Buying a used car is often the most affordable way to get on the road. However, it comes with risks that can lead to costly problems if you do not know what to look out for. A thorough check of the vehicle’s history report, documents, and physical condition is essential. Vehicle history reports should include details such as previous accidents, mileage verification, ownership history, and whether the car has been involved in any criminal activity or damage.
Without this knowledge, buyers can easily fall prey to fraud, end up with unsafe vehicles, or face legal troubles.
Here are 5 common frauds and issues you should watch for when purchasing a used car in Nigeria.
Odometer fraud
One of the most common scams is odometer tampering. Sellers roll back the mileage on the vehicle to make it appear less used. Since lower mileage often means higher value, this trick can significantly increase the asking price. Buyers relying on the odometer reading alone may be misled into paying more for a car that has already seen extensive use.
Forged or altered vehicle documents
Many buyers do not check vehicle documents carefully. Some sellers present fake or altered papers such as registration certificates, import documents, or insurance papers. Using fake documents can cause major issues later, including difficulties in transferring ownership, fines, or even confiscation by authorities.
Stolen vehicles
Stolen cars sometimes find their way into the market at prices below market value. These vehicles can be seized by the police at any time, and the buyer risks losing both the car and the money spent. Always verify the vehicle’s status with official sources before purchase.
Hidden accident damage
Some used cars have been involved in serious accidents but repaired to hide the damage. This can include welding or patching up structural damage that may compromise the safety and durability of the vehicle. Without a professional inspection, it is easy to miss such issues.
“Cut and Shut” cars
Though not as common as they once were, this is a serious fraud where two or more cars are cut and welded together to form one vehicle. These “cut and shut” cars are dangerous and usually have unclear histories. Detecting them sometimes requires expert inspection, but they pose a significant safety risk.
