[john70t]

Shaken, not stirred..

Originally Posted by Arizona_928

Not just there. Japan's used car market is dirt cheap.

https://japaneseusedengines.net/pages/why-import-from-japan
It is very expensive to own a vehicle in Japan. Expenses depend on engine size. Japanese vehicle inspection know as“ Shaken“ is considered to be one of the most expensive roadworthiness inspection in the world.

Personal cars and motorcycles need Shaken every two years but new cars require first Shaken after three years. Combined cost of Shaken includes registration fee, weight tax that depends on total weight of the vehicle, annual Automobile tax, mandatory insurance and one time recycling fee. All this amounts to Yen 200,000-300,000 which is equivalent to USS$2000-$3000.

Shaken is more expensive for vehicles with bigger engines and for older vehicles. This is the reason why most vehicle owners like to get rid of their vehicle within the third year before the expiry of Shaken. Most used vehicles available at Japanese auctions will be three, five or seven year old with expired Shaken with an average mileage of 40,000-50,000kms.