How to Buy Car in Nigeria Without Getting Scammed

How to Buy Car in Nigeria Without Getting Scammed

How to buy car in Nigeria without getting scammed? Cars are more than just a means of transportation. They serve a deeper and much bigger purpose. Buying a new car is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be a difficult one, or a scam worth losing your savings over.

In this article, we have explained how you can research, locate, price and negotiate to buy your new car. Here’s how to buy a car in Nigeria without getting scammed.

 

How to Buy Car in Nigeria Without Getting Scammed

 

#1. Research vehicles and features

1a. Make a list of what you’re looking for in a car

You do remember that you’re about to buy a car, right? It’s not like a grocery that you can throw away after purchase. Once you buy this car, you’re stuck with it until you sell it or buy another.

As a result, it’s very important that you make extensive research before going along with the purchase. Make a list of what you’re looking for in your new car. Here are some things to consider.

  • Condition (New or used)
  • Resale value
  • Performance
  • Comfort
  • Reliability
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Engine size
  • Miles/kilometres per gallon
  • Colour (Not really necessary though. You can always repaint yourself, but prepare an extra budget)

1b. Set your priorities right

Unless you’re willing to spend 10 Million+ on your new car, you can’t possibly have all the specs listed above. You’ll get some, but definitely not all.

You have to set a priority and choose four specs that are more important on the list. Some may choose the performance, fuel efficiency, etc, while others may prefer comfort, reliability, resale value and the like.

 

#2. Get Your Finances in Order and Decide On a Budget

You must set a budget before stepping off your doorstep. No matter which car you desire and which one you end up buying, setting a budget will stop you from overspending.

It will also tell you when to walk away from a bad deal, or when to make a good one.

 

#3. Start Hunting for Your Dream Car

This just got a little more interesting. Remember that list from which you’re to choose the 4 most important specs?

Start looking for cars that fit your budget and those 4 specs. You can search car dealerships, car websites, and postings on Jiji.ng and other shopping sites.

Go to car dealerships with no intention of buying. Take a look around and browse their inventory.

If they don’t attend to you well because you’re not ready to buy, kindly walk away. If they’re not hospitable, then it’s better not to buy from them.

Eventually, you will get a dealer that has the type of car you’re looking for.

 

Read Also: 7 Common Car Problems in Nigeria and Their Solutions

 

#4. Locate and Test-Drive the Car

By now you should have at least 3 good places where you can buy your car from. Now it’s time to test them all before making your purchase decision.

Remember that you’re not the only customer. Car dealers attend to many people daily and unless you’re some VIP, you can’t just show up from nowhere and request a test drive.

You have to schedule an appointment. That means the car will be waiting for you in whatever venue you both agree to. Here are some helpful test-drive tips.

  • Don’t just drive around the block. If you have a family or a group of friends, picture them sitting in the car and how comfortable it will be for them.
  • Judging by the test drive, predict how the car will perform handles on a variety of roads.
  • Check and double-check if the controls are easy to use.
  • What about the cargo space? Can you shop for items in bulk and use the car to transport them home?
  • Most importantly, remember that this may be your last chance to walk away from the deal. Once you pay, you probably won’t get your money back.
  • Whichever decision you make, it’s always advisable not to buy immediately after the test drive. Take a night to think it over.

 

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#5. Check the Sale Price and Warranty

If you’re interested in buying that car after test-driving it, then you should read on. The next thing to do is to agree to a price. Before the test drive, you’ll probably be given a high or inconclusive price.

After the test drive, the dealer won’t like you buying from someplace else. And you can use it against them. As a result, they will try and give you a cheaper price to the best of their abilities.

Once you agree to a price, you’re one step closer to buying your dream car. It’s now time to ask questions about paint protection, extended warranty and car maintenance.

 

#6. Close the Deal

If the price matches your budget, and your financing looks right, it’s probably time to say yes to the deal.

From there, you can buy the car at the dealership and take it home. Alternatively, you can make a payment and request the car to be delivered to your home address or any other location (alongside the paperwork).

 

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Wrapping Up: How to Buy Car in Nigeria Without Getting Scammed

Whichever delivery method you opt for, your car should be clean and the fuel tank should be full. Give the car a final walk-around, checking for any dents or scratches that might have occurred during transport.

Ask the salesperson to give you a tour of your new car. This step is important, especially if it’s your first time owning a car.

He/she should show you how to pair your phone via Bluetooth and also teach you other important features and devices. You’ll learn tricks and shortcuts you might not find on your own.

Although all these will be in the user manual, it’s probably better to see the real-time application. Besides, user manuals will be hundreds of pages long.

Congratulations on buying a new car. Don’t forget to celebrate it with your family and friends. You should also consider getting insurance. Enjoy your new car!

AB Drives

AB Drives provides safe driving and defensive driving training in Nigeria. Follow us on Twitter or Facebook @abdrives4life.

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