4 Things Every Driver Should Consider Before Importing A Car

The second-hand car market may be booming but we are still years away from being able to provide proper documentation for locally used cars. Poor maintenance habits, lack of ethics by salesmen and a widespread absence of accurate data make it almost impossible for buyers to know the real status of cars they are interested in. Stories of people buying cars and spending additional fortunes to fix them and replace parts are so common that it is no longer news!

 
 
 

The tips below are sure to protect you from making costly mistakes and help you understand that car import is actually quite great!

 

1. Do Your Research

 

 

 

Having sufficient pre-purchase knowledge of what brand, make and model you are looking for goes a long way. When trying to find a car, always take into account your current lifestyle and possible lifestyle changes. The presence or absence of a family and whether your planning to have one soon is a question that should be answered after proper consideration. It’s also important to consider what happens after you buy your car, and how accessible are you to car service providers near your home or place of work and the cost of maintenance long-term. It is important to factor in things like service and insurance costs so that you paint a clear picture of how much you really need not just to buy but to own your dream car. If you are a Carhoot user, this can easily be done on the app or with the assistance of our team. You’ll get accurate car import and car service estimates sent to your phone via the app.

 
 
 

2. Get a Reputable Car Dealer

 

 

 

Car import also has its challenges, with the growth of Japanese based conmen posing as car dealers taking advantage of Kenyans each week. The cases of people losing money through these cartels have caught the attention of the Japanese Embassy in Kenya as well as news outlets. Tech tools like Carhoot are offering local car buyers an extra layer of protection by providing easy access to dedicated import agents who deal only with government verified suppliers in multiple countries. Carhoot goes above and beyond other regular importers by providing buyers with detailed documentation, car assessment checks before and after landing, premium hauling and after-sale services.

 
 
 
 
 

“I had an amazing experience working with Carhoot when importing my first car. Ron was quite helpful in getting me the right unit, I got frequent updates on the progress and it was delivered to my doorstep.”

 
 
 

– ANGELA

 
 
 
 
 

3. The Type of Car (Age, Drive Type & Quality)

 

 

 

Thanks to recent changes in the law, cars must be no older than 8 years from the date of manufacture and registration to be valid for import. That means you can not bring in a car that was manufactured before 2014. The Kenyan government has also placed strict restrictions and only right-hand drive vehicles are allowed for import due to our driving laws. Every vehicle entering the country is subject to safety and maintenance checks and any vehicle being imported must be accompanied by a PSI (Pre-Shipment Inspection) Certificate to verify its condition.

 
 
 

4. Special Criteria

 

 

 

If you are purchasing a car for your NGO, or work for an organisation like the UN or if you are a person living with a disability, a rally driver, or need a car for a special diplomatic mission you are privy to certain tax exemptions from the government. If you fall into this category, our agent will help you organise your documents and ensure that everything is properly captured so that you do not miss out on these special considerations.

 
 
 

Thinking of importing a car? Get honest and reliable feedback with the help of our dedicated agents on WhatsApp HERE. They literally make it their business to help people find reliable cars that are suited to their lifestyle. Give the Carhoot App a try, it’s worth it!

 

 

 

CHOOSE JOY!

Why The Honda CR-V Is Still The Best Crossover SUV

The CR-V is a great example of beast-like performance and beautiful design. The multiple awards this car has garnered across the globe are well deserved. Despite facing stiff competition from counterparts such as the X-Trail and Toyota Vanguard, the CR-V has been able to retain its crown as the best performing modern family SUV. Its usual mix of practicality, efficiency, and fun features make it a valuable addition to any household.

 
 
 

In 2011, the designers and engineers at Honda made the bold decision to come up with a new shape and the results were totally worth the leap of faith! The new aerodynamic design captures a clean and modern aesthetic that is pleasing to all drivers.

 
 
 

Performance and Fuel Economy

 

 

 

The 2014 Honda CR-V comes with 3 engine varieties: the 2.4 Litre K24A i-VTEC petrol engine, the 2.0 Litre R20A i-VTEC petrol engine and the 2.2 Litre i-DTEC turbo diesel engine which is common in European models. These engines are linked to a choice of either a 6-Speed Manual, a 5-speed automatic, 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT and are available in both 2WD and 4WD. Another key change Honda made in 2011, was upgrading the CR-V’s fuel efficiency. The difference between the 20G and 24G in terms of performance is quite significant. While the 20G with CVT transmission performs well, the 24G with the 5-Speed Automatic Transmission is much more enjoyable to drive thanks to its dynamic responsiveness. The 2.4L Petrol model accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.9 sec while consuming fuel at a rate of 11.6 km/l and has a fuel tank with a capacity of 58L making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in the market. The newly added Econ mode further helps when it comes to fuel economics but, drivers have to make do with slower acceleration and a dulled throttle response.

