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Kei Truck for Sale Colorado: Complete Buyer’s Guide GuideMechanic.Com If you’re searching for a kei truck for sale in Colorado, you’re in the right place.
These compact Japanese mini trucks are growing in popularity across the United States, especially in states like Colorado where rugged terrain, outdoor lifestyles, and farming communities make them a perfect fit.
Whether you need a reliable utility vehicle for your ranch, a trail-ready 4×4 for the mountains, or a unique city runabout, kei trucks are practical and affordable.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about kei trucks in Colorado: what they are, how to buy one locally, prices to expect, and tips to make the right purchase.
Kei Truck for Sale Colorado
See Also: Kei Truck for Sale California
What Is a Kei Truck?
A kei truck (short for Keijidōsha) is a small utility truck built in Japan under size and engine restrictions. Despite their compact footprint, they’re strong, fuel-efficient, and versatile.
Key features include:
- Length: ~11 feet (about the size of a small SUV)
- Width: ~5 feet, narrow enough for tight trails
- Engine: 660cc, typically 3-cylinder
- Transmission: manual or automatic
- Payload: 700–800 lbs
- Fuel economy: 35–45 MPG
- Drive options: 2WD and 4WD
Popular kei truck models in the U.S. include: Suzuki Carry, Honda Acty, Daihatsu Hijet, Subaru Sambar, and Mitsubishi Minicab.
Why Kei Trucks Are Popular in Colorado
Colorado is one of the best states for kei trucks because of its unique mix of rural, suburban, and outdoor needs.
- Mountain Terrain – 4×4 kei trucks handle dirt roads, trails, and snowy conditions well.
- Farms & Ranches – Affordable alternative to side-by-sides and UTVs for hauling tools, feed, and fencing supplies.
- Hunting & Outdoor Recreation – Easy to transport gear into the backcountry.
- Urban Use in Denver & Boulder – Perfect size for crowded city streets and tight parking spots.
- Fuel Savings – With long commutes and rising petrol costs, 40 MPG makes kei trucks practical.
- Uniqueness – Colorado car culture loves rare vehicles, and kei trucks stand out at shows and meetups.
Legal Considerations for Kei Trucks in Colorado
Before you buy, it’s important to understand the rules around kei trucks in the U.S.
- 25-Year Import Rule – Any kei truck 25 years or older can be legally imported and registered.
- Road Use in Colorado – Kei trucks can generally be titled and registered in Colorado if they meet import requirements. Some owners choose to register them as off-highway vehicles (OHVs) if they plan to use them primarily on private property, trails, or farms.
- Insurance – Many insurers in Colorado now offer coverage for kei trucks, but it’s smart to compare quotes.
Always confirm with the Colorado DMV and your local county office for the latest regulations.
Where to Buy Kei Trucks in Colorado
When searching for a kei truck for sale in Colorado, here are the best places to look:
- Local Importers – Some dealerships in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins specialize in Japanese imports.
- Private Sellers – Check local classified ads or Facebook Marketplace.
- Farm Auctions & Equipment Dealers – Kei trucks are sometimes listed alongside tractors and side-by-sides.
- Used Car Dealers – With rising popularity, some traditional dealerships stock kei trucks.
- Online Import Auctions – If you can’t find one locally, many importers will ship directly to Colorado.
Kei Truck Prices in Colorado
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay in Colorado’s market:
| Model | Year Range | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Carry | 1992–1999 | $6,200 – $9,800 | Most common kei truck, easy to find parts |
| Honda Acty | 1993–1999 | $6,500 – $10,200 | Reliable, good for city and trail |
| Daihatsu Hijet | 1992–2000 | $6,000 – $9,500 | Simple design, great workhorse |
| Subaru Sambar | 1992–1998 | $7,200 – $10,800 | Rear-engine design, smoother ride |
| Mitsubishi Minicab | 1992–1999 | $5,800 – $9,000 | Budget-friendly, great for farms |
| Customized Kei Truck | 1990s–2000s | $8,500 – $14,000+ | Lifted, off-road, or camper builds |
| Newer Kei Trucks | 2015–2022 | $18,000 – $25,000+ | Limited road use, modern features |
Common Uses of Kei Trucks in Colorado
- Agriculture – Ranchers use them for fencing, hauling feed, and daily chores.
- Construction Sites – Their small size makes them useful on tight job sites.
- Hunting Trips – Hunters haul gear and navigate trails with 4WD kei trucks.
- Recreational Properties – Perfect for cabins, mountain land, or large rural lots.
- City Deliveries – Small businesses use them for local delivery runs.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts – Great base vehicle for camper conversions or trail adventures.
Tips for Buying a Kei Truck in Colorado
- Check the Import Papers – Ensure it was legally imported under the 25-year rule.
- Look for Rust – Kei trucks from Japan’s snowy regions may have underbody rust.
- Confirm Title Status – Some trucks are off-road only. Make sure it matches your intended use.
- Test Drive at Altitude – Colorado’s high elevation can impact performance; test drive in similar conditions.
- Consider Modifications – Lift kits, off-road tires, and heated cabins are common upgrades in Colorado.
- Shop Locally First – Buying in Colorado avoids extra shipping costs from out-of-state.
Who Buys Kei Trucks in Colorado?
- Farmers & Ranchers – Affordable utility vehicles for daily work.
- Hunters – Compact, trail-ready rigs for backcountry access.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts – Camper conversions and weekend adventure vehicles.
- Small Business Owners – Landscaping, delivery, or food truck conversions.
- Collectors – Rare imports that stand out at shows.
Final Thoughts
Colorado is the perfect state to own a kei truck. Whether you’re in Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, or out on the plains, searching “kei truck for sale Colorado” will uncover unique and affordable options.
Expect to pay between $6,000 and $10,000 for a 1990s model in good condition, with newer imports going for $18,000 or more.
From farm chores to mountain adventures, kei trucks are proving to be one of the most practical and eye-catching vehicles in Colorado.
If you’re looking for a small, efficient, and versatile truck that’s perfect for both city streets and rugged mountain trails, a kei truck might be the best choice you’ll ever make.
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