The UK car market offers Japanese vehicles in all shapes and sizes. However, sometimes the car you’re looking for just isn’t there. 

If you're considering importing a car from Japan to the UK, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process, from 

 to handling shipping logistics, paperwork, and UK regulations.

We'll also break down the costs involved and share expert tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free import experience. Let’s dive in.

Step-by-step guide: How to import a car from Japan 

Importing a car from Japan to the UK may seem complex, but breaking it down into five key steps makes the process much more manageable.

Before you do anything, you need to select your Japanese car.

Don’t just pick the first you see. Take some time to think about your daily needs, so you can be sure your chosen vehicle is the right one.

If you can get to Japan, visit dealerships or auctions to inspect and test-drive cars. This is the best way to guarantee quality. 

However, if you can't, you may want to hire a trusted specialist to check the vehicle before you buy. 

Alongside car research, research the sellers and read any fine print to check for hidden fees before payment.

After buying the car, you need to arrange its shipping. 

The key to a successful, on-time shipment is working with an experienced specialist. Browse different agencies looking for one that offers:

You should also check the provider’s reviews. Happy previous customers are key!

There are different ways to ship your car to the UK. Here’s a quick overview of the main ones:

Take pre-shipping photos of your car (e.g., axles and 

Shipping costs vary depending on your chosen car and shipping method. But you can expect them to be between £1,000 to £2,000. 

Next, you must tackle the paperwork. This is crucial to ensure you get through customs without any issues.

Your seller/shipping company will provide some documents. However, you'll have to source others yourself.

Unsure? You may want to consult a specialist for guidance through the options, customs paperwork, and even insurance. 

Customs are done! But the paperwork isn’t over.

You must notify HMCR within 14 days of your car’s arrival. They will confirm whether any duties or VAT 

Next, you’ll have to register the car with the DVLA. The DVLA may even request an inspection of the vehicle. 

When contacting the DVLA, you’ll need to show the following:

Once submitted, you’ll likely wait around six weeks to receive the 

Finally, you need to guarantee your Japanese car meets UK road standards. This usually involved small tweaks, such as changing the speedometer to mph or installing a rear fog light. 

Some cars may also have an IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) test to guarantee its road safety. However, this won’t apply to all car types and ages.

 before you begin driving. Don’t forget this step!

The costs of importing a car from Japan to the UK ultimately depend on your car’s make and model, your shipping process, and whether the car requires any adjustments. However, you can use the average prices to help you plan for the process.

The vehicle purchase cost will totally depend on the vehicle you’re looking to purchase. Average shipping costs range between £1,000 and £2,000, depending on the method you select.

You can estimate import duty and VAT to be around 30% of the car’s total value. 

Compliance modifications tend to sit around £500 to £1,500, and you may also have to pay for an IVA or 

 for another £100 to £300. DVLA registration also costs a further £55.

. The price will be higher for an imported car, but it will again depend on your make and model.

Extra tips and FAQs for importing a Japanese car

That wraps up the step-by-step instructions and costs. But here are some extra tips and common questions to ensure a seamless importing experience.

Will I pay higher insurance on an imported Japanese car?

Yes. Cars imported from Japan have higher insurance costs as they may require car parts that aren’t available in the UK. This leads to higher repair costs, and therefore higher insurance premiums. 

How long does it take to import a car from Japan to the UK?

You can expect the process to take 6 to 12 weeks. This includes arranging your shipping, customs clearance, and any last-minute adjustments to make the 

Do I need to work with a specialist importer?

No, you don’t have to work with a specialist—but a professional can reduce hassle and compliance as they handle all of the paperwork and compliance.

Are there import restrictions on Japanese cars?

Yes, you can import most Japanese cars, but vehicles over 10 years old face simpler regulations. Newer models may require additional tests to meet 

How can I make the importing process more efficient?

Stay organised and on top of the documents to streamline the import time. You should also research all potential costs beforehand and ensure your 

 allows for potential taxes and modifications.

Importing a car from Japan to the UK is an exciting journey—and one that doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Hopefully, this blog serves as a roadmap for your new car purchase.

Learn more about buying a new car on the Bumper blog.

Importing a car can be expensive, and so can last-minute repair fees!

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

Importing a Japanese Car to the UK – Costs, Regulations & More

Established in 1953, Halesowen Motor House has been serving motorists in Worcestershire and the West Midlands for over 70 years. 

At the heart of the company’s philosophy is their mission to provide a quality service that exceeds customer expectations. 

