Overview

The Daihatsu Tanto is a quirky, efficient, and compact kei car with a surprising amount of interior flexibility packed into a small footprint. Born out of Japan’s need for compact, efficient city vehicles, the Tanto combines practicality with fuel efficiency.

How to Buy a Daihatsu Tanto via Clyde Motors

Here’s a step-by-step guide (with tips) for someone looking to purchase a Daihatsu Tanto through Clyde Motors in Nairobi (or via them as an importer).

Step 1: Initial Research & Contact

1. Check Clyde Motors’ catalog / listings
   • Visit their website (www.clydemotors.co.ke) or contact them via their phone: 0740 636210
   • Ask if they currently have any Daihatsu Tanto units in stock, including model years, trim levels, arrival status, etc.
2. Ask for photos and detailed info
   • Exterior, interior, engine bay, chassis number, service history
   • Mileage, year of manufacture, previous owners, condition
3. Get a price quote inclusive of import costs (if not local stock)
   • CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) or landed cost
   • Import duty, clearing, inspection (KEBS/TBS), registration, NTSA / TIMS fees

Step 2: Verification & Inspection

1. Check the chassis / VIN / engine number
   • Ensure they match documents, not tampered
   • Use NTSA / TIMS / Auction / Import history to verify
2. Inspect the car physically
   • Body for rust, damage, alignment, welding
   • Undercarriage, suspension, shock absorbers
   • Engine condition: leaks, noise, compression
   • Transmission, clutch, automatic system health
   • Electrical: lights, windows, controls, dashboard cluster
   • Interiors: seats, door mechanisms, trims, carpets
   • Check odometer consistency with wear
3. Get a mechanic / expert to assess it
   • Especially someone familiar with Japanese imports / kei cars
   • Ask to run diagnostics if possible
4. Request service history / invoice trail
   • Maintenance, previous repairs
   • Confirm authenticity of logbook or import papers

Step 3: Negotiation & Payment

• Use comparable market pricing (other imported Tanto / kei cars) to negotiate
• Ensure all extra costs (clearing, registration, import, local transport) are factored
• Never pay full amount before seeing the vehicle, verifying documents
• Use escrow or secure payment channels if possible, or pay in the presence of a trusted party

Step 4: Clearing, Import & Registration

1. Clearing and customs
   • If car arrives via port, Clyde Motors (as importer or agent) should handle customs, duty, VAT, port handling
   • Verify the HS code, duty rates, and documentation
2. Inspection & conformity / verification
   • KEBS / TBS inspection where needed
   • For used imports, NTSA / TIMS inspection and registration
   • Emissions / safety inspections as required
3. Title / Registration / Logbook / Number Plates
   • Once inspection and verification pass, you’ll register with NTSA
   • Get logbook, plates, insurance

Step 5: After Purchase & Ongoing Care

• Schedule routine servicing immediately
• Source spare parts in advance (filters, belts, specialty items)
• Keep documentation (receipts, service logs)
• If needed, import from Japan / trusted suppliers for rare spare parts
• Be cautious with modifications (tires, suspension) — maintain suitability