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Imported Car Insurance
Finding the right imported car insurance can be challenging, especially when standard motor policies don’t always recognise the unique value, specification, or repair needs of imported vehicles. Whether you own a Japanese import, an American classic, a European supercar, or a rare modified import, specialist cover is essential.
At 1st Choice Insurance, our experienced advisers specialise in insurance for imported cars. We work with a wide panel of UK insurers who understand the risks, parts availability, and valuation requirements associated with imported vehicles. This allows us to arrange tailored cover that offers the right level of protection for your car and how you use it.
Get an Imported Car Insurance Quote
Whatever your car or your requirements, 1st Choice Insurance is here to help and offers an excellent service. Don’t take our word for it, read real reviews from our clients on REVIEWS.io here.
Our team believes that everyone deserves the right cover and great value on their insurance for import cars, which is why we will always advise you on the best policy we can find for you. Call us today on 03301 081615 or complete our Get a Quote Form to request a call back from an advisor.
What Is Imported Car Insurance?
Imported car insurance is a specialist type of motor insurance designed for vehicles that were not originally manufactured for the UK market. This includes cars imported from Japan, the USA, Europe, and other regions.
Because imported vehicles often differ from UK models in specification, parts availability, and market value, they may require a more tailored insurance policy than standard motor insurance provides.
An imported car insurance policy can be suitable for:
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Japanese imports
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American imports
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European imports
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Classic and vintage imports
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Performance and modified imported vehicles
Our specialist team will talk you through your options and help you choose a policy that reflects your vehicle’s true value and usage.
Why Specialist Insurance for Imported Cars Matters
Standard motor insurance may not always offer adequate protection for imported vehicles. Specialist insurance for import cars can include additional features that are particularly important for non-UK models, such as:
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Agreed or guaranteed value cover
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Choice of specialist repairers
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Reinstatement or restoration cover
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Laid-up cover for vehicles not in regular use
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Cover for rare or imported parts
Having the right policy in place ensures that, should the worst happen, your vehicle can be repaired or replaced properly, not compromised by unsuitable parts or incorrect valuations.
Japan Import Car Insurance
Japanese imports are among the most popular imported vehicles in the UK. As Japan also drives on the left, many vehicles are right-hand drive, making them well suited to UK roads.
Japanese vehicles are known for:
- High build quality
- Advanced specifications
- Lower average mileage
- Strong enthusiast demand
At 1st Choice Insurance, we regularly arrange Japanese import car insurance for a wide range of vehicles, from classic JDM models to high-performance and track-focused cars. We can source cover for popular manufacturers such as:
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Honda
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Mazda
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Nissan
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Toyota
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Subaru
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Mitsubishi
UK-Built Japanese Models
Our broker services are not limited to imports alone. We can also arrange cover for UK-built Japanese vehicles, ensuring you receive suitable protection regardless of where your car was originally manufactured.
Benefits of Imported Car Insurance
Choosing a specialist imported car insurance policy offers far more protection than standard motor insurance. Because imported vehicles often differ in value, specification, and repair requirements, tailored cover ensures your car is properly protected in every situation.
Accurate Vehicle Valuation
Imported cars can be difficult to value using standard market guides. Specialist insurance allows your vehicle to be insured at a realistic market value or an agreed value, ensuring you’re not underinsured if your car is written off.
Specialist Repair Cover
Imported vehicles often require specialist knowledge and parts. Imported car insurance can allow you to use approved specialist repairers who understand your vehicle, rather than being restricted to generic repair garages.
Cover for Rare and High-Performance Vehicles
Whether you own a Japanese import, American muscle car, or European performance vehicle, imported car insurance is designed to cover high-value, rare, and specialist vehicles that standard insurers may refuse or restrict.
Protection for Modifications
Many imported vehicles are modified or upgraded. Specialist policies can insure declared modifications, ensuring they’re included in the overall value of your car and covered in the event of a claim.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your imported vehicle is insured by a policy that understands its true worth, repair needs, and risks provides confidence every time you drive. You’re protected against unexpected costs, disputes, and unsuitable repairs.
Expert Advice and Support
With specialist imported car insurance, you benefit from expert guidance from advisers who understand imported vehicles, helping you choose the right cover and avoid common policy pitfalls.
Comprehensive Imported Car Insurance
Comprehensive cover is usually the most suitable option for imported vehicles, particularly those that are high value, rare, or modified.
A comprehensive imported car insurance policy typically includes:
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Third party, fire and theft cover
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Accidental damage cover for your own vehicle
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Malicious damage and vandalism protection
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Windscreen cover
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Courtesy car following an insured claim
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Extended European or international driving cover (policy dependent)
Our team will help you decide whether comprehensive cover is right for your vehicle and how it should be structured.
Things to Consider When Insuring an Imported Car
When arranging imported car insurance, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
Repairer Choice
Some insurers may require you to use their approved repairers. For imported vehicles, it’s often beneficial to have the option to use a specialist garage familiar with your make and model.
Parts Availability
Imported vehicles may require specific or genuine parts. A specialist policy helps ensure replacements are appropriate for your car, rather than generic aftermarket alternatives.
Vehicle Valuation
Many imported vehicles are insured on an agreed or guaranteed value basis. This means a pre-agreed payout amount is set at the start of the policy, rather than relying on fluctuating market values.
Documentation and Evidence
Insurers may request:
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Photographs of the vehicle (interior, exterior, engine)
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Receipts for modifications or restoration work
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Independent valuation certificates
These help ensure your imported vehicle is insured accurately.
Frequently Asked Question about Imported Car Insurance
Can I insure a Japanese import in the UK?
Japanese imports are very common in the UK, and specialist insurers offer tailored policies to cover them properly.
Is imported car insurance more expensive?
Not necessarily. Premiums depend on factors such as vehicle value, performance, driver history, and usage, not just whether the car is imported.
Do I need specialist insurance for an imported car?
In most cases, yes. Specialist insurance ensures correct valuation, suitable repairs, and appropriate parts for imported vehicles.
Can modified imported cars be insured?
Many insurers offer cover for modified imported cars, provided all modifications are declared and documented.
Can I get instant cover for an imported car?
Cover can often be arranged the same day, subject to underwriting approval.
