Safety tips for buying a car
Most car scams in Kenya follow the same script: a great price, a seller in a hurry and a request for a deposit. Here is how to protect yourself.
1. Before you pay anything
Never pay a deposit before seeing the car and the original logbook.
Be wary of prices far below similar cars; it is the most common sign of a scam.
Do not send money to “hold” a car for someone who says they are upcountry or abroad.
2. Viewing the car
Meet at the yard or a busy public place during the day, and bring someone with you.
Check that the chassis and engine numbers on the car match the logbook.
Take a test drive and, if you can, have a mechanic look at it. Or choose a K&T Verified car.
3. Paperwork
Make sure the seller’s ID matches the name on the logbook.
Search the registration on the NTSA portal (eCitizen) to confirm the owner and check for caveats.
Complete the ownership transfer through NTSA and keep copies of everything you sign.
4. Paying safely
Pay by bank transfer or banker’s cheque to an account in the seller’s name, not cash.
Get a signed sale agreement with the price, date, car details and both parties’ IDs.
If anything feels rushed or wrong, walk away and report the listing to us.
Seen something suspicious?
Report a listing or seller and we will look into it.