Halesowen Motor House were looking for an innovative payment method that would result in more drivers approving essential and advisory work, whilst continuing the excellent levels of service already in operation at the site. 

PayLater is an interest-free, Buy Now Pay Later instalment option that allows customers to split their bills into easy monthly payments.

The pay-monthly option allows drivers to fit their repair bills neatly into their monthly budgets meaning more drivers can say yes to identified work.

A complete digital experience from start to finish, customers can apply via a link sent by SMS or email in just a few clicks, putting more control in the hands of the customer. 

On average, Bumper customers rate the service 4.9 out of 5 on Trustpilot. 

Lee Sutton, Service Manager, at Halesowen Motor House, said, “PayLater has allowed us to excel our customer experience. With increased payment flexibility, our drivers now have greater peace of mind when presented with work on their vehicle health check. 

“And the benefits don't stop there, the interest-free option has positively impacted our bottom line with huge spikes in red and amber work conversion.”

By offering flexible payments on invoices large and small Halesowen were able to increase the efficiency and profitability of their service department. 

Find out how Bumper’s innovative payment products can improve your dealer’s KPIs. Chat to our payment experts to set up a demo: sales@bumper.co

Boosting Conversion and Customer Experience with Halesowen Motor House

The VW Golf is a fan favourite – great to drive, practical, and stylish. But is it always smooth sailing? Not quite. Some Golf owners run into frustrating (and pricey) problems, especially if maintenance gets pushed to the back burner. Let’s break down the most common issues, what to watch for, and how to avoid a nasty surprise at the garage.

The VW Golf is a popular hatchback, but when it comes to long-term reliability, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. Some people enjoy years of hassle-free driving, while others run into engine issues, electrical faults, and expensive repairs sooner than they’d like. 

How reliable your VW Golf is often comes down to how well it’s maintained, plus a bit of luck on the side. But knowing what common issues to look out for can save you money in the long run.

If your VW Golf is running smoothly, great. But when engine troubles start, it can quickly turn into a headache you definitely want to avoid. A misfiring engine is one of the more common issues, usually caused by worn-out spark plugs or faulty ignition coils. Then there’s stalling, which often points to fuel system or sensor problems.

Noticed excessive smoke or oil leaks? That’s a major red flag for engine damage that needs attention ASAP. And if you ever catch a smell of fuel, it could mean a fuel filter issue, which can soon become a safety risk. 

The bottom line? Ignoring these warning signs can lead to major engine damage, and that’s when repair bills really start to hurt. Stick to high-quality fuel and keep up with oil changes to save yourself the stress (and the financial sting) down the line. If you do need to spend extra for a repair, take a look at our 

Virtually all modern cars are jam-packed with electronics, and the VW Golf is no exception. But with that comes the risk of electrical issues, which can be frustrating to deal with. 

One of the most common problems is dashboard warning lights acting up, often due to faulty sensors or an electrical issue. Some owners also report their battery dying unexpectedly, even when it’s straight out of the showroom. 

Then there are annoying glitches with power windows, locks, and lights, usually a sign of deeper electrical system issues. Electrical faults can be tricky to pin down, so it’s best to get them checked before they turn into bigger problems.

 – Bumper’s interest-free monthly instalments let you pay off your Golf’s repair costs without breaking the bank. Apply today, it’s easy!

Your VW Golf should feel smooth and responsive to drive, but if something feels off, it could be a sign of wear and tear. One common issue is grinding noises when braking, usually caused by worn-out brake pads that need replacing. Similarly, if you hear rattling noises while driving, it might be a sign of premature wear in the suspension.

A more serious problem is a brake fluid leak, which could mean brake damage. 

 can add up, but without it, your VW Golf won’t come to a proper stop when you need it to, which is a big danger to you and other drivers. Braking and suspension issues only get worse (and more expensive) over time, so if you notice any of these warning signs, ring your local garage as soon as possible.

The VW Golf is a great car – practical, easy to drive, and packed with some cool features. But like any vehicle, it comes with its common faults. And if they’re ignored, they can spiral into some seriously expensive repairs. 

The good news? Most of these issues can be avoided with regular maintenance, a keen eye, and a little extra care.

That said, even with the best upkeep, unexpected breakdowns happen, and they never come at a good time. If you’re hit with a hefty repair bill, 

 with Bumper lets you split the cost into affordable, interest-free monthly payments, so you can get back on the road without all the money stress. 

