It is generally known that Nigerians enjoy buying used cars, we cannot deny the fact that the smell of a new car can be intoxicating and attractive at the same time. However, it is the price tag that gives it that smell. The expensive price tag can sometimes, dig a hole in the pocket. Such holes are not always easy to fill, it is hard to refill even after several months. This is merely one of the several reasons Nigerians opt for used cars rather than chasing after new cars that come with high financial implications.
Moreover, many Nigerians don’t think they have to break the bank to buy a car that sees them off to work and brings them back home. This is another reason for the choice of Nigerians for used cars.
Reasons Nigeria Choose Used Cars
Below are 5 reasons Nigerians keep buying used cars:
- To save money
- To get better brands and models
- Reliability
- To have greater varieties
- To avoid depreciation
Do you know what the Toyota RAV4 is?
Introducing the fourth-generation Toyota RAV4 – the result of a revolutionary new design concept, an SUV that obtains a level of elegance never seen before. When you first enter this realm of unique craftsmanship, you’re almost certain to feel your heart beat faster. Featuring a bold and powerful new instrument panel design done with a lighthearted touch, the RAV4 delivers a level of driving pleasure like nothing you’ve experienced before. Carefully crafted in every detail, it fills you with a new sense of joy and excitement every time you drive.
Optioning for used Toyota Rav4?
Toyota RAV4 has been one of the most in-demand vehicles in the country, but have you really considered the wait times? For the new Toyota Rav4, the wait time is stretched out to over 2 years, luckily earlier this year, it was reduced but it can still be over 6 months. Which then makes one think, “Why not buy a used one?”.
Yeah…. “it’s the same model, definitely, nothing is wrong with it”. Well, it’s not as simple as that, but nevertheless there’s no cause for alarm as we’ll talk about everything that can go wrong and we are going to tell you if we think you should buy one or not.
Exterior Issues
Does the exterior quality live up to Toyota’s amazing reputation for reliability? Let’s say it does. Researchers review that RAV4 made in Japan seems to offer better quality and reliability than those made in North America, Russia and Ghana, well that’s good news for us here in Nigeria because most of our RAV4s are from Japan. If yours isn’t from Japan, don’t freak out because they’re still pretty good.
There are issues with the roof rails leaking, issues with water building up inside the door, and the fuel filler hole can be overly sensitive and can indicate to the fuel filler that the tank is full when it’s not, also there are issues with the battery draining quickly.
Interior Issues
There are loads of complaints about the infotainment system, few consumers complain that the cup holders aren’t large enough, the noisy electric motor adjuster.
With the exterior and interior Issues listed, it’s not really applicable to all Toyota RAV4 users. However, there are some common issues.
What Goes Wrong – Common Issues
Transmission Issues: Though not with all models, occurs mainly in the older versions, some models may experience transmission fluid leaks
Engine Oil Leaks: Having a proper check for oil leaks is very important, especially around the valve cover gasket and oil pan.
Suspension wear: Be careful of the roads you ride by avoiding faded struts and bushes leading to rough rides.
Cooling System: Take proper caution when it comes to the radiator and hoses, it can lead to overheating if any issue occurs.
Electrical Issues: It’s likely you experience issues with the electrical systems like the dashboards and windows.
Should You Buy One?
Of course, you can buy one, you only have to make sure you do all the pre-purchase inspections, by having a qualified and trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle, check for regular maintenance and service records, and don’t forget to test drive to find out any immediate issues or problems the car might have.
To decide if you should buy one, you really need to look into your driving lifestyle and when you’re planning to resell it because Toyota has just announced that the new RAV4 will be purely hybrid moving forward and it will really affect the long-term resale values of non-hybrids. We are not saying that the non-hybrids will have no value but it will depend on the condition of the vehicle.
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