In Tanzania, European cars have long been perceived as unattainable luxuries, shrouded in misconceptions about high maintenance costs and poor suitability for local conditions. Many Tanzanian car owners view these vehicles as overly complex, expensive to maintain, and unsuited to the country's roads and climate. This perception has discouraged potential buyers from opting for European brands like Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and Fuso.
However, these beliefs are largely unfounded. CFAO Mobility, the official dealer for these renowned brands in Tanzania, is actively working to challenge these misconceptions. A key concern for many car owners is the perceived high cost of maintaining European vehicles. While these cars are built to stringent engineering standards, experts argue that the long-term costs of ownership often reveal them to be smarter investments than they appear at first glance.
“Most car owners in Tanzania focus solely on the initial purchase price, overlooking other critical factors like the total cost of ownership,” said Tharaia Ahmed, Sales and Marketing Director at CFAO Mobility Tanzania. “When you buy a brand-new car, it comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, which ensures a longer period of trouble-free use before any major servicing is required. This significantly reduces maintenance costs in the long run.”
Another common myth driving hesitation is the notion that maintenance for European cars is both costly and inaccessible. Contrary to this belief, CFAO Mobility ensures that maintaining these vehicles is affordable and convenient. As the official dealer, the company provides genuine spare parts and employs certified technicians trained to service these brands. This not only extends the life of the vehicle but also lowers long-term maintenance expenses—debunking the idea that European cars are prohibitively expensive to keep running.
Concerns about European cars' ability to handle Tanzanian roads and weather conditions are also unfounded. Brands like Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and Fuso are engineered for durability and performance. CFAO Mobility ensures that the models sold in Tanzania are specifically adapted to local environmental challenges. Fuso trucks, for instance, are built to carry heavy loads over rough terrain, making them perfectly suited for Tanzania’s road network.
“People should keep in mind that purchasing a used vehicle from foreign markets means acquiring cars that were not designed for Tanzania's conditions,” Tharaia added. “This applies not just to European makes but to vehicles from other regions as well. That’s why we encourage buyers to opt for new vehicles tailored specifically for our market.”
The idea that European cars are difficult to repair is another misconception. CFAO Mobility’s well-established service centers across the country offer Tanzanian car owners peace of mind, knowing their vehicles will receive professional care. With highly trained technicians and advanced diagnostic tools, repairs and maintenance are efficiently managed, ensuring that these cars continue to deliver peak performance.
By partnering with CFAO Mobility, Tanzanian car owners can enjoy the premium quality, safety, and reliability of European brands without the concerns of excessive maintenance costs or poor compatibility with local conditions. With comprehensive service, genuine parts, and expert support, CFAO Mobility is dismantling the stigma and making world-class European vehicles a practical and appealing choice for Tanzanian drivers.