I have been dealing with Justin at Cult and Classic for years now and you will be hard pressed to find somebody more passionate about cars and get a genuine buzz from finding the right car for somebody to import. Coincidentally I was there the other day and got to meet Adam from Redriven as an added bonus!
I bought a Toyota Crown JZS155 from Justin a few months ago. Was a very smooth process and the vehicle was in exceptional condition. Highly recommend Cult & Classic.
I bought a Japanese Import 07 ISF350, 90ks, one owner with full service history in immaculate condition. Its an awesome car, I love it and I couldn't have bought the same car here - not available here - and I couldn't find one in anywhere near the condition with such low ks. I recommend an Import and yes, absolutely go through a legitimate and authorised Importer, you can't go wrong.
I am planning to bring in a 5th generation Prius from Japan but not yet chosen an import agent. This video was very relevant and useful. Since I live in Sydney I’ll check out Cult and Classic.
I am literally this moment, importing 2x cars from Papua New Guinea to NZ. Due in port tmoro. MK4 Supra and S15 Silvia-R Both in a 20ft container. Many many hoops yet to jump. Intense!! compliance rules here in NZ. So far, so good 🤙
@ the Supra had 33600 k’s on the clock but had been semi abandoned and vandalised. The S15 had been parked 7yrs in the back of a dealership. They were both running but I spent 2yrs restoring them. New life begins now, in NZ 🤙
Justin's information was great to hear. The Rover site was something I'd never heard of. I suspect most dont know about Rover because import forums are full of questions about viability. Good video. Thanks.
I'm presently looking at importing a TVR Chimaera. Nearly all of them are now over 25 years old. They used reasonably available parts, Rover V8s, Borg Warner T5 gearboxes, Ford brakes, some Vauxhall (GM) switchgear.. Fibreglass body so no rust there, only real potential rust issues being chassis and suspension, which have generally been repaired or replaced by now. Planning to do most of it myself. One thing not mentioned on the video was insurance. You can cover the car against damage in transit, and it's fairly reasonable in price, generally between 1 - 1.5% of the value. Another issue not mentioned is asbestos. 100% banned from Aus, it's best to get the car tested and certified before shipment. Aus customs can inspect on landing, and the process could damage the car. Best to have a certificate and avoid the possibility.
While I’ve never imported one, I’ve owned two (Toyota Grand Hiace and a 1995 Mitsubishi FTO). What I wish I knew how difficult insurance was going to be (for the grand hiace mostly).
Took me about 4 months and $25k to import a low mileage Evo 10 but I’m so happy I did. The car was so much cleaner and well kept than any on the Aussie market. Having mostly the same parts as the Aussie delivered models was a huge reason why I went with that over something like a Toyota Crown but you honestly can’t go wrong with how cheap the older generations are now
Currently going through the process of importing a 1971 Mini Automatic my Great Grandfather bought new in NZ. Discovered with older cars there's the added hassle of asbestos testing. Also for some reason shipping is significantly cheaper for a six week trip via Japan than it is to go straight from Auckland to Melbourne
Import Monster for the Melbourne folk 👌🏻 Aaron and the team brought me in a Crown RS Advance this year and the process was super easy. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Don’t buy from dealers. You’re paying the mark up because you can’t wait.
We’re more a contemporary dealer that doesn’t wildly mark up cars, but your sentiment is valid for the rest. We send a lot of cars to Victoria these days 😊
@@JC94 since you didn’t buy that car and have no idea, it wasn’t. Keep supporting your mates though, that’s honourable of you. As you know, there are some good eggs out there. I see you’re a fellow crown enjoyer too.
I'm with you there. Aaron and the team are very approachable and do a great job. This is not their first rodeo. I could make a bad habit here if I could afford it, but how many cars do I need to buy? The process has been quite enjoyable.
@@CultandClassichey guys, I’m in Sydney and looking very seriously at importing a 2023/4 Lexus IS500 F Sport from Japan. From what I can tell, there are no import restrictions on this, it’s on the SEVS register and has a model approval. Is that something you could help with? Cheers in advance 👌
When buying a JDM car, check the auction grade, with at least 4B for newer models and no XX (replacement accident) parts on the sheet. Check the odometer verification website.
If I were to import a car some of the ones I'd be considering are; Toyota Cressida, Crown or Century Mazda T2000 Bitter Vero or Vero Sport Lancia Delta Intergrale Evolutione II (if I had the money) Apollo Arrow (same as above) Rambler Hornet or Matador (UK import) Definitely an informative video today guys and unexpected as well. Great work as always guys and look forward to Friday's video as per usual 👍.
Some good info. If in Melbourne use import monster. As mentioned its well worth the money using a reputable importer. You don't want headaches, they're hard to solve (trust me). The process is fairly simple but be patient. It can take time to find the car that fits your brief. There are sometimes shipping delays from japan which can set you back as well.
I've got a Toyota Sera that I've owned for almost 20 years now, whoever imported my car originally did an excellent job at the compliance tasks of sorting out side impact bars and a super clean conversion from rear lap belts to three points sash belts.
Typing this in Osaka, the K cars and k trucks over here look so cool and make a heap of sense in the environment. Also saw the current Toyota Century yesterday, WOW it looks better than a cullinan.
