Japanese import insurance: Skyline, Supra, Silvia. Brokers who know imports.
Grey imports need insurers who understand them. Start with the reg, or tell us the make and model.
- JDM and grey imports
- Modified imports quoted
- No obligation
What japanese import insurance can cover
Imports trip up mainstream insurers because the model, spec and value don't match a UK database. Specialist brokers know what they're looking at.
- Nissan Skyline and GT-R
- Toyota Supra and Chaser
- Honda, Mazda and Subaru imports
- Kei cars and vans
- Modified imports
- Agreed value
How it works
- Start with the reg. We look up the car from the plate, so there's less to type.
- We match you with specialists. Your details go to UK brokers who arrange this kind of cover every day.
- They call you with quotes. Compare what comes back, ask questions, and only go ahead if it's right.
What is the difference between a grey import and a parallel import?
A grey import is a car built for another market, such as Japan, that was never officially sold new in the UK. A parallel import is a model that is sold here, but was bought abroad and brought in outside the manufacturer's UK dealer network. Insurers treat them differently, so tell the broker which you have.
Grey imports often differ from anything on UK insurer databases. The engine, trim or equipment may not match a UK model, so mainstream systems can struggle to quote. Specialist insurers know the cars and ask the right questions.
Why is Japanese import insurance different?
Imports can be harder to value, harder to repair and harder to find parts for. Some come with modifications already fitted. Insurers that know them can price these risks properly. A general insurer may decline, or give a quote that doesn't account for the car's real spec and value.
- Parts may need to come from Japan, which can mean longer repairs.
- Values are set by the enthusiast market, not a UK price guide.
- Factory spec can differ from UK models of the same name.
- Previous owners may have modified the car.
What is agreed value cover?
With agreed value, you and the insurer agree what the car is worth when the policy starts. If it is written off or stolen, that is the figure the claim is based on, subject to the policy terms. A standard policy usually pays the market value at the time of loss instead.
Insurers usually ask for evidence to agree a value, such as photos, a valuation or an owners' club valuation. It suits rare and sought-after imports where a market value would be hard to pin down.
Can I insure a Kei car?
Yes. Kei cars and vans are a Japanese category of small vehicles with a 660cc engine limit and strict size rules. Many are imported to the UK. They are rarely on UK databases, so specialist brokers are usually the way to get them quoted properly.
What do I need to get a quote for an import?
Have the registration if the car is registered here, or the make, model and year if it isn't yet. The broker will ask about modifications, where it is kept overnight, mileage, security, your driving history, and the car's value. Import documents and photos can help with an agreed value.
Japanese import insurance questions
What happens after I submit?
Your details go to specialist brokers who deal with Japanese import insurance every day. One of them will call you to run through your options and quotes.
Is there any obligation?
None. You can take a quote, ask for changes, or walk away. Nothing is bought until you say so.
Who are the brokers?
UK-based insurance brokers authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Kompare Limited (FCA reference 794660) is an appointed representative of Rainbow Connected Limited (FRN 749881).
How long does it take?
The form takes about two minutes. Brokers usually call back during working hours.
The car isn't registered in the UK yet. Can I get a quote?
Yes. Use "Don't know your reg?" and give the make, model and year instead.
Do I have to declare modifications on an import?
Yes, every one, including those fitted before you bought it. Undeclared modifications can lead to a claim being refused.
Is a limited mileage policy available for imports?
Many specialist insurers offer limited mileage cover for cars that are not used every day. Tell the broker your realistic annual mileage.
Can I get cover if I'm a member of an owners' club?
Club membership can help with agreed values and some insurers ask about it. Mention it to the broker.
Does it matter where the car is kept?
Yes. Imports can be a theft target, so secure overnight parking, such as a locked garage, is something insurers look at closely.
Written and checked by the Kompare team · Last updated October 2026
