Ksh700,000 Repair Bill: Victor Peace Calls Out Luxury Dealership Over Defective Car

Content creator Victor Karanja also known as Victor Peace has recounted his experience after purchasing a BMW 523 from a luxury car dealership, saying the vehicle developed persistent mechanical problems and now requires an engine replacement estimated at Ksh700,000.

In a video shared on Thursday, October 22, Karanja said he bought the car last year after a disappointing experience with his previous vehicle, opting for what he described as a trusted luxury dealership. He stated that the vehicle was advertised on the dealer’s website as having zero defects, and that he paid 60 percent upfront with the balance in instalments.

According to him, he brought his own mechanic to inspect the car before purchase, but a computer diagnostic test revealed numerous errors. He said dealership staff assured him the issues were minor and would be resolved before collection.

He alleged that problems began within three days of taking possession, with a strong fuel smell whenever the car was parked. Oil leaks followed, then coolant leaks traced to a broken expansion tank during a trip to Nanyuki. Throughout this period, he said the vehicle jerked during acceleration a symptom he identified as a misfire.

Karanja stated that repeated visits to the dealership resulted in temporary fixes and assurances that the issue was not serious. He said diagnostic checks at one point pointed to a misfire in cylinder two, leading to a coil replacement, but the problem returned.

He said the vehicle was later caught in floods and returned to the dealership, where he claims mechanics cleared it as fine. About two months later, while driving near the Australian Embassy in Nairobi, he heard what he described as a “loud gunshot-like sound,” followed by oil spilling onto the road and smoke from the bonnet. The car was immobilised and required a flatbed tow.

He stated that the engine block had broken. Karanja maintains that the persistent misfire likely contributed to the failure, while the dealership has suggested the flood incident may be responsible .

Karanja said the vehicle has remained at the dealership for approximately three months, with communication slow until recent weeks. He said he proposed sharing responsibility for the repairs, while insisting the dealership should account for the vehicle’s condition at the time of sale and the recurring faults he reported.

The cause of the engine failure has not been independently established.  He urged prospective buyers to arrange thorough independent inspections, even when dealing with established dealerships. “Even if you’re paying from the most trusted luxury car dealer, make sure you have a thorough check,” he said .