Questions to ask when buying a Nigerian used car (1)

by Okechukwu Nnodim 

Used car
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What you ask a car dealer when buying a fairly used or tokunbo car should be different from what you ask a private seller while bargaining for a Nigerian used vehicle, writes Okechukwu Nnodim

The basic things you need to understand before buying a fairly used or tokunbo car have been discussed in our previous articles. However, it is important to know what to ask a private seller when you are bargaining for a Nigerian used car. Automobile engineers and car dealers say there are questions you should ask before buying a privately used vehicle.

They note that some of these questions can be asked in a telephone conversation or via email before even seeing the car in person. Others should be asked while taking a look at the used car. Experts stress that not asking these questions could lead to problems in the purchase of the Nigerian used vehicle. The Manager, JB Autos in Lagos, who simply addressed himself as Mr. Abiodun, says the prospective buyer must understand that Nigerian used cars that are offered for sale are often characterised with varied problems. Below are some questions you should ask the private seller when purchasing a Nigerian used car, according to experts:

Why are you offering your car for sale?

Many variables may warrant this, experts say. They note that it is best to ask this question earlier before going to take a look at the car. Some of the reasons why an individual might decide to sell his car may include, but not limited to the fact he bought a new car and wish to sell the old; the car offered for sale belongs to his parents or children and he doesn’t want to keep it; or the car is giving the user maintenance problems and he prefers selling it out to save cost. It is important you know this as a buyer because it will influence your ability to bargain.

What is the distance covered?

This question is best asked in advance. By knowing the kilometre or miles which the vehicle has covered, you will be able to offer reasonable price for it. Experts say a good knowledge of the mileage covered will help you determine a value before viewing the car in person.

What is the condition of the car?

Call the seller and ask him to describe the condition of the car during your conversation. His response will give you an insight of how the car is. The seller of a sound car will always boast of what he is offering for sale, but one who’s car is not in a good enough condition, will probably scout for words in a bid to convince the buyer. If the private seller says the car is excellent, then it is either going to be in excellent shape, which is always a good thing or it’s not and that means you’re dealing with a dishonest person, experts say. They advise that you walk away from any car described as excellent that clearly turns out bad. This is because the seller is trying to play a fast one on you.

If he says the car is good, you may go for it because a good used car is always a good value. Also it is important to know that a seller who is honest will not over-hype a used car just to get a buyer. Experts say if the seller describes the car as fair, this means the seller knows the value of his vehicle and wants to be real. Meanwhile, experts say people who describe their used car as ‘fair’ are either incredibly honest or shy when it comes to dealing with other citizens.

Was the car bought used?

You should inquire if the seller bought the car as a used vehicle. This question is best asked when viewing the car, experts say. Another car dealer at Shino Autos in Magodo, Lagos, Mr. Damilola Shino, says you should ask who the vehicle was bought from. Experts say the best answer to this question is when the private seller is the original owner. After establishing this, you should take a step further to get all the maintenance records of the car.

Where did you buy the car?

As you bargain, it is important to ask the seller where he bought the car. This is vital because you want to be sure it is not a stolen vehicle, if it was bought from an accredited dealer and to ascertain the state of the car. The government is becoming conscious about the histories of used cars, so you will be doing yourself some good by knowing where the car was bought and who used it in the past.

Experts say some cars may tend to malfunction when used in certain new areas, especially if the car is a fragile type. They note that many Nigerian used cars have hidden problems and most times owners of these vehicles never tell buyers. It is up to the buyer, therefore, to ask enough questions and even carry out some checks on the car before making payment.

Meanwhile, experts say during that negotiation process, it advisable to start with a low but reasonable offer. You should open negotiations with an offer that is low but within a reasonable range. This will make the seller know that you have interest in his car and will make him ready to complete a deal. Before probe how much the seller wish to sell his car, you should start negotiations with a number that is about 10 to 15 per cent lower than estimates. Always make sure you take a thorough look on the car before making any payment, because many sellers of used cars often use the money for something else immediate the vehicle is sold.