 

 

 

Interior Layout

 

 

 

The windscreen pillars are compatible with a large SUV of its kind because their slim layers enhance perfect visibility. Further, visibility is strengthened by the available parking front and rear sensors and cameras. The dashboard layout, on the other hand, although not different from Honda Civic, it’s not the best for its SUV class. The infotainment is high-end technically but may not meet the expectations for those who have experienced Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan. CR-V’s base model boasts of a 5.0-inch color radio screen but a 7.0-inch infotainment system is typical across other models, especially in the hybrid category. The user interface features an Android auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

 

However, the infotainment operating system can be sluggish sometimes and complex to comprehend and manoeuvre through applications. The CR-V’s interior atmosphere is embellished by soft-touch plastics on the upper, gloss black panels, and a silvery theme. More intriguing is the amount of interior space – the central console has plenty of storage space. The rear storage space allows the seats to fold flat and the backrest handles facilitate a 40/60 split of the seats during the folding process. It offers more rear legroom.

 
 
 

Safety and Driver-Assistance Systems

 

 

 

Safety is paramount and automotive companies always strive to ensure they implement world-class safety measures in their cars. For Honda CR-V, safety is at its core of lean processes. The CR-V was awarded a five-star rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and named a Top Safety Car Pick by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). The CR-V 2019 model scored five stars for the frontal crash test at 35mph and the side crash test. Further, it earned four-star in the rollover risk in loss-of-control instances. The lowest ratings were observed in its headlights. Its driver-assistance technologies include standard adaptive cruise control, standard lane-keeping and lane-departure warnings, and automated emergency brakes.

 

Ownership and Maintenance Costs

 

 

 

The Honda CV-R can be costly especially when owning the earliest models. Unexpected break-down issues have been experienced by some owners. In two separate car owners’ reviews, a car owner claimed the car broke down at 867 miles while in the other review at 6,000 miles. This can be frustrating and expensive. Having to take your car for servicing more than is expected affects Honda CR-V’s reliability in the economic sense. However, the CV-R is recognized for holding its value and therefore, can be one of the most affordable cars of its class compared to the competitors. The Edmund True Cost to Own of the Honda CRV stands at $33,306, which is significantly below the 2018 Nissan Rogue S and the 2018 Ford Escape SE 4WD.

 
 
 

Verdict

 

Overall, Honda CR-V has excellent market standings. It has value for money, a spacious interior, and a classy design. Many of its flaws are directed to visibility and mileage issues but besides that, most Honda CR-V owners praise it for its good performance, comfortability and safety.

adaptive cruise control, standard lane-keeping and lane-departure warnings, and automated emergency brakes.

 

Ownership and Maintenance Costs

 

 

 

The Honda CV-R can be costly especially when owning the earliest models. Unexpected break-down issues have been experienced by some owners. In two separate car owners’ reviews, a car owner claimed the car broke down at 867 miles while in the other review at 6,000 miles. This can be frustrating and expensive. Having to take your car for servicing more than is expected affects Honda CR-V’s reliability in the economic sense. However, the CV-R is recognized for holding its value and therefore, can be one of the most affordable cars of its class compared to the competitors. The Edmund True Cost to Own of the Honda CRV stands at $33,306, which is significantly below the 2018 Nissan Rogue S and the 2018 Ford Escape SE 4WD.

 
 
 

Verdict

 

Overall, Honda CR-V has excellent market standings. It has value for money, a spacious interior, and a classy design. Many of its flaws are directed to visibility and mileage issues but besides that, most Honda CR-V owners praise it for its good performance, comfortability and safety.

Why Local Car Prices Are On The Rise In Kenya

More than one year down the line and Kenyans are still reeling from the negative economic implications of the coronavirus pandemic. The local car import sector has not been left unscathed and despite the positive start to 2021, reports indicate that the challenges are far from over. The price of second-hand cars has risen by up to 29% or an equivalent of US$ 5,000 because of the new rise in the cost of buying cars from Japan. As the biggest supplier of used cars in Kenya, and commanding close to 80% of the used car market share in Kenya, this has been a major blow to many local dealers. Thanks to the economic uncertainty brought by COVID-19, people in other countries are keeping their cars for longer, thus limiting the supply and variety Kenyan importers had been accustomed to. Globally new car sales dropped by significant margins and Kenya was slightly luckier than other markets to witness only a 3% decline in 2020. Rising shipping costs between Kenya and Japan are also playing a part in the high import costs of car importation due to a scarcity of containers and ships. Newfound demand for specific products as a result of the coronavirus has completely shifted normal trade flows, leading to bottlenecks and causing empty cargo containers to be left stranded.

The fact that the Kenyan Shilling depreciated significantly against the dollar last year also played a significant role in the current price inflation in local car yards. Popular models such as the Toyota Fielder, Nissan X-trail, and Mazda Demio are prime examples of cars that cost between KES 100,000 and KES 5,000,000 more! The dwindling supply of used cars in the market, the struggling Shilling, and a hike in shipping costs are forcing many dealers to shift the burden to consumers in an already fragile economy that is yet to recover from the toll of the pandemic. Consumer patterns have also significantly changed as the primary buyers of used cars are now facing uphill battles of their own. Many small business owners have been forced to close shop and employees are being forced to make do with significant pay cuts. According to the Kenya Auto Bazaar Association Secretary-General, Mr. Charles Munyori…it is no longer practical for dealers to impart cars they will not sell.

