Higher numeric grades
Grades such as 4, 4.5, and above generally suggest cleaner, well-kept cars — but still read the marks and comments.
Grades guide
Japanese auction grades explained
Understand Japanese auction grades, interior grades, and repair indicators — and why a seller-stated grade should be verified by chassis number before you buy.
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What Japanese auction grades mean
A Japanese auction grade is the inspector’s summary of a car’s condition at auction. It is a useful signal, but it is not a full vehicle history and not a guarantee of current condition. Grades should be read together with the sheet marks, mileage, repair notes, interior grade, and comments — and a seller-stated grade should be verified against auction sheet records by chassis or frame number.
Common grades and what they suggest
Grades differ by auction house and inspector, so treat these as general guidance rather than fixed rules.
Mid and lower grades
Grades around 3 to 3.5 often indicate more wear or minor issues that the diagram and comments will detail.
Repair grades (R / RA)
An “R” or “RA” style grade may indicate repaired or accident history depending on the auction context.
Interior grade
A separate letter grade (for example A–D) describes interior condition, which the exterior grade does not cover.
Why grade alone is not enough
A good grade can still sit alongside repaired panels, high mileage, or corrosion noted elsewhere on the sheet. Repair-related grades in particular need context from the diagram and comments. Reading only the number can hide problems that the rest of the sheet makes clear.
Verify the grade a seller claims
If a seller says a car is grade 4, 4.5, R, or RA, verify that claim against auction sheet records by chassis or frame number. Confirming the grade — and the sheet it comes from — is the most reliable way to know it belongs to the vehicle. If you cannot confirm it, Manual Search (€50) is the practical next step.
Continue with the process guide, sample report, or FAQ before checking a vehicle. How it works · Sample report · FAQ
Common questions
What does Japanese auction grade 4 mean?
Grade 4 generally suggests a clean, well-kept car, but grades vary by auction house. Always read it with the diagram marks, mileage, and comments.
What does auction grade R or RA mean?
An “R” or “RA” style grade may indicate repaired or accident history, depending on the auction context. Check the sheet comments and marks for detail.
Is a high auction grade always safe?
No. A high grade is a positive signal but not a guarantee. Repairs, mileage, or corrosion noted elsewhere on the sheet still matter.
Can a car have repair history with a good grade?
Yes. A good overall grade can still accompany recorded repairs. Read the diagram marks and inspector comments alongside the grade.
What is an interior grade?
It is a separate grade (often a letter) describing interior condition, which the exterior grade does not cover.
How can I verify the grade a seller claims?
Verify it against auction sheet records by chassis or frame number. If it cannot be confirmed instantly, request Manual Search for €50.
Manual Search — €50
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