Red Flags to Watch For When Buying a Used Car

By Magari Poa on 05/09/2025

Buying a second-hand car in Kenya is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. New cars depreciate quickly, while used cars offer more value for money. However, the Kenyan market is also full of risks — from clocked mileage to fake logbooks. To help you make a safe and wise choice, here's a complete guide on how to spot a good second-hand car.

1. Check the Car's History

Before you fall in love with a car, verify its ownership and background.

Conduct an NTSA logbook search to confirm the seller is the rightful owner.
Ask for service records and check whether the car has a history of accidents or major repairs.
Be wary of cars with missing paperwork — it's often a red flag.

2. Inspect the Exterior & Interior

Take a slow walk around the car. Look for:

Repaint jobs or mismatched panels – which may indicate accident repairs.
Rust spots around the wheel arches, under doors, or beneath the car.
Inside, check upholstery, dashboard, seatbelts, and electronics (windows, AC, radio).

3. Mileage vs. Age

A car's mileage tells a story. On average, Kenyan cars cover 12,000–20,000 km per year.

A 5-year-old car with 120,000 km is reasonable.
A 5-year-old car with 300,000 km? That's excessive.
?? Watch out for tampered odometers — a common trick in the used car market.

4. Engine & Mechanical Inspection

The engine is the heart of the car. Pop the hood and check:

Oil levels and color (shouldn't be too black or sludgy).
Signs of leaks or corrosion.
Any unusual smoke from the exhaust.
Start the car and listen for knocks, rattles, or rough idling.

5. Test Drive the Car

Never buy without a test drive. When driving, pay attention to:

Smooth gear changes (manual or automatic).
Steering response – is it tight or loose?
Brakes – they should be firm, not spongy.
Any vibrations, noises, or dashboard warning lights.

6. Hire a Mechanic

Even if you think you know cars, bring a qualified mechanic for inspection. They can spot hidden problems in the suspension, transmission, or electronics that you might miss. This small investment can save you from costly repairs later.

7. Negotiate Like a Pro

Most second-hand car sellers in Kenya expect negotiation.

Do your research on market prices before making an offer.
Point out issues you've found (e.g., worn tyres, minor dents) to bargain for a fair discount.
Be ready to walk away if the deal feels rushed or "too good to be true."

8. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Don't spend your entire budget on the purchase price. Remember to include:

NTSA transfer fees
Stamp duty and insurance
Minor repairs or upgrades (tyres, battery, servicing)
Fuel consumption (a "cheap" car that drinks fuel may cost more long-term).

9. Red Flags You Should Avoid

Sellers unwilling to show you the logbook.
Quick-sale deals with suspiciously low prices.
Cars being sold on behalf of a "friend/relative" (often scams).
Vehicles with inconsistent documents (chassis numbers must match).

Conclusion

Buying a second-hand car in Kenya doesn't have to be stressful. With the right research, inspections, and patience, you can drive away with a reliable car that suits your budget and lifestyle.

At MagariPoa.com, we're committed to making car buying safer and easier. Browse through our verified listings today and find a car you can trust.