Insider Secret: Why Do Used Cars from Japan Have Low Mileage

The used car market is expected to grow as more consumers opt out of purchasing new cars.

However, in recent years, the cost of buying a used car locally has become increasingly more expensive.

This led people to realize that they could import used cars from overseas, especially Japanese used cars, at a lower cost.

On top of that, many have started to notice the surprisingly high quality and affordability of used cars from Japan. 

Especially older classic models, their appearance can pass as dealership quality!

But that’s where you start doubting whether the mileage displayed online is real or not. That’s okay, you are just being a wise consumer! 
After you have finished this article, you will know whether this is the real deal or not, and you might even want to import your very own car from Japan yourself!

((What is the “Shaken” Law in Japan?))

Have you ever heard of the term “shaken”? Shaken (車検) is the mandatory vehicle inspection system that ensures vehicles meet the safety and emission standards. 

First introduced in the 1950s, the Shaken system was placed to ensure vehicle safety and environmental compliance since the number of cars on the road began to increase.

Tokyo’s population grew roughly 3 million more compared to the 50s, so safety standards had to become stricter.

The vehicle inspection system (shaken or sometimes referred to as JCI inspection) has to be performed every 2 years so that all the cars on the roads are safe to drive and no illegal modifications are done to the car. 

The Shaken Law Prompts People to Sell Early
Is having low mileage on a used car a bad thing? Perhaps. 

It’s normal for anyone to doubt the purchase, especially in case of exporters trying to scam you or the mileage that appears on the odometer is not genuine. 

But in Japan, low mileage on used cars is rather normal aside from commercial vehicles like buses or larger trucks used for businesses. 

Usually after four or five years, a vehicle is put out of service in Japan because of the Shaken Law. 

Japanese Used Cars are Among the Lowest Priced in Asia
At this point, we all know that the prices of Japanese cars are some of the most affordable ones in Asia. 

It is easy for locals to frequently buy new cars once they are introduced.
 So, they sell off their old used cars at a very low price and the cycle repeats. 

It is also a part of the Japanese mindset and culture to take care of their possessions, including their car. 

So, it becomes easy to find a well-maintained used car at a low price in Japan.

Ref- Insider Secret: Why Do Used Cars from Japan Have Low Mileage  (carused)