This study explores how different traits of social media influencers affect people’s intention to buy the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25RR in Indonesia, with credibility playing a role in between. Using a quantitative approach with PLS-SEM analysis and a sample of 300 followers of popular influencer Harald Arkan, the study reveals that credibility only significantly mediates one trait entertainment value. Other traits such as expertise, information quality, and trustworthiness have a direct positive effect on purchase intention, while likability shows no significant mediating effect through credibility. These findings suggest that consumers are more influenced by the influencers’ actual qualities rather than how credible they appear. While credibility still matters, the results emphasize that authenticity and strong personal attributes are key to influencing buying decisions. This insight is valuable for brands and marketers, especially in the automotive industry, as it highlights the importance of genuine influencer traits over perceived credibility in driving consumer purchase intention.