Imported Car Guides

Imported cars can offer rare models and strong value, but they also come with extra homework. A grey import, usually brought in from outside the EU and often from Japan, can differ from UK models in spec, parts availability and insurance cost. Some also carry mileage or damage history that UK databases do not fully capture.

Knowing a car's origin before you buy saves stress later. Our imported car check reads the DVLA record for the imported and exported markers, whether the import came from outside the EU, and whether the vehicle was on the road abroad before its UK plate was issued. The guides below explain how to spot an import, the difference between grey and parallel imports, and how to register and insure one properly in the UK.

Explore Our Imported Car Guides

The essential guide to identifying imported cars. Learn the differences between grey imports and parallel imports, and what to check before buying.

Discover what grey imports are, their pros and cons, and the full process of importing, modifying, and registering.

Step-by-step guide covering auctions, shipping, import duty, VAT, IVA/MOT tests, and DVLA registration.

Grey imports often cost more to insure. Learn what to expect and how to find the best cover.