How Auction Grades Work
31 March 2026
Written by Patrick Wnuk

HOW AUCTION GRADES WORK?

Japanese auction grades are one of the most important parts of buying a vehicle directly from Japan, helping buyers understand a car’s condition before bidding.

Auction grades and markings give you a clear and honest view of a vehicle before you bid. Every vehicle is independently inspected, with all damage, repairs and condition clearly recorded.

At Autoselecta, we provide full translated reports and transparent pricing so you know exactly what you are buying. And if you ever need help, we’re only a WhatsApp message away.

HOW AUCTION GRADES WORK?
Simple guide explaining Japanese auction grades and interior condition ratings used when buying cars from Japan.

Auction Grades

Auction grades provide a quick, standardised summary of a vehicle’s overall condition. Assigned by independent inspectors, these grades take into account exterior, interior, and mechanical condition, giving buyers a reliable snapshot before reviewing the full inspection report.

Interior Grades

Interior grades focus specifically on the condition of the cabin, including seats, trim, and general wear. This simple A-C scale helps you quickly understand how well the interior has been maintained, from near-new condition to more noticeable signs of use.

Exterior Markings

Exterior markings provide a detailed breakdown of a vehicle’s cosmetic condition, highlighting scratches, dents, repairs, and areas of wear across the body. Each code corresponds to a specific type and severity of imperfection, allowing you to quickly understand what to expect before viewing the full inspection report.

These markings remove uncertainty by clearly identifying even minor flaws, from light scratches to previous repairs or corrosion. Combined with the auction grade, they give you a complete and transparent picture of the car’s exterior condition before you place a bid.

Dent + Scratch Size Guide

The dent and scratch size guide helps you understand the scale of visible damage on a vehicle’s body. Each code indicates both the size and severity, from small imperfections that are barely noticeable to larger areas that may require repair.

Holes / Damage

These markings highlight more significant structural issues such as cracks or holes in panels or trim. The grading indicates the size and severity, helping you quickly assess whether damage is minor or something that may require more involved repair.

Windscreen

Windscreen markings focus specifically on glass condition, identifying chips, cracks, or previous repairs. From small, repairable stone chips to damage that may require replacement, these codes ensure complete clarity before you bid.

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