Tokunbo Cars vs. Brand New Cars in Nigeria: Which Is Better?

With the rising cost of importing Tokunbo cars in Nigeria caused by high import duties, multiple taxes, and the unstable exchange rate, owning one has become far more expensive than before. These high landing costs are now pushing many Nigerians to consider locally used vehicles, even those who never thought they would.

At the same time, many car buyers are confused about whether to buy a Tokunbo car or go for a brand-new vehicle. This confusion is understandable. Tokunbo cars have a long history of durability and reliability in Nigeria, and over the years, they have earned strong trust among Nigerian drivers. Because of this, deciding between a trusted foreign-used car and a brand-new car is no longer an easy choice.

In this article, we will clearly explain the differences between Tokunbo cars and brand-new cars in Nigeria, helping you decide which option is the better choice for you in today’s Nigerian auto market.

Tokunbo Cars in Nigeria: What You Should Know

Tokunbo cars in Nigeria are vehicles that were previously used abroad and later imported into the country. Since these cars are not brand new, they are generally cheaper, which explains why many Nigerians choose them over new vehicles.

One key benefit of buying a Tokunbo car is variety. With a limited budget, you can choose from many car brands, models, and advanced features that may be out of reach if you are buying a new car. Another major advantage is value retention. Tokunbo cars usually do not lose much value in Nigeria. Even after a year of use, the resale price often remains close to what you paid. In some cases, you may even sell the car without losing money. This is unlike new cars, which drop in value immediately after purchase.

Despite these benefits, Tokunbo cars also come with certain risks. Most times, the full background of the car is unknown. The vehicle may have been involved in accidents or had serious mechanical issues in the past, which can result in sudden breakdowns and high repair costs. There is also the issue of mileage manipulation, where the odometer is adjusted to make the car appear less used than it truly is.

To reduce these risks, buyers should carry out proper inspections, check all vehicle documents, and confirm the car’s details before making any payment. Taking these steps will help you enjoy the advantages of a Tokunbo car while avoiding common problems faced by Nigerian car buyers.

Brand-New Cars in Nigeria: What You Should Know

Brand-new cars are vehicles that have never been used or owned by anyone before. They come directly from the manufacturer or authorized dealer, meaning everything is completely new. For many Nigerians, buying a new car is exciting. You get to enjoy the clean interior, flawless paint, and the feeling of being the very first owner.

One big advantage of buying a brand-new car in Nigeria is personalization. Unlike used cars, where you buy what is available, new cars allow you to choose your preferred colour, wheels, interior design, and other features. Many car dealerships in Nigeria now offer flexible payment plans and promotions, making new cars more accessible than before.

Another benefit is improved performance and safety. New cars are built with modern technology, better fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. This helps you spend less on fuel and reduces the chances of frequent repairs. In addition, brand-new cars come with manufacturer warranties, usually lasting between three and seven years. If the car develops a fault within this period, repairs are often covered at little or no cost.

However, brand-new cars also have a major drawback: fast depreciation. Once you drive a new car out of the showroom, its value drops immediately. In some cases, a new car can lose up to 25% of its value within the first year. When you also consider loan interest and higher purchase prices, the total cost can be much higher than expected.

While brand-new cars offer comfort, reliability, and peace of ownership, Nigerian buyers need to weigh these benefits against the financial loss that comes with depreciation before making a decision.

Key Factor When Choosing Between Tokunbo and Brand-New Cars in Nigeria

Comfort

Comfort means different things to different car buyers in Nigeria. Some people feel Tokunbo cars are more comfortable, while others prefer brand-new cars. However, comfort is not determined by whether a car is new or foreign-used.

What truly matters is the build quality of the car. Many Tokunbo cars are comfortable because they are made with high-quality materials and better finishing. In the same way, some new cars also offer great comfort. When choosing a car in Nigeria, focus on the car’s design, interior quality, and ride feel rather than just whether it is new or used.

Reliability

When deciding whether to buy a Tokunbo car or a brand-new car in Nigeria, reliability should be one of your top considerations. Many Nigerians go for Tokunbo cars because they are more affordable, but low price should not be the only factor. What matters most is whether the car can serve you well without frequent breakdowns.

Some Tokunbo cars have built a strong reputation for durability. Many owners confirm that certain foreign-made models can last for years if they are properly maintained. However, this does not mean all Tokunbo cars are reliable. The condition of the vehicle and how it was used abroad play a big role. Making the right choice depends on research, model reputation, and how well the car fits Nigerian driving conditions.

Safety Features

Safety features in cars depend largely on the model and year of the vehicle, not just whether it is Tokunbo or brand new. For newer car models, both foreign-used and brand-new versions often come with similar safety features.

However, there is a clear difference when you compare an older Tokunbo car to a newer model. For example, an older Tokunbo car like a 2006 Toyota Camry cannot match the safety systems found in newer cars today. Modern vehicles are built with better safety technology, offering improved protection for drivers and passengers. When buying a car in Nigeria, it is important to consider the model year and safety features before making a decision.

Cost

Price is a major factor when choosing a car in Nigeria, especially with the current economic situation. Tokunbo cars are often cheaper than brand-new cars, which makes them a popular choice for many Nigerians. While not every Tokunbo car is cheap, they are generally easier to afford than new vehicles.

The final cost also depends on the type of car you want. For example, a foreign-made luxury car will still cost much more than a brand-new regular sedan. However, in most cases, Tokunbo cars offer better affordability and value for money compared to brand-new cars, making them more accessible to Nigerian car buyers.

