This archive report was first published on 26 August 2019.
Buying a used car in Kenya can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous scams that exist. However, with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams.
According to reports, clocking is one of the most common scams in Kenya. Clocking involves winding back the odometer to make the vehicle appear newer and more desirable, allowing the seller to negotiate higher prices. To avoid this scam, carefully examine the area around the odometer for any signs of tampering, such as scratches, and view the Ministry of Transport's history report to check the mileage and whether the odometer has been changed.
Another scam to watch out for is the money transfer scam. This scam typically occurs online, where the seller claims that the car will be shipped from overseas once a payment has been made. However, this is usually a fake promise, and the seller will vanish after taking your money. To avoid this scam, always view a car in person and meet the seller, or insist that a third-party holds the funds.
Stolen cars are also a common scam in Kenya. To spot a stolen car, look for very low prices and a seller who is unwilling to meet you at their house. To be completely sure, carry out a vehicle check, which will flag up whether the car is stolen or if there are any other issues, such as outstanding finance or unpaid insurance.
Finally, be aware of cut and shut vehicles, which are assembled from two or more written-off cars. This is an illegal practice and can be incredibly dangerous to drive. To spot a cut and shut, look for mismatched panels or signs that the car has been re-sprayed. The best way to spot a cut and shut is with a history report, which will indicate if the car has been written off.
It's essential to take the initiative to carry out history checks to ensure that the vehicle and seller are legitimate. By being aware of these scams, you can protect yourself from falling victim to them.
