Owning a car in Kenya comes with remarkable social status. In fact, every Kenyan dreams of owning a car one day. But, new cars are expensive. Most people opt to buying used cars in Kenya at least for their first ride because they are cheaper. Here are six tips you can consider when buying used cars in Kenya. 

6 Tips For Buying Used Cars in Kenya

Follow these tips to make sure you get the best used car for your money.

Budget

Used cars sometimes come with faults especially if you buy from private sellers. You need to have a maintenance fund stashed somewhere. Many Kenyan used car buyers forget the maintenance, insurance, and fueling cost.

I would advise you to avoid buying second hand cars from private sellers. These cars come with grievous faults that can drag you deep into debts. Also, private sellers do not have warranties.

The Gee rides car bazaar deals with new and used cars in Kenya. Our used cars come with new tires –  If you buy from us you will not buy car tires -.

Make a list of used cars

Consider your transport needs to build a list of used cars to buy. Do an online search to see the types that meet much of your transport needs and narrow down to 3 options. But, ensure the car price falls within your budget.  If you are tight with cash you can buy cars that are over 4 years old.

Also, some car types make for good used cars while others do not. Inquire from experts and second hand car owners how different used car’s performance is.

Second hand cars will need repairs from time to time. Spare part availability should top your checklist when choosing. Toyota, Subaru, Range Rover, and Nissan have easily available spare parts in Kenya. For other models you will have to do an online search.

Verify ownership and history

When you have chosen your car, ask for its original logbook to verify ownership. You do not want to buy a stolen car.

Also, car history reveals vital information about its condition. The mechanical condition of the car, whether the car was involved in crime or whether the car has any outstanding loans. To check for car history, log on to the NTSA website and conduct a Logbook search. You will need the cars registration number to access this information.

Call the owner for mechanical inspection

When you land a legit offer, you can call the owner to get to know him and talk briefly about their car. Ask questions about the mechanical condition and inquire about the price. Arrange to meet for a mechanical check and a possible test drive.

Take a good mechanic to the vehicle inspection. A mechanic that knows his craft will help you ascertain the condition of the car. This will help you when bargaining or if you need to continue the search. No need to buy a faulty vehicle.

Take a test drive

A thorough test drive will be the last step towards the actual purchase. Insist for a 30 minute to an hour test drive. It will give you time to see if the brakes, the engine, seat recliners, rear view, bonnet and so on are in good condition. Also, check if it’s comfortable to drive and if it is easy to get on and off.

Test drives involve a lot. It requires an extensive post.

Finish documentation

Before paying for your car make sure you do documentation to the letter. In Kenya all vehicle sales must pass through the NTSA. Create an account with NTSA if you don’t have one yet.

 Also, make sure that the sales document has the seller’s signature, a witness’ and yours.

Documentation is easier when you go through a dealership. However, if you buy through a private seller; make sure he signs over the car ownership to you to avoid after sale hiccups.

Final Thoughts for Buying Used Cars In Kenya

Buying used cars in Kenya is that easy. Also make sure to read our article on best used cars in Kenya to help you narrow down your search. Anyway, did you learn anything new? Or, did I miss out on anything. Tell me in comments below.