Cost of Maintenance

The cost of owning a car does not end after purchase; maintenance is another important expense to consider in Nigeria. This is why many buyers compare maintenance costs before choosing between a Tokunbo car and a brand-new car. Tokunbo cars are often believed to be easier to maintain because spare parts are widely available in local markets. In contrast, some new cars may require parts to be ordered from abroad, which can be costly and take time.

Fuel and oil consumption also matter. Certain used cars consume more fuel and engine oil than new models, which increases daily running costs. Before buying any car in Nigeria, it is important to check how easy it is to get spare parts and how fuel-efficient the car is. This will help you manage maintenance costs better in the long run.

Which Is Better in Nigeria: Tokunbo or Brand-New Cars?

Tokunbo cars are more affordable and give Nigerian buyers more options within a limited budget. They also tend to retain their value better over time. However, one drawback is that the full history of the car may not always be clear, which can lead to unexpected repairs later.

Brand-new cars, on the other hand, come directly from the manufacturer. They are unused, easy to personalize, and built with modern technology and improved safety features. Most new cars also come with warranties, which reduce worry for buyers. Although new cars lose value quickly in the early years, they usually offer better fuel efficiency, safety, and reliability over time.

The better choice depends on your budget, needs, and long-term plans as a car buyer in Nigeria.

Steps to Take Before Buying a Tokunbo Car in Nigeria

Do Proper Research

Before buying a Tokunbo car in Nigeria, the first and most important step is to carry out detailed research. You need to understand the type of car you want, how it works, and its advantages and disadvantages. This helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Speak with people who have experience with the car model you are considering. Car mechanics, auto dealers, car bloggers, and owners of the same model can give useful advice based on real-life experience. Their insights can help you know what to expect from the car.

You should also read online reviews about the car brand and the dealer you plan to buy from. Avoid making decisions based on assumptions. Take time to compare information until you are confident. Another important thing to research is the resale value of the car, especially if you plan to sell it in the future. Proper research will help you choose a Tokunbo car that fits your budget and needs.

Set Your Budget

After completing your research, the next step is to decide how much you can comfortably spend on a Tokunbo car. Having a clear budget helps you avoid overspending. It is wise to shortlist several car models within different price ranges so that if one option is too expensive, you can easily choose another that fits your budget.

Compare Prices

Price plays a major role when buying a used car in Nigeria. To avoid being overcharged, take time to compare prices before meeting any dealer. Visit different Tokunbo car dealers and check how much similar cars are being sold for. This gives you an advantage during negotiation and helps you get the best deal.

Think About Maintenance Costs

Buying a car also means committing to its upkeep. Some cars are cheap to buy but expensive to maintain. Certain models require special engine oil, skilled mechanics, or costly spare parts. Before making a purchase, consider how easy it is to find spare parts in Nigeria and how much you will spend on maintenance each year.

Check the Mileage of the Car

Mileage simply means the total distance a car has covered over time. It helps you understand how long the car has been used, how hard it has worked, and whether the asking price is fair. In countries like the USA, cars average about 13,000 miles per year. In the UK, it is around 7,000 miles, while Canada averages about 15,000 miles yearly.

As a general guide, 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year is considered normal. This means a five-year-old car should have roughly 60,000 to 75,000 miles. Cars with much higher mileage are seen as high-mileage vehicles, while those with much lower figures are considered low-mileage. However, mileage alone does not determine a car’s condition. A well-maintained high-mileage car can perform better than a poorly maintained low-mileage one.

Also, be careful because some car dealers adjust the odometer to reduce the mileage and deceive buyers. This is common in the used car market in Nigeria.

Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is very important when buying a Tokunbo car in Nigeria. It helps you verify the car’s history, including past accidents, legal problems, or theft records. Always ask the seller for the VIN and confirm the details before buying.

Go With an Experienced Car Person

It is wise to visit the dealer with someone who understands cars well, such as a mechanic or an experienced car owner. This person can help inspect the car properly and point out hidden issues. Since some dealers are not honest, having an expert with you helps protect your money.

Inspect the Engine and Test Drive the Car

Before making a final decision, always inspect the car carefully and take it for a test drive. While inspecting, check the following:

Park the car on a flat surface
Examine the paint for dents, scratches, or rust
Check the boot to ensure it is in good shape
Inspect the tyres for wear
Ask questions if the car frame looks damaged
Look under the car for rust
Check belts and hoses
Watch out for leaks or corrosion
Check the transmission fluid; it should be red or pink
Inspect the timing belt condition
Test the air-conditioning system
Confirm the odometer reading
Look out for warning lights on the dashboard
Test all interior and exterior lights
Test the brakes carefully
Listen for strange noises while driving or turning
Ask for the Car’s History

Always request the car’s history report. This helps you know how the car was used in the past and if it has had major issues.

A car is an important part of daily life for many Nigerian families. Whether you are buying a Tokunbo or Nigerian-used car, you must be careful. By following these steps, you increase your chances of buying a reliable used car and getting good value for your money.

Conclusion

When deciding between a Tokunbo car and a brand-new car in Nigeria, both have their own benefits and disadvantages. The right choice depends on your personal needs, priorities, and budget. Factors like reliability, price, maintenance costs, comfort, and safety features should all be considered before making a decision. By carefully comparing these aspects, you can choose a car that fits your lifestyle and gives you the best value for your money.

By kingkentus