Japanese auction sheets use a standardised set of damage codes to record the condition of every panel and component. The A and B codes are among the most common you will encounter — here is exactly what they mean.
A Marks — Scratches
The letter A on a Japanese auction sheet represents a scratch on the vehicle's bodywork. The number after the A indicates the severity:
| Code | Meaning | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | Light scratch — surface level only | Minor — often polish-able |
| A2 | Moderate scratch — through clear coat | Requires touch-up or respray |
| A3 | Deep scratch — through to primer or metal | Significant — panel repair or replacement |
A1 scratches are very common on used cars and generally have minimal impact on value or safety. A3 scratches on multiple panels, however, suggest either a poorly maintained vehicle or undisclosed accident damage that was partially repaired.
Reading tip: The location of the A mark on the damage diagram tells you which panel is affected. A1 marks scattered across door edges are typical wear. A3 marks on the bonnet or roof could indicate hail damage or a more serious incident.
B Marks — Dents
The letter B represents a dent — an indentation in the bodywork without paint damage. Again, the number indicates severity:
| Code | Meaning | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | Small dent — coin-sized or smaller | Minor — often PDR repairable |
| B2 | Medium dent — larger than a coin | Moderate — PDR or filler repair |
| B3 | Large dent — significant panel deformation | Major — panel repair or replacement |
B1 dents from parking lot incidents are very common. B3 dents on structural panels (doors, pillars, quarter panels) are more concerning and should prompt further inspection of the surrounding structure.
Combined Marks — AB
Sometimes you will see a mark written as A2B2 or similar — this means the same area has both a scratch and a dent. This combination is common on door edges and bumpers where an impact caused both indentation and paint damage.
How Many A and B Marks Are Normal?
On a grade 4 car, it is normal to see several A1 and B1 marks scattered across the diagram. On a grade 5 car, you would expect fewer and smaller marks. As a rough guide:
- Grade 5: Up to 3–4 A1/B1 marks total
- Grade 4.5: Several A1/B1 marks, possibly 1–2 A2/B2
- Grade 4: Multiple marks including A2/B2, possibly one A3/B3
- Grade 3: Many marks across multiple panels, A3/B3 likely
Why This Matters When Buying
Understanding A and B marks helps you assess whether the auction grade accurately reflects the car's condition — and whether the price is fair. A car with a grade 4 but only two A1 marks may actually be better value than a grade 4.5 with a dozen marks spread across the body.
Always read the full damage diagram, not just the headline grade. The grade is a summary — the diagram is the detail.
Verify Your Auction Sheet Now
Get 100% authentic reports directly from Japan's 500+ auction houses. Instant results from $7.
Verify Auction Sheet — from $7 →