Don’t let a repair set you back. Check out Bumper today, and keep things running smoothly with our 

Is the VW Golf reliable? Common problems to keep in mind

The Nissan Juke is a head-turner, but when it comes to reliability, it’s got a few quirks. If you own one (or are thinking of buying one), you’ll want to know the most common issues before they turn into expensive headaches and if the Juke is a reliable car. 

Short answer? It depends. Some Juke owners have no problems at all, while others run into engine faults, gearbox problems, and some electrical gremlins. Warning lights, fuel leaks, and sluggish performance are all common complaints. Let’s take a closer look. 

If you notice clunking noises when driving, it could be a worn gearbox, suspension issue, or engine mount problem. Left for too long, these can turn into poor handling, drivetrain damage, or worse. Get it checked before a small fix turns into an expensive engine repair. Alternatively, look into our 

 options to avoid any high upfront costs.

The check engine light is another red flag. It could just be a minor sensor glitch – or it could be a sign of an unhealthy engine. Is ignoring it worth the risk?

And if you ever catch a whiff of fuel, don’t brush it off. Some Juke models have been known to develop fuel leaks, which is bad for your bank account but even worse for your safety.

Think you might have a repair bill on your hands? Consider a 

 to split the cost into 3-6 interest-free monthly payments with Bumper. Approval is simple, so you’ll be back on the road in no time – get started now!

The Juke’s automatic gearbox is hit-or-miss. Some run smoothly, while others suffer from clunky shifts and sluggish acceleration. If yours is acting up, don’t wait until it’s kaput – upfront 

Manual models have their own issues, too. Some owners have said their clutch pedal tends to wear out quicker than they expected, leading to slipping gears. If your clutch feels ‘spongy’ or just isn’t behaving, it might be worth making a call to the garage. 

Feel like you’re filling up more than usual? You’re probably not imagining things. Fuel sensor issues and clogged diesel particulate filters (DPFs) are a common gripe for owners of diesel Juke models, especially if you mainly take short trips. If you want to avoid an expensive DPF repair, take your Juke out on a longer drive to clear it out. 

 from Bumper, you can get your car fixed now and pay later up to 6 interest-free monthly instalments. Approval is super easy, and with over 5,000 trusted repair partners nationwide, you’ll be back on the road in no time. Get started today!

What are some common problems with the Nissan Juke?

¿Cuáles son los problemas más comunes del Nissan Juke?

Welche häufigen Probleme gibt es beim Nissan Juke?

The VW T-Roc is a bold-looking, compact SUV that’s turning heads across the UK. Stylish and packed with features, it’s become a top pick for drivers after something practical, premium, and fun to drive. 

But no car is perfect. If you’re thinking about buying a T-Roc (or already own one), you’ll want to know where things can go wrong. From everyday gripes to more serious faults, here’s what real T-Roc owners have reported and what you can do to stay ahead of any annoying costs.

For most drivers, yes. The T-Roc is well-suited to everyday use, with a good fuel economy, especially in the petrol range. That said, some diesel models have been criticised for being more expensive to run, particularly on shorter trips. Ride quality is another talking point. The T-Roc is a firm ride that feels sporty on smooth roads but can be uncomfortable on poor road conditions or pothole-heavy commutes.

So, if you’re after a stylish daily driver with solid fuel economy and don’t mind a bit of a firmer ride, the T-Roc still has plenty of appeal for the everyday driver.

Mechanical faults and reliability concerns

Mechanical faults on the T-Roc aren’t widespread, but when they happen, they tend to be in a few common areas. 

For example, some drivers have mentioned problems with the automatic gearbox acting a little hesitant when shifting. Paired with the T-Roc’s powerful engine, you might notice these issues in stop-start traffic or during uphill climbs. Don’t ignore these problems, because they could very quickly turn into an expensive 

There have also been some cases of the T-Roc entering limp mode out of nowhere, usually triggered by sensor faults or communication errors between the gearbox and the engine. In earlier models, a seatbelt fault has even been flagged, where the rear seatbelt buckle releases out of nowhere – a safety issue that no one wants in the worst-case scenario.

What is the brake problem with the VW T-Roc?

Some owners have mentioned uneven braking or noises under pressure. While not too common, these problems tend to come down to worn pads, faulty callipers, or brake fluid issues. It’s worth noting that the T-Roc’s automatic emergency brake system can also activate unpredictably in some cases, especially in traffic. 

for a T-Roc can reach up to £300 depending on the fault, so it’s not always a small fix. Like most things, the earlier you catch it, the easier it is to sort.

Hit with an unexpected repair bill? With a 

, Bumper lets you split the cost into 3–6 interest-free monthly payments directly through your garage. Get started today!

