JAPANESE AUCTION LOGISTICS & EVALUATION
How USS Tokyo & CAA Japanese Auctions Grade Rare Models
1. The Mechanics of Japanese Auction Inspections
Japanese auto auctions—such as USS Tokyo, CAA Chubu, and JU Kanagawa—utilize standardized inspector scorecards. Every imported Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, or Honda NSX receives an overall vehicle score from Grade S down to Grade 1, alongside separate interior (A–D) and exterior letters.
2. Breakdown of Official Overall Grades
| Grade Rating | Vehicle Condition Criteria | Target Buyer Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Grade S / 6 | As-new condition, under 10,000 km, zero aftermarket panel repairs. | Museum collectors & private investors. |
| Grade 4.5 | Excellent original condition, minimal stone chips, original mileage. | Premium JDM enthusiasts & collectors. |
| Grade 4.0 | Good condition with minor cosmetic imperfections or minor modifications. | Daily street drivers & light tuning builds. |
| Grade R / RA | Repaired accident history. Panels replaced or frame welded. | Track day conversions & high-power tuning builds. |
3. Reading Body Diagram Codes (A1, W2, XX)
Auction sheets feature a schematic diagram of the vehicle body with standardized markup symbols:
- A1/A2/A3: Scratches (Small / Medium / Large depth).
- U1/U2/U3: Dents on panel work.
- W1/W2/W3: Wave or paint repair work quality.
- XX: Panel replacement. XX on core support or rear apron indicates frame impact history.
4. Consult with an Import Specialist
Need assistance interpreting a Japanese auction inspection sheet or checking chassis history for rare imports?