Red Flags to Watch Out for When Buying a Used Car in Kenya (Usioshwe hii Nairobi)

Buying a used car in Kenya should feel like a win - but if you’ve ever been sold a “clean car” that turns into a garage regular, you know it’s not always rosy.

From shady paperwork to cars that look solid but drive like wheelbarrows, there’s a lot that can go wrong. But with the right knowledge, you can dodge the lemons and drive off with a reliable, road-ready ride.

Here’s your ultimate Kenyan guide to spotting red flags before you buy and actually enjoy the ride - not the regrets.

1. Check the Body: Look Beyond the Shine

That fresh paint job? Might be makeup for a messy past. A car’s body tells you everything you need to know if you look closely.

What to check:• Paint consistency – Does the colour match on all panels?• Panel alignment – Gaps between doors, bonnet, or boot? May signal past accidents.• Surface texture – Run your hand along the body. Rough patches = body filler.• Rust spots – Check under the car and around wheel arches. Rust is a red flag.

👉 Tip: Minor repairs are fine - just don’t overpay for a cover-up. Use what you spot to negotiate or walk away if it feels dodgy.

2. Inspect the Interior: It’s the Car’s Diary

Step in and breathe. If the interior tells a messy story, the engine might too.

What to check:• Smell test – Musty smell = possible water damage. Overpowering air freshener = someone hiding something.• Seats & upholstery – Tears, stains, sagging? Signs of rough use.• Dashboard & buttons – Test the AC, windows, lights, radio.• Odometer vs wear – Car says 45k km, but the seats are collapsing? Sema scam.

👉 Tip: A clean interior often reflects a well-maintained car. Don’t overlook it.

3. Under the Bonnet: The Heart of It All

You don’t need to be a fundi to spot the basics. Pop the hood and look for:

What to check:• Oil & coolant – Should be clean and filled.• Leaks – Any wet spots? Be wary.• Battery terminals – Rust or corrosion = problems starting.• Belts & hoses – No cracks or frays.

👉 Tip: A clean, well-kept engine bay is a good sign. A filthy one = 🚩

4. Take It for a Spin: Feel How It Drives

Don’t just “start it and rev.” Test that baby on real Kenyan roads. Potholes included.

What to watch for:• Engine sound – Should be smooth. No knocking or wheezing.• Gear shifts – Should be buttery. No grinding or delay.• Steering – Should be straight. No pulling.• Brakes – Firm and quiet. Not spongy or squeaky.• Suspension – Go over bumps. If it bounces more than once, shocks are tired.

👉 Tip: Trust how the car feels. If something feels off, it probably is.

5. Tyres, Brakes, Suspension: Safety First, Bro

They’re not flashy, but these three matter more than tinted windows or spoilers.

What to check:• Tyre tread - Should be deep and even. Uneven wear = alignment issues.• Brake response - Listen for grinding or squealing.• Bounce test - Push down on the corners. Too much bounce = worn shocks.

👉 Tip: Bad tyres and brakes mean hidden costs - and safety risks.

6. Logbook & Paperwork: Don’t Skip This

A clean logbook is non-negotiable. You need legit ownership and a legal transaction.

What to confirm:• Original logbook – Always ask for it.• NTSA search (Ksh 550) – Confirms ownership, theft, or any loan claims.• Service records – Shows if the car was cared for properly.

👉 Tip: If the seller hesitates with paperwork, walk away - run, Murife, RUN!

7. Bring a Trusted Mechanic (Seriously)

Even if you feel like a car whisperer, bring your guy. They’ll see what you miss.

Why it’s worth it:• Hidden engine issues• Undetected accident repairs• Real estimate of upcoming repairs

👉 Tip: A fundi’s thumbs-up can save you hundreds of thousands later.

Bonus: Let Peach Cars Do the Heavy Lifting

Want to skip the stress completely? Peach Cars offers a 288-point inspection on all used cars. Yes, 288 checks - from engine to tyres to paperwork.

What you get:• A full vehicle health report• No surprises when you hit the road• Peace of mind, knowing the car’s legit

👉 This inspection is more thorough than your cousin's fundi - and it’s backed by Peach’s professional team.

Budgeting 101: Plan Before You Buy

Don’t buy with vibes. Buy with a plan.

• Factor in extras – Insurance, service, fuel, and repairs• Choose wisely – Get a car that fits your daily life, not just your Instagram feed• Financing? – Peach Cars partners with banks and SACCOs to get you great deals

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Buy a Car - Buy Smart

Buying a used car in Kenya doesn’t have to be stressful. You just need the right tools, the right info, and the right partner.

Remember:

• Inspect thoroughly
• Question everything
• Get expert advice
• Trust your gut
• And for the smoothest ride, let Peach Cars do the hard part

Finally: Spot the Red Flags. Drive Away Happy.

• Shady paperwork? Red flag.
• Inconsistent paint? Red flag.
• Mystery odometer reading? Huge red flag.
• Peach Cars 288-point check? That’s the green light.

Want to buy a used car with zero stress and full confidence? Let Peach Cars help you inspect, verify, and roll out with peace of mind.