₦airaland Forum

BlindAngel:
Hello car gurus in the house, i discussed with my mechanic this evening about fixing back my thermostat because of my car excess fuel consumption, I told him that I've already gotten the re wire guy that would have it done, but my mechanic told me that as far as my radiator is double cell, fixing back my thermostat won't work, that i have to change my radiator to single cell first, which i didn't budget buying of a newer radiator as part of my expenses, as i have already bought the thermostat. In which i regret trying to put it back at this point in time as i didn't thought about buying a new radiator. I have read numerous topics here on nairaland of people fixing back their thermostat, but i haven't read anything from anyone here about them changing their radiator from double cell to single cell first before fixing back their thermostat.

Stay far away from such mechanic because he will ruin your car.

sultaan:
One of the most helpful things people who have problems with their car can do is post a picture of the dash with engine running at operating temp, and a pictures of the engine bay from different andgles.

Sometimes we see mechanic hacks causing problem or point out where to check for leaks or disconnected sensor.

I have also observed that the question poser has neither provided any update nor feedback.

A feedback or update will enable people to provide additional assistance as well as allow others who might be experiencing the same problem to learn from his experience.

It's generally a problem most Nigerians have. This is also why we are very poor at customer service.

When people help you, you have a duty to give them feedback even if their support didn't yield any reasonable solution. This is also how foreign blogs work. You see people providing details of what they did to resolve a particular issue. How do people think the YouTube videos they watch are produced? Or they think they are AI generated?

If go though Nairaland history, you will notice that people will ask questions or for help, many responses will be provided but thwr question poser will just disappear into the thin air. Some respondents will start tagging him for an update.

It's also why those with the right Competencies & technical knowledge stay away from some of the enquiries.

Not good at all.

fineboynl:
Is it that the painter is using inferior paint or he is incompetent.

The paint fade and pull especially from the top.

Is anyone experiencing this within a year?

Basically low quality paint & poor quality workmanship. Get someone who can use sikkins products & offer you some warranty.

Note it must come at a price as it won't be cheap.

Greenodds:
Yeah, like I already said, time will tell. To build a reputation for reliability takes time. For now we can give them aesthetics, price and features.

Another major issue is resale (second) value. More than 80% of Nigerians buy cars due with good resale value. These Chinese cars are almost worthless once they are registered in Nigeria.

We have very poor maintenance culture as a people. While the Japanese brands could cope with abuse, the Chinese cars may not survive it. I see quite a number smoking & I wonder what the issue could be. The turbo components for those fitted with it, are less tolerant.

Greenodds:
But you thinking just because Japanese cars did well means Chinese cars will not do well is also erratic. Why do you think they won't?
Having said that I never guaranteed it would happen, I said if they continue with the pace they are going it's only gonna be a matter of time.

A few years ago there were hardly Chinese cars on our roads but today it's a different story it means they are getting something right. Reliability can only be proven with time, only time will tell.

Also, You can't just write off price and aesthetics, ofcourse Chinese car brands can be successful based on only price and aesthetics and become known for that, not everyone can afford the price tag for reliable brands, there is a very strong market for cheap especially in a place like Africa. people buy things strictly because they are cheap. Not saying Chinese cars are cheap and unreliable, I'm just saying they already gained recognition because they are cheaper while offering same and in some cases even better technological amenities in cars.

While some of your points are well noted, Chinese cars will take years of rigorous R & D improvement to gain such market dominance. They may have aesthetic appeal but their greatest challenge is durability, reliability, availability of parts at an affordable price, technical knowhow etc.

I'm not sure we have much literature on those who have used their for 5 years & above & what the maintenance cost looks like. Someone mentioned that Cost of ownership within a few years is high.

Another important factor is how they handle aging at 150k mileage. Will the parts be available without the owner breaking the bank? How do owners handle engine & electrical challenges when they arise.

I recall that Hyundai & Kia did lots of ads to gain entry into the Nigerian market but cost of parts is a major challenge for their brand even though they have a much better quality of build than the Chinese.

PersonallyI won't buy any if the Chinese cars because they can't withstand the rigours of our roads when u constantly travel with them. They may offer some relevance when used just within the city centers.

valarinz:
Turbo of course

I believe it's a 6cyl turbo. That's some mad man on a steroid. It would be nice to have.

valarinz:
That car has over 325hp and 354 torque ad you see am so, its lightining quick compared to most of its peers

Wow! This is outstanding. Then no match whatsoever. Is it turbo or NA engine?

valarinz:
Both will still lose gracefully, Infact the beating go still be like Real Madrid vs super falcons

Really? What's the configuration of the Volvo S60?

Port443:
Had a very funny and sweet experience today from Abuja Airport. I was pulling out with my volvo, been thirsty for a race but not today as I had my kids with me after dropping wifey at the airport. This 2025 prado triggered me. I'm sure he'd go home to research on volvo product. @valarinz I wish I videoed the outcome for you

There's no contest here. It's a no brainer. Some ignoramus will push or drag you into what you don't want. It's better to ignore them. No be every rain wey fall dey gather flood.

