Buying Tips

Smart advice for finding and buying the right car safely in Nigeria.

Inspecting the Car

Always inspect the car in person before making any payment — never buy unseen
Bring a trusted mechanic to inspect the engine, chassis, and electrical systems
Check for signs of accident repairs: uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint, or welding marks
Test drive the car on both city roads and a highway if possible
Verify the VIN/chassis number matches the documents and has not been tampered with
Check the odometer reading is consistent with the car's service history
Inspect underneath the car for rust, leaks, or structural damage

Request proof of ownership (vehicle licence, customs papers for foreign used cars)
Confirm the seller's name on documents matches their government ID
Verify customs clearance papers for all tokunbo (foreign used) vehicles
Check the vehicle licence expiry — expired plates are the buyer's cost to renew
Ask for any available service history or repair receipts

Research current market prices for the make, model, year, and condition before negotiating
Be cautious of prices significantly below market value — it is often a red flag
Factor in immediate costs: registration, repairs, insurance, and road worthiness
Negotiate firmly but fairly — most sellers expect some negotiation on private sales

Use the Folex enquiry form for initial contact — do not share bank details in messages
Meet for initial discussions in a public, well-lit location
Never send any payment before physically seeing and verifying the car
Avoid sellers who refuse video calls, phone calls, or in-person meetings
Use our Report this advert button if you suspect fraud or a scam
Pay by traceable means — avoid cash for large amounts where possible

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