Before buying a used or newly used car online, there are some steps you need to take to make sure that you are prepared and to stay safe.

Know the maximum amount that you can afford to pay for your chosen vehicle including any taxes and licensing fees and costs associated with owning the chosen car such as fuel, insurance, repair, and maintenance costs.

Using our website or similar platforms, search for new, Nigerian used or Foreign used cars (popularly known as Tokunbo cars).  Taking into account such factors as previously discussed above – budget and affordability, location, seller or seller type such as car dealer or private seller and any available vehicle history.

Once you have found the car you want to buy, the next step is to research the vehicle history.  There are a number of available online tools to check vehicle history.  For a more in-depth physical and documentary car inspection, contact us or any other professionals to have this carried out.  Such tests may include, physical inspection, documentary inspections (car ownership, import duty status and legitimacy amongst others).

Private Sellers: We vet to confirm their identity and that they are the owners of the vehicle or selling on behalf of owners with a proof of authority to sell from the owner.

Car Dealers: We vet that they are a legitimate trading business.  

Finance Option:  Getting a loan from a bank or financial institution to finance part or all of the cost of buying a car has increased in usage in Nigeria over the past 5 to 10 years.  In most cases, you will be expected to leave a deposit of about 30% of the purchase price of the car and the bank will pay the rest to the seller.  This allows you to spread the cost of purchase over an extended period of time.

Request a car loan now – Apply for a Car Loan

Outright Purchase: This option could save you money in the long run, having to pay the agreed purchase price all at once upfront.

Deposits – If a deposit is requested, tread very carefully especially when buying from a private car seller. If you must, ask the seller for a written confirmation that you will be refunded should you not buy and proof of ownership of the vehicle and proof of identity and address and take steps to verify all. 

Vehicle Inspection – It is recommended that you go for a physical inspection of the car you want to purchase.  Never rely only on pictures posted online.  Fraudsters have been known to use fictitious images to advertise cars online.  Preferably, take along with you a qualified vehicle inspector.  AutoQ.ng can provide you with car inspection mechanics to accompany you or to go on your behalf to view vehicles. Should you wish to book a car inspection mechanic,  contact us.

Price - If the price, specification, or mileage of the car seems too good to be true, then it probably is. Exercise caution. Ask the seller why the price is too low. A genuine seller will give you an explanation.

Test Driving – When you go to view the vehicle, insist on a test drive. If the seller is reluctant to allow you to test drive, walk away. You should always aim to go to a private car seller’s home address or a car dealer’s business premises. Never meet at random locations, no matter how convincing the reason.

In conclusion, be vigilant and exercise caution and you should be fine.  If in doubt, contact our team for a second opinion.