Are you considering buying a Nigerian used car? please read this. I bought a used car and learnt my lessons the hard way.

Read and learn from my experience.

1. Do not trust a mechanic.

A friend's mechanic and I test drove the car then he certified everything OK.
Days after different issues started springing up ranging from throttle head, bad shocks, bad nozzles, bad oil switch, slipping gear, bad AC compressor etc. Funny thing is I told him of my doubts but he was pissed at my worries

At least go with another mechanic

2. Get yourself a cheap scanner

Scanner sells for as low as 5k. Scan the vehicle to understand underlying problems. In my case the 02 sensors were faulty but there was no check engine light. The bulb may have been tampered with.

3. Beyond the gear and engine

Sometimes we are engrossed in how good the gear shifts or the engine sounds. But little things like inner light kit, power mirrors, central locks, upholstery, head lamps, wiper, CD player can rack up to a fortune. please check all.

4. Get a proper bond of contract.

A lawyer maybe contacted to draft a document stating certain caveats if the car develops a major fault. A sinister seller will be weary at this move.

5. Don't rush.

Yes I lost opportunities of buying several nice looking cars but my money was intact until I rushed into buying this car and started regretting. The pain of loosing your money to buying a crappy car is not worth it. The wait is.

Nice post OP.