Guides

Always verify the chassis number on the car matches the logbook before paying a deposit.

Budget at least 10% above the landed cost for first-month insurance, fuel and minor fixes.

For a Japanese import, ask for the auction sheet - grade 4 and above usually means low accident risk.

Test-drive at highway speed before buying locally. Listen for gearbox slip and watch for warning lights after a 20-minute drive.

Wash, detail and photograph in daylight from 8 angles - listings with good photos sell up to 3x faster.

Set a fair price by comparing 3-5 recent listings of the same year, mileage and trim.

Have a recent service receipt and a valid logbook ready - serious buyers will ask within the first message.

Use Nzirusi's on-platform chat for safety. Never share your phone until the buyer is verified.

Change engine oil every 5,000 km on city driving - Kampala traffic is hard on engines.

Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to extend tread life and improve fuel economy.

Check coolant level monthly. Overheating is the #1 cause of preventable engine failure in Uganda.

Service the transmission every 60,000 km on automatics - especially CVTs (common on Hondas, Nissans, Toyotas).

Inspect brake pads every 10,000 km. Squealing is a warning, grinding is too late.

Replace wiper blades every rainy season - poor visibility causes most wet-weather accidents.

Keep a reflective triangle, first-aid kit and fire extinguisher in the boot - it's also a Police requirement.

Never overload. Check the door pillar sticker for your car's maximum load weight.

Renew your logbook and insurance 2 weeks before expiry to avoid penalties.

Keep all service receipts in a folder - it adds resale value when you sell.

Park indoors or under shade when possible - UV degrades dashboards and paint over 2-3 years.

Track fuel economy monthly. A sudden drop usually signals tyre pressure, spark plugs or a clogged air filter.

WhatsApp us - even if you didn't buy the car from us. We help our community first, business second.

Save the URA Customs hotline for clearance issues: +256 800 117 000.

For accidents, photograph the scene before moving the vehicle and notify your insurer within 24 hours.

Keep a trusted mechanic's number in your phone. We can recommend one in your area on request.