This post contains affiliate links. This means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase [ “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.” ]. Read the full disclosure here.
Automatic Kei Truck for Sale: Complete Buyer’s Guide for U.S. Shoppers GuideMechanic.Com For many U.S. buyers searching for a kei truck for sale, manual transmission is the most common option. That’s because most kei trucks built in Japan during the 1980s and 1990s were equipped with 4- or 5-speed manuals.
However, there’s a growing interest in finding an automatic kei truck for sale, especially from buyers who want ease of driving, city commuting, or simple convenience on farms and job sites.
If you’re wondering whether an automatic kei truck is right for you, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including popular models, pricing, where to find them, and what to watch out for.
Automatic Kei Truck for Sale
See Also: Toyota Kei Truck for Sale
What Is an Automatic Kei Truck?
An automatic kei truck is a Japanese mini truck equipped with a 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission instead of the more common manual gearbox.
While manuals dominate the kei truck market, automatics were produced in limited numbers for certain Japanese buyers who preferred easier driving in congested urban areas.
Typical features of automatic kei trucks:
- Compact 660cc petrol engines
- 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmissions
- 2WD or 4WD drivetrains
- Payload capacity of ~700 lbs
- Fuel efficiency of 30–40 MPG
Because they are rarer, automatic kei trucks are often in higher demand in the U.S.
Why Buy an Automatic Kei Truck?
While manuals are more common, an automatic kei truck comes with its own advantages:
- Ease of Use – No clutch or gear-shifting required, perfect for city driving.
- Beginner-Friendly – Great for new drivers or people who aren’t comfortable with manual transmissions.
- Convenience – Ideal for farm or worksite use where frequent stop-and-go driving is required.
- Resale Value – Automatic kei trucks often sell quickly in the U.S. market due to their rarity.
- Accessibility – A better choice for drivers with mobility challenges who prefer automatics.
Popular Automatic Kei Truck Models
Although most kei trucks were manuals, a handful of models came with factory automatic options. Some of the most popular include:
- Suzuki Carry Automatic
- Daihatsu Hijet Automatic
- Honda Acty Automatic
- Subaru Sambar Automatic
- Mitsubishi Minicab Automatic
These trucks were typically sold in Japan’s cities, meaning many imported automatic kei trucks may have lower mileage compared to rural work models.
Automatic Kei Truck Price Guide
Because automatic kei trucks are rarer in the U.S., prices tend to run slightly higher than manual versions. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Model (Automatic) | Year Range | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Carry Automatic | 1992–1999 | $7,000 – $10,000 | Reliable and most widely available automatic kei truck |
| Daihatsu Hijet Automatic | 1993–1999 | $7,200 – $10,500 | Smooth ride, often found with low mileage |
| Honda Acty Automatic | 1992–1999 | $7,500 – $11,000 | Popular choice for city driving and light work |
| Subaru Sambar Automatic | 1992–1998 | $8,000 – $11,500 | Known for rear-engine layout, very comfortable ride |
| Mitsubishi Minicab Auto | 1992–1999 | $6,800 – $9,800 | Affordable option among automatics |
| Newer Kei Trucks (Automatic, post-2000) | 2000–2010 | $11,000 – $15,000+ | More modern features, limited supply |
| Customized Kei Trucks | 1990s–2000s | $10,000 – $14,000+ | Lift kits, camper builds, or off-road upgrades |
Where to Find
If you’re in the market for an automatic kei truck for sale in the U.S., here are your best options:
- Import Dealers – Many specialize in sourcing automatics due to demand.
- Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist – Private sellers sometimes list rare automatic kei trucks.
- Car Auctions – Some auctions include automatic models, though selection is limited.
- Specialized Online Importers – Websites dedicated to Japanese imports sometimes allow you to pre-order automatic kei trucks directly from Japan.
Legal Considerations
Automatic kei trucks are subject to the same U.S. import laws as manual models:
- 25-Year Rule – Trucks 25 years or older can be legally imported and registered without restriction.
- State Laws Vary – Some states allow kei trucks on highways, while others limit them to secondary roads or off-road use.
- Farm Registration – Even in restrictive states, kei trucks are legal for agricultural or private property use.
- Insurance – Many providers now offer policies for kei trucks, though availability differs by state.
Buying Tips for Automatic Kei Trucks
- Confirm Transmission Condition – Automatics are less common, so replacing or repairing them may be harder than manuals.
- Check Import Papers – Ensure the truck was imported legally under U.S. regulations.
- Inspect for Rust – Common issue on older kei trucks from snowy Japanese regions.
- Mileage Matters – Automatic kei trucks often have lower mileage, but always verify.
- Plan for Maintenance – Parts are available, but automatic transmission components can be harder to source.
- Consider Resale Value – Automatics usually sell faster in the U.S. due to rarity.
Who Should Buy an Automatic Kei Truck?
Automatic kei trucks are perfect for:
- Urban Drivers – Easy to handle in traffic and tight parking.
- Farm Owners – Great for stop-and-go tasks like hauling feed or tools.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts – Reliable and simple for hunting trips or recreational use.
- Small Business Owners – Perfect for delivery or mobile vending without the hassle of manual shifting.
- Collectors – Rarer than manuals, making them attractive to enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for an automatic kei truck for sale, you’ll find that while they are rarer than manuals, they’re well worth considering.
Offering the same durability and versatility as manual kei trucks, automatics provide added convenience, making them especially appealing to U.S. buyers who prefer ease of driving.
Expect to pay $7,000 to $11,000 for a reliable 1990s automatic kei truck, while newer models or customized versions can exceed $15,000.
Whether you’re a farmer, small business owner, city commuter, or collector, an automatic kei truck could be the perfect fit.
Compact, efficient, and unique, automatic kei trucks bring together the practicality of Japanese design with the convenience that U.S. buyers love.
- Honda Kei Truck for Sale - August 29, 2025
- Automatic Kei Truck for Sale - August 29, 2025
- Toyota Kei Truck for Sale - August 29, 2025