Shaken Inspection: Japan’s Rigorous Vehicle Check Explained | Nichibo Japan

This level of thoroughness distinguishes Shaken from vehicle inspections in many other countries and is a major factor contributing to the superior quality of vehicles sourced from Japan. Additionally, the costs involved mean Japanese drivers will often sell before the Shaken is due, bringing forward the sale of vehicles and making quality used cars from Japan readily available, often in late models and meticulously looked after.

Inspection Frequency

Vehicle type	First inspection from New	Subsequent inspections
Passenger Cars	3 years	2 years
Commercial Vehicles	2 years	1 year
Motorcycles (>250cc)	3 Years	2 years

What is involved in a Shaken Inspection?

Identity Verification: To verify that the vehicle matches the details on the vehicle inspection certificate (shaken-sho). This includes confirming that the engine has not been illegally modified by checking that the engine number matches the chassis number listed on the certificate and ensuring the condition is as expected

Exterior Inspection: To ensure the front position lights, low and high beams, left and right indicators, rear brake lights, position lights, reverse lights, hazard lights, wipers and horn are all working properly. Additionally, the horn mark, caution labels, and the expiration date of the emergency flare are verified.

Side Slip Inspection: The vehicle is driven 1 meter with the steering wheel held straight and any left-right deviation in the vehicle’s movement is measured to ensure no wear in the steering rack.

Brake Inspection: The effectiveness of both the brakes and the parking brake are tested and checked for signs of wear or excessive corrosion. The brakes are tested using rollers while following the instructions displayed on the electronic system.

Speedometer Inspection: Testing the difference between the actual speed and the reading on the speedometer by accelerating to 40 km/h and compare the reading with the measurement device at the inspection station.

Headlight Inspection: To assess the brightness and alignment of the headlights to ensure they are functioning at the correct intensity and direction.

Exhaust Gas Inspection: Measures the levels of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC) in the exhaust gases to ensure emissions meet the required standards.

Underbody Inspection: Inspect the underside of the vehicle for oil leaks, loose bolts, wear on the drive shaft boots and corrosion.

Common Reasons for Inspection Failure

Brake Problems: Worn brake pads or reduced braking efficiency

Lighting Defects: Faulty, misaligned headlights or non-functioning indicators and brake lights

Tire Problems: Insufficient tread depth, uneven wear, or mismatched tires

Emissions Exceeding Limits: A faulty catalytic converter or poorly maintained exhaust system can result in excessive emissions.

Suspension and Steering Issues: Excessive play in the steering system or problems with shock absorbers can compromise safety.

Inspection Costs Breakdown

Inspection Fee	Ranges from ¥1,500 to ¥2,000.
Automobile Weight Tax	This tax is based on the vehicle’s weight, with most passenger cars falling within ¥10,000
Compulsory Liability Insurance (Jibaiseki):	¥20,000 to ¥30,000 renewal fee for a two-year period, providing essential liability coverage
Stamp Fees:	Administrative processing fees range from ¥1,000 to ¥2,000.
Optional Service Costs:	If the Shaken inspection is conducted at a certified garage or dealer, additional service fees can range from ¥20,000 to ¥100,000, depending on the level of service and necessary repairs.
Repairs: if the vehicle doesn’t pass the Shaken, it will most likely need some sort of repair.	This could cost anywhere from ¥10,000 to ¥50,000 depending on the severity.

Japan’s Shaken inspection is one of the most rigorous vehicle inspections in the world, requiring vehicles to meet strict roadworthiness, safety, and environmental standards. The Shaken inspection plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of vehicles on the road in Japan, and also contributes to the excellent quality used cars from Japan that Nichibo is able to source for our dealers around the world.

The Shaken, along with Japan’s excellent public transport system and the high cost of keeping a car on the road—including taxes, insurance, and parking fees — means the majority of used cars from Japan have lower mileage and less wear and tear than comparable local stock.

Physical inspections ensure quality

Nichibo’s team of highly trained Auction Inspectors also physically inspect every vehicle at auction before you bid to ensure the vehicle is described accurately, and you can be sure of what you’re buying. By sourcing used cars from Japan with Nichibo, you have can have confidence that they’re higher quality, better maintained, and more reliable than comparable local stock, giving your dealership an edge over the competition and improving your margins.

Inspection used cars