JDM legends like the Skyline GT-R, Acura NSX, and Mazda RX-7 FD are quickly becoming some of the most sought-after imports, as enthusiasts race to get behind the wheel of these rising icons. These cars often feature unique specifications, styles, and performance not found in their U.S. counterparts, making them highly desirable among collectors and driving enthusiasts.
At Woodside Credit, we finance imported JDM vehicles that are already registered in the United States. That means the vehicle must be street-legal and titled domestically before financing can be secured.
Here are the top five mistakes to avoid when financing an imported JDM vehicle—and what to do instead.
Mistake 1: Overlooking the 25-Year Import Rule
To be legally driven and financed in the U.S., imported JDM vehicles must meet the 25-year rule. This law allows cars that are 25 years or older to be brought into the country without needing to meet modern safety or emissions standards.
What Woodside wants you to know:
- We only finance imported vehicles that are already titled and registered in the U.S.
- If the car isn’t 25 years old and properly imported, it’s not street-legal—and not eligible for financing.
✅ What to do instead:
- Double-check the build date.
- Make sure the car has cleared U.S. customs and has a valid U.S. title before applying.
Mistake 2: Disregarding Title and VIN Compliance
Imported JDM vehicles often come with non-standard documentation—such as foreign titles or VINs that don’t match U.S. formatting—which can lead to delays or disqualify the car from financing.
What Woodside wants you to know:
- We require a valid U.S. title and a VIN that complies with federal standards. Most vehicles manufactured after 1981 are required to have a 17-digit VIN under NHTSA guidelines. Imported cars over 25 years old may legally retain their original, shorter VINs depending on your state’s rules.
- Missing or incorrect documents can create problems. Without proper paperwork, the car may not be eligible for DMV registration, financing, or even resale. NHTSA’s official importation page and CBP’s guide to importing a vehicle offer detailed info on what is required.
✅ What to do instead:
- Work with reputable importers who understand U.S. titling and registration requirements.
- Confirm the vehicle has a valid, transferable U.S. title and a VIN that will be accepted by your state’s DMV before applying for financing.
Mistake 3: Underestimating Total Ownership Costs
The cost of a JDM car goes beyond the purchase price. These vehicles often come with unique expenses that standard cars don’t have.
Budget for:
- Insurance: See if you qualify for Hagerty’s exotic and import car insurance.
- Parts availability: Repairs can take longer and cost more due to international sourcing.
- Specialized mechanics: Sites like the RX7Club or Nissan Skyline Owners Forum have active communities with mechanic recommendations, repair shops, and customization hacks. Lean on your community for this!
Mistake 4: Using a Lender Without JDM Expertise
Many lenders don’t fully understand the unique needs of imported vehicles. This can lead to higher rates, shorter terms, and rigid requirements that don’t fit JDM buyers.
In 2024 alone, Woodside Credit financed over $3 million in Skylines, NSX, and RX-7s. Our loan experts make financing your next JDM vehicle simple. With a purpose-built loan program offering terms up to 180 months, we have delivered the lowest payments in America to car enthusiasts for over 20 years. See why enthusiasts continue to choose Woodside Credit.
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