Import your own dream car

Does this sound like an advert to anyone else?

Er, what makes you think that the vehicles you are interested in run 24volt systems,dual battery systems as standard in a lot of them ,but all only 12 volt.

Yes you can save money, or atleast get a heap of car for your dollar (just compare an oz 4 Runner to an import Surf, about the same money but you get full electrics, turbo motor, better spec interior etc)
However there are dangers. It is almost impossible to trace the history of "Grey" imports and there have been plenty of stories of repaired wrecks, two cars welded together and wound back odometers. It's also funny how there is an image of the Japanese being goodie two shoes and not thrashing or taking their cars off road. (has anyone ever seen a street racing video from Japan?, their bigger hoons than we are!).
Other problems that spring to mind are that these cars are not built for our "rough" roads and harsh climate, things like suspensions are softer, air cons are often too small, as are cooling systems. (ie 2.4 Surfs have a reputation for over heating and cracking heads in our summer heat). Obtaining spares can also be a problem, as can sourcing wiring diagrams and workshop manuals. Then there's accesories... good luck... for example; try and get a bull bar/ roo bar for a 96 turbo Surf (airbag compt)!! fat chance...
Remember that "Grey"imports do not have to meet ADR's and don't assume that just because it's from Japan it would...Australia has some of the toughest safety and emission rules in the world.

In the end you have to weigh up the pro's and cons and make your own choice...

In regards to the 24 volt system, I haven't seen any late model imports with a 24 volt system, and I've seen a heap now. Don't assume just because it has two batteries it is 24 volt. Heaps of Jap 4wds run two batteries from the factory due to the amount of electics they have on them. ( be aware they are usally wired in parallel with no isolator...ie; both will go flat at the same time.)

Imports have to meet ADR's. The only ones which don't are the personal imports, where you have owned the vehicle for 12months of more overseas.

Having experienced Japanese import cars in NZ, yes you can get a lot of car for your money as the Jap cars are normally top spec and the mileage tends to be very low genuine miles but remember there are unscrupulous people in every game. It is very expensive for the Japanese to keep older cars on the road so they are cheap to buy but remember to check out insurance for grey imports as it can be a problem. If I needed to replace an engine I would probably rather get a front cut from Japan than some high mileage overpriced second hand motor from a wreckers here in OZ.

As I have said on a previous post ------- CAVEAT EMPTOR !!!!
Truckster is right , the speedo could possibly be wound back, I.M.O not necessarily here in Aust. Engine Reconditioners in N.Z. enjoyed increased busines thru this, until checks were put in place to check the speedo readings. Regards G.T.

I would be very carefull with all importers at the moment . We have been trying to contact one of these importeres in the last few weeks , who wont answer our calls , all laws in importing have now changed , we are trying to help a 18 year old who gave 10 k deposit for a GTR that cannot be imported till next year , ever since he gave his deposit , he cant be found ,

Please dont ask me about the changes . there still happening Venus Bay