Cars in Japan generally experience less rust compared to those in many other countries due to several factors:

Climate and Environment: The milder winters and lower humidity levels mean that roads in Japan do not require gritting. The absence of salt and excess moisture on the roads significantly reduces the risk of corrosion.

Road Maintenance: Japan's roads are well-maintained, with minimal use of road salt during winter, as many roads are heated. This further reduces the likelihood of rust forming on vehicles.

Vehicle Maintenance and Culture: The Japanese take great pride in maintaining their vehicles, which includes regular washing and undercoating. Additionally, Japan's strict vehicle inspection system, known as Shaken, ensures that cars are kept in excellent condition, with any rust or corrosion issues needing to be addressed to pass these inspections.

Manufacturing Standards: Japanese car manufacturers are known for using high-quality materials and advanced anti-corrosion coatings, contributing to the longevity and durability of their vehicles.

Shorter Lifespan: Cultural and economic factors often lead Japanese people to replace their cars more frequently, resulting in newer vehicles on the road with less exposure to potential rust.

Given these factors, purchasing a second-hand Japanese car might seem like a good investment—and in many cases, it is. However, it’s important to consider the following:

Is a vehicle designed for well-maintained roads, with little or no gritting in winter, and stored in a different climate to Europe, ready for our roads? Unfortunately, the answer is no.

Why?

While Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars are well-built and reliable, they are not specifically rustproofed for the UK’s harsher winter conditions. Importers and owners in the UK often need to take additional steps to rustproof and maintain these vehicles to ensure they remain in good condition.

If you're considering buying a JDM vehicle that has been in the UK for some time, it's crucial to ask the seller about its rustproofing history. When was it first rustproofed? When was it last treated? If you’re purchasing a JDM vehicle from an importer, make sure it is rustproofed immediately or confirm that the importer has already done so before you take possession of the vehicle.

Alternatively, inspect the vehicle yourself. Get down low with a torch and check for an underseal coating. Does the surface feel waxy or oily? Is there any rust visible? Has an underseal been applied?

Rustbuster offers a range of DIY rustproofing solutions for home use, including Lanolin Spray. Alternatively, you can take the hassle out of rustproofing by opting for one of our professional Rustproofing Services.