Selling a used car in Nigeria is a smart move if you are upgrading or need quick cash. The market is huge tokunbo imports and local rides like Toyota Corolla or Honda Accord move fast in places like Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt. But doing it wrong means low offers, scams, or legal headaches. The key is preparation, honest pricing, and safe dealings. If you follow these steps, you can sell smoothly and get a fair price. Let us break it down so you know exactly what to do.
Step 1: Get Your Car Ready to Impress
Buyers judge by looks first. A dirty or broken car screams neglect, so clean it inside and out. Wash the exterior, wax the paint to shine, and vacuum the interior. Remove personal items and trash make it feel like a blank canvas. Fix small issues like burnt-out bulbs, squeaky brakes, or low fluids. If the AC is weak or the engine knocks, get it checked a mechanic inspection costs ₦5,000–₦10,000 but builds trust. Do not hide major problems; disclose them to avoid disputes later. A well-prepped car sells faster and for more buyers pay premium for ones that look and run like new.
Step 2: Gather All Necessary Documents
Paperwork is crucial in Nigeria to avoid fraud claims or police issues. You need the vehicle’s registration papers, proof of ownership (customs papers for tokunbo), insurance certificate, roadworthiness certificate from VIO, and any service records. If there is a loan on the car, get a clearance letter from the bank. Have your ID ready too. Buyers want to see everything is legit no outstanding fines or fake plates. If selling through a dealer, they handle some of this, but for private sales, organize it in a folder. This step shows you are serious and transparent, speeding up the process.
Step 3: Set a Realistic Price
Overprice and your car sits unsold; underprice and you lose money. Research similar cars on sites like Jiji, Cars45, or Facebook Marketplace look at year, mileage, condition, and location. A 2015 Corolla with 100,000 km in good shape might go for ₦3–4 million in Lagos. Factor in extras like new tires or AC. Use online valuation tools on Cars45 for a ballpark. Be honest about flaws disclose them to build trust. Start 10–15% above your target to leave room for negotiation, as haggling is part of the culture here.
Step 4: Advertise Effectively
Where you list matters. Online platforms like Jiji, OLX, or Facebook groups reach thousands fast. Take clear photos: exterior from all angles, interior, engine bay, and odometer. Write a honest description: “2015 Toyota Corolla, 120,000 km, AC working, no major issues, ₦3.5 million negotiable.” Include your location and contact. For quicker sales, use Cars45 or Cheki they appraise and sell for you, but take a cut. Local markets like Berger in Lagos or auto villages in Abuja let buyers see the car in person bring it clean and ready for test drives. Word-of-mouth works too tell friends or post in community WhatsApp groups.
Step 5: Handle Buyers and Test Drives Safely
When inquiries come, screen them: ask why they are buying and if they have cash ready. Meet in public places like filling stations or malls for safety never alone at home. For test drives, go with them or have a friend along. Check their ID first, and note their plate if they drove. Let them drive but stay alert. Answer questions honestly, but do not overshare personal info. If they point out issues, negotiate fairly small concessions close deals faster.
Step 6: Close the Deal Securely
Once agreed, handle payment carefully. Cash is common but risk meet at a bank to count and deposit. Transfers are safer watch it clear before handing keys. Use a simple sales agreement: date, buyer/seller names, car details (VIN, plate, mileage), price, and signatures. Include “sold as is” if no warranty. Transfer ownership at the licensing office buyer pays for new papers. Get a receipt signed by both. This protects against later claims.Selling a used car here is straightforward if you prepare, price right, and stay safe. It takes time, but doing it well means fair money in your pocket. Clean your car this weekend and start listing you might be surprised how fast it goes.