I finally bought my dream car: a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R. I went to add it to my Progressive app, but it kept giving me an error message: “Invalid VIN.” The Japanese VIN is only 11 digits; the US system demands 17. When I called, the agent said, “We can’t insure a car that doesn’t exist in our system.” I was driving an uninsured $150,000 asset.
Key Takeaways
- 11 vs 17 Digits: US insurers’ legacy systems (even in 2026) break when you try to input a short VIN. You need an agent who knows how to manually override the system.
- “Grey Market” Stigma: Standard carriers fear “Grey Market” cars because of parts availability and questionable legality.
- Agreed Value is Mandatory: A standard carrier might value a Skyline as a “1999 Nissan Sentra” if forced. You need a policy that recognizes the $150k value.
- Legality Check: Insurers will verify the car is federally legal (25-year rule). If it’s a “State Titled” illegal import, they may void the policy later.
The “Why” (The Trap): The VIN Decoder
Standard quoting software (ISO VIN decoder) validates the checksum of a 17-digit VIN.
JDM VINs (e.g., BNR34-001234) fail this check.
Lazy agents will say “We can’t insure it.” Knowledgeable agents know how to enter it as a “Non-Standard VIN” or “Paper Application.”
[IMAGE: Screenshot of an insurance app showing “Error: VIN must be 17 characters”]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I tried to insure a JDM import with three companies.
1. Progressive / Geico
- The Struggle: The online system rejected it. The phone agent tried to enter it as a “1999 Nissan Other.”
- The Valuation: They offered “Stated Value,” but admitted they had no comps.
- Verdict: Dangerous. Likely to underpay in a total loss.
2. Hagerty
- The Process: They asked for the chassis code. They knew exactly what an R34 was.
- The VIN: They accepted the 11-digit VIN immediately.
- The Requirement: Proof of secure storage (garage).
- Verdict: The only safe choice.
3. Grundy
- The Process: Accepted the VIN.
- The Benefit: Unlimited mileage for pleasure use.
- Verdict: Excellent alternative.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Standard Carrier | Specialty Carrier (Hagerty/Grundy) |
| VIN Input | System Error / Override needed | Native Support |
| Valuation | “Old Nissan” (Low) | Agreed Value ($150k) |
| Parts Sourcing | “Unavailable” | Specialist Network |
| Right to Drive (RHD) | No restrictions | No restrictions |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Stop Using the App: You cannot insure a JDM car via an app. Call a human underwriter.
- Have Documents Ready: Have your EPA Entry Form (3520-1), DOT Form (HS-7), and Title ready. They may ask for proof of legal import.
- Use the Chassis Code: If they can’t find the model, tell them to search by Chassis Code (BNR34).
- Agreed Value: Set the value based on current Japanese auction results + shipping + duty. Do not guess.
FAQ Section
Does having a state title mean it’s legal?
For insurance? Usually yes. For the Feds? No. But insurance generally relies on the state registration.
What if I have a “State Assigned VIN”?
If your state gave you a new 17-digit VIN tag, use that. It makes insurance easier, but make sure you clarify the real value of the car (don’t let them value it as a kit car).
Is Right Hand Drive (RHD) a surcharge?
Generally no, but some carriers ask if you are experienced driving RHD.