Is it safe to buy a car in Nairobi if I live in Meru?

Yes, if you have it inspected by someone you trust, search it on the NTSA portal and pay only once the transfer is under way. Never send money to hold a car you have not seen checked.

Do I need to go to an NTSA office to transfer a logbook?

Usually not. The seller and the buyer can start and approve the transfer on the NTSA portal. Confirm the current steps and fee on the NTSA site.

Buying a car from Meru, Nyeri and other towns outside Nairobi

If you live in Meru or another town outside Nairobi, you will often find more choice in Nairobi and Mombasa. Shortlist online, have a trusted mechanic inspect the car for you, search it on the NTSA portal, and pay only once the logbook transfer is under way. Ownership transfer can be done on the NTSA portal, so you usually do not need to travel to an NTSA office.

Finding cars near you

Start with listings in your county, then widen the search to Nairobi and Mombasa, where most of Kenya’s cars are for sale. A car a few hours away can still be the best deal once you count the choice and price.

Pick a car for your roads

On rough or hilly roads, favour higher ground clearance and simple, proven models.
For farm and business use, a pickup or a Probox or Succeed carries more and costs little to repair.
Choose a model your local mechanics know and can find parts for.

Inspecting a car from afar

Ask the seller for a live video call walking round the car, with the engine started from cold.
Pay for an independent mechanic or inspection service near the car.
Ask for clear photos of the logbook, the chassis number and the odometer.
Never pay a deposit to "hold" a car you have not had inspected.

Paying and transferring safely

Agree the price in writing, start the transfer on the NTSA portal with the seller, and pay by bank transfer once the transfer request is in place. Logbook transfer can be done on the NTSA portal, so neither of you usually has to visit an NTSA office.

Getting the car home

Drive it home yourself after the transfer, with insurance in your name from the day you collect it.
Or use a car carrier or a trusted driver for long distances.
Plan the trip in daylight, and do a pre-trip safety check before you set off.

Common questions

Is it safe to buy a car in Nairobi if I live in Meru?: Yes, if you have it inspected by someone you trust, search it on the NTSA portal and pay only once the transfer is under way. Never send money to hold a car you have not seen checked.
Do I need to go to an NTSA office to transfer a logbook?: Usually not. The seller and the buyer can start and approve the transfer on the NTSA portal. Confirm the current steps and fee on the NTSA site.