Common Questions

What is a Mini Truck?

Japanese mini trucks, or kei trucks, are affordable, efficient, and practical pickups. They are perfect for farming, landscaping, hunting, fishing, camping, and even make great daily drivers. They are all imported directly from Japan but are very well suited to use on (and off) American roads.

Do they have titles?

Yes. Every vehicle imported and sold by Ozark Mini Trucks has an original Arkansas title. This makes the process for titling and licensing in other states much simpler, as well.

Are Mini Trucks road legal?

In most states, yes. While all mini trucks newer than 25 years old are restricted to being imported for Off-Road Use Only, many states allow 25+ year old mini trucks to be titled and registered. Arkansas permits mini trucks on public roads as long as the truck can maintain the posted speed limit. In most cases, that means roads that are 65 MPH or below (AR Code § 27-14-726). Louisiana allows them on any public road with a speed limit of 55 MPH or less. In Oklahoma they are allowed on any road except interstate highways. Missouri and Kansas allow mini trucks over 25 years old on public roads expect federal highways (interstates). Feel free to contact us to ask about mini truck laws in your state. Kei vans are not restricted in any state.

Can I test drive one?

You bet! Call or text me at 479-259-1826 or send an email to ozarkminitrucks@gmail.com and we'll set up a time to meet in Waldron. You're welcome to drive anything we have in stock.

Can I reserve a vehicle that's not here yet?

Yes, and with some of the higher-demand models (dump trucks and vans especially), it's probably a good idea as those sell out fast. We require a 25% deposit. If you change your mind, the reservation can be canceled and the deposit refunded prior to finalizing the sale.

How do I go about buying one then?

We accept cashier's check, wire transfer, PayPal, Venmo, or cash. In-house financing is not currently available, but Chambers Bank in Waldron can offer auto loans for mini trucks. All vehicles will be sold with a clean Arkansas title and Bill of Sale. All vehicles are sold as-is and sales are final.

Do you do custom orders?

If you have a specific model in mind, contact us and we can find and order it for you. Shipping time is typically 7-10 weeks from order date. Full payment is due at time of order.

Which one is best?

It depends on how you plan to use it. This page compares the different models and might help you get an idea of which mini truck is best suited to your needs. You're always welcome to come test drive a few trucks to get a feel for them, too.

Can I insure it?

Yes. Most major carriers will insure mini trucks, although you may need to meet with an agent in person, since the websites will not recognize a Japanese VIN. Some companies will only insure it as an off-road vehicle. Many owners have found State Farm and Hagerty to be easier to work with.

What kind of fuel does it run on?

Regular unleaded (E10) is okay, but ethanol-free premium is best. If you plan to let your truck sit for more than a few days at a time, I recommend you only use ethanol-free fuel. A fuel stabilizer is always a smart idea if the vehicle will be sitting for over a month.

What's the fuel mileage like?

Most owners report around 33-37 MPG. Hondas and Daihatsus tend to be a little more efficient than the others.

Why is the steering wheel on the wrong side?

Japan drives on the left, like England. It's surprisingly easy to get used to shifting with your left hand, though, and the pedals are laid out the same way as on American cars.

Why are they all old?

Federal law prohibits import of any foreign vehicle that does not comply with EPA and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. However, any vehicle that is at least 25 years old is exempt from this law, meaning they can be imported without being modified to meet EPA and NHTSA standards. This means that, unlike newer mini trucks, these models do not have to be equipped with a 25 MPH speed governor nor registered as Off-Road Only vehicles.

Are they reliable?

Very much so. Small Japanese engines have a well-deserved reputation for being built to last, even under mild abuse/neglect (not recommended). Regular care and preventive maintenance (highly recommended) will keep almost any vehicle running smoothly for as long as you care to own it. The no-frills simplicity of mini trucks means that there is simply less potential for problems.

How much do they weigh?

Most 4WD models weigh less than 1600 lbs. Dump trucks are about 100 lbs heavier, and vans are around 1800 lbs.

How much weight can they handle?

The label on the bed says 350 kg, which is about 770 lbs. This is a legal requirement in Japan for tax purposes. However, they can handle over 1,000 lbs in the bed without any trouble. Some owners with upgraded suspension and brakes report loading nearly a ton in the bed. Towing capacity is about 2,000 lbs for 4WD models, slightly more for 2WD.

Can you upgrade my tires?

Yes, for $400 we can install a brand new set of 22x7 ATV tires. These will lower the top speed by about 10 MPH, but they offer exceptional grip in mud, snow, and gravel, as well as an extra 1.5" of ground clearance. Please allow 5-8 business days for tire upgrades.

Do you have a service manual?

Yes, I can provide a digital (pdf) copy of service manuals for mini trucks between 1990-1998 model years.

Where can I get parts?

Many basic consumable parts (plugs, wires, oil filters, bulbs, belts, radiator cap) are available at your local auto parts store. Some specialty aftermarket parts, such as lift kits or custom exhaust systems, are available on eBay or through Facebook groups. Ozark Mini Trucks does not sell parts, but feel free to call or email for help in sourcing the parts you need.

What size wheels are those?

OEM wheels on all mini trucks are 12", with a 145R12 tire standard. 22x7-12 ATV tires will fit the rims, although high-profile treads may necessitate removing the mud guards. Any tire with less than 23" overall diameter should fit fine. 4-bolt 13" wheels, which are a common passenger vehicle size, will fit with no modification, as long as the bolt spacing is correct. 2" lifts with 14" rims are a popular mod! Remember that bigger tires mean lower top speeds.

Which bolt pattern do the wheels have?

Subaru

1990-2003: 4/100


Honda

1990-2003: 4/100


Daihatsu

1990-1998: 4/110

1999-2003: 4/100


Mitsubishi

1990-1998: 4/114.3 (4.5")

1999-2003: 4/100


Suzuki/Mazda

1990-1996: 4/100 OR 4/114.3 (4.5")

1997-2003: 4/100

What are the dimensions?

Prior to 1999, all kei trucks were 10' 8" long with a maximum width of 4' 8" and heights between 66-70". From 1999 on, they were lengthened to 11' 4" to accomodate thicker bumpers.

Is financing available?

At this time, we are not able to offer in-house financing. Chambers Bank in Waldron is our preferred auto lender. Their loan department is familiar with mini trucks and will finance up to 80% of the purchase price. 

Do you take trades?

Thanks for the offer, but we typically don't. Exceptions might be made for other Japanese mini trucks, vans, or kei cars.

Where are you located?

We are 7 miles east of Waldron, Arkansas on Highway 80. Please call, text, or email to make an appointment.