Imported Vehicles

FAQ for UK buyers of Imported Vehicles

We receive many calls from the public about buying an imported vehicle. The following are the most frequently asked questions:

1. Where can I get my car serviced?
2. Will it take forever to get parts for my import?
3. Just what security does buying from a BIMTA member really give me?
4. If a dealer is asking for full payment up front is this usual?
5. Will my car fetch less second-hand because it is an import?
6. How do I get my speedo converted?
7. Is it true that my Japanese car will not have had rust proofing done?

1. Where can I get my car serviced?

First of all try the dealer from whom you bought the vehicle. If they do not provide servicing themselves they can usually recommend someone who does. Getting an import serviced is not a problem.

You can also check our list of Members and see if there is someone within your area who can help. (See Directory) Should you still be in difficulty contact BIMTA Head Office (01892 515425) and we'll put you in touch with those who can help.

Although franchised dealers will normally service your import beware if they start talking about parts being very expensive and difficult to obtain. This simply isn't true particularly if you deal with a BIMTA Member.

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2. Will it take forever to get parts for my import?

No it won't - if you deal with a BIMTA Member. We have specialist parts suppliers who can provide new, used and reconditioned parts within a fraction of the time quoted by main dealers.

Many parts can be sourced from stock or supplied within a matter of days. Our Members keep parts records on ALL Japanese manufactured vehicles and have regular consignments flown in from Japan. Parts are not a problem.

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3 .Just what security does buying from a BIMTA member really give me?

All BIMTA Members must sign up to a strict Code of Practice that sets out standards by which they must operate their business. It is designed to give potential customers greater confidence knowing they are dealing with a Member of an established, bona fide trade association. It also helps protect Members against unfounded allegations from unreasonable sections of the public.

If there is a problem that cannot be amicably resolved between a customer and a Member, then BIMTA will attempt to settle the dispute to the satisfaction of both parties. It is a credit to Members that this service rarely has to be used.

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4. If a dealer is asking for full payment up front is this usual?

Many members of the public have contacted BIMTA after parting with a great deal of money (sometimes the full purchase price) to a non-member dealer/importer.

Their stories are the same: they still have not received their car sometimes 8 or 9 months down the line and what should they do?

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5. Will my car fetch less second-hand because it is an import?

You will probably have bought an import because it had specifications not normally available on the similar vehicle in the UK or because you were saving a lot of money, or both.

When it comes to selling the vehicle, the potential buyer will be aware of this fact and will almost certainly take it into account when agreeing the price.

It would be expecting a great deal if you saved money when buying and then made a profit when selling. However, with a highly spec'd vehicle, even that has been known to happen!

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6. How do I get my speedo converted?

You shouldn't have to - most speedos are converted prior to any sale in the UK. If you do need to convert a speedo though, it is our strong advice that you consult an established, reputable garage/dealership so that you do not fall foul of anti-clocking laws.

Again, BIMTA Members can help with the correct conversion and paper work.

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7. Is it true that my Japanese car will not have had rust proofing done?

Some models may not have European type rust proofing carried out. However, this can easily be undertaken by a reputable dealer at a realistic price. The body work on imported vehicles is usually in excellent condition because of better weather conditions in Japan.

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