What Car? Q&A - Are grey imports a good idea?

Q: I have seen a 1991 Japanese-imported Eunos Roadster (Mazda MX5) at a car dealer. How can I tell if it has been re-sprayed or if interior parts have been replaced? How could I check if it’s stolen or had its identity changed? What are the disadvantages of buying an import like this?
Debbie Dixon

A: Our best advice is to try and find a little more money so that you can buy a properly imported Mazda version.

If you’re set on the Eunos, ask the dealer if it’s been repainted, been in an accident or had any parts changed. Look on the registration documents to see what its original colour was, or look for off-colour panels or patches where a respray may have been attempted. Hidden nooks and crannies can also sometimes reveal original colours.

A Haynes guide on the model will detail exactly what sort of seats and upholstery the car originally came with, so you can find out if there have been changes this way too.

The British Independent Motor Trade Association offers history-check services on imports. A Certificate of Authenticity check from them costs £41 and, if issued, will pay the buyer back the market value of the car if it subsequently proves to be stolen. It also checks to see if there is any outstanding finance on the car – unlikely in your case given the age of the model you’re considering. A mileage check is also available for £23.50. Call BIMTA on 01892 515425 or visit www.bimta.org.

In general, and apart from trim and equipment differences, a grey import like this may not be as adapted for our environment as an officially imported car. Sometimes weaker sealant or corrosion protection can be used, which could cause the car to corrode a little quicker. Cold-start systems might also not be fitted, making the car less reliable through the winter.

This doesn’t apply in your case, but if you’re considering a new import you also won’t be covered by any manufacturer warranty if things do go wrong.