There was a blue DR30 Skyline sitting on the docks at Port Adelaide for several years. It ended up with weeds growing around it. Finally a deal was struck between owner and Patricks to get it out of there, but it was so bad that it got parted out.
justin and the team at cult & classics got my toyota majesta in. I can't recommend enough and to be honest i don't know why you would go the importing a car yourself route. Also ReDriven if you would like to review my car i'm more then happy for you to will round out all the crown engines for you as you haven't done the 4.6 V8 one yet
Thank you, very informative video, I have always wondered how Importers are able to bypass the 20yr Car import rule in Australia, and I got that answer, Its time to get in the import business before Australia turns to NZ, where they are the second largest used car importers globally.
I brought a JDM import Mitsubishi nimbus with a 4G63 Turbo and drive train from a Evo in 2008 from a car yard never had a problem with mod cert on engine/drive train swap with rego in NSW ever. Man that car would fly for a people mover. Wish I still had it also wish had the 80 series turbo diesel Landcruiser I traded in for that car.
If i was importing a car it would be a Japanese wagon. They only sell SUV's is aus, and i dont want to pay extra to have a heavier car with a higher center of gravity.
With you on that, so sick of only SUV's being offered, even a sensibly priced fuel efficient hatchback is no longer available here, which is why I'm considering this for my next car.
My personal experience with an imported car, is that because the Australian dealers are collectively missing out on tens of thousands of dollars of new vehicle sales the Dealerships collectively put the kibosh on anyone going for an import. They will do things like a service but print out a service description that may not actually match your vehicale... in my case each service had it listed as a manual to spite it being an automatic. When paying for the service I would point out the error and ask them to fix it, while they would charge me for checking the clutch fluid! Each time I would ask are you sure the mechanic has check the transmission fluid level, and I was assured they were competent and of course they would have! 1300 km after the fifth service I suspected my auto transmission slipping, so I tried to get it booked in for diagnostic tests, but had several weeks to wait.. I went on RUclips and discovered slipping auto trasmission could be low fluid level, so I educated myself again with RUclips to check the transmission oil level...only to discover it was so low it was below the bottom of the dip stick. I added more fluid myself and transmission was saved...so I questioned the Dealership which responded, that to spite the transmission having a dip stick, it is right for the life of the vehicale and never needs checking a different story to the one I had been getting from them. What I learnt is if you buy an imported car, the Dealerships really don't want you there. So find a private mechanic you can trust, and enjoy your imported car as you should be able to, stay away from dealerships if it is an import!
Birds of a feather... You have an imported Japanese family or generic car? Go to a performance workshop with extensive experience with JDM. Imported a rare Euro? Go to a well regarded Euro mechanic with brand experience, some of them will even be expats from the cars country of origin. Family has had Alfas and Renaults, find someone who likes the brand and they'll make it work, avoid stealerships unless you absolutely have to for parts.
Yep, I imported for my Alto Turbo RS & it's good & bad. I used legit, recommended agents. Grade 4.5 & a ro-ro is the way unless there's a reason imo. Best bit? Got a great, unique car. Worst bit? Waiting 4 months for a lidar Suzuki windscreen. _PS: I'll just use Go Garage next time & Shannons are ok for insurance on both my JDMs._
If I was in a position to, I'd be importing my old '92 Dakota and '98 Durango. Actually used this video to get some solid info on if I'd even remotely be able to, and since they're 25+ years old, I feel like it might be possible. I just need to get myself there first.
I have imported 5 cars to Australia from Singapore as personal imports. I lived there for 20 years. This included classic BMW and 4 of my daily drivers. You have to be a resident in the foreign country and have the car registered in you name for at least one year.
That classic BMW was cool but the daily drivers were just that. As a personal import you save on duties and taxes into AU. Deregistering the vehicle in Singapore earlier than 10 years can deliver a huge rebate on the huge COE that was paid in SG.
Privately importing a new or 2nd hand car can be difficult & a pain. Better off to go thru a dealer for a particular model as a special dealer import. Ie, models that were previously sold here & no longer sold here like MB , BMW Audi petrol or diesel variants . The BMW 6 Series GT was last imported by BMW Aust in 2020. BMW Aust bought in a number of privately ordered 6 Series GT's in 2022 for previous owners. MB E 400d was not part of the lineup locally. Initially only for police use , these were then sold to the public here as well. South African vehicles can be difficult to get thru compliance. Cars from the uk & Ireland are easier to get into Australia as they need virtually no mods to comply locally . Petrol, diesel, hybrid or EV variants are apparently acceptable from the uk/Ireland. I've imported 3 vehicles from the UK over the last several yrs . 2 were new vehicles initially purchased in the UK Had family drive them until they hit about 10,000km then the vehicles were classed as 2nd hand . Imported thru a dealer as part of their quota here . They were done 2 yrs apart . The last vehicle was one about 20+ yrs old & privately imported by myself . Parts service & warranty on the 2 'Second Hand Ones'? No problem at all . Both were service thru dealers locally, both went thru compliance here with minimal to no mods & both were eventually sold in Australia without a problem . The 3rd but older vehicle eventually sold to an enthusiast here
If I had the resources, according to the Governments Specialist and Enthusiasts Vehicle Register, one of the cars listed on there is the S213 E63/E63S Estate as well as the BMW i8. Yes the i8 is a pain in the arse to maintain as ive heard from others, I think those two for me are the cars I’d import first.
