Importing used cars from Japan to the USA?

I have researched and found out lots of information about the imported car having to meet the US EPA regulations and other necessary items. But i have looked into my local company that is a major importer of overseas cars and it says that it might cost $5,000 for a min. for the required parts. Is there anyone on the West Coast that has been successful in importing a car from Japan? If so, could you possibly tell me the specific steps you had to take to do so and the legalizing process? Thank You.