Classic Kei trucks have a unique style to them. The United States does not allow for the importation and registration of Kei Trucks less than 25 years old unless they are being used for off-road purposes (21 states allow this). Because of this, many people have turned to the classic Kei. But are they worth buying? We think so.
The Styles are amazing
If you are looking for a vehicle that has the look and feel of an older Voltz wagon but does not have the size or the price tag typically associated with the full-sized vehicle, then the classic Kei trucks are the option for you. Customizable and aseptically pleasing, they give the user versatility in the design. Most of the older models could be turned into Kei campers, further enhancing the style of the vehicle. Don’t want to change your Kei truck? No problem, some of the classic Kei trucks have accompaniment to campers and/or trailers available.
If you choose one of the classic Kei trucks to turn into a camper, keep in mind that you will need to maintain the weight distribution. As most of the Kei trucks are unibody, meaning that the cabin and the bed are made from one chassis, customizations should not alter the overall weight balance. When looking at the classic Kei trucks, you find that they have a smoother design than many of their modern competitors. Even the trucks have rounded edges instead of the boxier design associated with the Kei.
Great Working Vehicles
There is a reason the government has stated that the Kei must be 25 years old to import. They have proven their reliability and durability. The standards of the Kei are made for great working trucks. Small and versatile, the trucks can navigate the smallest of alleyways or the steepest of hills. The trucks can handle inclines up to 20ᵒ. With a variety of Kei beds for the truck, such as the flatbed, dump bed, and scissor lift, you can have a classic look that also meets functional needs. Regardless of usage needs, the Kei truck can help in most cases.
Keis are versatile. The classic Kei truck is ideal for construction jobs, agriculture, storage and supply, and general everyday use. There are state limitations for on-road use. Check with your state and local registration office to know the limitations of use. Off-road use has many functions, from material transporting on a farm to leisure riding.
Classic Kei trucks go off-road
The off-road ability of classic Kei trucks should not be underestimated. Besides the trucks’ ability to navigate steep inclines and narrow passageways, is the ability to go where full-sized trucks would have difficulty. For example, if you have a truck that needs to navigate the muddy terrain, you risk getting stuck. Towing would be required to get the truck loose. However, because of the lighter weight of the Kei truck, you are less apt to get stuck in the mud. Another example would be navigation along creek beds, hiking trails, and dirt roads. These are problematic to full-size vehicles but are not an issue for the classic Kei trucks.
Easily repair common issues
While we do not want to have our vehicles break down, inevitably, service and repair will be needed at some point. When this occurs, it is better to have one of the classic Kei trucks than it is to have a standard classic or modern vehicle. Modern vehicles have several computer-related sensors which make working on them difficult. Also, the alternator, spark plugs, and other components are hard to get to and repair.
The classic Kei trucks are very easy to repair. Most of the vehicles have an engine in the vehicle’s rear. They allow for quick and easy access. Though the various components, such as the fuel line and fluid locations, may differ once you know where to look, service and repairs are simple.
Should you need to replace parts on a Kei truck, you will find that the overall cost of the parts is far less than that of the modern day full-sized truck. Most of the repairs and replacement parts are so simple to change that even the novice can perform service and maintenance without any trouble.
Low HP but high fuel efficiency
In today’s world, the focus on vehicle efficiency has increased. Modern vehicles have struggled to keep up with the demand to produce fuel-efficient, low emission vehicles. However, the classic Kei vehicles tend to already have the features needed to meet fuel emission testing. The design of the classic Kei trucks also allows for high mileage (km) before refueling.
Due to the lack of modern electronics in the classic Kei truck, there is less of an electronic footprint. Compared to modern vehicles which emit a substantial amount of electronic emissions, the Kei truck is the best all-around option economically.
Classic Kei Trucks–Are They Worth Buying?
If you require a truck that is versatile, easy to work on, and can navigate to most areas, then choose a classic Kei. There is little risk that you will have trouble importing the vehicle. Most classic cars must be at least 25 years old to gain that status. When you have your vehicle imported, 21 states allow a level of on-road navigation. True, there are limitations depending upon which state you live in, but all states allow for off-road use.
We believe that the classic Kei trucks are a brilliant investment. They have stood the test of time and still perform as though they were manufactured less than 10 years ago. Small, stylish, and economical, what is not to like?
Although we love classic Kei Trucks, there are stipulations to importation. Classic Kei trucks that are over 25 years tend to have less trouble then those which are under 25 years of age. To find out more about the legality of your Classic Kei truck, contact your state or local tax and registration office.