Finally so many questions answered im looking to get my next uber this way only questions now are ancap star rating and what one's that are comfort rate
I would import a 1995 era MR2 turbo GT rev 3 with the CT20b and LSD in hardtop form. I used to own one (TTop model from 1990) After a track day at Wakefield park with 160+km/h down the straight it developed a front end rattle, so I jacked it up and literally pulled the front right control arm bolt out with my fingers. Bad crash repair with a (not high tensile) nut welded in from Bunnings! True story. Get whatever import car you want checked out thoroughly before you buy, even if you buy it locally from the first Aus owner!!
I've got a Suzuki Spacia and genuinely don't want any other kind of vehicle, it's perfect for what I use a car for and it does everything I want of it and then some. the fact that it's not currently available for import is upsetting to say the least.
No mention of the 30 year Left hand drive laws. No mention of seat belts not meating standards or full tint front windscreens. Tyres with no DMT or dates
I actually bought my Nissan Aura Nismo when I was in Japan last year, I have sighted the car and checked it very thoroughly, the car was still in a near new condition with only 3000km on the dash at ¥2,670,000 (roughly $27k) I dealt with an exporter in Japan who was happy to ship my car to Australia, overall it took 12 weeks for the car to come to Australia, plus another 2 weeks in quarantine, then it got complied, had the car tow trucked to my place, then drove the car to get it blue slipped, then got green slip and then registered. So all up it took around 16 weeks to finally get it on the road.
can left hand drive cars be imported? im in queensland and i desperately want to own a hyundai genesis coupe. those things are gorgeous. but there's no rhd models
Very surprised the Corolla touring has to be imported if an Aussie wants 1.Their quite popular in the UK a neighbour of mine has the 1.2 Turbo, saying that they are made here in England. Looks definitely far more expensive to import a car into Aus than it is in the UK. Were getting quite a few South African cars imported now when previously it was just cars from Japan.
when i see the hassle insuring an estima vs a tarago or a fit vs a jazz, this was a little "optimistic" - would it be better to import a car via an agent or buy one already imported ?
G'day For decades I've loved the Japanese built Mitsubishi Diamante AWD luxury sedan, with a 2.5 litre V6 I believe it was, this was the donor vehicle for the highly successful Aussie engineered and built Mitsubishi Verada 3.5 V6. I'm now interested in the EV Mitsubishi kei car.
If I was going to import a car, it would either be the safe(r) option of a Toyota Crown or Lexus IS (latest generation), or a Mercedes S213 wagon. That's if I can't find a good CLS Shooting Brake first!
Don't buy an import if you live outside of a capital city. Country mechanics simply cannot deal with them. Same goes for travelling 'outback'. Don't ask me how I know this pain.
@@waipoon466 Guessing you mean a Toyota grey import? My experience travelling and living all over Au is that all grey imports baffle most small town mechanics. Many times their code readers do not have the import model selection. Same goes for their supplier parts lists. Sort of like how you can't find a certain model car on insurance drop down lists. Getting to know what parts are identical to Au models helps a lot but it can still be a massive hassle. Mitsi Delica for example is just a Starwagon on a Pajero / Triton chassis with very few bespoke parts but still baffles most because of parts numbers. Even in big capital cities I've had to go find a specialist.
@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt thanks, I was thinking to get a Toyota Noah, but it starts making more sense to get an EV with a solid state battery after a few more years.
@@waipoon466 I can't comment on EVs as I know nothing about them. Don't even see them where I live. As for the Noah the whole crux of the ownership problem starts when someone asks "What is a Toyota Noah?" .
I'd love to import one of several different Alpinas from across the years and/or something like the Rapide AMR. Let's ignore my (in)ability to pay for them for now ... .
I probably will never import a vehicle and l do see plenty of them around from Toyota Nissan and Mitsubishi and the Kie cars and utes l am seeing a couple of them around and there have been many Kie cars that have come into Australia from many years ago lcan remember the Suzuki Carry ect and a informative video
Is that the really cool looking little box thing but has the range of throwing a tennis ball? Hard to test something that doesn't exist in Australia tho Jordan.
@@JordysWheels Never heard of one ever landing here. Not even a Honda media car back when Honda Au were talking about it. I doubt there is a single one in Au. There was a guy in Canberra trying to import them but I dont think anything ever eventuated. There may be ADR issues?
@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt that makes sense given the car has cameras for side mirrors. Having said that, there are some other cars new in Oz with cameras for side mirrors
Can you employ a reputable importer to source a car for you if you have a specific vehicle in mind? Or is it up to you to source the vehicle in that situation?
@ good to know. I was under the impression that most were essentially just another dealership, but for imports. The vehicle I’m considering is quite niche and very limited, so having the resource would be essential.
It varies between importers. Some will bring in limited stock to sell to customers off the floor, others might deal more in bringing in cars already spoken for by customers. Best thing to do is ring around and chat to them. Also as we mentioned in the video, if it's a niche car, find out how easily you can get parts, because that can have implications with owning and insuring etc.
