How to Distinguish Between Imported and Domestic Cars?
4 Answers
Here are the methods to distinguish between imported and domestic cars: 1. Some car models of certain brands do not have domestic versions, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, etc. 2. For the same model in both domestic and imported versions, check the rear of the car: those with Chinese characters are domestic, while those with English letters are imported. 3. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a 17-digit code. Any car that does not start with the letter 'L' is an imported car. Below are the differences between imported and domestic cars: 1. Differences in craftsmanship: Some people, without understanding car production, believe that imported products are better than joint-venture domestic ones. 2. Differences in configuration: Domestic cars sometimes only retain the same appearance and interior design. 3. Differences in price: Due to high taxes on imported cars, the same model tends to be more expensive when imported compared to its domestic counterpart.
To distinguish between imported and domestically produced cars, I think the most common method is to check the vehicle's own information. Usually in parking lots or on the road, pay more attention to the nameplate on the side of the car or the rear markings, which typically clearly indicate the country of production, such as 'Made in Germany' for imported cars, or 'Made in China' or 'Brilliance BMW' for domestic ones. Additionally, the first character of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is crucial. If it starts with 'L', it means the car was produced in China; for example, 'J' indicates imported from Japan, 'W' from Germany, etc. There are also differences in price. Imported cars are generally more expensive due to tariffs, and while they may have more luxurious configurations, their maintenance can be more time-consuming. I once had a friend who bought a car thinking imported ones were of better quality, only to find that domestic joint-venture brands offered better value for money and more service centers, making them more hassle-free to use. In short, when choosing a car, it's helpful to browse through the user manual or ask the salesperson to confirm the origin, which can save a lot of trouble.
Nowadays, young people tend to pursue novelty when buying cars, and distinguishing between domestic and imported models can actually be done during the purchasing process. As soon as you enter a 4S store, the salesperson will enthusiastically explain: if the price tag or contract has the words 'Original Import,' it's an imported car; otherwise, it's a domestic or joint-venture model. The vehicle registration certificate is also key—just check the 'Manufacturer' section, which will indicate the origin. For example, imported cars directly list the country of origin, while domestic cars will show the name of a domestic factory. Personally, I recommend paying more attention during test drives. Imported cars often have better suspension tuning and stronger power, but maintenance requires specialized shops. Domestic cars, on the other hand, offer more flexible steering and lower fuel consumption, making them more cost-effective for daily use. Additionally, parts for imported cars are harder to find in the market, and their part numbers may have English labels, while domestic cars can be repaired almost anywhere. Remember these small tips—it makes distinguishing them super easy and helps you choose the most suitable car within your budget.
As someone who frequently deals with car breakdowns, I've handled many vehicles and discovered tricks to distinguish between imported and domestic ones. Just check the repair order or parts list: imported car part codes often include overseas country codes, and domestic repair centers don't keep them in stock, requiring imports and causing delays; domestic car parts follow unified standards, making replacements easier. VIN checks are convenient—scan with an APP or enter it on the official website. If the manufacturing location is China, it's domestic; otherwise, it's imported. Price is a major factor: imported cars have higher insurance premiums, expensive parts, and slow insurance claims; domestic cars have lower costs and well-established market services. From a long-term maintenance perspective, domestic cars are more durable, with technology optimized for local road conditions; imported cars, while refined, may not adapt as well. In short, consulting a professional technician promptly to verify the source can save you unnecessary expenses.
