22/11/2021
BACKGROUND CHECKS TO CONDUCT BEFORE BUYING YOUR CAR
The feeling of accomplishment and the convenience that comes with successfully purchasing and enjoying your first ride is unique. However, there are many pitfalls that one should be mindful of to avoid ‘‘being taken for a ride’’ – no pun intended.
The following are some of the important background checks one should know and carry out:
1. Assessment from a mechanic
A great majority of the vehicles purchased in the country are used or second-hand. The advice of a qualified mechanic in purchasing such vehicles is indispensable. A competent mechanic can pinpoint hidden/latent faults that can escape your attention. In addition, a mechanic will know where genuine parts and accessories can be sourced from.
2. Government searches
NTSA
Details of motor vehicle ownership and registration are housed on the NTSA TIMS portal. This search reveals the registered owner(s) of the vehicle, chassis and engine number, vehicle model/make among other descriptive features.
MPSR COLLATERAL REGISTRY
The collateral registry, established by the Office of the Attorney General can be accessed under the business registration service on the eCitizen portal. The registry lists movable assets including motor vehicles that have been used as security for loans granted by individuals, financial institutions, and motor vehicle dealers.
KENYA BUREAU OF STANDARDS (KEBS)
This search will help you determine the true mileage of a car and reveal any tampering that may have been done on the odometer. It is done by sending a text message containing the vehicle chassis number to the number 20023. This search also enables verification of details of inspection of a vehicle imported into the country.
KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY (KRA) CUSTOM DUTY SEARCH
For vehicles imported into the country, this search is important to verify payment of import duty.
NB| Avoid cash transactions and use banker’s cheques
