Japan auction grades are a standardised rating system used by auction houses like USS, TAA, JU, and HAA to assess the condition of vehicles. Understanding them is essential when buying a recon import.
The grade scale
Grade S — New or near-new condition. Fewer than 1,000km, showroom quality.
Grade 6 — Excellent condition, very low mileage.
Grade 5 — Excellent condition with minor wear.
Grade 4.5 / 4 — Good condition, light scratches or minor dents.
Grade 3.5 / 3 — Average condition, visible scratches, small dents, may need minor bodywork.
Grade 2 — Below average, multiple scratches and dents, may have mechanical issues.
Grade 1 — Poor condition, significant damage.
Grade R — Repaired after accident. Could be grade 4 or 5 quality after repair.
Grade RA — Repaired after accident with airbag deployment.
Interior grades
Interiors are graded separately: A (excellent), B (good), C (average), D (poor).
A vehicle listed as 4.5/B has a 4.5 exterior and B interior — a common combination for daily-driven vehicles.