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Left Hand Drive Kei Truck for Sale: Guide for U.S. Buyers GuideMechanic.Com If you’ve been looking for a left hand drive kei truck for sale, you’re not alone.
Most kei trucks imported from Japan are right hand drive (RHD), which is perfectly legal in the U.S. but takes some adjustment for American drivers.
That’s why demand for left hand drive (LHD) kei trucks is growing, especially among those who want a more familiar driving experience while enjoying the compact size, utility, and fuel efficiency of a kei truck.
In this article, we’ll explore where LHD kei trucks come from, why they’re harder to find, how much they cost, and where you can buy one in the United States.
Left Hand Drive Kei Truck for Sale
See Also: 4×4 Kei Truck for Sale
What Is a Left Hand Drive Kei Truck?
A kei truck is a Japanese mini truck designed under Japan’s kei car regulations. By default, they are right hand drive because traffic in Japan flows on the left.
However, kei trucks were also exported to a few markets where driving is on the right side of the road. In those cases, manufacturers built left hand drive versions.
Sources of LHD kei trucks include:
- Export Models – Sold new in countries like the Philippines, Pakistan, and parts of Latin America.
- Licensed Production – Certain kei trucks were assembled under license in LHD countries.
- Custom Conversions – Some trucks are converted from RHD to LHD by specialists in the U.S. or abroad.
Why Choose a Left Hand Drive Kei Truck?
While many Americans adapt quickly to RHD kei trucks, LHD versions offer several advantages:
- Familiar Driving Position – No need to adjust to shifting with the opposite hand or driving from the “wrong” side.
- Safer Overtaking – Easier to pass other vehicles on two-lane highways.
- Better Resale Value – More appealing to U.S. buyers who prefer LHD.
- Easier for Work Use – Landscapers, delivery services, and farm workers may prefer a truck that feels more like a standard U.S. vehicle.
- Insurance & Registration – In some states, LHD kei trucks face fewer questions during DMV inspections.
Popular Left Hand Drive Kei Truck Models
Not all kei trucks were built as LHD, but some models are more commonly found:
- Suzuki Carry (LHD Export Versions)
- Daihatsu Hijet (LHD in select markets)
- Mitsubishi Minicab (rare LHD export)
- Subaru Sambar (extremely rare in LHD)
- Honda Acty (primarily RHD, conversions only)
- Price Guide: Left Hand Drive Kei Trucks
Because they’re much rarer than RHD models, LHD kei trucks often carry a premium price tag.
| Model (LHD) | Year Range | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Carry LHD | 1992–1999 | $9,000 – $12,500 | Most common LHD kei truck in U.S. imports |
| Daihatsu Hijet LHD | 1993–1999 | $9,500 – $13,000 | Popular with farmers and ranchers |
| Mitsubishi Minicab LHD | 1992–1998 | $8,500 – $11,500 | Less common, affordable option |
| Subaru Sambar LHD | 1992–1998 | $10,000 – $13,500 | Very rare, collectible |
| Honda Acty (Converted) | 1992–1999 | $10,000 – $14,000 | Conversion adds cost |
| New LHD Conversions | 2000s+ | $12,000 – $18,000+ | U.S. custom builds, often lifted |
Where to Find Left Hand Drive Kei Trucks for Sale in the U.S.
Finding an LHD kei truck for sale is more challenging than buying a standard RHD import, but here are your best options:
- Specialized Importers – Some U.S. kei truck dealers specifically look for LHD export versions.
- Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist – Occasionally, private sellers list rare LHD models.
- Auctions – Both Japanese export auctions and U.S. collector auctions may feature LHD kei trucks.
- Conversion Shops – Certain U.S. companies specialize in converting RHD kei trucks into LHD.
Legal Considerations
The same rules apply to LHD kei trucks as RHD models in the U.S.:
- 25-Year Import Rule – Trucks 25 years or older can be legally imported without restriction.
- Street Legality – Some states allow kei trucks on all roads, while others limit them to rural or secondary roads.
- DMV & Insurance – LHD models may face fewer hurdles during registration and insurance compared to RHD.
Who Buys Left Hand Drive Kei Trucks?
Buyers in the U.S. who specifically look for LHD kei trucks usually include:
- First-Time Kei Truck Owners – Want the kei truck experience without the RHD learning curve.
- Farmers & Ranchers – Need a practical and familiar work truck.
- Small Businesses – Landscapers, mobile food vendors, or delivery drivers.
- Collectors – Value the rarity of LHD models.
- Daily Drivers – City users who want something compact but closer to U.S. standards.
Buying Tips
When shopping for a left hand drive kei truck, keep these tips in mind:
- Verify Authenticity – Some sellers advertise conversions as “factory LHD.” Ask for documentation.
- Check Conversion Quality – If converted, ensure steering, wiring, and pedal work are safe.
- Inspect for Rust – Like RHD models, many LHD kei trucks still come from regions with harsh winters.
- Confirm Legal Import – Paperwork must meet U.S. import regulations.
- Compare Prices – LHD commands a premium, but shop around to avoid overpaying.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a left hand drive kei truck for sale, you already know how rare they are compared to standard RHD versions. But for many U.S. buyers, the extra cost is worth the convenience, safety, and familiarity of driving from the left side.
Expect to pay between $9,000 and $14,000 for most older LHD kei trucks, while newer conversions can push past $18,000. Whether you want one for farm work, business use, or as a unique daily driver, an LHD kei truck is a practical and collectible choice for the American market.
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