If you’re thinking of bringing home a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car to Australia, you’re probably already drawn in by the sleek looks, unmatched reliability, and strong resale potential. But before you fall completely in love with that turbocharged beauty or hybrid cruiser, let’s take a breather and talk about one of the most critical steps — the inspection.
At Tokyo Drive, we believe that every smart JDM car purchase starts with a detailed inspection. This isn’t just about checking for dings or scratches — it’s about making sure the vehicle is safe, compliant, and worth your investment.
Here’s our comprehensive, step-by-step inspection checklist to guide Aussie buyers through the process of inspecting a JDM import before making the purchase.
1. Verify Vehicle History and Documentation
Before you even set eyes on the car:
- Request the Japanese auction sheet.
- Ask for a PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) certificate.
- Verify odometer readings are original.
- Check compliance plates and registration history.
Authenticity is key. Avoid any deal that doesn’t come with full documentation.
2. Exterior Body & Paint Condition
Once you’re face-to-face with the vehicle:
- Walk around and check for rust, paint fade, or mismatched panels.
- Look underneath for underbody corrosion — a red flag for coastal or snowy region use.
- Confirm all lights, mirrors, and glass are intact.
Even minor signs of wear can impact resale value down the line.
3. Tires, Suspension & Alignment
- Check for even tread wear on all tires.
- Inspect brake pads and rotors.
- Test for smooth suspension by gently pushing down each corner.
- Observe the vehicle while driving — any pulling or wobble needs attention.
Good suspension is vital for roadworthiness and comfort.
4. Engine Bay Inspection
- Pop the hood and look for any fluid leaks.
- Check oil condition using the dipstick — it should be clean, amber, and smell neutral.
- Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight.
- Listen for unusual engine sounds like knocking or ticking.
A clean and quiet engine bay says a lot about how the vehicle was maintained.
5. Interior Condition & Features
- Inspect the dashboard for cracks or sun damage.
- Confirm that all electrical components — AC, stereo, windows — function.
- Check seatbelts, airbags, and warning lights.
- Review the infotainment system, navigation, and reverse camera (if equipped).
Clean interiors not only boost driving comfort but also future resale value.
6. Test Drive Checklist
A short spin can reveal a lot:
- Ensure smooth acceleration and braking.
- Test all gear shifts (especially on automatics and CVTs).
- Check for vibrations, noises, or dashboard alerts.
- Test cruise control, lane assist, and any other tech features.
Your car should feel natural, comfortable, and responsive — no surprises.
7. Compliance Check
Ensure the vehicle complies with Australian Design Rules (ADR):
- Headlights must dip left for Aussie roads.
- Speedometer should read in km/h.
- Seatbelts, airbags, and safety tech must meet Australian safety standards.
- Confirm any required modifications are already done.
Failure to comply can delay registration and cost you more later.
8. Professional Mechanical Inspection
Even if everything seems fine, always get a pre-purchase inspection done by a licensed mechanic. At Tokyo Drive, we offer detailed inspections that include:
- ECU diagnostics
- Chassis integrity
- Hybrid battery health (for hybrid models)
- Comprehensive road test
This small step can save you thousands in future repairs.
9. Final Negotiation Based on Condition
Use the inspection findings to your advantage:
- Document any defects
- Use them to request price adjustments
- Ask for repairs or added services (like new tires or rego) before finalizing
A well-informed buyer is a powerful negotiator.
Final Thoughts from Tokyo Drive
Buying a JDM import is an exciting journey, but smart buying starts with smart inspecting. With the right checklist and a little help from experts like us, you’ll be on the road in no time — driving something that’s stylish, reliable, and built to last.
Come visit Tokyo Drive in Haberfield, NSW or browse our latest inspected, road-ready JDM cars on Facebook Marketplace.
Drive safe. Drive smart. Drive Tokyo.
