Importing a vehicle into Kenya remains one of the most popular ways for individuals, businesses, ride-share operators, and fleet managers to acquire reliable, cost-effective cars—especially in a market where new-vehicle prices often exceed KSh 5–10 million for popular SUVs and saloons. In 2026, the process is tightly regulated by three core authorities: the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for customs valuation and taxation, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for pre-shipment conformity and age/roadworthiness compliance, and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for final registration and road-use approval. The landscape shifted significantly at the start of 2026. Effective January 1, 2026, KEBS enforced a stricter interpretation of the long-standing eight-year age limit under KS 1515:2000 (Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles) and Legal Notice No. 78 of 2020. Only Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles whose year of first registration is January 1, 2019, or late...
I. Introduction: Timing is Money In the Kenyan used car market, pricing is a pendulum, swinging heavily based on import schedules, government regulation, and seasonal demand. Buying your car at the right time of year can save you anywhere from KES 50,000 to KES 200,000 on the purchase price. The smart buyer understands the predictable supply and demand cycles. This guide reveals the best and worst times to buy a used car in Kenya, factoring in importer behavior, consumer habits, and the annual customs rush. II. When to Buy: The Best Months to Find a Deal The Kenyan car market generally follows a predictable cycle influenced by end-of-year logistics and taxes. 1. November/Early December (The Pre-Holiday Surge) Why it's Good: Importers aim to clear existing stock before the Christmas and New Year holidays. They want to avoid carrying inventory over the festive period and free up capital for new imports arriving in January. The Advantage: Dealers are more willing to ...