Buying a used car in Kenya has never been easier — but with so many websites, dealers, and importers promising “great deals,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. From Nairobi to Mombasa, everyone seems to know “a guy who sells cars.”
The truth is, not every platform gives you value, safety, and speed. In this post, we’ll explore the best places to buy used cars in Kenya, what makes them stand out, and why Automart.co.ke is emerging as Kenya’s most trusted and transparent online marketplace for car buyers and sellers.
🚗 1. Why More Kenyans Are Buying Cars Online
Gone are the days when you had to walk around car bazaars all day comparing prices. Today, more than 70% of Kenyan car buyers start their search online, comparing prices, features, and locations before making a call.
Online platforms make it easier to:
- Browse thousands of vehicles from the comfort of your home.
- Compare prices across models, years, and mileage.
- Connect directly with genuine sellers.
- Avoid middlemen and inflated commissions.
However, not all online marketplaces are created equal — and that’s where you need to choose carefully.
🏁 2. The Best Places to Buy Used Cars in Kenya (2025 Update)
a) Automart.co.ke – Kenya’s Free Vehicle Marketplace
If you want reliable listings, transparent sellers, and a zero-cost experience, Automart.co.ke should be your first stop.
What makes Automart unique:
- ✅ 100% Free Listings – no posting or browsing fees.
- 🚀 Sponsored Promotions for faster visibility.
- 🎥 Featured Video Ads – see the car in motion before you buy.
- 🔒 Powered by Middleman Capital Holdings – ensuring platform security and credibility.
- 💬 Direct Buyer-Seller Contact – no hidden charges or commissions.
- 🧭 Smart Filters – search by make, model, location, fuel type, or price range.
💡 Why it tops the list:
Automart is built specifically for Kenya’s vehicle market, meaning every feature — from payment options to listings — is local, simple, and trusted.
👉 Visit Automart.co.ke to browse used cars now
b) Cheki (now Autochek Africa)
Cheki has long been a major player in Kenya’s automotive e-commerce scene. It offers a wide range of cars and financing options.
Pros:
- Huge inventory
- Professional dealer listings
- Financing support
Cons:
- Listing fees for sellers
- Limited individual seller control
Automart, by comparison, offers completely free listings and focuses on direct, commission-free transactions.
c) Jiji Kenya
Formerly OLX, Jiji remains one of Kenya’s largest general marketplaces. You can find cars there, but it’s not focused solely on vehicles.
Pros:
- Large audience reach
- Free posting
Cons:
- Mixed-category platform (cars, electronics, etc.)
- Higher risk of time-wasters and fake listings
- Limited verification
Automart avoids these issues by hosting vehicle-only listings — making it easier to find serious buyers and sellers fast.
d) Toyotsu Auto Mart Kenya
Run by Toyota Kenya, Toyotsu specializes in verified used Toyota imports.
Pros:
- Guaranteed Toyota quality
- Warranty and inspection included
Cons:
- Only Toyota brand
- Higher prices (mostly above KES 1.5M)
If you’re on a budget under KES 1 million, Automart gives you far more flexibility with all brands and models.
e) Local Dealerships & Bazaars
Physical dealers in Nairobi’s Ngong Road, Kiambu Road, or Mombasa’s Changamwe area remain popular.
Pros:
- Physical inspection before purchase
- Face-to-face negotiation
Cons:
- Limited stock
- Higher overhead prices
- Requires time and travel
A smarter move? Search on Automart first, shortlist vehicles that fit your budget, and then schedule physical inspections only for serious options.
💡 3. Why Automart.co.ke Is the Smart Choice for 2025
| Feature | Automart.co.ke | Facebook Marketplace | Jiji Kenya | Cheki (Autochek) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Vehicles only | Mixed items | Mixed items | Vehicles |
| Cost | Free listings | Free | Free | Paid |
| Verification | Locally managed | Minimal | Basic | Verified dealers |
| Video Ads | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Local Support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Limited | ✅ Yes |
| SEO Visibility | ✅ Google Optimised | ❌ Private | ❌ Limited | ✅ Moderate |
✅ Verdict: Automart.co.ke delivers the perfect balance of reach, speed, transparency, and trust — all while being completely free to use.
🧭 4. How to Buy Safely on Automart.co.ke
To make the most of Automart’s marketplace:
- Use the filters to narrow down by make, model, and price.
- Check for clear photos, detailed descriptions, and logbook info.
- Communicate directly with sellers through verified contacts.
- Meet in safe, public places for viewings or test drives.
- Use secure payment methods and complete NTSA ownership transfer.
For step-by-step guides, check Automart’s blog section on “How to Spot a Good Deal When Buying a Used Car Online”.
🏆 5. The Future of Car Buying in Kenya
Kenyan car buyers are shifting rapidly toward digital marketplaces that prioritize convenience, transparency, and trust.
Platforms like Automart.co.ke are leading this revolution — combining technology, local understanding, and zero-cost accessibility to make car trading simpler than ever.
If you’re planning to buy a car in 2025, start where smart Kenyans are already shopping.