Have you ever seen the same toy sold at different stores for different prices? Maybe one store says it’s “like new,” but another says it’s “a little old.” The same thing happens with Japanese cars at auctions!
Sometimes, the exact same car gets different auction grades (like a report card) when sold at different auctions. One auction might give it a Grade 4.0 (very good!), while another gives it a Grade 3.0 (just okay). Why does this happen? Let’s find out!
What Is a Car Auction Grade?
A car auction grade is like a school grade for cars. Inspectors check the car and give it a score:
- Grade 5 = Like new! Almost perfect.
- Grade 4 = Very good, small scratches.
- Grade 3 = Okay, some dents or rust.
- Grade R = Had an accident (like a broken bone for cars).
But sometimes, the same car gets different grades at different auctions. Why?
5 Reasons Why the Same Car Gets Different Auction Grades
1. Different Inspectors, Different Opinions
Just like two teachers might give different grades on the same drawing, car inspectors don’t always agree. One might think a scratch is small (Grade 4), while another thinks it’s big (Grade 3.5).
2. The Car Was Fixed Between Auctions
Imagine if you fixed a broken toy before selling it. The next person might think it’s perfect! Some cars get repairs (like new paint or parts) before going to a new auction, so the grade goes up!
3. Some Auctions Are Stricter Than Others
Not all auctions grade cars the same way. Some are very strict (like a tough teacher), while others are more relaxed. A car might get Grade 4 at a “nice” auction but Grade 3.5 at a “strict” one.
4. The Car Looks Different in Different Light
Have you ever seen your shirt look clean at home but dirty outside? Cars can look different under bright lights or shadows. A scratch might look worse in one auction house than another!
5. Someone Might Be Tricking Buyers
Sadly, some sellers change grades to make cars seem better than they are. They might hide rust or accident damage to get a higher price.
How to Know If a Car’s Grade Is True
Since grades can change, here’s how to check for real quality:
✅ Ask for the auction sheet (the car’s report card).
✅ Look at all the photos (scratches? rust?).
✅ Check if the car was sold before (did the grade change?).
✅ Compare prices (if it’s too cheap, maybe it’s hiding problems).
Real Stories of Cars with Changing Grades
Story 1: The Magic Repair Car
A Toyota had Grade R (accident!) at one auction. After repairs, it got Grade 4.5 at another auction. The buyer didn’t know—until the car started breaking!
Story 2: The Two-Faced Honda
A Honda Fit got Grade 4.0 at USS Auction but Grade 3.5 at TAA Auction. Why? The first inspector missed a rust spot!
What Should You Do?
If you’re buying a Japanese car:
- Never trust just the grade—check everything!
- Ask for old auction sheets (see if the grade changed).
- Use a mechanic (they can find hidden problems).
Final Answer: Why Different Auction Grades
Just like your things can look different depending on who’s checking them, car grades change because:
- Inspectors see things differently
- Cars get fixed (or hidden!) between auctions
- Some auctions are stricter than others
Smart buyers check the facts—not just the grades