When you check a Japanese auction sheet, two grades often cause confusion — R and RA. Both mean the car has been repaired after accident or damage, but they are not the same. This guide explains what each grade means, what damage to expect, and how to make a smart buying decision.
What Does R Grade Mean?
An R grade means the car was repaired after an accident or significant damage at some point before it was auctioned. The repair was done well enough that the inspector graded it R rather than giving a standard numerical grade.
R does not automatically mean the car is unsafe or bad. Many R-grade cars have been professionally repaired in Japan, where repair standards are very high. The key question is: what was repaired, how well, and where?
Important: An R grade car can be a good deal if the repair was minor — like a replaced door panel or bonnet — and the structural frame was untouched. Always check the damage diagram on the auction sheet carefully.
What Does RA Grade Mean?
RA grade is more serious. RA means the car was in an accident significant enough that the airbags deployed. After the accident, the car was repaired — hence the "A" suffix standing for airbag deployment.
RA cars carry higher risk because:
- Airbag deployment usually indicates a serious collision
- Structural components may have been stressed or bent
- Airbag replacement quality varies — some may not have been properly replaced
- Hidden frame damage is more likely in RA cars than standard R cars
R Grade vs RA Grade: Key Differences
| Feature | R Grade | RA Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags deployed | No | Yes |
| Accident severity | Varies — minor to moderate | Typically moderate to severe |
| Repair quality | Usually good | Varies — inspect carefully |
| Risk level | Lower | Higher |
| Price | Discounted vs clean grade | Heavily discounted |
What Damage Is Typical in RA Grade Cars?
RA grade cars often show one or more of the following in the auction sheet damage diagram:
- Front end repairs — bonnet, front bumper, radiator support
- A-pillar or chassis rail repairs — these are serious structural concerns
- Replaced airbags — look for notes about airbag module replacement
- Repainted panels — typically more panels repainted than in R-grade cars
Tip: Some RA cars look perfect on the outside. The repair marks on the damage diagram are your only clue. Always request the full auction sheet with photos before buying an RA-grade vehicle.
Should You Buy an R or RA Grade Car?
The answer depends entirely on the specific car, the nature of the repair, and the price. Here is a practical framework:
- R grade with minor repairs (door, bonnet, bumper) — generally acceptable if price reflects the history
- R grade with frame or structural repair — approach with caution, get a professional inspection
- RA grade with minor front damage — possible if price is right and airbags confirmed replaced
- RA grade with structural damage — high risk, avoid unless you are a professional buyer
How to Verify an R or RA Grade Car
Before purchasing any R or RA grade vehicle, verify the original auction sheet through JP Sheet. The report shows:
- The original auction damage diagram with exact repair locations marked
- All auction photos taken at the time of sale
- The original grade and inspector notes in Japanese (add translation for $3)
- Mileage at auction — confirmed by the inspector
This gives you the real picture of what the car was like when it left Japan — before any further work was done by importers or dealers.
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