How to Read a Japanese Auction Sheet
Japanese auction grades explained: what S, 6, 5, 4.5, 4, 3.5, 3, R, and RA mean for Kenyan importers.
Technical Team10 March 20268 min read
Japanese auction sheets are the key document for understanding a vehicle's condition before purchase.
Auction Grades
- **S Grade**: Brand new or near-new condition. Exceptional.
- **6 Grade**: Very minor wear. Excellent condition.
- **5 Grade**: Clean with minimal scratches. Very good.
- **4.5 Grade**: Some minor dents/scratches. Good.
- **4 Grade**: Noticeable wear but no major damage. Average.
- **3.5 Grade**: Some repairs needed. Below average.
- **3 Grade**: Significant wear. Poor condition.
- **R Grade**: Repaired accident damage. Check carefully.
- **RA Grade**: Repaired accident, below average condition.
What to Watch For
Always check the damage diagram on the auction sheet. Letters indicate damage type: A (scratch), B (dent), U (dent with scratch), W (wave/ripple), S (rust), C (corrosion), P (paint defect).