By Theodore Opara
The used car business in Nigeria is booming—especially at a time when brand-new vehicles are far beyond the reach of many citizens.
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To cope with the harsh economic reality, civil servants, traders and professionals have increasingly turned to used vehicles, popularly known as Tokunbo, for their daily transportation needs.
Currently, Nigeria’s annual new car market is estimated at fewer than 30,000 units, while the used vehicle market exceeds one million units. This stark contrast underscores the dominance—and rapid growth—of the pre-owned vehicle segment.
Rising inflation, currency pressures and the high cost of vehicles have worsened the situation. Today, the cheapest brand-new cars sell for upwards of N30 million, placing them out of reach for most Nigerians. Compounding this is the high cost of auto financing, which remains largely inaccessible.
However, prospective buyers must be cautious. Many of the shiny vehicles displayed for sale are not always what they appear. Beneath the polished exterior often lies a series of manipulations designed to make them more attractive—and more profitable—for dealers.
Below are 10 common tricks used car dealers deploy to conceal defects and maximise profits:
1. Mileage manipulation
Some dealers tamper with vehicle odometers to reduce mileage readings. Cars that have travelled over 200,000 kilometres are often reset to below 100,000 to appear less used and command higher prices.
2. Engine and gearbox patchwork
Vehicles with faulty engines or gearboxes are hastily repaired—sometimes with substandard parts—before being sold. Buyers often face costly repairs within months of purchase.
3. Poor accident repairs
Accident-damaged vehicles are refurbished, but often without proper equipment or expertise. Structural damage, especially to the chassis, may be poorly handled, posing safety risks.
4. Flood-damaged vehicles
Some imported vehicles have been severely damaged by floods in their countries of origin. Though cleaned and polished, underlying electrical and engine issues often emerge shortly after purchase.
5. Cosmetic repainting
Cars are resprayed to look new, but beneath the paint may lie rust, filler and poorly repaired bodywork. In some cases, minor impacts can cause panels to fall apart.
6. Tyre substitution
Dealers sometimes remove quality tyres that come with imported vehicles and replace them with worn-out ones, selling the originals separately for profit.
7. Steering conversion risks
Right-hand drive vehicles are illegally converted to left-hand drive. These conversions are often poorly executed, with telltale signs such as abnormal wiper configurations.
8. Removal of catalytic converters
The catalytic converter—an expensive component attached to the exhaust—is often removed and replaced with a plain pipe. This reduces engine efficiency and increases emissions.
9. Battery swaps
Original batteries are replaced with weak or nearly dead ones. Buyers are forced to replace them within weeks, incurring additional costs.
10. Fault masking through battery disconnection
Some dealers disconnect the battery to temporarily reset dashboard warning lights such as the check engine or ABS indicators. These faults typically reappear after the vehicle has been driven away.
Buyer beware
Prospective buyers are strongly advised to conduct thorough inspections, preferably with trusted mechanics, before purchasing any used vehicle. A careful check today can prevent costly regrets tomorrow.
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