Tech-Based Silver Linings for Car Dealers

 

They say never put all your eggs in one basket and this seems to ring true for Carhoot. By offering customers car import options from over five different countries, Kenyans are more empowered to broaden their scope, explore even more variety, and make better purchase decisions. The reason second-hand imports are so popular in the country is because of the assured documentation and the reduced wear and tear cars from better-developed countries have. With the help of dedicated agents, small dealers can use the app to service their clients by exploring import options from Singapore, Australia, South Africa, U.A.E, and the United Kingdom.

Where Satisfaction Meets Luxury | The 2014 Volkswagen Touareg

Simple, timeless, and undeniably luxurious, the 2014 Volkswagen Touareg is one of the most overlooked mid-sized SUVs in the market despite its great performance. A joint venture by the auto geniuses at both Audi and Porsche, when we take a closer look at this car, all we see is a very affordable version of the world-famous Cayenne. The main reason for the Touareg’s low uptake in the local Kenyan market can be attributed to the common reservations many local car owners have in regards to the maintenance of most German brand vehicles. However, the entry of car care solutions such as Carhoot has made it extremely easier and more affordable for more people to own and maintain such vehicles.

 
 
 

In 2014 the VW team made a few notable additions to the Touareg. Although some may classify these changes as minimal, we believe that these alterations were smart and impactful in keeping the car up to date with its modern look and feel, without having to take part in a full redesign. The Touareg X Special Edition marked the model’s 10th birthday anniversary, while the R-Line added a sporty option to this midsize SUV. The Executive and Hybrid options both received an exclusive top-view parking camera system, and the Executive nabs LED taillights as part of their upgrade. Finally, the majority of the current models now have keyless entry and ignition and a hands-free, foot-activated power liftgate.

 
 
 
“The 2014 Volkswagen Touareg TDI is the automotive equivalent of a little black dress. Every woman has one—they’re simple, timeless, and useful in a number of different situations. The Touareg has embodied these characteristics since its inception.”
 

Danielle Villeneuve

 
 
 

The 2014 Volkswagen Touareg Model Range

Sport

 Riding high with 18-inch wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, foglights, roof rails, heated exterior mirrors, a power liftgate, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (with manual lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, Bluetooth phone, and audio connectivity and an eight-speaker sound system with touchscreen control, a six-CD changer, satellite radio, and iPod integration.
 
 The Sport’s comes with an optional Navigation package that is standard with the TDI engine, a navigation system as well as keyless entry/ignition, a rearview camera, and a hands-free power liftgate that you can open by waving your foot under the rear bumper.
 

Lux

The Lux comes with all the Sport with Navigation’s tools and goes higher with 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding exterior mirrors, leather upholstery, front-seat power lumbar adjustment, driver memory functions, and power rear-seat releases in the cargo area.
 

X Special Edition

Based on the Lux with the TDI engine, the X Special Edition features exclusive paint, unique 19-inch wheels, LED taillights, and upgraded leather upholstery and interior trim.
 
R Line
Compared to the Lux, the R-Line loses the hands-free liftgate, but otherwise starts with the V6 Lux’s features and adds 20-inch wheels, a sports body kit, a sport-tuned suspension, and LED taillights.
 
Executive
 The Executive has all of the V6 Lux’s features, including the hands-free liftgate, and adds distinctive 20-inch wheels of its own, LED taillights, rear parking sensors, a top-view parking display with four cameras, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a premium 10-speaker Dynaudio sound system.
 

Hybrid

 

Although the Hybrid is the most expensive Touareg, it downgrades to 19-inch wheels and the standard audio system (versus the Dynaudio setup). Otherwise, the Hybrid is equipped similarly to the Executive, and it also adds a power-adjustable steering column and passenger-seat memory settings.

 
 
 

Fun To Drive & Jaw-Dropping Road Performance

 

 

 

Responsive Steering

 

Compared to any other brand within the same price range, Touareg is clearly the vehicle to beat! There’s a magical sense of purpose in the way this car handles the road. We aren’t one’s to size shame cars, but as SUVs go…the Touareg’s frame is as close to perfect as it gets. Not too big and nowhere close to being too small, surpassing the almost impossible threshold of making any SUV enjoyable and fun to drive. When you get behind the wheel of a Touareg, nobody will blame you if you forget that you are actually driving an SUV! The feature that makes all this possible is the amazing steering, that in all rights should be given multiple awards. It’s highly responsive and free from the annoying foreign weight that is common in almost every other SUV. Driving on highways, the impressive confidence exuded by the Touareg’s stable and silent drive is hard to ignore and makes the car even more lovable!