While the inside of the T-Roc feels modern and packed with nifty nice-to-haves, not everything works as smoothly as you’d expect. One common fault reported by drivers is with the climate control system. In particular, models with two-zone climate control can have uneven airflow, where one side of the cabin blows noticeably warmer or cooler. 

Some owners have also mentioned that the system is slow to respond or resets itself after ignition. These aren’t major faults, but they can be annoying in everyday use, especially during longer drives or in colder months. 

Spread out those pesky car repair costs with Bumper

Whether it’s an issue with the gearbox, brakes, or climate system, Bumper helps you handle it the easy way. With our flexible 

bill over 3–6 interest-free instalments through one of 5,000+ UK garages and dealerships. Applying is super easy, too, and can be done in minutes! Start now to get your car back on the road.

What are the common faults with the VW T-Roc?

Cuáles son las averías más comunes del VW T-Roc

Was sind die häufigsten Mängel beim VW T-Roc?

If you're eyeing up the Vauxhall Crossland as your next motor, you might be wondering what it’s really like to live with. On paper, it’s a smart, compact SUV with loads of everyday appeal – good fuel economy, plenty of tech, and a comfortable drive. 

But is the Vauxhall Crossland a reliable car once it's out on the road? We’ve pulled together the most common issues owners report, so you can avoid nasty surprises, and know what to watch out for when driving one.

What problems does the Vauxhall Crossland have?

Let’s get straight to the point. The Crossland is generally considered a dependable car, but it’s not without a few recurring issues. Most aren't deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing about to stay safe and keep costs low.

While the manual gearbox is fine for everyday use, a baggy-feeling gear shift lets it down a bit over time. It can feel loose or imprecise, especially if the car’s done a lot of miles. 

The automatic gearbox in the Crossland is generally smoother and more relaxing to drive, particularly in traffic or for drivers who do a lot of town driving. It's not lightning-fast, but it does the job without fuss. 

That said, there have been occasional reports of jerky changes or hesitation in lower gears, so if you're buying used, it's worth testing on a mixed route so you can get a feel for if anything’s off.

Several drivers have reported issues with the anti-lock brakes, from unexpected dashboard lights to sensor faults. And while it’s normal for brake pads and brake discs to wear over time, some owners say they need replacing sooner than expected. 

on your Crossland? Don’t pay for it all at once! Split the cost with Bumper’s easy 

The Crossland’s engine is generally reliable, but there have been a few mentions of irregular engine performance, especially when idling or just after startup. It can feel like hesitation or a slight misfiring. Not dangerous, but annoying after a while. This isn’t a major fault but can be irritating if left for too long.

The good news? This can be easily spotted during a regular annual service, so staying on top of maintenance helps keep things running smoothly and keeps any inconvenient 

Comfort-wise, the Crossland has a lot going for it, but there are a few quirks.

The driving position is generally decent, with good visibility and adjustable seating, but some drivers find it hard to get perfectly comfortable, especially on longer trips. According to some people, it has a bit of an awkward pedal layout, so if you’ve got longer legs, you might feel cramped after a while.

Then there’s the road noise. Around town, it’s quiet enough, but on faster roads or rougher tarmac, the cabin can get noticeably louder. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does chip away at that refined SUV feel.

Facing a surprise repair bill? Consider a 

 and split the cost into 3-6 interest-free monthly instalments with Bumper. Apply now!

What tech problems should you watch out for?

The Crossland comes with a decent list of features as standard, but like most modern cars, some bits of tech can be hit or miss when it comes to reliability.

None of these are major issues, but if you rely on these features daily, it’s worth checking they’re working properly during a test drive or after a service, so you don’t have to worry about the 

Repair bill on the way? Split up the cost with Bumper

No car is completely fault-free, and even reliable models like the Vauxhall Crossland can come with the odd mechanical hiccup or wear-and-tear issue. That’s why it pays to stay one step ahead. 

 lets you split the cost into simple monthly instalments – no hidden fees, no complicated paperwork, and no need to dip into your savings.

You can apply online in minutes or directly through one of our 5,000+ trusted partner garages and dealerships across the UK. Get started now!

Is the Vauxhall Crossland a reliable car?

¿Es el Opel Crossland fiable?

Ist der Opel Crossland ein zuverlässiges Auto?

The Nissan Qashqai is everywhere, and for good reason. Whether it’s the school run, a weekend road trip, or just the daily commute, it does the job without much fuss. It’s also roomy, easy to drive, and doesn’t guzzle fuel – so you get the look and feel of an SUV without the running costs of a big 4x4. Not bad, right?