@@ReDrivenDelorean, so I know what I’m in for here when it lands, it’s more finding a decent one and getting it here where I’m a novice. I had a friend import a Viper, and he ran me through the back end stuff, but I’d be more leaning towards getting an importer to help with the due diligence on the other end.
You have to call them mate. They won't have it listed in anything nor will it be listed on any other government or automotive industry website that utilises your registration to pull up vehicle details.
So you're not allowed to import a model that was sold new in Australia. But at the same time it has to have parts available for your maintenance here. Sounds like a bit of a catch 22
Doubtful given they were sold here new, so personal import only for returning expats/migrants until they turn 25... The Pontiacs would probably be in the same situation as well
Ha, I seriously looked at importing a Panda 100HP.......even went sniffing around when I was in Japan last year. All got a bit too complex and their prices in Japan were reflecting their cult status. Sigh
@@laureus31 And salt corrosion and a thousand hours of idle time not reflected by the odometer. But even without that, a low km one here is about $40K. How much cheaper would an import be?
These ones can only be pre 2000 manufacture. These models have to be 25 years before you can import them. For 4.3l Celsior it covers only the first year of production as they were made from 2000 to 2006. Obviously, this factor alone limits the pool to choose from. Finding a 25 year old car in ok condition is a tough task even in japan especially Celsior. They aren't exactly Corollas in terms of numbers produced. In short, your idea is basically impossible to implement.
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I find it crazy Australia still has so many import restrictions when it no longer had a domestic car industry to support.
All about the corrupt government loving tax and dealers paying them off
lobbied by dealers, led by a well known one started with M
Still have the taxes as well to support the local car industry which the government got rid of
Politicians have fucked our whole economy
Exactly, they like all the taxes that come with it.
I have been dealing with Justin at Cult and Classic for years now and you will be hard pressed to find somebody more passionate about cars and get a genuine buzz from finding the right car for somebody to import. Coincidentally I was there the other day and got to meet Adam from Redriven as an added bonus!
I bought a Toyota Crown JZS155 from Justin a few months ago. Was a very smooth process and the vehicle was in exceptional condition. Highly recommend Cult & Classic.
If I was looking for an import he would be the bloke I’d use.
What a sorely needed video. Thank you for organising this
Agree, extremely painful to find all this info otherwise.
I got my import vehicle from Japan handled by Justin at Cult & Classic. He’s a great guy who is transparent and honest.
I bought a Japanese Import 07 ISF350, 90ks, one owner with full service history in immaculate condition. Its an awesome car, I love it and I couldn't have bought the same car here - not available here - and I couldn't find one in anywhere near the condition with such low ks. I recommend an Import and yes, absolutely go through a legitimate and authorised Importer, you can't go wrong.
I am planning to bring in a 5th generation Prius from Japan but not yet chosen an import agent. This video was very relevant and useful. Since I live in Sydney I’ll check out Cult and Classic.
I am literally this moment, importing 2x cars from Papua New Guinea to NZ.
Due in port tmoro.
MK4 Supra and S15 Silvia-R
Both in a 20ft container.
Many many hoops yet to jump. Intense!! compliance rules here in NZ.
So far, so good 🤙
What on earth were those doing in PNG? Would stand out alongside the troop carriers..
I guess I've come across rx8s in Tarawa, lol.
@ the Supra had 33600 k’s on the clock but had been semi abandoned and vandalised.
The S15 had been parked 7yrs in the back of a dealership.
They were both running but I spent 2yrs restoring them. New life begins now, in NZ 🤙
@@TripleJ85 the car scene in png is amazing, just think fast and the furious crossed with the flintstone's hahahahaha
Justin's information was great to hear. The Rover site was something I'd never heard of. I suspect most dont know about Rover because import forums are full of questions about viability. Good video. Thanks.
I'm presently looking at importing a TVR Chimaera.
Nearly all of them are now over 25 years old.
They used reasonably available parts, Rover V8s, Borg Warner T5 gearboxes, Ford brakes, some Vauxhall (GM) switchgear..
Fibreglass body so no rust there, only real potential rust issues being chassis and suspension, which have generally been repaired or replaced by now.
Planning to do most of it myself.
One thing not mentioned on the video was insurance. You can cover the car against damage in transit, and it's fairly reasonable in price, generally between 1 - 1.5% of the value.
Another issue not mentioned is asbestos. 100% banned from Aus, it's best to get the car tested and certified before shipment. Aus customs can inspect on landing, and the process could damage the car. Best to have a certificate and avoid the possibility.
While I’ve never imported one, I’ve owned two (Toyota Grand Hiace and a 1995 Mitsubishi FTO). What I wish I knew how difficult insurance was going to be (for the grand hiace mostly).
Took me about 4 months and $25k to import a low mileage Evo 10 but I’m so happy I did. The car was so much cleaner and well kept than any on the Aussie market. Having mostly the same parts as the Aussie delivered models was a huge reason why I went with that over something like a Toyota Crown but you honestly can’t go wrong with how cheap the older generations are now
The not cheap ?? Evo 9 silver 220000km bid $17000 in japan = $25000 with taxes . I see on oz market evo 9 under 150000km
@ evo 10, not 9. I’m not familiar with the CT9A prices
Currently going through the process of importing a 1971 Mini Automatic my Great Grandfather bought new in NZ. Discovered with older cars there's the added hassle of asbestos testing. Also for some reason shipping is significantly cheaper for a six week trip via Japan than it is to go straight from Auckland to Melbourne
If you're going to be sponsored by a Japanese lubricant company; maybe you could also be sponsored by the Hitachi magic wand,
🤣
Import Monster for the Melbourne folk 👌🏻
Aaron and the team brought me in a Crown RS Advance this year and the process was super easy. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Don’t buy from dealers. You’re paying the mark up because you can’t wait.
