Frequently Asked
Questions
Everything you need to know about importing, shipping, customs, and buying a JDM vehicle through JDM Rush.
Shipping
We can ship JDM vehicles across Canada and the United States, and to various international ports. Please contact us for specific information regarding shipping options to your location.
Absolutely! We prioritize your vehicle's safety during transit. It will be securely fastened and protected using industry-standard methods, including tie-downs and coverings. We work only with reputable shipping companies to ensure your JDM car arrives in the same condition as it left Japan.
You will be notified as soon as your vehicle is successfully loaded onto the designated shipping vessel. We provide real-time updates via email or through our customer portal, including the shipping schedule and the vessel's name.
The total time from purchase to delivery varies based on several factors including the auction date, the purchase date, shipping schedules, and customs clearance. Typically, it takes about 8–12 weeks — but it can be longer.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured from Japan to your doorstep. Our comprehensive marine insurance covers damage, loss, accidents, natural disasters, and theft, ensuring your investment is secure throughout transit.
Yes, you can track your JDM car during its journey. Once it's loaded, we provide a MarineTraffic.com link to monitor the ship's real-time location, letting you follow your vehicle's progress to its new home.
Maintenance & Modifications
Yes! JDM vehicles can be insured like any other car in Canada. We recommend contacting insurance providers who specialize in imported vehicles for the best rates and coverage options.
Converting a JDM vehicle from right-hand drive to left-hand drive is technically possible but can be complex and costly. It's important to weigh the practicality and legality of such conversions in your region.
Parts for JDM vehicles can be sourced through us — we can get specialized import parts from Japan suppliers, or online platforms that cater to JDM vehicle owners. If you are interested in purchasing parts for your JDM car, we would love to help you out! Please contact us to get started!
Canadian Customs
Not all JDM cars can be imported into Canada due to specific import regulations. To be eligible for import, a JDM vehicle must be at least 15 years old from its month and year of manufacture at the time of import, according to Canadian law.
You will be promptly notified once your vehicle has successfully cleared customs. We closely monitor the customs clearance process and will communicate with you via email, text or phone as soon as your vehicle is released by customs authorities.
Yes, modified JDM cars can be imported into Canada, but certain factors must be considered:
- —Safety Inspections: Modifications, especially to the engine, suspension, or structure, must comply with Canadian safety standards to pass provincial inspections.
- —Emissions Compliance: Changes to the emissions system may require additional inspections to meet environmental regulations.
- —Insurance: Insuring modified vehicles can be challenging, with potential for higher premiums or additional inspections.
JDM Cars
Yes, JDM vehicles are right-hand drive (RHD), standard in Japan and some other countries. Driving RHD in Canada and many US States is legal and offers a unique experience. Our team can help you get comfortable with RHD driving. Learn more about driving a RHD vehicle in North America.
JDM vehicles are known for their cleanliness and minimal rust due to Japan's strict maintenance standards, mild climate, and limited exposure to salted roads, ensuring excellent quality and preservation. Read our blog post about Japan's maintenance standards.
The mileage on Japanese vehicles is typically lower due to the country's small geographic size, excellent public transportation, and stringent vehicle inspection standards. We have plenty of JDM cars with low mileage in stock — check them out!
Japan's strict vehicle inspections (Shaken) make older cars costly to maintain, leading owners to sell them early. This creates an opportunity to buy low-mileage vehicles at prices often 50–60% lower than the Canadian market! Read our blog post about Japan's maintenance standards.
Buying a JDM vehicle through JDM Rush Imports minimizes risk. We work with top exporters and trusted auction buyers who pre-check vehicles, provide photos and videos, and ensure thorough inspections. We also handle detailed histories and all compliance requirements. Learn more about our process.
Buying a JDM vehicle in Canada is legal, with compliance rules varying by province. In most provinces, vehicles over 15 years old can be imported without modifications, while newer models may need changes to meet local regulations. At JDM Rush Imports, we guide you through the process, ensuring all paperwork, inspections, and compliance requirements are handled, so you can enjoy your vehicle worry-free. Have a JDM car in mind? Contact us to get started!
Most Canadian Provinces and US States allow RHD/JDMs to be safetied and registered. However, in Canada the Provinces of Quebec and PEI do not. In the USA, we recommend checking with your local state regulators to ensure your state allows RHD vehicles to be legally registered and insured.
No, all vehicles imported from Japan undergo rigorous testing and inspection to ensure they are free from contamination and safe to operate.
Here's a list of the top 10 selling JDM cars:
- 1.Nissan Skyline GT-R: An iconic JDM legend with a powerful engine, advanced tech, and aggressive styling, earning it a devoted fanbase.
- 2.Toyota Supra: A classic made famous by Fast & Furious, known for its turbocharged engine, rear-wheel drive, and strong aftermarket support.
- 3.Mazda RX-7: Celebrated for its rotary engine and lightweight build, offering a thrilling driving experience and eye-catching design.
- 4.Honda NSX: A supercar blending performance, luxury, and reliability, praised for its all-aluminum body, handling, and balance.
- 5.Subaru Impreza WRX STI: A rally-inspired sedan with impressive power, handling, and practicality, beloved by enthusiasts.
- 6.Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution: A turbocharged, all-wheel-drive rally car with aggressive styling and a cult following.
- 7.Nissan Silvia: A compact sports car favored by drifting fans for its rear-wheel drive, balanced handling, and customization potential.
- 8.Toyota AE86: The lightweight “Hachi-Roku” is a JDM legend with playful rear-wheel-drive handling and iconic status.
- 9.Mazda MX-5 Miata: A lightweight, affordable roadster offering a pure, fun driving experience with timeless appeal.
- 10.Honda S2000: A high-revving roadster with precise handling and a design that remains striking today.
Dive into the world of JDM and experience the thrill for yourself — contact us to get started!
An auction sheet is a standardized document provided for each vehicle at Japanese auctions, offering a detailed overview of its condition. Here's what it includes:
- —Overall Grade: Vehicles are graded from 1 to 5. Grades 4 or 3.5 are ideal for most buyers, with higher grades indicating better condition.
- —Exterior & Interior Condition: Marks blemishes, dents, scratches, rust, and interior condition, often with a diagram for precise details.
- —Mechanical Condition: Notes on oil leaks, unusual noises, and the performance of the engine and transmission.
- —Aftermarket Parts: Lists modifications like engine, suspension, or exhaust upgrades.
- —Additional Notes: Highlights history, repairs, or events affecting value.
- —Translation: We translate all details from Japanese to English to ensure clarity and confidence in your purchase.
Ordering
We understand your concerns — it's natural to feel hesitant when buying your first JDM. That's why our process is designed to put you at ease with detailed photos, condition reports, and comprehensive documentation, ensuring transparency and a secure, informed buying experience. Check out our inventory!
Your costs include our broker fee, vehicle purchase price, shipping, customs fees, duties, taxes, insurance, and transport to your destination. All expenses are clearly detailed in your quotes, invoices, and receipts — 100% transparency, no surprises. Learn more about how it works.
We ensure you are getting the lowest price by sourcing vehicles directly from trusted Japanese auctions and sellers, minimizing overhead costs, and conducting market research to keep our pricing competitive. Learn more about how it works.
Special orders are customized to your specific preferences for make, model, and specifications, while purchasing from JDM inventory involves selecting a vehicle from our already procured and ready-to-import vehicles — which might be quicker but less tailored. Check out our inventory or fill out a simple form for a special order JDM car!
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you with everything you need.