Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R Nissan Skyline R32 GTS
If you're looking to buy a Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R (or GTS) from Japan but are worried about dealership scams**, here’s a detailed guide to avoid fraud and find trustworthy sellers
Common R32 Skyline Scams from Japanese Dealers1. Fake Listings (Bait & Switch) - Dealers advertise a clean R32 GT-R at a low price, but when you inquire, they claim it’s "sold" and push a worse (or more expensive) car. - Solution: Reverse-image search the photos to see if they’re stolen from old listings.
2. Odometer Rollback (Tampered Mileage) - Many R32s have 200,000+ km, but scammers roll them back to 80,000km to inflate value. - Solution:Check the auction sheet (if from auction) for past records. Look for wear on pedals, steering wheel, and seats. 3. Hidden Rust & Accident Damage - Some exporters hide rust (common in wheel wells, undercarriage) or poorly repaired crash damage. - Solution: Demand high-resolution undercarriage photos or hire a local inspector (like JEVIC). 4. Non-GT-R Models Sold as GT-R - Scammers may list an R32 GTS-T (turbo) or GTS (N/A) as a GT-R. - Solution: Check the VIN (starting with BNR32 for GT-R) and look for GT-R badges, Brembo brakes, and ATTESA AWD. 5. Deposit Scams (No Car Exists) - Fake sellers ask for a $2,000+ deposit via wire transfer, then disappear. - Solution: Never send full payment upfront. Use PayPal Goods & Services or an escrow service.Trusted Ways to Buy a Real R32 GT-R from Japan
1. Buy from Reputable Japanese Exporters These companies have verified track records: - Trade Car View ([tradecarview.com](https://www.tradecarview.com)) – Large dealer network with inspections. - Japanese Classics (USA-based, but imports legally) – Good for R32 GT-Rs. - Pacific Coast Auto ([pacificecoastauto.com](https://www.pacificecoastauto.com)) – Specializes in Skylines. - Benny’s Auto Works (Known for GT-R imports). 2. Buy Direct from Japanese Auctions (via an Agent) - Use a trusted auction agent like: - JDM Expo ([jdmeXpo.com](https://www.jdmexpo.com)) - JDM Auction Watch - They can bid for you and provide auction sheets (with grades). 3. Inspect before Buying - Hire a local inspector (e.g.,JEVIC, AutoCheckJapan ) to check: - Rust (common in fenders, floor pans). - Engine condition (RB26DETT issues: turbo wear, oil leaks). - Matching numbers (VIN, engine, transmission).How to Verify a Legit R32 GT-R?
- Check the VIN: Must start with BNR32 (GT-R). GTS-T is HR32**, GTS is HCR32 - Auction Sheet: Look for Grade 4 or higher (no major accidents/rust). - Import Papers: Ensure it has a Japanese deregistration certificate (JDM title).
Red Flags in an R32 GT-R Listing
"No auction sheet available" (likely hiding damage). Price too good to be true (clean R32 GT-Rs start at $30,000+). Seller refuses third-party inspections. Wire transfer-only payments (no PayPal/escrow).Importing to Your Country
- USA: Must be 1996 or older (25-year rule) . R32 GT-R (1989-1994) is legal. - Canada: 15-year rule (R32 GT-R is legal). - Europe: Check local homologation (some countries require modifications).“TFinal Advice.”
- Join the [GT-R Owners Club forums](https://www.gtr.co.uk) – Members share dealer recommendations. - Avoid Yahoo Japan/Facebook sellers unless verified. - Use an escrow service for payment protection.
If you have a specific R32 listing, I can help check for red flags! Share the link or photos.