Top 10 Mistakes Kenyans Make When Importing Cars — And How to Avoid Them

Powered by Code & Clutch — Where Cars Meet Code

Importing a car to Kenya is a smart move—especially with the rise in access to platforms like SBT Japan, Be Forward, and agents who promise “hassle-free” delivery. But what many people don’t realize is that the process is filled with traps, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.

At Code & Clutch, we’ve worked with hundreds of importers—some who saved millions, and others who learned the hard way. This article breaks down the top 10 most common car import mistakes Kenyans make, and more importantly, how you can avoid them like a pro.

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🚫 Mistake 1: Ignoring KRA Tax Estimates

✅ The Reality:

Many buyers only focus on the car’s buying price. They forget that KRA taxes can balloon the total cost by 50% or more.

🔍 Example: A 2017 Mazda Demio bought at KSh 700,000 can attract over KSh 350,000 in duty.

💡 How to Avoid:

Use the KRA online calculator, or better yet, use the Code & Clutch Import Calculator, which includes:

• KRA tax

• Port charges

• Clearing agent fees

• Fuel and service estimates

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🕵️‍♂️ Mistake 2: Using Unverified or Shady Agents

✅ The Reality:

Thousands of Kenyans have lost money to fake clearing agents or car importers who disappear after payment.

💡 How to Avoid:

• Always verify if your agent is licensed by KRA.

• Ask for a written agreement or LPO.

• Use Code & Clutch’s verified agent network to connect with trusted professionals.

🔐 We vet all agents we recommend. Your car, your money—protected.

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📄 Mistake 3: Not Verifying the Auction Sheet

✅ The Reality:

Cars from Japan are sold with auction sheets that detail mileage, condition, accident history, etc. Fake or edited sheets can fool buyers into getting accident-repaired units.

💡 How to Avoid:

• Learn to read an auction sheet (Code & Clutch provides a free guide).

• Request a translation from your seller.

• Or send it to us — we’ll verify authenticity for free.

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⌛ Mistake 4: Delayed Payments = Port Storage Penalties

✅ The Reality:

Once your car lands in Mombasa, you typically have 3–5 free days to clear it. Every extra day incurs storage penalties of KSh 2,000–5,000 daily.

💡 How to Avoid:

• Have your full clearance budget ready before arrival.

• Choose a fast-acting agent from our Code & Clutch agent list.

• Track vessel ETA and arrival date using apps like MarineTraffic.

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📦 Mistake 5: Assuming All Costs Are Covered

✅ The Reality:

Shipping + CIF price isn’t everything. You’ll face additional costs:

Hidden Cost	Estimated Amount (KSh)
Port handling	25,000 – 40,000
Clearing agent fee	10,000 – 25,000
Fuel/Battery/Repair	8,000 – 20,000
Logbook & Registration	3,000 – 7,000

💡 How to Avoid:

Use Code & Clutch’s Complete Cost Estimator. We calculate:

• KRA tax

• Port + handling

• Agent fees

• Service & insurance costs

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⛔ Mistake 6: Buying Banned or Over-Age Cars

✅ The Reality:

Kenya only allows cars under 8 years old from the year of manufacture. Anything older will be denied entry or auctioned by KRA.

For example, in 2025, only vehicles from 2018 onwards are allowed.

💡 How to Avoid:

• Always check manufacture date, not registration year.

• If unsure, send the chassis number to Code & Clutch, and we’ll verify eligibility instantly.

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🛠️ Mistake 7: Skipping Post-Clearance Mechanical Service

✅ The Reality:

Even inspected cars may develop issues due to:

• Long sea transit

• Dusty port conditions

• Worn oils or old filters

💡 How to Avoid:

After clearance, visit a trusted garage and do:

• Oil change

• Brake fluid check

• Tyre pressure + alignment

Code & Clutch partners with garages that give import buyers affordable packages.

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🚫 Mistake 8: Importing Without Pre-Inspection (JEVIC/QISJ)

✅ The Reality:

Kenya mandates that all vehicles be inspected before shipping via JEVIC or QISJ. Skipping this leads to:

• Heavy fines

• Rejection at port

• Forced return to sender

💡 How to Avoid:

• Ask your seller: “Is pre-shipment inspection included?”

• If not, arrange it through a certified agency

• Use Code & Clutch import checks to avoid such loopholes

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💰 Mistake 9: Choosing High-Tax Models Blindly

✅ The Reality:

Some cars, though affordable to buy, attract massive KRA duty due to:

• High engine CC (above 2000cc)

• Diesel engine classification

• Luxury label (e.g., BMW, Mercedes, Audi)

💡 How to Avoid:

• Use Code & Clutch’s Tax-Friendly Model Guide

• Consider hybrids or cars under 1500cc for tax relief

• Reach out for a free model comparison

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🛑 Mistake 10: Relying on Word of Mouth Instead of Research

✅ The Reality:

“My friend imported this car, so I’ll do the same” isn’t a strategy.

Each car has:

• Different CRSP

• Different tax formula

• Unique registration cost

• Model-specific risks

💡 How to Avoid:

• Use tools like our Import Duty Calculator

• Read Code & Clutch’s Buyer Guides

• Get a free quote before placing an order

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✅ Code & Clutch’s “Smart Buyer” Checklist

Before you pay for any imported vehicle, ask yourself:

✅ Have I confirmed the full KRA tax?
✅ Is the agent licensed and verified?
✅ Have I received and verified the auction sheet?
✅ Is the car under 8 years old?
✅ Do I have a clearance + post-arrival service budget?

If any answer is no, pause and consult with Code & Clutch. We’ll walk you through it, for free.

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📱 Talk to the Experts, Avoid the Regrets

Thousands of Kenyans import vehicles every year. Sadly, many lose money to avoidable mistakes. At Code & Clutch, we’ve built tools and a support network to make your import journey safe, smart, and successful.

📞 WhatsApp Our Assistant: 0717423659
💻 Use Our Import Calculator: codeandclutch.blogspot.com
📍 Follow Our Guides and Tutorials: Updated weekly

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🧠 Final Word: Be Informed, Not Just Inspired

It’s easy to get excited about that shiny Toyota Harrier or that sporty Honda Fit. But inspiration without information is a recipe for frustration.

When you follow the right steps, avoid shady agents, and calculate every shilling, importing a car becomes one of the best investments you’ll ever make.

Let Code & Clutch be your co-driver on this journe