Handling & Performance

 

If you can’t have a sports car, then get yourself a car that is just as fast and handles the road almost the same. The 2014 VW Toureg does just that. It comes in four engine options; these are a 4.2L V8, 340 PS diesel engine, a 3.0L V6, 204 PS Clean Diesel engine, a 3.0L V6, 245 PS Clean Diesel engine, and a 3.0L V6, 333 PS hybrid petrol engine. These are all linked to an 8-speed Automatic Transmission and available only in 4WD. Even at top speeds, this car boasts impressive stability around corners thanks to an automatic self-leveling and height adjustment feature paired with CDC (Continuous Damping Control). It’s Air Suspension system allows drivers to choose between either Normal, Sport, or Comfort settings, depending on the style of drive needed. While in Normal Mode, the suspension is adjusted for on-road driving and the throttle response is dulled down for better fuel economy.

 
Despite not having low-range gearing, the VW remains reliable in off-road conditions. We recommend making use of the Comfort Mode while tackling uneven or rougher roads as it softens the suspension to dampen any shock. When it comes to power, the Touareg’s V6 engine provides smooth, eager power, but the TDI V6 is the top choice if you are looking for both performance and efficiency, not to mention superior driving range. The Sports Mode takes this up a notch by giving drivers access to precise throttle response and also raises the ground clearance by 30 cm while driving on unpaved roads.
 

 

Fuel Efficiency
 

While in Normal Mode, the suspension is adjusted for on-road driving and the throttle response is dulled down for better fuel economy. The Touareg has a fuel tank capacity of 100L and consumes fuel as follows:

 

  • 2014 VW Touareg 3.0L 204 PS Diesel fuel consumption: 17.2 km/L

  • 2014VW Touareg 3.0L 245 PS Diesel fuel consumption: 16.7 km/L

  • 2014 VW Touareg 4.2L 340 PS Diesel fuel consumption: 13.1 km/L

  • 2014 VW Touareg 3.0L 333 PS Petrol Hybrid fuel consumption: 14.6 km/L

 
 

Safety

 

The 2014 Volkswagen Touareg comes standard with traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, hill hold assist front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. A rearview camera is standard on every Touareg with the exception of the V6 Sport model, while an upgraded top-view camera is standard on both the Executive and Hybrid models.

 
Space, Cargo & Storage
 
The VW goes against the grain by sticking to only 5 seats. The increased competition in the medium SUV market has forced many brands to add an extra row of seats to “trick” consumers into feeling that they are in a full-sized SUV. However, if we are being honest, the additional third-row seats in most mid-sized SUVs are often hard to fit adults and are best suited for growing families with younger children. It is refreshing to still find a midsize SUV on the market meant for just 5 passengers.
 
 There are several storage compartments in the cabin that are useful for storing items such as smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags, etc. In the first row, there are 4 cup-holders, door panel storage, a glovebox, and the center box. In the second row, there are 2 cupholders in the armrest compartment, front seat jacket pockets, and door pockets. The Touareg’s boot is quite spacious and can carry sizable luggage making it ideal for travel and road trips. We appreciate the fact that the rear seats can slide forward to create even more space or even fold down completely in a 40/20/40 split format.
 
 
 

Interior

 

The interior maintains the classic VW feel. Once inside the cabin, you can’t help but notice the elegant balance of leather, soft-touch plastics, and wood trim throughout the vehicle and the simplicity of its controls. Switches and buttons remain where many of Touareg’s competitors have moved to touch screens and haptic controls. This remains a matter of preference as some drivers still find using buttons for some things easier and the quality feel that VW has invested in these features seems to make up for this too. The infotainment system is relatively intuitive and easy to navigate, however, the map could benefit from an aesthetic upgrade. The Dynaudio audio system is a great addition to the higher trim levels, like the Executive. In some cases, a premium sound system is used to cover up some of the road noise, but not in Touareg’s case it adds to the experience!

 
 
 

Easily import the 2014 Touareg via the Carhoot App today and get dedicated assistance with the help of our highly trained Import Agents.

5 Carhoot Car Safety Tips For Driving In The Rain

When it rains, it pours…literally! All across the country, heavy rains and thunderstorms have come as both a blessing and a curse. In our capital, Nairobi, drivers and pedestrians alike have been flooding social media with reports of the numerous challenges they have encountered on their commutes with many roads across the city turning into temporary “rivers.” Kenyan drivers will continue to face heavy rainfall and wet road conditions up to the end of the month, and we at Carhoot believe it is vital that we all take extra measures to prevent loss of life and accidents. Director of Meteorological Services Stella Aura, in a statement earlier this week, called for measures to be put in place to avoid loss of lives and property during the rains.

 
 
 
“It’s going to rain heavy…Everyone using the roads either as a driver or pedestrian is advised to observe extra caution. Avoid passing through moving waters. Keep safe,” she said.
 
