How to Maintain and Maximise the Life of Your Japanese Import Car in New Zealand
Japanese import cars have long been a favourite choice for New Zealand drivers. Known for their fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability, they make up a significant part of the Kiwi car market. At Jan Japan Motors, we don’t just help our customers buy great cars — we want to ensure you get the most value out of them for years to come.
Whether you’ve recently purchased your car or have been driving it for a while, following a few simple maintenance tips can extend its life, save you money on repairs, and protect its resale value.
1. Stick to Regular Servicing
Even though Japanese cars are famous for their reliability, regular servicing is essential. Most manufacturers recommend a service every 10,000 km or 6 months (whichever comes first).
During a routine service, mechanics will check:
👉 Tip: Keep a record of all services in your glovebox. This not only ensures your car is kept in top condition but also increases resale value when you decide to upgrade.
2. Pay Attention to Hybrid Maintenance
If you drive a hybrid Japanese import such as a Toyota Prius, Nissan Note e-Power, or Honda Fit Hybrid, it’s important to take a little extra care. Hybrid systems are durable, but they do have unique components:
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Hybrid Battery: Have it checked every service. Replacing it is costly, so early detection of issues can save thousands.
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Regenerative Braking: Ensure brake pads and discs are inspected regularly, as hybrids use braking differently than petrol-only cars.
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Cooling Systems: Many hybrids have separate cooling systems for their batteries and motors — make sure these are flushed and topped up as recommended.
3. Seasonal Car Care in New Zealand
New Zealand’s climate can be tough on cars, from hot summers to damp winters. A few seasonal habits can help:
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Summer: Protect paintwork with regular washing and waxing, especially if you park outside. Check coolant levels before long road trips.
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Winter: Inspect wiper blades, tyre tread, and battery condition. Cold mornings can be hard on older batteries, so replace them before they fail.
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All Year Round: Always check tyre pressure monthly. Under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear faster.
4. Keep Your Car Clean Inside and Out
A clean car doesn’t just look better — it lasts longer. Dirt, salt, and grime can cause rust, especially in wheel arches and under the body. Vacuuming the interior regularly prevents wear on upholstery and carpets.
👉 Pro Tip: Many Japanese imports come with high-tech interiors, including touchscreens. Use a microfibre cloth and electronics-safe cleaner to avoid damage.
5. Watch for Common Issues with Japanese Imports
Every car model has its quirks. Here are some common ones in popular Japanese imports:
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Toyota Prius / Aqua: Hybrid battery wear after 8–10 years.
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Nissan Note e-Power: Transmission fluid and battery cooling checks.
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Mazda Atenza / Axela: Diesel models may suffer from DPF (diesel particulate filter) blockages if mainly driven on short trips.
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Honda Fit: CVT transmission fluid needs timely replacement.
Addressing these early can prevent minor issues turning into expensive repairs.
6. Protect Your Resale Value
Even if you plan to keep your Japanese import for many years, looking after it now will pay off later. Cars with complete service histories and well-kept interiors and exteriors fetch significantly higher resale prices.
Simple things you can do:
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Keep receipts for services and repairs.
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Repair small dents and scratches quickly before rust spreads.
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Use quality tyres and parts — cheap alternatives often wear faster and lower buyer confidence.
7. Choose Reliable Service Partners
At Jan Japan Motors, we work closely with trusted service providers who understand Japanese imports inside and out. Choosing a mechanic who is familiar with hybrid and import systems means you’ll get accurate diagnoses and fair pricing.
If you’re unsure where to go, our team can recommend specialist workshops in Auckland, Hamilton, and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Japanese import is one of the smartest car decisions you can make in New Zealand — and with the right care, these vehicles can easily last well beyond 200,000 km. By following regular servicing schedules, paying attention to hybrid systems, and maintaining your car inside and out, you’ll enjoy reliable performance for years to come.
At Jan Japan Motors, our commitment doesn’t end when you drive away. We want our customers to enjoy the longest, most reliable ownership experience possible.
👉 Thinking about your next upgrade? Browse our latest stock of high-quality Japanese imports here: Used Cheap Cars Auckland NZ | Second Hand Cars | Used Hybrid Cars.
96 Wairau Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland 09 553 8134
10 Progressive Way, East Tamaki, Auckland (09) 972 1204
320 Lincoln Road, Henderson, Auckland 09 257 5038
25 Commerce Street, Frankton, Hamilton(07) 595 0290