We’re more a contemporary dealer that doesn’t wildly mark up cars, but your sentiment is valid for the rest.
We send a lot of cars to Victoria these days 😊
@ I dunno. That blue Crown was pretty pricey from memory 🤔
@@JC94 since you didn’t buy that car and have no idea, it wasn’t.
Keep supporting your mates though, that’s honourable of you. As you know, there are some good eggs out there.
I see you’re a fellow crown enjoyer too.
I'm with you there. Aaron and the team are very approachable and do a great job. This is not their first rodeo. I could make a bad habit here if I could afford it, but how many cars do I need to buy? The process has been quite enjoyable.
@@CultandClassichey guys, I’m in Sydney and looking very seriously at importing a 2023/4 Lexus IS500 F Sport from Japan.
From what I can tell, there are no import restrictions on this, it’s on the SEVS register and has a model approval.
Is that something you could help with?
Cheers in advance 👌
When buying a JDM car, check the auction grade, with at least 4B for newer models and no XX (replacement accident) parts on the sheet. Check the odometer verification website.
If I were to import a car some of the ones I'd be considering are;
Toyota Cressida, Crown or Century
Mazda T2000
Bitter Vero or Vero Sport
Lancia Delta Intergrale Evolutione II (if I had the money)
Apollo Arrow (same as above)
Rambler Hornet or Matador (UK import)
Definitely an informative video today guys and unexpected as well.
Great work as always guys and look forward to Friday's video as per usual 👍.
Always have good posts, TD. No wonder the boys like ya.
@elgordo9031 cheers, mate. I try to balance them between being supportive, constructive criticism and basic banter/comments.
Some good info. If in Melbourne use import monster. As mentioned its well worth the money using a reputable importer. You don't want headaches, they're hard to solve (trust me). The process is fairly simple but be patient. It can take time to find the car that fits your brief. There are sometimes shipping delays from japan which can set you back as well.
Corolla touring would be an awesome one to review. Super keen on one - I wish more manufacturers made wagons
TG the MX-5 is my dream car. Didn’t have to jump these hoops. Interesting video nevertheless. Thank you for doing it.
I've got a Toyota Sera that I've owned for almost 20 years now, whoever imported my car originally did an excellent job at the compliance tasks of sorting out side impact bars and a super clean conversion from rear lap belts to three points sash belts.
Typing this in Osaka, the K cars and k trucks over here look so cool and make a heap of sense in the environment. Also saw the current Toyota Century yesterday, WOW it looks better than a cullinan.
There was a blue DR30 Skyline sitting on the docks at Port Adelaide for several years. It ended up with weeds growing around it. Finally a deal was struck between owner and Patricks to get it out of there, but it was so bad that it got parted out.
justin and the team at cult & classics got my toyota majesta in. I can't recommend enough and to be honest i don't know why you would go the importing a car yourself route. Also ReDriven if you would like to review my car i'm more then happy for you to will round out all the crown engines for you as you haven't done the 4.6 V8 one yet
Thank you, very informative video, I have always wondered how Importers are able to bypass the 20yr Car import rule in Australia, and I got that answer, Its time to get in the import business before Australia turns to NZ, where they are the second largest used car importers globally.
Great video! Well researched.
I'd import Subaru STI wagon, S201, Kia K8, Kia shooting brake Proceed GT.
I brought a JDM import Mitsubishi nimbus with a 4G63 Turbo and drive train from a Evo in 2008 from a car yard never had a problem with mod cert on engine/drive train swap with rego in NSW ever. Man that car would fly for a people mover. Wish I still had it also wish had the 80 series turbo diesel Landcruiser I traded in for that car.
If i was importing a car it would be a Japanese wagon. They only sell SUV's is aus, and i dont want to pay extra to have a heavier car with a higher center of gravity.
With you on that, so sick of only SUV's being offered, even a sensibly priced fuel efficient hatchback is no longer available here, which is why I'm considering this for my next car.
I have a corolla fielder hybrid, perfect car.
Wagon version of the corolla. The corolla touring also looks really good.
Toyota Caldina 😉
@@clarific-j4w do you have the user manual. My manual is in Japanese.
The ozzy car market is crazy. Here in NZ, 2nd hand imports dominate the market. Keeps new prices cheaper.
Aww man really wanted a Crown but hearing that the Corolla Touring would be easier to import is good
Great video!
My personal experience with an imported car, is that because the Australian dealers are collectively missing out on tens of thousands of dollars of new vehicle sales the Dealerships collectively put the kibosh on anyone going for an import. They will do things like a service but print out a service description that may not actually match your vehicale... in my case each service had it listed as a manual to spite it being an automatic. When paying for the service I would point out the error and ask them to fix it, while they would charge me for checking the clutch fluid! Each time I would ask are you sure the mechanic has check the transmission fluid level, and I was assured they were competent and of course they would have!