If you want to race, look for an IS350 or a GS350 & have a go at it. Come back with feedback.

Multiple BMW drivers are looking for who to race with. I saw a C43 yesterday & apparently, they guy wanted a race but I guess capable cars are on vacation.

RyanAutomotive:
If I say my mind now, my comment might be deleted by this antispam bot irritant.

Seun please, why can't you lecture the users of this platform to know what contributes as violation that deletes our comment?

It doesnt make sense typing long comments only for it to get deleted.

WhatCanFaNa?

What is stopping you from saying your mind?

You already know that your comments will be deleted because it will be an insult to other members of this forum.

There's no intelligence in what you keep doing. I believe you are an adult & should know that your consistent reliance on AI to respond to issues that require real life experience shows you have nothing to offer.

Please, don't be deceived, no one finds your AI generated response useful, it's an irritant.

twinskenny:
i just changed my option again


am looking at either the acura mdx 2014 or the rx 350 2008...


please which one is preferable in term of performance

If your primary concern is performance, the MDX trumps the RX350 with 290hp at 6,200rpm against the 270hp of the rx350 at the same rpm.

The mdx also has better audio system. It also offers a 3rd row seating arrangement with less premium feel.

The MDX comes with a timing belt which requires replacement at around 100k miles while the rx350 has a timing chain that does not require maintenance if you stick with the recommended engine oil. Belt replacement is also expensive.

In terms of fuel consumption, of course, the MDX consumes more & requires premium fuel. Parts on the ride are more expensive as well.

The RX350 has a better resale value while your MDX may more than 70% of the purchase value when you want to resell.

Finally, this is not to discourage your but to lay the cards before you to allow you make an informed decision.

All the best.

kesmiraAutos:
Greetings Auto Gurus,

Please advise on a choice between:

· A 2008 Nissan Rogue (foreign used)
· A 2004/2005 Toyota Camry (foreign used)

Resale value is not a factor.

My neighbor who majorly drives through bad roads daily is trying to decide which to pick. He plans to use the car for Uber business. His priorities are:

· Reliability
· Good ground clearance
· Low maintenance costs
· Durability

Thank you.

The Camry is your best bet given our environment. You won't struggle with maintenance as any mechanic can fix it, parts are available & for the business you want to embark on, it, the Camry offers you some peace of mind; it's reliable & durable.

With the Roque, you have a good ground clearance but you will struggle with maintenance & spare parts availability. Mechanics will also mess up the electrical for you. It won't be tolerant to abuse like the Camry.

For uber business, it's a no brainer. The only reason you may want to pick the Rogue over the Camry is to stand out.

RyanAutomotive:
Good evening sir.

Vehicle: Lexus ES350
Concern: Repeated Vehicle Speed Sensor fault warning/code

Let’s address this properly before it starts affecting the transmission or stability systems seriously.

* Professional Diagnostic Insight

A Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) fault is not something that should simply be ignored.

The speed sensor is very important because it helps the vehicle calculate:

• Gear shifting timing
• ABS operation
• Traction control
• Vehicle stability control
• Speedometer readings
• Engine and transmission communication

So if your ES350 keeps showing a speed sensor fault:
• The vehicle is detecting unstable or incorrect speed data somewhere in the system.


* Important Observation

Many Toyota/Lexus vehicles may still drive “normally” at the early stage of a speed sensor issue.

That is why some mechanics say:
“It’s nothing.”

But over time, it can begin to cause:
• Hard shifting
• Delayed shifting
• ABS/VSC lights
• Gear hunting
• Incorrect speedometer readings
• Transmission fail-safe mode

* Most Likely Causes

1, Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor
The sensor itself may be weak or intermittently failing.


2, Damaged Wiring or Connector
Very common on older Lexus models.

Possible issues:
• Broken wiring
• Corrosion
• Loose connector
• Poor grounding


3, ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Problem
On Lexus vehicles, wheel speed sensor faults can sometimes trigger VSS-related warnings.


4, Transmission Signal Communication Issue
The transmission module may not be receiving stable speed information.

5, Tone Ring / Hub Bearing Issue
A damaged reluctor ring can distort wheel speed readings.


• What Should Be Checked Now

Before replacing anything:

1, Perform a professional scan and retrieve the exact fault code.

Examples:
• P0500
• P0503
• ABS-related wheel speed codes

The exact code matters greatly

2, Carry out live data monitoring.

Check:
• Wheel speed readings
• Transmission output speed
• Sensor synchronization


3, Inspect the wiring and connectors physically.

Especially around:
• Wheel hubs
• Transmission area
• ABS connectors


4, Verify ABS and traction control system condition.


* Do NOT Do This

• Do NOT ignore repeated speed sensor faults
• Do NOT keep clearing codes without diagnosis
• Do NOT replace random sensors blindly
• Do NOT wait until transmission symptoms begin


* Professional Insight

The vehicle speed signal is one of the most important data inputs used by the ECU and gearbox.