 
 

1. It Is Okay To Wait For Better Weather Before Driving

 

It’s good to remember that driving in the rain is not necessary, especially if you feel uncomfortable or the area you are in is experiencing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Waiting for the weather to improve is a wise move that saves you from putting yourself and others in danger, by driving in wet conditions.

 
 
 

2.Make Sure Your Car Is In Good Condition

 

Let’s be honest, do you check your car each morning before you drive off? When it comes to car care, procrastination is a “silent killer.”Being vigilant about the condition of our cars can seem tedious and annoying, but by embracing this responsibility we can better protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities from unnecessary loss of life and damage to property. As drivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that our tires, headlights, taillights, and turn signals are all in proper working condition before heading out.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: Whatever the weather, always make sure your signal lights are fully functional at all times.

 
 
 

3. Improve Your Visibility While Driving

 

One of the biggest challenges most drivers face when driving in the rain is limited visibility. Turning on your headlights will help imporve your own visibility and the visibility of your car to other drivers. When you turn your headlights on and your backlights come on, you identify all four corners of the vehicle. However, it is good to remember that turning on your brights may lead to more harm than good and reflect off wet surfaces, bouncing back into your eyes and irritating other drivers.

 
 
 

The other thing simple step that can help improve visibility is switching on your windshield wipers. For many unknown reasons, a lot of drivers still forget to switch them on. Another thing that most drivers fail to realize that greatly affects visibility is the condition of windshields. Driving in the rain can be significantly harder if your windshield is dirty. Simple things like ensuring both the inside and outside of your windshields stay clean, and checking your windshield wipers for wear and tear can go a long way in ensuring good visibility. While at the Car Wash, never hesitate to ask your cleaners to pay extra attention to these areas (after all, you are paying for it) and check the levels of your washer fluid each week.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: Rain causes humidity levels to increase. You may find that your vehicle’s windows become foggy when you operate your vehicle while it is raining. Most cars’ ventilation systems include a function that will work to reduce this type of fog that develops on the interior of your windows and windshield. It may be necessary to pull over if you are no longer able to see through your windows.

 

 

 

4. Plan Your Routes Based On The Condition Of The Roads

 

It is always good to remember that the most dangerous roads to drive on are the ones that have been exposed to a light rain after a dry spell. This is because the rain water mixes with the dust, rubber, engine oil and other dirt that accumulates on the road surface to create a slippery mixture that makes driving on these more dangerous. This especially a greater risk in urban areas where the roads are smoother and have less grip.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: On wet surfaces that you are not too sure about, you can deal with the matter by making your steering smooth and gentle. Start with braking lightly, then pushing progressively harder on the pedal until you are sure of how much grip you can get. It is also wise to begin braking earlier than if you were on dry roads. This way, incase you skid, you’ll have enough time and space to release the brakes and apply them again more gently than before.

 
 
 

The first thing that comes to mind, especially for people in Nairobi is the heavy traffic that we always experience during when it rains. If the road you use is prone to flooding, it’s good to always consider alternative routes if possible. Google Maps can be a great asset when it comes to this, and identifying alternative routes that may have less traffic.

 

 

 

5. Avoid Standing Water At All Costs

 

Even though most cars handle standing water and puddles quite well the danger of hydroplaning is very real. Hydroplaning happens when a sheet of water comes between your tires and the pavement, causing your vehicle to lose traction and sometimes even spin out of control. In these situations, your tires hit the water faster than they can push it away, causing them to ride on top of it, which can cause a loss of control. Drivers can lose control in even as little as 7cm of water. Some front-wheel-drive cars are prone to sudden aquaplaning when accelerating over standing water.

 
 
 

How To Avoid Hydroplaning

 

  1. Drive slowly and carefully. High acceleration increases the chances of hydroplaning and increases the risk of an accident happening because our cars react slower in wet conditions.

  2. Drive around places where there is standing water by changing lanes or safely steering around such areas.

  3. Do not use cruise controls

What To Do When Your Car Hydroplanes

 

  1. You need to reduce power quickly to restore traction and control. Slowly ease your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction that the front of your car needs to go.

  2. Avoid making sudden turns or slamming on your brakes.

  3. If the wheels lock again, repeat the exercise – this is called cadence braking.

In case you encounter any challenges on the road during wet weather, it is assuring to know we offer 24/7 car recovery and emergency services. Carhoot is readily available to provide professional on-demand assistance and our personnel is even equipped to provide you with accident and police assistance if you subscribe to our exclusive membership packages. Easily download the app on either Google Play or the App Store. For more information on this, you can reach out to our Contact on WhatsApp HERE.

 
 

What To Do After A Car Accident In Kenya?

Accidents happen. Especially on the road. As much as driving carefully plays a huge role in accident prevention, there are still many factors that can lead to mishaps and crashes. That being said, being prepared for such events can help prevent the situation from getting worse or even adding more salt to an already painful wound. It is no secret that accidents on the road have been known to leave even the most experienced drivers overwhelmed.

