

This rigorous process gives UK dealers confidence that the vehicles they import are exactly as advertised, both in terms of condition and mileage.

Competitive Pricing with High Margins

The financial appeal of importing vehicles from Japan remains a strong selling point. Even when factoring in shipping and customs duties, UK dealers can still achieve impressive margins—often as much as £4,000 per vehicle. Japanese auctions offer vehicles at competitive prices, and when these vehicles arrive in the UK, they can be sold at a premium due to their exceptional condition and the demand for reliable, well-maintained cars.

Fresh delivery of Japanese Imports from Volks Wagen, Audi and BMW
10 year old cars all with less than 50k miles

European Models in Impeccable Condition

While it’s true that Japanese imports can include rare and unique models not available in the UK, perhaps the more exciting opportunity lies in the availability of popular European marques like Audi, Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes. These vehicles are often available in impeccable condition, thanks to Japan’s strict maintenance standards. For UK dealers, this means access to high-demand models that can be sold with the confidence of offering customers a car that’s in better shape than many found on the domestic market.

Safety and Compliance: Simplifying the Import Process

For vehicles over ten years old, the UK’s requirements are straightforward—they need only pass an MOT. While Brooklands Finance doesn’t handle MOTs directly, we can guide dealers through the process and answer any questions that arise. Importantly, you’re dealing with a UK-based company that understands the local market and regulatory environment, making the process as smooth as possible.

The Declining Quality of UK Used Cars

In recent years, the quality of used cars available in the UK has noticeably declined, a trend exacerbated by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Many vehicles have been run on a shoestring budget, with owners deferring maintenance and repairs. This has led to a market saturated with cars that are simply not up to the standard that discerning buyers expect.

In contrast, Japanese imports offer a refreshing alternative. Thanks to rigorous inspections and maintenance, these vehicles often arrive in the UK in far better condition than their domestic counterparts. For dealers, this presents a significant opportunity to offer customers higher-quality vehicles that require less reconditioning, ultimately leading to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity

For UK dealers, modern Japanese car imports offer a safe, reliable, and profitable opportunity. The market has moved on from the dubious practices of the past, with today’s imports backed by rigorous inspections and transparent processes. By leveraging services like those offered by Brooklands Finance, UK dealers can not only expand their inventory but also enhance their market offering, providing customers with high-quality, unique vehicles that stand out in a competitive market.

If you’ve been cautious about Japanese imports due to outdated perceptions, now is the time to reconsider. The landscape has changed, and the benefits are clear: high margins, exceptional vehicle quality, and the support of a trusted UK-based partner. The question isn’t whether you should start importing Japanese vehicles, but how soon you can get started.

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