What Vehicle Can You Afford? $5K, $10K, and $15K Import Options
Deciding on a JDM import budget? Here’s how far your money goes in 2025 when sourcing through exporters
If you're looking to import a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle that is 25 years or older, your budget will determine not just what kind of car you can get — but also its condition, mileage, and features. This guide breaks down what you can realistically expect to find in 2025 at three popular price points: $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000.
Note: All price estimates refer to FOB (Free on Board) costs — meaning the vehicle price at the point of export in Japan. Shipping, import duties, and registration fees are additional.
$5,000 Budget Range (FOB)
Vehicles in this range are typically:
Kei trucks (early to mid-1990s)
Kei vans and hatchbacks
Older utility vehicles with high mileage or cosmetic wear
Base model sedans or wagons
Average Condition:
Higher mileage
Cosmetic blemishes
May require minor mechanical work
Best for:
First-time importers
Farm or off-road use
Budget-friendly hobby vehicles
$10,000 Budget Range (FOB)
With a $10K budget, options open up to:
Mid- to late-1990s Kei trucks and vans in cleaner condition
Compact 4WD SUVs (e.g., older Suzuki Jimny, Pajero Mini)
Entry-level coupes or sedans from performance brands
Wagons and touring cars with moderate mileage
Average Condition:
Lower mileage than the $5K range
Better cosmetic and mechanical shape
Some service history or documentation
Best for:
Buyers looking for roadworthy daily drivers
Small businesses wanting reliable mini trucks
First-time importers seeking low-maintenance options
$15,000 Budget Range (FOB)
At this level, you can access:
Well-maintained 4WD Kei trucks with low mileage and extras
Clean examples of iconic 1990s JDM sedans or coupes
Classic sport compacts (e.g., older models of MR2, Silvia, Chaser)
Turbocharged or special edition variants of Kei cars
Average Condition:
Clean body and interior
Well-documented service history
Lower mileage and minimal rust
Best for:
Enthusiasts seeking quality or collectible imports
Clients looking for performance within budget
Buyers planning minimal restoration work
Import Cost Considerations (Add to Any Budget)
In addition to the FOB cost, budget for:
Shipping from Japan to the U.S. (average: $800–$1,200 via RORO)
Import duty (2.5% of vehicle value)
Customs broker and clearance fees
Inland transport from port to your location
DMV title, registration, and inspection
Typical All-In Cost Estimates (FOB + Import Process):
$5K vehicle = $7,000–$9,000 landed and registered
$10K vehicle = $12,000–$14,000 total
$15K vehicle = $17,000–$20,000 total
Want a Full Import Process Without Guesswork?
At Nexus JDM Imports, we help clients choose the right vehicle based on real market conditions, not inflated dealer pricing. Whether your budget is $5K or $15K, we’ll help you find and legally import the best car for your needs — with no hidden fees or surprises.
Contact us today to get started with a custom import quote tailored to your budget and goals.
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