1300 km after the fifth service I suspected my auto transmission slipping, so I tried to get it booked in for diagnostic tests, but had several weeks to wait.. I went on RUclips and discovered slipping auto trasmission could be low fluid level, so I educated myself again with RUclips to check the transmission oil level...only to discover it was so low it was below the bottom of the dip stick.
I added more fluid myself and transmission was saved...so I questioned the Dealership which responded, that to spite the transmission having a dip stick, it is right for the life of the vehicale and never needs checking a different story to the one I had been getting from them.
What I learnt is if you buy an imported car, the Dealerships really don't want you there.
So find a private mechanic you can trust, and enjoy your imported car as you should be able to, stay away from dealerships if it is an import!
Find a private mechanic you can trust? tell him he's dreaming.
Birds of a feather... You have an imported Japanese family or generic car? Go to a performance workshop with extensive experience with JDM. Imported a rare Euro? Go to a well regarded Euro mechanic with brand experience, some of them will even be expats from the cars country of origin. Family has had Alfas and Renaults, find someone who likes the brand and they'll make it work, avoid stealerships unless you absolutely have to for parts.
Thanks for the video Sir.
Yep, I imported for my Alto Turbo RS & it's good & bad. I used legit, recommended agents. Grade 4.5 & a ro-ro is the way unless there's a reason imo. Best bit? Got a great, unique car. Worst bit? Waiting 4 months for a lidar Suzuki windscreen. _PS: I'll just use Go Garage next time & Shannons are ok for insurance on both my JDMs._
If I was in a position to, I'd be importing my old '92 Dakota and '98 Durango. Actually used this video to get some solid info on if I'd even remotely be able to, and since they're 25+ years old, I feel like it might be possible. I just need to get myself there first.
I have imported 5 cars to Australia from Singapore as personal imports. I lived there for 20 years. This included classic BMW and 4 of my daily drivers. You have to be a resident in the foreign country and have the car registered in you name for at least one year.
Wow, cars in Singapore are crazy expensive. Must have been v.nice cars
That classic BMW was cool but the daily drivers were just that. As a personal import you save on duties and taxes into AU. Deregistering the vehicle in Singapore earlier than 10 years can deliver a huge rebate on the huge COE that was paid in SG.
5 cars in singapore? Are you a billionaire?
@@kidoctane Singapore is by far the most expensive place in the world to purchase a car.
Privately importing a new or 2nd hand car can be difficult & a pain. Better off to go thru a dealer for a particular model as a special dealer import. Ie, models that were previously sold here & no longer sold here like MB , BMW Audi petrol or diesel variants . The BMW 6 Series GT was last imported by BMW Aust in 2020. BMW Aust bought in a number of privately ordered 6 Series GT's in 2022 for previous owners. MB E 400d was not part of the lineup locally. Initially only for police use , these were then sold to the public here as well. South African vehicles can be difficult to get thru compliance. Cars from the uk & Ireland are easier to get into Australia as they need virtually no mods to comply locally . Petrol, diesel, hybrid or EV variants are apparently acceptable from the uk/Ireland. I've imported 3 vehicles from the UK over the last several yrs . 2 were new vehicles initially purchased in the UK Had family drive them until they hit about 10,000km then the vehicles were classed as 2nd hand . Imported thru a dealer as part of their quota here . They were done 2 yrs apart . The last vehicle was one about 20+ yrs old & privately imported by myself . Parts service & warranty on the 2 'Second Hand Ones'? No problem at all . Both were service thru dealers locally, both went thru compliance here with minimal to no mods & both were eventually sold in Australia without a problem . The 3rd but older vehicle eventually sold to an enthusiast here
new video setup? lighting and bokeh looks phenomenal.
Cheers mate! Just a new camera
If I had the resources, according to the Governments Specialist and Enthusiasts Vehicle Register, one of the cars listed on there is the S213 E63/E63S Estate as well as the BMW i8. Yes the i8 is a pain in the arse to maintain as ive heard from others, I think those two for me are the cars I’d import first.
Cant wait to import a delorean in the future!
🏆
I see what you did there 😂
Have you guys managed to test the Arial Atom yet?
Is it even allowed into Australia?
Finally so many questions answered im looking to get my next uber this way only questions now are ancap star rating and what one's that are comfort rate
I would import a 1995 era MR2 turbo GT rev 3 with the CT20b and LSD in hardtop form. I used to own one (TTop model from 1990) After a track day at Wakefield park with 160+km/h down the straight it developed a front end rattle, so I jacked it up and literally pulled the front right control arm bolt out with my fingers. Bad crash repair with a (not high tensile) nut welded in from Bunnings! True story. Get whatever import car you want checked out thoroughly before you buy, even if you buy it locally from the first Aus owner!!
I've got a Suzuki Spacia and genuinely don't want any other kind of vehicle, it's perfect for what I use a car for and it does everything I want of it and then some. the fact that it's not currently available for import is upsetting to say the least.
No mention of the 30 year Left hand drive laws.
No mention of seat belts not meating standards or full tint front windscreens.
