In today’s automotive repair landscape, keeping costs down is crucial. For owners of Japanese vehicles, especially luxury models like Lexus, maintenance and repair bills can quickly escalate. However, a savvy solution is gaining traction: sourcing Japanese Import Car Parts directly from Japan. This approach not only promises significant savings but also access to genuine, high-quality components. Let’s delve into a real-world example involving a Lexus LS460 to illustrate the compelling advantages of importing Japanese car parts.
The Lexus LS460, a flagship known for its advanced technology and refined performance, is not immune to mechanical issues. One owner encountered a perplexing problem with their 2006 LS460L’s power steering. The vehicle displayed an “exceeding full lock” warning, followed by a misaligned steering wheel and a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C15A9. This pointed to a fault within the Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) system, a sophisticated feature on these models.
Digging deeper, it was revealed that early LS460s indeed had VGRS system vulnerabilities. Lexus issued a voluntary safety recall in 2010, targeting models manufactured in 2008/09, to address potential power steering ECU issues. An internal Lexus Technical Service Bulletin from 2008 further confirmed that the original VGRS design had shortcomings. Modifications were implemented in production from October 2007 onwards, involving changes to the steering link assembly and VGRS software. Interestingly, some US owners who had their early ECUs replaced under warranty experienced repeat failures, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
For the LS460 owner facing this VGRS problem outside of warranty, the cost of repair at a UK Lexus dealership was staggering: £8800 for parts alone, plus labor. This hefty sum underscores the premium pricing often associated with branded dealerships. Seeking alternatives, the owner explored importing parts directly from Japan. OEM parts supplier Megazip, based in Japan, offered the identical components for a dramatically reduced price of £3031.
This price difference highlights the potential for substantial savings by importing japanese import car parts. Even considering potential import duties, which may not even apply to certain components like ECUs, the cost remains significantly lower. The example of the Lexus LS460 power steering issue vividly illustrates the financial benefits. While UK Lexus parts prices appear exorbitant, sourcing directly from Japan offers a much more reasonable and cost-effective solution for obtaining genuine parts.
Beyond just the LS460 and power steering systems, the principle of importing japanese import car parts extends to a wide range of makes and models. Whether you drive a Honda, Toyota, Nissan, or any other Japanese marque, exploring import options can unlock significant savings on maintenance and repair. By leveraging global markets and bypassing potentially inflated local pricing, car owners can ensure their vehicles are maintained with quality parts without breaking the bank. For those seeking to keep their Japanese vehicles running smoothly without excessive expense, considering japanese import car parts is a smart and increasingly popular strategy.