 
 
 

Check out our Carhoot pointers below:

 
 
 

1. Do Not Leave The Scene Of The Accident:

 

 

 

In case of any type of road mishap or accident, it is very important to never flee the scene unless your life is in danger! This applies even to the smallest of incidents. Not only is it highly irresponsible, but fleeing the scene of an accident is a punishable offense under the Road Traffic Act. Take a few moments to switch off your engine, and turn on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers to your position as well as indicate that you may be in distress. Observe your surroundings and ensure that all the passengers if any are okay. In case of serious injuries, use your first aid kit to administer first aid as you wait for medical assistance. It is really important to always have a properly stocked first aid kit in your car and at least two contacts for different ambulance services on your phone at any given time. Also, if there has been a death, the first step is to immediately contact the police.

 
 
 

An Example of Special Circumstances

 
 
 

In many cases, other road users and pedestrians often are a big help and act as Good Samaritans. Even in the case of small accidents, a witness can make a huge difference in how your post-accident journey goes. In case you have been in a road accident and experience direct external threats to your personal safety from other parties, the best course of action is to if possible, drive to the nearest police station and make a report. More often than not, Kenyan car owners have found themselves in conflict with boda boda riders over accidents. Many times drivers can find themselves being intimidated, threatened, and even attacked before they can take proper actions.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: As a Carhoot Member, you can take advantage of our Road and Assist services to make the process easier. We offer 24-hour Emergency Rescue and Medical Assistance Covers that will ensure you and your passengers get emergency transportation to the nearest appropriate hospital in case of any injuries. We partner with the best ambulance and evac services to ensure our members get the priority they need.

 
 
 

2. Call The Police:

 

 

 

The second major step is to reach out to the Traffic Police from the nearest police station and report what has happened. Even if there are no serious injuries, it is a legal requirement to inform the police. Also if there has been any form of damage, personal injury to you or other people at the scene of the accident, or worse still death, the police will be essential to ensuring you get the required assistance.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: Make sure you note down the badge numbers and names of the officers who arrive at the scene. Any police officer who responds to an accident is required to fill out an accident report and document the scene. This report will then be used by you to file a claim with your insurance company. Police reports carry significant weight with insurers in determining how they resolve claims.

 
 
 

3. Remember To Capture Details Of All Parties Involved

 

 

 

In case there are other people involved at the scene, ensure you capture all their contact information and any other detail you may think is important. Things like name, mobile numbers, driver’s license numbers, residential address, license plate, car make, and model will help make the process easier once you get time to follow up. In as much as the officers who report at the scene will be tasked to collect this data, it is better to be safe than sorry. If there are any witnesses, you can also take the initiative of taking their mobile numbers in case you need them to record a statement.

 
 
 

4. Make Notes Of What Happened

 

 

 

If you are not injured and no one at the scene is harmed. Take a few moments to note down everything that happened as accurately as possible. If you are not sure then it is better not to make assumptions but only capture what you know is true If there are police officers already at the scene, make sure you ask them to share a copy of their accident report with you. Also, remember to include notes of the condition of your car and indicate any damage specifically. Taking clear pictures of your car from different angles and any other property damage or physical injuries to any person at the scene will also be helpful.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: If you need your car transported or towed or help in fixing any damage to your car after an accident, easily use the Carhoot App or reach out to our team through contact number and we will guide you through the process.

 
 
 

5. Reach Out To Your Insurance Provider

 

 

 

As soon as you are able to, contact your insurers and let them know what has happened. Explain everything as best as you can, and share the notes you captured and the reports from the police. If you or any person suffered any injuries as a result of the accident, make sure they are properly informed about the extent of the injuries suffered. If you are in a position to reach out to a Carhoot Customer Suppor or your insurance agent while still at the scene, let them guide you on anything you may need to process any claims you may have.

 
 
 

PRO TIP: Our Carhoot Technical Assist teams are only a call away to advise any of our members on road traffic laws, insurance policies, and accident damage recovery claims. We offer legal support and police assistance on motor-related matters.

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Why You Can Never Go Wrong With The Mercedes C-Class

When it comes to Mercedes Benz, the slogan “The Best or Nothing” is all parts true! The C-Class range of cars has been dubbed some of the best cars money can buy for good reason. Mercedes has been leading the “game” for over five generations, having cornered the market by building a brand that has become synonymous with class, luxury, and quality. The C-Class range has been a fan favorite across the globe because of its affordability and unmistakable style attributes that can be directly linked to the superior S-Class model. However, the 2014 Mercedes C-Class range is so much more than a miniaturized version of the S-Class…This 5 seaters executive car comes in a variety of three-body options i.e. saloon, coupe, and station wagon, thus broadening its appeal to more than just career individuals and expanding its reach to family and other markets.

 
 …noise refinement, fuel efficiency, aerodynamics and a beautiful interior that is worth every shilling!
 

