Kenyan motorists have developed a preference for government owned-vehicles amid tough times, which have rendered vehicles sold in showrooms a luxury.
Meanwhile, the state signed deals with motor vehicle manufacturers to supply brand-new vehicles on lease and is consequently forced to dispose of hundreds of used cars through mass auctions.
With cars going for as low as Ksh10,000, prospective car owners have flooded auction sites, attracted by the throw-away prices.
However, each purchase can only be completed with a change of particulars.
Kenyans.co.ke spoke to car expert Jonah Kale, alias DB Cooper, who shed light on the process of transfer of ownership of GK cars bought on auction.
Kale noted that once the auctioneer drops the hammer, the process begins after one has been declared the bid winner.
"The winner is presented with a sales agreement which contains a payment plan for the agreed amount. Most auctions require a deposit before participating in an auction which is factored in.
"New owners, upon completion of payment, are presented with documentation including the log book and registration certificate of the car," he stated.
Thereafter, the sales agreement is then presented to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), where the customs duty paid for the vehicle is calculated.
"The taxman tabulates based on the car's depreciation rate. Other factors are also considered, but personally, the most I have paid for a car is Ksh90,000," Kale explained.
After paying the dues, the vehicle must undergo inspection conducted by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). Here, it is subjected to tests to determine if the vehicle is roadworthy.
Checks include working safety belts, suspension, condition of the car body and engine parts. The test costs Ksh24,000, after which one is presented with a Certificate of Roadworthiness.
Armed with copies of the payment of duty and the certificate, car owners proceed to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for registration of vehicles in their name.
"It costs Ksh17,500, which covers change of particular, transfer fees and processing of a new logbook. One is then presented with a new number plate like KDK," Kale explained.
However, while waiting for the new plates, users can use ex-GK plates for up to six months but must carry proof of transfer with them in case they are stopped by traffic police officers.
