buying guidehybrid

Buying a Used Hybrid Car from Japan: What to Check Before You Import

Japan has more used hybrids for sale than almost anywhere else. Here is what to check — battery, warning lights, service history and parts support — before you import a Fit, Vezel, Aqua or Prius hybrid.

Japan was one of the first countries to adopt hybrid cars in large numbers, so today it has a huge supply of used hybrids, often at prices well below new ones elsewhere. Models like the Toyota Aqua, Toyota Prius, Honda Fit Hybrid and Honda Vezel Hybrid are some of the most popular cars we export.

A hybrid can save you a lot on fuel, but there are a few extra things to check compared with a normal petrol car.

Why buy a hybrid from Japan?

  • Excellent fuel economy, especially in city traffic, where the electric motor does most of the work
  • Smooth and quiet to drive
  • Wide choice: from small hatchbacks to SUVs and people carriers
  • Good value: plenty of supply in Japan keeps prices reasonable

1. The hybrid battery

The hybrid (high-voltage) battery is the most important extra part of a hybrid. Hybrid batteries are designed to last many years, but like any battery they wear with age and use.

  • Age and mileage matter more than ever. A younger car with moderate mileage is a safer choice.
  • Ask whether the hybrid system shows any warning lights. A healthy system starts up normally and shows the "Ready" light without warnings.
  • Ask for a hybrid system check where possible before shipping.
  • Find out locally what a replacement or reconditioned battery costs in your country, so you know the worst case before you buy.

2. Warning lights and the auction sheet

Many of our cars come from Japanese auctions, where an inspector notes problems on the auction sheet, including warning lights on the dashboard. Ask us for the auction sheet and check the notes. See our guide on how to read a Japanese auction sheet.

3. Service history and mileage

  • Check that the mileage is consistent with the car's age and condition.
  • Hybrids still need normal servicing: oil, filters, brakes and the cooling system for the hybrid parts.

4. Parts and mechanics in your country

Before you choose a model, ask a local mechanic:

  • Do they work on hybrids, and on this model in particular?
  • Are parts readily available? Popular models like the Aqua, Prius and Fit have the best support.

A hybrid that is common in your country is easier and cheaper to keep running.

5. Your country's import rules

Some countries treat hybrids differently for import duty, sometimes more favourably. Rules change, so check the current rules with your clearing agent or customs authority before you buy.

6. Shipping a hybrid

Hybrids ship the same way as any other car, by RoRo or container, and we handle the export paperwork. Read about the full cost of importing a car from Japan to plan your budget.

  • Toyota Aqua: a compact hatchback with outstanding fuel economy, ideal for city driving
  • Toyota Prius: the best-known hybrid, roomy and very economical
  • Honda Fit Hybrid: a small car with a surprisingly large, flexible interior (see Honda Fit stock)
  • Honda Vezel Hybrid: a stylish compact SUV (see Honda Vezel stock)

Find your hybrid

Browse our stock and filter by fuel type, or tell us the hybrid model, year and budget you want, and we can find it for you at auction in Japan.