The story behind the new 2014 Mercedes C-Class design was a combination of teamwork, brilliance, and technological ingenuity. After an internal design competition among all five of Mercedes design centers, the final

The C-Class Range of Mercedes Car Models

The C-Class range represents Mercedes’s entry-level class of executive cars, with the C180 being the base model in Europe and the C200 being the base model in Australia (where it was the sedan of choice). Due to the fact that it comes with base equipment and engines, the C-180 is also the most affordable in the C-Class category. The entire range has been able to offer its users an unbeatable combination of luxury and affordability. The C250 however has more elegant features and the differences can be spotted in areas like the dashboard and interior. Despite stiff competition, the C-Class range of sedans has managed to outshine competitors such as Audi, Toyota, VW & Subaru due to the unmistakable quality each of the cars in the range provides.

Attention To Detail In The Interior

The interior isn’t just roomy, but elegant! With enough legroom that even the tallest of our friends will appreciate whether in the driving seat or as passengers, universal comfort was clearly a huge part of the design. According to Mercedes, the 80mm-longer wheelbase brings an extra 25mm of legroom than previous designs. The seats are made of high-quality artificial leather that can fool most people and will make any journey comfortable whether you are in the driving seat or a passenger. Everywhere you seem to look, the cabin has been covered with tactile surfaces that surpass even the standard touchpoints! From the window switches to the glovebox, the consistency in the design and color of the trims creates an elegance only surpassed by the S-Class. They even used the same pleasant perfume dispenser as the much superior model, giving the entire interior that signature Mercedes scent.

 When it comes to infotainment, the dashboard screen bears a lot of similarities to an Ipad Air, and it is believed that the design was heavily influenced by Apple. The updated command system has a cool new controller that brings together the convenience of a touchpad and the natural intuitiveness of a rotary dial. Drivers can easily use the touchpad to go through a variety of menu items. The satellite navigation system is however the only letdown and can be said to make finding your way a little bit harder than needed. The main cause of this is the delayed route graphics and audio instructions.

Engine & Performance

With a choice of five different engine options in both petrol and diesel, we understand if you are spoilt for choice! The C180 comes with a Turbocharged 1.6 Litre 154PS petrol engine that is linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. It has less engine power but boasts a refined and pretty much soundproof driving experience that everyone finds enjoyable. With an impressive 5.5 liters of fuel per 100km, the C-180 may be slower than its C-Class companions but it sure is pocket-friendly!

 The class favorite, the C200 has been dubbed the mid-sized warrior due to its extensive popularity all over the world. The C200 comes with two engine options; the Turbocharged 1.8 Litre 204PS petrol engine and the Turbocharged 2.1 Litre diesel engines turbocharged 1.8 Litre 204PS engine. It boasts very respectable speeds, with the seven-speed dual-clutch helping this relatively light car go from 0 to 100km/hr in just 7.3 seconds and a fuel economy of 6.0L/100Km.
 
 There are five different driving modes, offering drivers the choice between Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. In each position, four parameters are changed, namely the throttle response, steering effort, air conditioning power, and start-stop system. In automatic models, the shift points are tailored to each mode too. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the engine management matches the revs with each downshift, an entertaining – if somewhat pointless – feature on such a frugal, economy-minded diesel.

In Conclusion

The Mercedes C-Class range goes above and beyond expectations, built by the world’s best automaker with longevity and high standards in mind. The entire team at Carhoot considers the C-200 as the best option all-around option, ideal for business professionals, executives, and car lovers who can appreciate all the benefits of owning this beautiful vehicle! If you are having thoughts about buying yourself a Mercedes Benz then explore our verified stock units both locally and abroad! Reach out to our Car Sales Agents and get the personalized assistance you need to find the right Benz for you!

Kenya’s Next WRC Rally Champion! Our Friend Mcrae Kimathi

Young, fast and funny, Mcrae Kimathi blew us away when he first came into the spotlight as one of Kenya’s youngest rally stars. Hailing from an impressive lineage of rally greatness, his father Phineas Kimathi was the first person to win a Formula 2 WRC event with Hyundai in 1997! Mcrae was kind-hearted enough to participate in Carhoot Chronicles a short video series on Kenyan Car Culture and his insights were VERY interesting. We had the good fortune of interviewing him for this blog a few days before the WRC kick-off and this is what he had to say…

How important is the Safaricom FIA Rally Star Program sponsorship to your career?

The FIA Rally Star Program is important. Safaricom coming on board with the partnership with Kenya Airways is very exciting and a new challenge. I am so grateful for their support and hope to make them proud.

For those who don’t know, Mcrae is among three lucky young drivers who received a Kenya Shilling 15 Million sponsorship deal courtesy of Safaricom and Kenya Airways to join the FIA (World’s leading motorsport organization) special program aimed at nurturing global motor talents across the world.

Do you think this year’s WRC event will be different?

This year’s WRC event will be different from the older days as it will be run on purely private roads so making sure we have utmost safety.

What is something you think everyday Kenyan drivers can learn from the WRC and world of rally sports?

