@mjuaji: The mechanic is always busy during the rally season. He is a crew member for one of the big rally aces in the country. Haven't seen or talked to him since your request. Will do so when I see him.

@Mukhamba..... i think magigi ni among those who got cars from their parents.....either bought to by the parent....ama inherited....ama ana-drive ya daddy....ABK!

He doesnt know what it takes to buy your own car...beside you parents'......If he is in this category...lazima ajue...hiyo ni ya baba hata kama amepewa

@Njung'e: Agreed, if the inspection is thorough, these cars are good. I have a friend who deals in Singapore cars. They have contacts/relatives there who they send to check out the condition and subject them to tests.

Not sure if it's just the inspection...and the gluing together of parts but there may also be a problem with the material being different.

Scenario in question: Someone imported a Merc, S class (S350 or S430) a few years ago from UK. had a prang and ordered a part (boot-lid) from Singapore and had it fitted. Although it felt light and flimsy, it looked fine.
Six or so months later was not happy with the look. ... it stood out. He was adviced to get used part(boot lid) from UK (where the car originally came from). According to him it made all the difference.

Now the question is Where was the boot lid from Singapore manufactured?
Why was it different from the UK body part?
Same shape different material.
Or was it the paintwork (workmaship)?

Guys, there is nothing wrong with Singapore cars at all, i have been driving a lancer mivec from 2004 till early this year when i sold it. I have also imported two other corollas which were far much better the the Japanese ones. You only need to get a good car dealers who has a history of good delivery.