Finding Great Used Cars for Sale in Lagos！
Finding Great Used Cars for Sale in Lagos
For millions of Lagosians, buying a brand-new car is out of reach due to high import duties and a desire for more value. This is where the thriving market for used cars, known locally as "Tokunbo" cars, comes in.
If you’re looking for used cars for sale in Lagos, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know， most importantly, how to pick a reliable vehicle that won’t turn into a money pit.
Why is the Used Car Market So Big in Lagos?
Simply put, it’s about value and affordability. The import duties on new vehicles into Nigeria are prohibitively high for the average person.
A used car, often imported from Europe and North America, offers a way to own a more recent model with better features at a fraction of the price of a new one.
These cars are typically 3-8 years old and have been well-maintained in their first life abroad.
The need is huge!
Lagos is a city that needing reliable transportation. The public transport system, while extensive, can be overcrowded and unreliable. Owning a car provides freedom, comfort, and status.
Nigeria’s Used Car Import Policy
In recent years, the import of used cars in Lagos has grown rapidly, greatly alleviating the shortage of local used cars.
You can’t talk about used cars in Lagos without talking about import policy. here’s a simplified breakdown of the key points as of recent times:
1. Age Limit:
This is the most famous rule.
The Nigerian government currently allows the importation of used cars only if they are not more than 15 years old from the year of manufacture.
This means in 2024, you can import a car manufactured in 2009 or later.
2. Import Duty and Levies:
Importing a car attracts several charges. The main ones are:
3. Customs Duty:
This is usually 35% of the value of the car.
4. Value Added Tax (VAT):
7.5% of the value.
5. Import Surcharge:
An additional fee.
The "value" here is not necessarily what you paid for the car abroad.
The Nigerian Customs Service has its own valuation method based on the car’s make, model, and year.
It’s crucial to factor these costs into your total budget when considering importing a car yourself.
6. Ports
Most buyers don’t deal with this process with ports directly.
They buy from car dealers at markets like Berger Auto Market, Aspamda Market (Trade Fair Complex), and Ladipo Auto Market, who handle the complexities of importation.
I need to mention here, YL Automobile, We are a Chinese automobile import and export service company with rich experience in vehicle import and export, and we will provide you with one-stop service.
according to the market data and popular choices,used car market is massive, that hundreds of thousands of used vehicles are imported annually, with a significant majority coming through Lagos.
What are Lagosians buying?
Sedans: Toyota Camry and Honda Accord are the undisputed kings of the sedan market. The Nissan Altima is also a popular contender.
SUVs: The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V lead the pack for mid-size SUVs.
Luxury Brands: For those with a higher budget, used Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Lexus models are widely available. While they offer superior comfort and performance, buyers should be aware that maintenance and repair costs are significantly higher than for mainstream Japanese brands.
"Big Rides": Larger SUVs like the Toyota Prado, Lexus RX, and even the Toyota Land Cruiser are status symbols and are common on the roads of upscale neighborhoods like Lekki and Victoria Island.
How to Pick a Good Used Car in Lagos: A Step-by-Step Guide
This is the most critical part. The market has honest dealers, but it also has "mileage clockers" and sellers of "accidented" (accident-damaged) cars. Here’s how to protect yourself.
Step 1: Set a Realistic Budget
Determine how much you can spend. Remember to budget for at least:
The cost of the car.
Insurance (third party is mandatory).
Change of ownership papers at the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA).
A immediate service (engine oil, filters, brake check) once you buy it.
A contingency fund for any unexpected repairs.
Step 2: Do Your Research
Once you have a budget, research which models fit within it. Focus on cars known for reliability. Toyota and Honda are famous for a reason. Join online forums and Facebook groups for car enthusiasts in Nigeria; they are treasure troves of information on common problems with specific models.
Step 3: Find a Car and Inspect It (The Million-Naira Step)
Never, ever buy a car based on looks alone.
Check the Exterior: Look for mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps, and rust (especially under the car and around the wheel wells). These are signs of accident damage or poor repair.
Check the Interior: Wear on the driver’s seat, steering wheel, and pedals should match the mileage displayed. If the car shows 80,000 km but the driver’s seat is deeply worn and the pedals are faded, the mileage might have been clocked. Test every switch, button, and feature: air conditioning, audio system, power windows, etc.
Pop the Hood: Check the engine for leaks. Look at the oil dipstick; the oil should be brownish or black, not milky (which indicates a serious problem). Check the fluid levels.
The Tyres: Tread wear should be even across all tyres. Uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Step 4: The All-Important Test Drive
This is non-negotiable.
Listen for unusual noises: squeaks, rattles, knocks, or whines.
The engine should start easily and idle smoothly without shaking.
Test the brakes; they should bring the car to a stop straight and without vibration.
The gearshift (for automatics) should be smooth, not jerky.
Drive on different road surfaces to test the suspension.
Step 5: Get a Mechanic’s Opinion
This is the best money you will ever spend. Do not skip this. Hire a trusted, independent mechanic to do a thorough inspection. They will put the car on a lift, check the chassis for bending (a sign of a major accident), inspect the undercarriage for rust and damage, and use their expertise to spot problems you would never see. It might cost you 5,000 - 10,000 Naira, but it can save you from buying a car that needs 500,000 Naira in repairs.
Step 6: Verify the Documents
Before you pay, ensure the car’s papers are in order. The most important document is the Customs Clearance Paper. This proves the car was legally imported and all duties were paid.
Conclusion:
YL Automobile is very professional in selecting used cars. Before a used car is transported to Lagos, professional personnel will conduct vehicle inspections and provide corresponding reports. Ensure the quality of the vehicle.
If you are considering purchasing a used car, please do not hesitate to contact YL Automobile or visit our official website www.ylauto.com for more information on used vehicles.
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