Tyres with no DMT or dates
I actually bought my Nissan Aura Nismo when I was in Japan last year, I have sighted the car and checked it very thoroughly, the car was still in a near new condition with only 3000km on the dash at ¥2,670,000 (roughly $27k)
I dealt with an exporter in Japan who was happy to ship my car to Australia, overall it took 12 weeks for the car to come to Australia, plus another 2 weeks in quarantine, then it got complied, had the car tow trucked to my place, then drove the car to get it blue slipped, then got green slip and then registered.
So all up it took around 16 weeks to finally get it on the road.
Hi mate, I am thinking about importing an Aura Nismo. Could I seek your opinion on the car for more info please?
Moving to perth soon and I really want to bring my S30 Z
can left hand drive cars be imported? im in queensland and i desperately want to own a hyundai genesis coupe. those things are gorgeous. but there's no rhd models
Toyota Soarer 3rd gen. Hands down best car I have ever driven.
Very surprised the Corolla touring has to be imported if an Aussie wants 1.Their quite popular in the UK a neighbour of mine has the 1.2 Turbo, saying that they are made here in England. Looks definitely far more expensive to import a car into Aus than it is in the UK. Were getting quite a few South African cars imported now when previously it was just cars from Japan.
Despite wagons generally being popular here, the tide has turned towards SUVs and we've missed out on some good new wagons.
Since 2017, literally *every* car is basically an import..
when i see the hassle insuring an estima vs a tarago or a fit vs a jazz, this was a little "optimistic" - would it be better to import a car via an agent or buy one already imported ?
Bmw 340x touring. Everyone loves a fast wagon
I reckon a Daihatsu Hi Jet would be a handy little rig
Great for delivering bark chips to hard to get into kindergartens. Or big pizzas.
Love the channel! I'd import, or go to a renowned importer for a Toyota voxy/noah. Would also love a review!
Can you import classic Japanese Motorcycles from Japan or South Africa, is it the same process?
Amazing. Your ad for oil was interrupted by an ad. Only on youtube...
G'day
For decades I've loved the Japanese built Mitsubishi Diamante AWD luxury sedan, with a 2.5 litre V6 I believe it was, this was the donor vehicle for the highly successful Aussie engineered and built Mitsubishi Verada 3.5 V6.
I'm now interested in the EV Mitsubishi kei car.
many years ago I had a JDM Diamante 30M with the 199kw 3.0.
What about classic cars that need restoring, for example a 1957 chevrolet?
Late model Corvair is on my bucket list
Was thinking of the lc500 or Honda... Mini one in yellow... In some of your frames..can't remember the name
If I was going to import a car, it would either be the safe(r) option of a Toyota Crown or Lexus IS (latest generation), or a Mercedes S213 wagon. That's if I can't find a good CLS Shooting Brake first!
Pity we can't easily import a long wheel base euro spec Corolla Wagon.
Don't buy an import if you live outside of a capital city. Country mechanics simply cannot deal with them. Same goes for travelling 'outback'. Don't ask me how I know this pain.
What about Toyota that were made after 2020?
@@waipoon466 Guessing you mean a Toyota grey import? My experience travelling and living all over Au is that all grey imports baffle most small town mechanics. Many times their code readers do not have the import model selection. Same goes for their supplier parts lists. Sort of like how you can't find a certain model car on insurance drop down lists. Getting to know what parts are identical to Au models helps a lot but it can still be a massive hassle. Mitsi Delica for example is just a Starwagon on a Pajero / Triton chassis with very few bespoke parts but still baffles most because of parts numbers. Even in big capital cities I've had to go find a specialist.
@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt thanks, I was thinking to get a Toyota Noah, but it starts making more sense to get an EV with a solid state battery after a few more years.
@@waipoon466 I can't comment on EVs as I know nothing about them. Don't even see them where I live. As for the Noah the whole crux of the ownership problem starts when someone asks "What is a Toyota Noah?" .
I’ve imported 4 cars from the Uk it’s pretty easy to do not hard
Wanna do an ep on the Mitsubishi legnum? I’ve got one you can drive
Had a JA Starion back in the day so I reckon I'd import a silver (wide body) starion..👌
I'd love a 3 door Suzuki Swift Sport. They should be a lot of fun. 1.6 lt and light.
I'd love to import one of several different Alpinas from across the years and/or something like the Rapide AMR. Let's ignore my (in)ability to pay for them for now ... .
dream car to import, evo 9 wagon
And don’t forget there is 10% sales tax in Japan when you purchase the car from auction.
I probably will never import a vehicle and l do see plenty of them around from Toyota Nissan and Mitsubishi and the Kie cars and utes l am seeing a couple of them around and there have been many Kie cars that have come into Australia from many years ago lcan remember the Suzuki Carry ect and a informative video
I want to import a diesel V8 Phaeton but no doubt that would cost double the price it was as new 😅
can anyone recommend a good importer for brisbane?
When people look at eurpopean car prices in oz blame government greed ! 2010 c63 in nz $23000
Could you reveiw used ford courier gl around 2005?
I'd love a Honda E, infact can you redriven one? There's no car like it on the market, way more appealing than Hyundai Inster
Is that the really cool looking little box thing but has the range of throwing a tennis ball?
Hard to test something that doesn't exist in Australia tho Jordan.
