The Ultimate Kenyan Car Service Checklist

The Ultimate Kenyan Car Service Checklist for Private & Taxi Owners

Introduction

Looking for a Kenyan car service checklist that covers everything—from routine maintenance to legal compliance for both private car owners and taxi drivers? This guide dives into essential upkeep tasks unique to Kenya’s dusty roads, seasonal challenges, and regulatory standards. Follow it to help your car stay safe, efficient, and roadworthy.

 Why You Need a Kenyan Car Service Checklist

Regular upkeep ensures your vehicle handles Kenya’s rough terrain and unpredictable weather, while avoiding expensive breakdowns and complying with NTSA regulations.

• Ensures roadworthiness for annual inspections

• Improves safety during rainy/dusty seasons

• Enhances resale value with documented maintenance

 Routine Checks (Daily–Monthly)

 Daily & Weekly Checks

• Tires – Check pressure and inspect for cuts/wear.

• Lights & Signals – Ensure visibility in low-light or rainy conditions.

• Fluids – Top up oil, coolant, brake, and washer fluid.

• Windshield & Wipers – Clean and replace blades, especially pre-rainy season.

• Battery & Electrical – Clean terminals and test strength.

• Belts & Hoses – Look for cracks or leaks weekly.

You can check out our last post of car maintenance for more information.

 Monthly Maintenance

• Oil & Filters – Change engine oil and filters every 5,000–10,000 km.

• Air & Fuel Filters – Replace frequently to cope with Kenya’s dust.

• Brakes – Inspect pads, fluid levels, and response.

• Suspension & Alignment – Rotate tires and assess wheel alignment.

• Undercarriage Cleaning – Rinse after rains; consider anti-rust treatment.

This is what usually happens when you hear Kenyan drivers saying they have taken their car to be serviced.

 Mid-Year & Annual Services

 Quarterly/Semi-Annual Checks

• Replace spark plugs and belts every 10,000–20,000 km.

• Brake Fluid Flush – Recommended every two years.

• Rebalance tires and inspect shocks/struts.

• Examine exhaust and steering linkage.

 Yearly / Major Services

• Comprehensive service covering engine, transmission, and cooling.

• Full Brake Inspection – Pad/disc/trumpet replacements

• Cooling System – Thorough flush and thermostat check.

• Replace wipers, bulbs, cabin air filters, and verify alignment.

• Legal paperwork: motor insurance, NTSA roadworthiness and PSV licensing.

 Seasonal Maintenance 

 Before Rainy Season (Mar–May, Oct–Dec)

• Replace wiper blades and top off washer fluid.

• Clean mud from brakes and underbody; apply anti-rust guard.

• Ensure lights are bright and clear for fog/flood driving.

 During Dry/Dusty Season (Jun–Sep, Jan–Feb)

• Replace air filters monthly; clean cabin filters.

• Clear radiator fins to prevent overheating.

• Inspect door seals and keep coolant handy for long trips.

 Pre-Trip Service for Long Journeys

• Inspect tires (pressures/spare) and tread.

• Replenish all fluids (engine, coolant, brake, transmission).

• Test battery and lighting system.

• Pack an emergency kit & essential tools.

• Carry valid documents: logbook, license, insurance, PSV.

 Legal & Safety Compliance in Kenya

• Renew third‑party insurance and consider comprehensive cover.

• Annual NTSA inspection and road licence renewal required.

• Taxis need PSV license + public service insurance.

• Keep original logbook, insurance, license in car.

• Optional safety kit: fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, first aid.

 Quick Maintenance Action Plan