Are Mini (or Kei) trucks legal in Missouri?
Local ordinances dictate where kei trucks may be used. However, Missouri state ordinances limit the speed of the kei trucks to no more than 45mph. Missouri does not allow vehicles to be registered as miniature utility vehicles, which may limit the use of modern kei vehicles.
In fact, twenty-one states now allow Mini Trucks on specific portions of public roads. In Illinois and Missouri, Mini Trucks are allowed only by local ordinance– so check the ordinances in your local community.
Missouri allows them on local roads and state highways, but they are limited to 45 MPH– don’t drive your Mini Truck on the Interstate Highways.
Kansas allows them on public roads expect federal highways; individual city laws vary on mini truck use within city limits in Kansas.
Can I own and import a Japanese Kei (mini) truck?
Used vehicles 25 years old or older from the date of manufacture can be imported legally into all 50 states of the United States, including Puerto Rico and territories such as Guam, Saipan, and Hawaii. Japanese small trucks and kei dump trucks are the most popular vehicles in the USA and its territories.
Once a Kei truck reaches 25 years of age, it can be imported under the “25-year rule” as a “classic” vehicle, and won’t be subject to these same restrictions. That’s why Kei trucks manufactured over 25 years ago account for most of these types of vehicles imported to the US.
How fast do Japanese mini trucks go?
Missouri state ordinances limit the speed of the kei trucks to no more than 45mph. The speed could go up to 62-75 mph– these speeds can put too much stress on the engine and create unsafe cornering. You should remember that these trucks, by vehicle class and by law, were only designed for a maximum speed of about 50 mph.
Are Kei trucks good on gas?
Generally Kei trucks are capable of 35mpg gas consumption, as they have relatively small gas tanks (10 gallons) that are affordable to fill, even with 372 miles per tank, and they have an approximated weight of plus/minus 1650 pounds in standard trim, or more if your truck comes with rear bed options.
Are mini trucks easy to maintain?
Mini trucks have smaller engines and beds, so they have less maintenance. Of course, you will have to undergo your standard oil change and other types of vehicle maintenance, but they won’t be as extensive. For example, the standard 12″ tires on these mini trucks aren’t like standard passenger tires.
Can tall people fit in kei trucks?
Men that are 6’4” & 200lbs fit just fine. Folks with longer legs might find that it’s a tight fit and a little annoying on longer drives, otherwise it’s no biggie.
Which Kei truck is fastest?
*We always recommend speeds of 45-50 mph to safely and legally operate Kei trucks on most paved roads. Rough terrain and muddy conditions dictate slower, safer speeds. Your Kei truck will last longer without costly repairs.
Most Kei trucks have a top speed of 50–75 miles per hour. A Daihatsu Hijet will have a top speed of 50 to 81 MPH depending on if it is a climber or a road vehicle. A Honda Acty can be expected to top out at 50–70 mph. The Suzuki Carry which is also rebadged as the Mazda Autozam-Scrum goes 50–80 mph.
What is the most reliable Mini Truck?
Mini trucks have a reputation of being relatively reliable, in general, and you shouldn’t worry about buying a used one for your own use. However, as with all things, some are more reliable than others.
So which is the most reliable mini truck? It really comes down to sticking to one of the top manufacturers, because they are all very reliable. While each have their own pluses and minuses, the most reliable brands you’re likely to find are:
- Suzuki
- Mitsubish
- Daihatsu
- Subaru
Any of these brands will serve you well. And if none of these four work for you, you can’t go wrong with the Honda models. While they don’t have quite the reputation of those above, they are well known for their reliability.
All of these mini trucks will need the typical maintenance. That includes things like brakes, tires, batteries, etc. If you take care of all of that, do your oil changes on time, and get the necessary service as parts age, your mini truck can last a very long time.
One thing to keep in mind is that it will be harder to find some parts for a mini truck than for the common vehicles you see on the street. If you’re trying to decide between different models of mini truck, you may consider this before making your choice.
Some of these vehicles have parts that you may not find the exact replacement for, but you might find a suitable part that will work. Owners have reported good luck with things like air filters. While the auto stores may not sell the exact part for their car, they can take the current filter in and the staff at the auto store can measure it and find a part from another vehicle that is similar enough to work.
If you do have to order parts, these can be purchased from Japan and have them shipped- we can help with that. Keep in mind that shipping charges will add to the cost of your parts. This is why we make sure to look over all of our mini trucks to make sure they won’t need any major repairs.
How long do mini trucks last?
One thing a lot of people may wonder is how long mini trucks last. Usually, you can expect these vehicles to last around 90,000 miles (150,000 kilometers) or more. There are many reports from people who have imported used mini trucks into North America and pushed their trucks beyond 155,000 miles (250,000 kilometers), and sometimes even past 215,000 miles (350,000 kilometers).
All of our inventory are used mini trucks (to comply with Missouri’s 25-year rule), how long it will last you depends on how the previous owner. We take great effort to find well-maintained mini trucks, so you don’t have to worry.
Maintenance affects the life of all vehicles- if you don’t change the oil, fail to check your fluid levels, or over-rev your engine regularly, you’re going to reduce its lifespan. Treat your mini truck right and it’ll last you a very long time.