But no car’s perfect. Like any model that’s been around for a while, a few common faults have caused some headaches. If you’re thinking of getting one – or already have one – you’re probably wondering how reliable it really is. Let’s break down what to expect, what can go wrong, and what it might cost to fix.

Some Qashqais develop engine issues over time. A drop in power when accelerating is one of the first warning signs, along with burning through oil quicker than expected. If you’re constantly topping up your oil level, it’s time to get it checked.

Timing chains and timing belts can also be an issue. If either one fails, you could be looking at some serious damage. Fuel and fluid leaks, and even water damage around the engine bay, have also been reported by some drivers. All of these can lead to a hefty 

 that can cost up to £1,500 depending on the problem.

Manual Qashqais sometimes develop gear change issues, particularly when engaging in reverse. Drivers also report stiff gear shifts or vibrations through the steering wheel, which could point to wear in the transmission or steering system.

If it’s not dealt with, you might be looking at a 

 of anywhere from £400 for minor fixes to over £1,000 for more serious transmission work. That’s the kind of bill nobody wants to face in one go.

? With Bumper, you can split your repair bill into 3–6 interest-free monthly payments, right through your garage. There’s no impact on your credit score when you apply – and absolutely ZERO hidden fees. Get back on the road with Bumper!

Brakes are something you don’t mess around with. In some Qashqais, there have been reports of early wear on brake hoses and brake fluid leaks. Brake pads can also wear out quicker than expected, especially if the car’s mostly used around town.

If you start hearing grinding noises or feel the brakes becoming less responsive, it’s time for a check-up. 

 can cost anywhere up to £300, depending on what needs replacing. It’s not outrageous – but it always comes at the wrong time.

Clunking or knocking noises from the rear wheels or around the wheel arches are fairly common in the Qashqai, especially on higher-mileage or older models. These sounds usually point to worn suspension components like bushings, shock absorbers, or anti-roll bars. In some cases, it’s just a loose fitting or bracket that needs tightening. 

But left unchecked, it can lead to premature wear of key parts and a more expensive fix down the line. If the ride feels less smooth or you're hearing noises over bumps, it's worth getting it looked at before it turns into a bigger issue.

Make those unexpected repairs easier to handle

Even reliable cars throw up surprise costs. That’s why so many Qashqai drivers turn to 

 through Bumper – to spread the cost of urgent work without the upfront hit. 

You can spread the cost over 3–6 interest-free instalments with over 5,000 trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Keep your car on the road with Bumper – apply now!

Is the Nissan Qashqai a reliable car?

¿Es fiable el Nissan Qashqai?

Ist der Nissan Qashqai ein zuverlässiges Auto?

Research by Bumper has identified a disconnect between dealers actively futureproofing their aftersales operations to handle EVs and hybrids and customers planning to own them.

While an overwhelming majority of dealership workshops (92%) describe themselves as being “prepared” or “very prepared” for EVs and hybrids, just 15% of customers currently own one and only 13% plan to purchase one in the next three years.

The findings come from Bumper’s newly published 

, which polled the views of 4,269 car owners and 520 service advisors to identify the operational challenges faced by service departments and consumer pain points. 

“As legislative pressure grows on carmakers to sell higher proportions of new EVs, our study shows how dealers have moved to invest in their workshop operations by tooling up and training for EVs and hybrids,” said Daniel Christie, Bumper’s Head of Sales.

“However, there is a disconnect between what dealers now have in place and the EV ownership and buying intent of their customers,” he said.

Most service advisors (40%) believe EVs will represent the biggest trend shaping aftersales over the next five years, followed by the economic landscape (12%) and technological advancements (11%).

Despite the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) across many sectors, only 19% of service departments plan to adopt AI tools for diagnostics, scheduling or customer services in the next 12 months.

“The aftersales market is at a pivotal moment, where the adoption of innovative tools, preparation for EVs and a focus on affordability will determine future success,” said Christie.

“While advances like interest-free finance and digital tools have proven transformative, dealerships must invest in training, staffing and infrastructure to meet evolving customer needs.

“The research also identified how emerging trends such as AI, mobile servicing and self-check-ins offer opportunities for growth, but their adoption remains tentative. The sector’s ability to adapt to these technological and market shifts will be crucial for long-term competitiveness and customer satisfaction,” he said.

Bumper's Automotive Aftersales Report 2024/25

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer