Tips for car purchase

Signs of Flooded Cars: How to Identify Water Damage

Published

2 years ago

April 9, 2024

In the aftermath of natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, or even incidents like burst pipes, flooded cars can end up on the market, posing a significant risk to unsuspecting buyers.

Recognizing the signs of water damage is crucial to avoid purchasing a car that may have hidden problems. Here’s a detailed guide on how to identify if a car has been flooded.

1. Conduct a Visual Inspection

Check for water lines: Look for water lines or marks on the interior upholstery, dashboard, or door panels. These lines may indicate how high the water level rose inside the car.
Musty odor: A distinct musty or moldy smell inside the car can be a telltale sign of water damage. Pay attention to any unusual odors during your inspection.

2. Examine the Exterior

Rust or corrosion: Look for signs of rust or corrosion in unusual places such as screws, bolts, or metal components under the hood, as prolonged exposure to water can accelerate rusting.
Water residue: Check for water residue or sediment in hard-to-reach areas like the engine compartment, under the seats, or in the trunk.

3. Inspect the Interior

Moisture or condensation: Look for signs of moisture or condensation inside the headlights, taillights, and instrument panel. Fogging or water droplets indicate water intrusion.
Electrical malfunctions: Test all electrical components including lights, windows, air conditioning, and audio systems for proper functionality. Water damage can cause electrical issues and short circuits.

4. Check the Engine

Fluid levels and condition: Inspect the engine oil dipstick for signs of water contamination. Milky or foamy oil indicates water mixing with the oil, which can severely damage the engine.
Air filter: Remove the air filter and inspect it for water stains or dirt accumulation. A wet or dirty air filter may indicate water intrusion into the engine.

5. Review the Vehicle History

Carfax report: Obtain a vehicle history report from reputable sources like Carfax or AutoCheck. These reports can reveal past incidents of flooding or salvage titles, providing valuable insights into the car’s history.
Title status: Check the vehicle’s title for any salvage or flood branding. A branded title indicates that the car has been declared a total loss due to flood damage.

6. Seek Professional Inspection

Hire a mechanic: If you have doubts about a car’s condition, consider hiring a qualified mechanic to perform a comprehensive inspection. A professional mechanic can identify hidden water damage and provide an unbiased assessment of the vehicle.

Identifying water damage in a car is essential to avoid purchasing a vehicle with potentially serious mechanical and safety issues.

By conducting a thorough visual inspection, examining the exterior and interior components, reviewing the vehicle history, and seeking professional assistance when needed, buyers can make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of purchasing flooded cars.

Remember, diligence and attention to detail are key when assessing the condition of a used vehicle.

Tips for car purchase

VIN Numbers: The Secret Code Every Nigerian Car Buyer Must Understand

Published

2 months ago

September 5, 2025

CN Benjamin

In today’s fast-moving automotive world, cars have become more than just machines on wheels, they are data-driven identities. Each vehicle carries a hidden DNA, a unique fingerprint known as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Also Read: How to Trade in Your Old Car When Buying a New One

Whether you’re buying a foreign-used “tokunbo” car at Berger in Lagos, importing from Cotonou, or even purchasing a brand-new SUV in Abuja, the VIN holds the truth about that vehicle’s past.

But how many Nigerian buyers take VIN seriously? How many people even know where to find it or what it means? Sadly, ignorance has made many fall victim to fraudsters who alter or fake VINs to sell accident-damaged, stolen, or flooded cars.

This article will break down everything you need to know about VIN, its structure, importance, risks, and how you can use it to protect yourself from car scams.

What is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

The VIN is a 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every vehicle manufactured after 1981. Think of it as the car’s birth certificate. It is unique to each unit and records essential details such as the manufacturer, model, year, place of production, and serial number.

Globally, VIN is standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO 3779 and ISO 4030), making it universally recognized.

The History of VINs

VINs were first introduced in the 1950s in the United States, but they weren’t standardized, meaning different automakers used different systems. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the U.S. mandated a uniform 17-character VIN format and the system spread globally.

Today, every car manufactured worldwide carries a VIN, whether it’s a Toyota Corolla in Japan, a Mercedes-Benz in Germany, or an Innoson SUV in Nigeria.

Anatomy of a VIN: Breaking Down the 17 Characters

A VIN may look like random letters and numbers, but it is highly structured. For example:

Example VIN: 1HGCM82633A004352

1. World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) [1st–3rd characters]

Identifies the manufacturer and country of origin.

Example: 1HG = Honda (USA).

2. Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) [4th–9th characters]

Describes vehicle type, model, engine, body style, and safety features.

Example: CM8263.

3. Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS) [10th–17th characters]

Identifies the model year, plant of manufacture, and production number.

Example: 3A004352.

Where to Find the VIN on Your Car

The VIN is usually located in multiple spots on a vehicle:

On the dashboard near the windshield (driver’s side).
On the driver’s side door frame.
Inside the engine block.
On the vehicle registration papers and insurance documents.

This ensures tampering is difficult since it’s recorded in several places.

Why VIN Matters in Nigeria

1. Car Verification for Imports

With over 400,000 used vehicles imported into Nigeria yearly (Nigeria Customs Service, 2024), VIN helps buyers check if a car has been involved in accidents, floods, recalls, or theft abroad.

2. Accident & Flood History

Many cars shipped from the U.S. after Hurricane Katrina (2005) and more recently after Hurricane Harvey (2017) ended up in Nigeria. Without VIN checks, unsuspecting buyers drove away in water-damaged cars.

3. Theft Protection

VIN allows law enforcement to track stolen cars. The FRSC and Interpol both rely on VINs for cross-border vehicle recovery.

4. Insurance & Resale Value

Insurers use VIN to calculate accurate risk. A tampered VIN may void your policy. Resale buyers also rely on VIN to confirm authenticity.

VIN Fraud in Nigeria: A Growing Concern

Fraudsters often alter or clone VINs to hide a vehicle’s true identity. Common tactics include:

VIN cloning: Using the VIN of a similar car to mask a stolen one.
VIN tampering: Physically changing digits on metal plates.
Document falsification: Forging import papers with fake VINs.

These scams fuel Nigeria’s grey auto market, costing buyers billions in losses.

How to Check a VIN in Nigeria

1. Online VIN Check Services

Carfax (USA-based)
AutoCheck
NICB (National Insurance Crime Bureau) free for theft and salvage records.

2. Local Platforms

FRSC Vehicle Verification System (VVS)
Nigerian Customs VIN Valuation Portal (for calculating import duties).

3. Steps for Buyers

Get the 17-digit VIN from the dealer.
Input it into a trusted database.
Review the report for accident history, mileage, recalls, and theft records.

Case Studies: Nigerians Saved by VIN

Case 1: Lagos Buyer Avoids a Flooded SUV

In 2023, a businessman at Berger Lagos nearly paid ₦9 million for a Toyota Highlander. A VIN check revealed it had been declared totaled in Texas after flooding. He walked away, saving himself years of financial stress.

Case 2: Abuja Family Saved from a Stolen Car

A VIN scan by FRSC exposed that the vehicle was flagged on Interpol’s stolen car list. Without the check, the family would have lost the car to police seizure.

VIN vs Chassis Number: Clearing the Confusion

Many Nigerians confuse VIN with Chassis number. While both refer to vehicle identification, the VIN is the global standard (17 characters). Chassis numbers are often shorter and used in older/pre-1981 cars.

The Future of VIN in Nigeria & Africa

1. Integration with Digital Number Plates

States like Lagos are exploring linking VINs to smart digital plates for instant verification.

2. Blockchain for Anti-Fraud

Experts suggest blockchain systems could record VIN data permanently, reducing fraud.

3. Electric Vehicles (EVs)

As Nigeria slowly embraces EVs, VINs will be critical for tracking battery health and recalls.

4. Continental Database

The African Union is considering a regional VIN platform for cross-border security and trade.

Challenges in VIN Adoption in Nigeria

Low awareness among buyers.
Cost of VIN reports (Carfax charges $40+).
Dealer resistance, shady dealers discourage checks.
Weak enforcement, not all agencies are interconnected.

Conclusion

The VIN is not just a number, it’s your protection against fraud, accidents, and financial loss. In a country like Nigeria where the auto industry is flooded with imports, understanding and checking VINs should be a must for every buyer.

The next time you stand at a car lot in Lagos or Abuja, don’t just admire the paint job, ask for the VIN. It might just save you millions of naira.

Tips for car purchase

The Top Places to Buy Used Cars Online

Published

9 months ago

January 11, 2025

CN Benjamin

When it comes to buying used cars, online platforms have revolutionized the market. Gone are the days of physically visiting numerous dealerships and scanning local ads.

Today, with just a few clicks, you can browse thousands of options, compare prices, and even arrange financing.

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly vehicles, certified pre-owned options, or rare models, there are dedicated online platforms to meet your needs.

Below are some of the top places to buy used cars online, along with tips on making a safe and informed purchase.

1. Autotrader

Autotrader has long been a trusted platform for buying used cars. It provides an extensive database of vehicles from dealerships and private sellers.

You can search by make, model, year, price, location, and even features like fuel type and transmission. Autotrader also offers a vehicle history check, pricing tools, and financing options, making it a comprehensive choice for used car buyers.

Why Choose Autotrader

Vast selection of cars from different sellers.
Detailed filters for personalized searches.
Access to vehicle history reports.

2. Carvana

Carvana is a pioneer in the online car-buying space, offering a seamless end-to-end process. The platform lets you search for used cars, arrange financing, and even trade in your old vehicle.

One standout feature is their 360-degree virtual tours of vehicles, allowing you to inspect cars online. Carvana delivers the purchased vehicle to your doorstep and offers a 7-day return policy for peace of min

Why Choose Carvana;

Hassle-free car delivery.
360-degree vehicle views.
Seven-day return guarantee.

3. Cars.com

Cars.com connects buyers to dealers and private sellers, offering a broad selection of used cars. Its advanced search filters make it easy to find a car that suits your preferences.

The platform also provides customer reviews of dealerships, ensuring you work with reputable sellers. Additionally, Cars.com offers a trade-in value calculator and price comparison tool

Why Choose Cars.com

Wide range of listings from dealers and private sellers.
Dealer reviews for transparency.
Tools for estimating car value and financing.

4. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has become a popular platform for buying and selling used cars locally.

It allows you to browse vehicles in your area, communicate directly with sellers, and even negotiate prices.

However, because it’s a peer-to-peer marketplace, it’s essential to exercise caution and verify the vehicle’s condition and title before making a purchase.

Why Choose Facebook Marketplace;

Localized listings for convenience.
Ability to negotiate directly with sellers.
No listing fees, making cars more affordable.

5. CarMax

CarMax is renowned for its no-haggle pricing, ensuring a transparent and stress-free buying experience. The platform offers certified used cars that go through a thorough inspection process.

CarMax also provides financing options and a 30-day money-back guarantee. With physical locations across the U.S., you can test-drive cars before buying

Why Choose CarMax;

Fixed pricing for transparency.
Certified pre-owned cars.
Generous return policy.

6. eBay Motors

eBay Motors is a great platform for finding used cars, especially rare models or project vehicles.

Buyers can participate in auctions or choose the “Buy It Now” option for immediate purchase. The platform also includes buyer protection programs to safeguard your purchase.

Why Choose eBay Motor

Access to unique and rare vehicles.
Flexible purchase options (auction or fixed price).
Buyer protection for added security.

7. Edmunds

Edmunds is more than just a car marketplace; it’s a resource hub for car buyers.

In addition to providing used car listings, the site offers expert reviews, price analysis tools, and vehicle comparisons.

Edmunds’ True Market Value (TMV) tool helps buyers understand if they’re getting a good deal.

Why Choose Edmund;

Expert reviews and advice.
TMV tool for pricing insight.
Comprehensive car comparison features.

8. TrueCar

TrueCar specializes in providing transparent pricing by showing what others in your area paid for similar vehicles.

This helps buyers make informed decisions. TrueCar partners with dealerships to offer upfront pricing and exclusive discount.

Why Choose TrueCar;

Transparent pricing information
Exclusive discounts from partner dealerships.
Seamless financing and trade-in options.

9. Vroom

Vroom offers a straightforward online shopping experience for used cars. Like Carvana, it delivers vehicles to your doorstep and provides a 7-day return policy.

Vroom also offers financing options and detailed vehicle inspections to ensure quality.

Why Choose Vroom;

Home delivery for convenience.
7-day return window.
Certified vehicle quality.

10. Craigslist

Craigslist remains a go-to platform for buying used cars directly from owners. While it lacks the advanced tools and protections of other platforms, it often features some of the lowest prices.

Buyers should approach Craigslist transactions cautiously, ensuring proper paperwork and inspections are complete

Why Choose Craigslist;

Often lower prices compared to dealerships.
Direct communication with sellers.
Wide variety of vehicles.

Tips for Buying Used Cars Only

Research: Check vehicle history reports using services like Carfax or AutoCheck.
Inspect: If possible, arrange for a professional inspection before purchase.
Negotiate: Many platforms allow for negotiation, especially with private seller.
Secure Payment: Use secure payment methods to avoid scams.
Read Reviews: Choose platforms and sellers with positive reviews and verified listings.

Buying a used car online offers unparalleled convenience, but it requires careful planning and research. Platforms like Autotrader, Carvana, Cars.com, and Facebook Marketplace cater to various needs and budgets, ensuring every buyer can find their perfect ride.

By using these trusted platforms and following safety precautions, you can enjoy a smooth and satisfying car-buying experience.

Tips for car purchase

What Are the Best Used Cars for First-Time Buyers?

Published

11 months ago

November 25, 2024

CN Benjamin

First-time buyers, used cars are the perfect choice because of its affordability, lower depreciation, and a wide variety of options. Buying a car for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it can also be daunting.

However, selecting the right used car involves careful consideration of factors like reliability, cost of ownership, safety, and overall value.

In this article, we’ll explore the best used cars for first-time buyers, focusing on vehicles that offer great features and peace of mind.

Why Choose a Used Car for Your First Purchase?

Opting for a used car as your first vehicle has several advantages:

Affordability: Used cars are significantly cheaper than new models, making them a budget-friendly option for first-time buyers.
Lower Depreciation: A new car loses 20-30% of its value in the first year, whereas a used car has already undergone most of its depreciation.
Variety: The used car market offers a wide range of models, years, and price points.
Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums are often lower for used cars, saving first-time buyers money.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Used Car

Before diving into specific models, here are a few factors to consider:

Reliability: Look for cars with a proven track record of dependability.
Safety Features: Ensure the car has essential safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Fuel Efficiency: Choose a car with good gas mileage to save on long-term fuel costs.
Cost of Maintenance: Research the maintenance costs and availability of spare parts.
Resale Value: Opt for models known for retaining their value over time.

Top Used Cars for First-Time Buyers

Here’s a list of the best used cars for first-time buyers, selected for their affordability, reliability, and features: