Buying parts, cars and repairs
How to check a tokunbo or used car before you buy it in Nigeria
Updated 22 Oct 2026
A used car can be great value or an expensive mistake. Most problems can be found before you pay if you check the papers, the body, the engine and the drive, ideally with a mechanic you trust.
1. Check the papers and the VIN
- Ask for proof of ownership, and for imported cars the customs papers. The names and details should match the seller or the seller's authority to sell.
- Find the VIN (on the dashboard by the windscreen and on the door frame) and make sure it matches the papers exactly.
- Look the VIN up with our free VIN lookup to confirm the make, model, year and engine.
- For cars imported from the US, a paid vehicle history report can show accidents, flood or salvage records and mileage readings.
2. Look for accident and flood damage
- Uneven gaps between panels, paint that doesn't quite match, or overspray on rubber seals suggest bodywork.
- Lift the carpets and look under the seats: rust, mud, water lines or a musty smell are signs of flooding.
- Check that every light, window, lock, the radio and the AC work. Flood damage often shows up as electrical faults.
3. Under the bonnet
- Ask for the engine to be cold when you arrive, so you hear how it starts.
- Pull the oil dipstick: oil that is milky, very black and thick, or very low is a warning sign.
- Look for leaks, cracked hoses, and coolant that is rusty or oily.
- Blue or thick white smoke from the exhaust after the engine warms up needs explaining. See what exhaust smoke colours mean.
4. Test drive
- Gear changes should be smooth, with no slipping, jerking or delay when you select drive or reverse.
- The car should drive straight and brake straight, without vibration or grinding.
- Listen for knocks over bumps, which can mean worn suspension parts.
- Watch the dashboard: no warning lights should stay on after starting. Ask a mechanic to scan for stored fault codes.
5. Tyres and the spare
Check tread depth and the four-digit date code on each tyre, including the spare. Old tyres are a safety risk even with good tread. See how to read your tyre.
Before you pay
Agree on everything in writing, keep copies of all papers, and avoid paying in full before you've seen the car and the original documents.
Quick answers
Should I take a mechanic when buying a used car?
Yes. A mechanic you trust can spot engine, gearbox and accident problems that are easy to miss, and a computer scan can reveal stored fault codes.
How do I know if a tokunbo car was flooded?
Look for water lines or mud under the carpets and seats, rust on seat rails and screws, a musty smell, foggy lights and electrical faults. For US imports, a vehicle history report may show a flood or salvage record.
General guidance only. Every car is different, so follow your owner's manual and ask a qualified mechanic.