Having a car is a necessity in NIGERIA, especially in a busy city like LAGOS. Fairly used cars popularly knowns as tokunbo cars with good second-hand value are usually the most patronized in NIGERIA, today.
Buying a TOKUNBOH( USED) car in Nigeria can be quite tedious, but having forehand knowledge about things to look out for can be very beneficial.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT VENDOR
The first major step will be buying your used car from a dealer who is reliable and trusted by several people and quite credible in Nigeria’s automobiles space. A simple google search or on social media will help with this. Be sure to look out for reviews and testimonials.
THE BRAND OF CAR
It is no news that some cars are popular than others and better suited for the Nigerian roads and of course, they are better and easily maintained. For this, you should choose the model that has its parts readily available and affordable.
Consider the condition of the car
Understanding the physical and engine condition of a car is important in choosing the right car. For better judgement, you can have a reliable and experienced mechanic go for an inspection with you. This should be done before any form of negotiation. Don’t be swayed by the clean appearance of the car, it might just be a distraction from the actual condition of the vehicle.
Some important parts of the car you should check out are;
The Engine
You or your Mechanic must check the state of the engine of the car you are buying. This can be determined by taking a short drive in the car. You should also turn on the air conditioning (A/C) and see how the engine fares. Pay attention to any form of vibration, as this could trigger further checks. Also, check the transmission dipstick, if the fluid is as it should be (pink). Don’t overlook any noticeable leaks. the condition of the timing belt is a very crucial thing to look out for.
Car boot and bodywork:
Be sure to have a look at the trunk to be sure it is still in good condition. keep an eye out for dents, scratches and rust spots. The frame of the car is crucial. if it is damaged, ask questions. Also, look beneath the car for any under-body rust. Check out all the lights in and around the car.
Also, have a look at the belts and all other car interiors like the steering wheel, brakes, gearbox and even the seats. It is important to test the brakes by starting the ignition, make sure to press down hard on the brakes to decelerate and see how they fare. Pay close attention to any funny sounds while driving.
Car mileage
This can help you know how old the car is, checking its mileage is an ideal way for you. The mileage will disclose how long the car has been used, how long it has run and also how much it is should be sold for. However, this can be manipulated but a good mechanic that has a diagnostic tool can tell exactly how many miles a car has.
Tyres
Be sure to check the tyres and if they are durable enough to support the weight of the vehicle, absorb road shocks, transmit traction, torque and braking forces.
Ultimately make sure to buy from the right vendor to avoid dubious situations.