The 12 questions
- Is the car still available? Listings can stay up after a car is sold or reserved. Confirm before you travel.
- What is the full price, and what does it include? Ask about customs duty, clearing, registration, delivery and any other charges. Get the figure in writing.
- Is it tokunbo or Nigerian-used, and where did it come from? For tokunbo cars, ask for the country of origin, the date of arrival and the bill of lading.
- Can I see the original customs duty papers? For a tokunbo car, this is the most important document. Ask to see the originals and, where possible, have them verified through official channels or a trusted verification service rather than relying on the dealer's word.
- Whose name is on the proof of ownership? It should match the seller's identification. If the dealer is selling on behalf of someone else, ask for written authorisation and the owner's details.
- What is the actual mileage, and how can I verify it? Ask for service records or inspection reports that support the reading.
- Has the car been in an accident or flood? If yes, ask what happened, what was repaired and where. Ask for any repair or auction records.
- Are there any known faults? Ask about the engine, gearbox, suspension, AC, electrics and anything that will need fixing soon.
- Is there a warranty or guarantee, and what does it cover? Some dealers offer a short warranty and others offer none. Ask for the terms in writing and do not rely on verbal promises. Also ask whether returns or refunds are possible and under what conditions.
- Can I test drive and get an independent inspection? A confident dealer should agree. Before you visit, you can ask for a short video of specific items, such as a cold start, the dashboard with the engine running, the AC working and the underside of the car.
- How will the registration and change of ownership work? Ask who will handle it, how long it takes, what it costs and what documents you will receive, such as the new proof of ownership, vehicle licence and plate number.
- How do I pay, and what proof will I get? Pay to the dealership's registered business account, not an individual's, and get a signed receipt and a copy of every document. Be wary of any pressure to pay quickly because "another buyer is coming".
If something goes wrong
Keep every document, receipt and message. Raise the problem in writing as soon as you find it. If the dealer does not resolve it, you can [complaints route: confirm, for example the FCCPC or a dealers' association]. Seek legal advice for significant disputes.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I return a used car in Nigeria? Do not assume you can. Return and refund terms depend on what the dealer agrees in writing, so ask before you pay.
- Who pays for registration and change of ownership? It depends on the agreement. Settle it in writing before payment.
- Should I pay by cash or transfer? Use a traceable bank transfer to a verified business account, and keep the proof.
Find your next car on Chat2Cars
Browse dealer listings, watch the videos and use these questions when you make contact.
Before you buy, ask questions. Before you pay, verify.