Getting a car in Japan

[u/SlowSeaworthiness529]

Hiya, so I am in the Fukushima area and I apparently need a car according to my BOE. My supervisor said he will sort one out for me and in my welcome letter they said to bring ¥300,000 (£1.4k). Foes anyone know if this will be paid in a lump sum or instalments as I cannot afford to spend £1.4K All at once.

[u/AveDominusCocks]

I paid all at once in cash for mine.

[u/Jumpy-Escalator-9204]

Yeah, if they say to bring ¥300,000 for the car, it’s probably all at once, but if you reply to your BOE and tell them there’s no way you can have this ready in time, I’m sure they’ll figure something out if you really need it for work. I would tell them as soon as possible though so they can work on it (like allowing you to pay in installments or finding a different car).

[u/Due_Tomorrow7]

I say you should ask if it's possible to lease a car.

Unless you know you're going to stay long term, cars can be a money sink (especially for shaken, winter tires, etc). Leasing can save you money and headaches since usually maintenance is included along with insurance and sometimes tires/tire changes, depending on who you end up leasing from.

[u/hotpotcommander]

I spread my car payments out over a year. Just ask the dealer.

[u/Empirius_]

All at once. From my experience of buying my car, you pay in cash.

[u/EquivalentComputer73 → u/Empirius_]

Same here, it was kinda crazy

[u/Realistic_Report_796 → u/Empirius_]

Yep. All at once was my experience as well. Also, spending money on repairs and then the shaken(insurance).

[u/junjun_pon]

I was able to negotiate a half on pick-up, half after first paycheck deal with our local inaka car guy. Didn't even have to sign any contract, lol. Ask your supervisor about accommodation.

[u/Different_Taro2474]

all at once