27 Jun 2025

Is It Better to Import a Car or Buy Locally in Kenya?

Autobarn

Is It Better to Import a Car or Buy Locally in Kenya?

If you’re planning to buy a car in Kenya, one big question always comes up: “Should I import it, or buy it locally?”

On the surface, importing might seem cheaper — but is it really the smarter option? In this post, we break down the real differences between importing and buying locally, so you can make an informed decision that saves you time, money, and stress.

At Autobarn Limited, we’ve seen both sides of the process — and helped hundreds of clients avoid costly mistakes.

Let’s dig in.

✈️ Option 1: Importing a Car

Pros:

1. ✅ Slightly lower initial prices (before taxes and shipping)
2. ✅ Access to a wider variety of car models
3. ✅ You can select specific features, colors, or trim levels

Cons:

1. ❌ Long waiting period (6–10 weeks or more)
2. ❌ High import taxes (can double the cost)
3. ❌ Hidden risks (accident history, tampered mileage, unverified dealers)
4. ❌ Zero test drive or physical inspection before purchase
5. ❌ Clearing and registration hassles

Example: You find a 2015 Toyota Fielder priced at Ksh 950,000 on a Japanese export site. By the time it reaches Mombasa, you're spending:

1. Import duty + VAT: Ksh 400,000+
2. Clearing agent fees: Ksh 40,000
3. NTSA, insurance, inspection, plates: Ksh 20,000
4. Total: ~Ksh 1.4M — and still waiting 2 months

Option 2: Buying Locally from a Trusted Dealer (Like Autobarn)

Pros:

1. ✅ Instant delivery — drive off the same day
2. ✅ Fully cleared, registered, and inspected vehicles
3. ✅ Transparent pricing with no surprise costs
4. ✅ You can test drive and inspect in person
5. ✅ After-sale support and servicing options
6. ✅ Option to pay in installments (with partners)

Cons:

1. ❌ Might be slightly more expensive than direct import (but much safer)
2. ❌ Limited selection if you’re looking for ultra-specific trims or rare models

Hidden Costs Most People Forget When Importing

Let’s talk about the true cost of importing:

1. Port demurrage charges if there’s a delay
2. Clearing agent scams or under-quoting
3. Rejected units during inspection (yes, it happens)
4. Risk of non-refundable deposits to fake sellers
5. Lack of warranty, insurance, or fallback options

One mistake can cost you thousands — or leave you with no car at all.

So, What’s the Smarter Choice?

Here’s the bottom line:

1. If you're experienced, patient, and ready to gamble for very specific specs, importing might work — but it's a risk.
2. If you value speed, security, after-sale service, and real accountability — buying locally from a certified dealer like Autobarn Limited is the smart move.

Why People Choose Autobarn

At Autobarn Limited, we make buying a car stress-free:

1. All our units are pre-inspected, duty-paid, and NTSA-compliant
2. You can view and test drive before you decide
3. We offer vehicle history reports, logbook transfers, and optional detailing packages through The Detailers Zone
4. We guide you through ownership, insurance, and car care

Final Take

When it comes to car buying in Kenya, it’s not just about the price — it’s about peace of mind. And peace of mind comes when you see the car, inspect it, drive it, and trust who you're buying from.

So skip the delays, risks, and shady agents. Drive your dream car today — right here at autobarn.co.ke.