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Frequently Asked Questions
Why buy a kei truck/van?
In the land of giant pick-up trucks, some Americans are opting for the ultra-compact kei truck. These pint-sized imports from Japan might seem like an odd choice, but they offer a surprising amount of utility. Their miniscule size makes them perfect for navigating tight city streets and squeezing into scarce parking spots. They boast excellent fuel economy, a major perk in today's gas price climate. And while they can't haul a house, the open bed is perfect for DIY projects, gardening supplies, or gear for a weekend adventure. For budget-minded drivers who value practicality over brawn, a kei truck can be a quirky yet sensible choice.
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Beyond the city benefits, kei trucks hold appeal for those outside the urban jungle. Their lightweight design lets them navigate off-road paths that would strain a full-size truck, making them perfect for hunting, fishing, or farm chores. Some models even come with features like four-wheel drive and dump beds, further enhancing their versatility. And because they're often purchased used, the upfront cost is typically much lower than a traditional truck, making them a budget-friendly option for those who value functionality over flashy features.
How do I get parts? Who works on them?
Finding parts for kei trucks in the USA can involve searching online retailers specializing in kei vehicles or exploring alternative options. Our top recommendations are G&R Imports and Oh Kei Garage. eBay is another great option, with many parts in the USA or fast shipping via DHL from Japan. Many other online stores in the USA cater specifically to kei trucks and vans, and it makes finding parts very simple.
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Our top recommendations for kei repair services nearby are MJ's in Boscawen, 89-Automotive in Hopkinton NH and Village Street Garage in Concord NH. We work closely with them to inspect and repair all vehicles prior to sale.
Another option is Northeast Auto Imports, mechanical experts in JDM vehicle repair and service, located south of us in Hudson NH.
We do offer basic maintenance and other services at GSI on a case by case basis, free consultation. All trucks are sold NH state inspected, with zero mechanical or safety defects known. Cosmetic condition may vary, as these are usually all former work trucks on farms, in factories, etc.
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Another great option is to join online communities dedicated to kei trucks or mini trucks. These forums can be a treasure trove of information, with members sharing recommendations for mechanics experienced with kei trucks in their area. This is how our staff learned how to maintain and love these amazing vehicles. We highly recommend learning to wrench on your own kei vehicle, its much easier than you'd expect!
How can I register a JDM import or kei truck?
In New Hampshire, the process to register a mini truck, car, or other JDM import is simple. We offer a 20 day temporary plate, before you decide on passenger/antique registration. You will be provided a bill of sale, previous registration, inspection report, and all import documention. You will then go to your local town clerk to complete your registration. You can register these classic imported JDM vehicles as antique or as regular passenger vehicles. Agriculture plates also available for registered farms.
They can be driven on all and any roads a regular passenger car can. The 35mph and 25mi limit on google is NOT correct (THIS LAW ONLY APPLIES TO LOW SPEED VEHICLES UNDER 1500LB AND INCAPABLE OF SPEEDS 35MPH or GREATER).
In VT the process to register kei trucks is easy. We recommend calling Springfield DMV where you will get a temp plate and have the vehicle inspected before registering. (We recommend to avoid Montpelier as there is some fraud being investigated by the governor where they are trying to silently ban these vehicles.)
In Massachusetts these vehicles are registered at MA state DMV locations. Requirements posted here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/imported-foreign-vehicles and we include all necessary paperwork to do so.
In Maine there is currently a group out of the Augusta area that is working to legalize kei trucks state-wide.. Visit https://mainekei.org/updates/ The state seems to register these based on town by town, Call your local office to confirm legality.
What do you mean by "as is" condition?
Lets face it. These vehicles are all 25 years old. They could last a week or last a lifetime. Once a vehicle leaves our property, we cannot guarantee any warranties or promises for trouble free ownership. However, for peace of mind, all of our inventory is thoroughly inspected by our experienced team of import specialists. We also prepare all of our trucks to pass all state safety inspection requirements. All items such as light bulbs, tires, brakes, batteries, etc are replaced and repaired before we allow any showings or test drives of our vehicles.
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We pride ourselves in offering full transparency to our buyers. None of our vehicles have any formal maintenance history included, however all vin numbers can be ran through www.Carvx.jp and you may choose to pay for a report.
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All sold vehicles are NO LONGER NH STATE INSPECTED due to NH ending the inspection program. All future imports will continue through a similar mechanic inspection process to replace this, done independently, outside of our facility,
Granite State Imports LLC is a licensed and bonded New Hampshire Retail Motor Vehicle Dealer, located in Hopkinton NH 03229. All our vehicles are currently street legal in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and many other states.
Where are local parts available?
AutoZone - NAPA - Orielly's
Mitsubishi U42T/Honda HA4/Subaru KS4
Oil Filter -NAPA 21365 / LUBER-FINER PH2876 / CARQUEST 85365
Suzuki DD51T/Daihatsu S110
Oil Filter-NAPA 21394 / WIX 51394 / Fleetguard LF3614 / LUBER-FINER PH2840 / CARQUEST 85394
Suzuki Carry DD51T
Spark Plugs - NGK DCPR7E
Air Filter - STP SA9493
Subaru Sambar KS4
Spark Plugs - CARB NGK BKR5E-11, SUPERCHARGED NGK BKR6E-11
Iridium Plugs - BKR5EIX-11 / BKR6EIX-11
Air Filter - Ford FA-1064/Fram CA6867
Oil Filter - Subaru 15208AA100 / 15208AA12A
Honda Acty HA4
OIL Filter: Honda OEM 15400PLMA02
Spark Plugs - NGK BKR6E-11/2756
Plug Wires - Honda Civic 1600
BATTERY FOR ALL KEI TRUCKS / check post location some reversed
Orielly Auto Parts - S34B20RJ Prius Battery
ENGINE OIL - 10w30 (warm) / 5W30 (cold) NON SYNTHETIC
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