The most common hesitation we hear about imported mini trucks is parts. It is a fair question and the honest answer is: easier than most people expect, with a few caveats.
Why parts are easier than you think
Kei trucks were built in enormous numbers and stayed in production with minimal change for years at a time. That means one part number often covers a decade of production. Japanese suppliers still make service parts, and a healthy network of US importers keeps common items on the shelf.
Wear items you can get almost anywhere
- Oil, air, and fuel filters
- Brake pads, shoes, and wheel cylinders
- Timing belts, tensioners, and water pumps
- Clutch kits
- Spark plugs, ignition coils, and plug wires
- CV boots and axle shafts
- Tires – most run common 12 or 13 inch sizes
Parts that take longer
Body panels, glass, interior trim, and model-specific electronics can require a special order from Japan. Lead time is usually two to four weeks. Subaru Sambar and Honda Acty specific components sit in this category more often than Suzuki or Daihatsu.
What to keep on the shelf
If the truck is part of a working operation and downtime matters, keep a filter set, a spare belt, a set of brake pads, and a fuel pump on hand. That covers the overwhelming majority of roadside stops.
Service is normal service
Any competent independent mechanic can work on a kei truck. The engines are conventional three-cylinder gasoline units with no unusual tooling requirements. Bring the service manual and there is nothing exotic to explain.
We support every truck we sell. If you need help sourcing something, email sales@shiversminitrucks.com or call (321) 359-3598.
Ready to buy? Browse our mini trucks for sale — every kei truck for sale ships for a flat $510 anywhere in the continental U.S.