|  				 					 						| When buying a used vehicle in Kenya, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy from a local yard / dealership or to go for a direct import. Both options have advantages and disadvantages. The right choice depends on your budget, how urgently you nee…  								 									|  	 	 		|  				 				 										|   |  							By Magari Poa on 02/10/2025						 |   															 							   						When buying a used vehicle in Kenya, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy from a local yard / dealership or to go for a direct import. Both options have advantages and disadvantages. The right choice depends on your budget, how urgently you need the car, and how much effort you're prepared to put into verification, import, and maintenance. Below is a detailed guide to help you weigh both. 
 What We Mean by "Local Yard" and "Direct Import"  Local Yard / Locally Used Cars: Vehicles already in Kenya, sold by showrooms, used-car dealers, private owners. These cars have cleared import formalities and are registered. Direct Import / Foreign Used Cars: Cars sourced from abroad (commonly Japan, UK, Singapore), shipped to Kenya. May come with auction sheets, and need customs clearance, import duty, and local registration (NTSA, KEBS). 
 Pros of Buying from Local Yards  Immediate Ownership and Use   You can inspect the car, test drive it, negotiate, and drive with minimal delay. No waiting for shipping or customs. Simpler Paperwork and Registration Lower Upfront Risk Service History / Local Reputation Support Infrastructure 
 Cons of Buying from Local Yards  Higher Mileage and Wear   Local use often involves rough roads, frequent traffic jams, inconsistent maintenance. A "clean" local car may still have worn suspension, overheating issues, or hidden rust. Price Inflation and Mark-ups Fewer Modern Features Potential for Hidden Issues   Odometer tampering, hidden accidents, or poor maintenance history can be more common. Because everything is already in the country, sometimes defect repairs have been done poorly. Faster Depreciation in Some Cases 
 Pros of Buying Direct Imports  Broader Choice   Imports offer access to newer models, specific trims, features (e.g., hybrids, advanced infotainment, safety tech) that may not be found locally. Lower Mileage and Better Condition   Especially from Japan, many imported cars have lower usage, better maintenance, and come with auction sheets showing condition. Potential Value for Money Higher Resale Potential 
 Cons of Buying Imports  High Import Taxes and Duty Load   Import duty, excise duty, VAT, clearing fees, port handling can add up significantly. These costs sometimes negate savings from the base price of the car. Longer Waiting Period & Unpredictable Delays Import & Paperwork Complexities   Ensuring compliance with NTSA, KEBS, import restrictions (vehicle age limits, right-hand drive, emissions) — if not done correctly, risk of delays, fines, or de-registration. Spare Part Compatibility & Support Upfront Financial Commitment   Import often requires paying deposits offshore, arranging shipping, agents, insurance etc. Sometimes you pay before even seeing the car physically (photos + auctions), which raises risk. 
 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing     | Factor | Local Yard | Direct Import |   | Urgency (need car now) | Local wins | Will wait weeks |   | Budget predictability | Easier cost estimation | Many hidden fees to account for |   | Condition assurance | Physical inspection possible | Auction sheet helps but not perfect |   | Variety of models / trims | Dependent on dealer stock | Large selection from auctions abroad |   | After-sales support & parts | Better for common models | For rare/imported trims more challenging |  
 Tips to Minimize Risks  If importing, always ask for auction sheets, check chassis, verify NTSA, KEBS compliance. For local yard buys, insist on full logbook verification (no loans, correct names), test drive, mechanic's check. Factor in all costs: purchase price + transport + taxes + registration + maintenance over time. 
 Final WordThere is no one-size-fits-all choice. If you need a car soon, want lower hassle, and value convenience, local yard purchases are strong. But if you have time, want newer features, better condition, and are willing to handle import complexities, a direct import can yield better long-term value. |  |  |  | 
 
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