@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt yeah there must be a handful of them in Oz
@@JordysWheels Never heard of one ever landing here. Not even a Honda media car back when Honda Au were talking about it. I doubt there is a single one in Au. There was a guy in Canberra trying to import them but I dont think anything ever eventuated. There may be ADR issues?
@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt that makes sense given the car has cameras for side mirrors. Having said that, there are some other cars new in Oz with cameras for side mirrors
It's on the ROVER website
Would it be a better to import a Honda s2000 or just buy a second hand one here?
Buy here base model in japan cloth not leather
Can you employ a reputable importer to source a car for you if you have a specific vehicle in mind? Or is it up to you to source the vehicle in that situation?
Of course, that's a large part of their job. Whatever car you have in mind, they can work with you to get it. So long as it's approved for import.
@ good to know. I was under the impression that most were essentially just another dealership, but for imports. The vehicle I’m considering is quite niche and very limited, so having the resource would be essential.
It varies between importers. Some will bring in limited stock to sell to customers off the floor, others might deal more in bringing in cars already spoken for by customers. Best thing to do is ring around and chat to them. Also as we mentioned in the video, if it's a niche car, find out how easily you can get parts, because that can have implications with owning and insuring etc.
@@ReDrivenDelorean, so I know what I’m in for here when it lands, it’s more finding a decent one and getting it here where I’m a novice. I had a friend import a Viper, and he ran me through the back end stuff, but I’d be more leaning towards getting an importer to help with the due diligence on the other end.
My dream would be a mk3 Supra, but I don’t think there are many left in good condition
Insurance doesn’t like these. I tried and they’re never in the dropdown menus
With insurers never use their websites, just call them, stop being lazy.
@ imagine being so arrogant that you assume someone is lazy when they are actually deaf and hence don’t speak 🤷♂️
@@superwag634 yeah look my bad, please accept my apology on that one.
You have to call them mate. They won't have it listed in anything nor will it be listed on any other government or automotive industry website that utilises your registration to pull up vehicle details.
@@superwag634imagine not using a text to speech service to call up insurance companies to get insured.
3 grade evo 9 silver 220000km bid in japan 1.59 million yen . Shipping & taxes would be $25000
So you're not allowed to import a model that was sold new in Australia. But at the same time it has to have parts available for your maintenance here. Sounds like a bit of a catch 22
It's called beurocrasy....anything to grab a dollar from already over taxed Australians.
Sold new with same engine as sold new, different engine/drive train you can.
Not an issue if you buy Toyota, Lexus or similar.
S15 was a weird one, because sold here new, but certain versions could be imported.
How much would a 2021 Lexus RX450h cost to import, roughly?
Cheaper buying locally
@@imaxsameer 2011 lexus isf silver 209000km bid $14000 in nov
I'd import a current spec Suzuki Hustler II 4X4 Hybrid 2 tone
How about a monaro from the UK?
Doubtful given they were sold here new, so personal import only for returning expats/migrants until they turn 25... The Pontiacs would probably be in the same situation as well
If i was going import it would Unimog, Scania truck from Europe or IH truck from USA. Maybe Kingswood ute from South Africa.
What about cars over 30 years?
....cult car becoming/reaching classic status "Panda 100Hp" boss of ferrari big fan..!! Lol
Ha, I seriously looked at importing a Panda 100HP.......even went sniffing around when I was in Japan last year. All got a bit too complex and their prices in Japan were reflecting their cult status. Sigh
Can we import Land Cruiser 300?
No how would it be cheaper when there alot of taxes in australia lefty
after watching the Lexus IS F video I want to import a IS F. I currently have my M135i up for sale sad times ahead.
beware the import ones came with open diff 😂(early models)
@laureus31 cheers for the tip. It's the only complaint I have about the M135i.
Curious.. why import a car that is Au release anyway? These 20 of them on CarSales right now. Could you get it even cheaper?
@@AnyoneSeenMikeHunt yes, most of the time. If price is similar the jdm one will come with a much smaller mileage.
@@laureus31 And salt corrosion and a thousand hours of idle time not reflected by the odometer. But even without that, a low km one here is about $40K. How much cheaper would an import be?
I would like to import 2015 C7 s6 wagon
Well ackshually almost every car in Aus is an import 🥸
I wouldn’t mind importing(
1. Isuzu 117 coupe
2. FTO or GTO
3. 280zx 2 seater turbo
Low km Japan 80 series with the kitchen sink and console fridge option with low kms.
Should’ve said you saved the disabled client 50k plus the government will soon close that loophole quick smart 🤦🏻♂️.
Luv your work 🍻🙏🏼
Id want to import a WALD or TOMS lexus LS430/toyota celsior, SC430/Soarer and or a LX470/Cyngus.
These ones can only be pre 2000 manufacture. These models have to be 25 years before you can import them. For 4.3l Celsior it covers only the first year of production as they were made from 2000 to 2006. Obviously, this factor alone limits the pool to choose from. Finding a 25 year old car in ok condition is a tough task even in japan especially Celsior. They aren't exactly Corollas in terms of numbers produced.
In short, your idea is basically impossible to implement.
Thinking Evolution
Corolla Touring Wagon Hybrid - Toyota should have brought it here, it would have sold well.
I would like to import a E63 AMG wagon
Why GST ?
Goods and Services tax. A mainstay of basically every transaction that takes place in Aus since 2000