nakujua wrote:@premio you are more experienced in the car importation business - but don't you think it would be better to get a low millage car with say worn out seats or chipped paintwork than a high millage one in pristine condition. given that the millage is not tampered with.
at the end of the day if the engine and suspension have moved around a lot and are more worn out that means you will get little life from the car. I could be wrong.
@Nakujua I have previously imported a vehicle with mileage of 250k landed. Its still going strong to date. Works as a matatu, current mileage is 800K plus. Still strong as a horse. Its all about how well taken care of the vehicle is.
The ones you avoid or take the gamble are Subaru engines or any other engines that need a full timing kit and water pump replacement every 100K. Changing the timing belt alone on a Subaru doesnt save you. Depends on the car you are buying.
The reality is the only reasonably priced cars you import are mostly relatively high mileage ie 100K plus or auction grade R vehicles. The average Kenyan can't afford a grade 4 vehicle with mileage below 60K at a japanese auction. And SBT for example sell a reasonable number of grade R vehicles, not that they are bad cars but they are cheaper at the auction.