Just be safe, obey the traffic rules, and make sure that everything is okay and you are safe. Safety is a major part of our racing requirements.

For more information on how to ensure you are following all the rules, please check out the Spectator Guidelines HERE.

What car will you be driving?

I will be driving a Ford Fiesta R3. A new class in the market to help young drivers excel and hone their skills.

You mentioned you like listening to Bongo while you race? Do you have a playlist ready and if so, which artists/songs will be joining you on this year’s race?

I am a huge fan of Ali Kiba, and I really want to be in his concerts. Mapenzi Yana Run Dunia,Mac Muga, and Dushelele are my favorite songs!

How would you like Kenyans to support you and your team this year?

Be safe take the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) requirements seriously, don’t drink and drive and most of all have fun at the rally.

Watch Out for Car #49…

The entire team at Carhoot will be actively cheering Mcrae on and we hope you guys do too! If you aren’t attending the WRC Rally in person, please make sure you catch the live stream, available on multiple platforms. You can also follow Mcrae on Instagram and Twitter!

Amazing Kenyan Car Gift Ideas For Fathers Day 2021

We all know dads love their cars almost as much as they love their families. Instead of getting him another pair of socks, more fancy ties, or “the usual” Fathers Day gifts how about getting him something he actually loves!

Why The Engine Oil You Use Really Matters

Understanding all the weird stuff you need to learn once you start owning a car can be daunting for anyone. But, with a little help from us and Google, you can educate yourself on the basics! For instance, what is engine oil anyway, and why is it so important? Well, simply put, engine oil is a specially manufactured lubricant, made to help your car’s engine work better for longer. If you allow us to take you on a brief drive down memory lane to your Class Five Science Class, you may hopefully remember your teacher trying to explain to you what friction is and how it is caused. Friction occurs when two surfaces in close contact are moving in opposite directions to each other and in a car’s engine…that’s almost everywhere!

The reason there is so much friction inside an engine is due to all the metallic gears and parts that have to be in constant motion to get you where you need to go. Too much friction in the engine leads to wear and tear and if not taken care of can lead to very expensive damage. It is safe to say, that the primary use of engine oil is to minimize friction in your engine, but we wouldn’t be telling you the whole story if we stopped there.

More Than Oil…The Composition of Engine Oil

To better understand the other uses of engine oil, you have to understand what it’s made of. Aside from oil, many manufacturers today add things like detergent, antiwear agents, dispersing agents, anti-corrosion agents, and in some cases, viscosity index improvers ( basically substances that make sure your engine oil maintains the same level of viscosity ).

Keeping Your Engine Clean

As you drive your car, dirt and dust will eventually make their way inside your engine and team up with combustion residue to make some icky-looking deposits also known as sludge. These deposits build up gradually and if not taken care of, can actually lead to engine clogs and reduced performance. The consistent movement of oil inside your car’s engine allows for all the dirt to be carried all the way to your oil filter where all the collected dirt is trapped.

Cooling Your Engine

We all know that friction causes heat, and with all the parts in your engine constantly moving against each other, things can get get pretty hot under your bonnet. As much as coollant (hence it’s name) is specifically made to regulate engine temepratures, it doesn’t reach as many parts of the engine as motor oil does. The oil you use actually helps release heat through the path it takes while lubricating the engine.

Preventing Corrosion

Remember the anti-corrosive agenets we mentioned earlier? Well they are very important in reducing the acidic effects of combusted fuel. However the effects of engine oil are only effective in the abscence of oxidation. Once your oil has been exposed to oxygen for long periods of time, the anti-corrosive agents lose their effectiveness, and your engine parts could be exposed to damage from the corrosive acidic. If you were not keen on changing your oil, and need a little help with keeping check with your oil changes, the Carhoot App is for you!

Acts As An Amazing Sealant

The sealing properties of engine oil are important because they help stop the release of combustion chamber gases into the open. Engine oil forms an air tight seal all over the piston rings and cylinder walls inside your engine, and sticks to all the metal surfaces, preventing the gases from combusting by the pistons. The layer of oil also helps lubricate the rings and ring grooves, allowing better movement and better contact with the cylinders.

The Importance Of Following Your Car Manufacturer’s Instructions

When it comes to the type of oil you should use, the best choice you could make is sticking to what your automaker suggests, after all…they built your car! Every car is different and has different needs when it comes to engine oil, and understanding your car’s unique needs is the first step to ensuring that you are indeed using the right oil and saving yourself the heartache of costly engine repairs in the future.

The Service Team at Carhoot understands this intimately, and we pride ourselves on using the best products in the market for our clients. Everytime we are tasked to service a clients car, we prefer internationaly recognized brands such as Castrol, Valvoline, Mobil and Penzzoil. Sometimes, your car acting up could just be its way of telling you it needs some fresh oil!Let us know if we could help you service your car, by reaching out to us on WhatsApp, or simply by downloading the app on Google Play or the Apple Store and making a request.