A faulty speed signal may appear small initially, but eventually it can affect:
• Transmission performance
• Stability systems
• Driving safety

The good news is:
Most cases are usually related to:
• Sensor failure
• Wiring problems
• ABS signal irregularities

—not major gearbox damage.



* Ryan Automotive Limited Recommendation

The correct approach is a structured electronic and transmission signal diagnosis, focusing on:

• Exact fault code analysis
• Live speed data monitoring
• Sensor signal testing
• ABS and transmission communication verification

At Ryan Automotive Limited, we carry out professional Lexus/Toyota diagnostics and fault tracing to accurately determine whether the issue is from the sensor, wiring, ABS system, or transmission communication network.

Proper diagnosis now can prevent more expensive transmission-related problems later.


Precision • Transparency • Excellence

Ryan Automotive Limited

Bruh
Pls, stop this Chatgpt response. Anyone can get these responses.

It feels very embarrassing to see this. If you have no idea of the issue being discussed, it's better to be quiet.

joromii:
Hello Nairalanders, please can I use Hardex 5w-30 to replace the US mobil 1 of the same 5W-30

Also, how good is hardex for people who have used it

Hardex is 40k, Mobil 1 is 80k
Does the price difference make a lot of significance to your engine performance and overall health?

The cost of engine replacement is more expensive that using a genuine engine oil. I have read mixed reviews about Hardex.

The major problem is that a lot of fake engine oil are available in the market. Many unscrupulous sellers sell the fake & Chinese knockoff as original engine oil. Sadly, many Nigerians prioritize profit over honesty. The lack of regulation in virtually all aspects of our human existence in Nigeria has created a free for all.

I will advise you buy from only trusted sellers.

apexquest:
Hello gurus in the house, I need help and guidance.
Recently I noticed that in the morning when I want to leave the house, the car will hesitate to move after I have put it in drive 'D'. After about 4 to 5 seconds, it will engage sometimes with a jerk and begin to move.
For the remaining part of the day it will not do it again untill the next day.
It happens every morning and whenever I have left the car for several (over 5 to 6) hours.

It's a 2008 Rav4.

What do I need to check or attend to, please.??

When was the last time you replaced your transmission fluid & the filter? That's a good place to start.

Mavor:
I thought tokunbo cars like Benz, Toyota and Lexus really hold value. I am not anticipating a depreciation of more than 10% to 15% max after say 15 months of use.

The implication of your expectation is that if buy the vehicle at the rate of 60M Naira, you will sell it at 51 - 54M after a year plus of use.

By registering the vehicle, you loose about 20% value. Again, how clean & level of maintenance also play vital role in resale value.

However, if price of cars keep going up due to inflation, you may get value close to your expectations but you won't be able to replace it at that rate.

Mavor:
55m for an rx 350 f 2022 awd. everything I am seeing is out of reach.

With this budget, you may just settle for a well maintained Nigerian used else, you may end up with a highly compromised ride.

Mavor:
Thank you. Are you advising that I should not go for the sports version of the RX 350 2022 due to high cost mainteance and it can hold its own in flooded roads in Lagos?

Any of the RX350 is fine. I only stated that the F Sport tranny has a higher cost of acquisition if anything goes wrong. This is not to suggest there's any challenge with the transmission.

The RX350 has a base model & option packed. Just decide what u want & go for it.

Ensure to reduce or avoid driving through flood. Although some vehicle are more suited for driving through flood.

Mavor:
so based on what you are saying about the rx, is a 2023 highlander xse or platinum not the way to go

The 2023 Highlander also comes with an EPS & conventional shocks & spring.

The RX350 trumps the Highlander with luxury features & pristine & plush interior finish. The RX350 engine is also better tuned with quiet cabin than the Highlander.

Over all, your choice.

Mavor:
I am a single man so dont need much seating space but I need something that can hold up well with Lagos flooding, great suspension and manageable maintenance cost. Just looking for a good price as my budget is tight.

You popped up with an answer to a question I wanted ask.

The RX350 2022 has all the bells & whistles you desire in a ride of its class with a decent performance. This is all you need & a few years from now, you are not likely to loose much from the value. If properly maintained, you will resell at a good price.

Note that the FSport tranny is expensive so replacing your fuilds at the right mileage is key as well as getting it from a reputable shop.

On the other hand, the Highlander will be too big for you & since no family is involved, I won't think twice.

Good luck.

Mavor:
And thoughts on the Benz GLE 350 4MATIC 2019? Thinking of which to get but I dont want one that will be a problem to maintain due to cost of maintanence of lack of spares. I also need something with a great resale value in 1 to 2 years. Also considering 2021 Highlander.

That MY is a good buy but note that cost of maintenance is high considering that spare parts are also pricey. In terms of resale value, you won't get same value as a highlander or lexus.

Mavor:
WHich would you go for if you had to buy one? I am concerned about maintenance cost and resale value in Lagos, Nigeria after 1-2 years max

I will choose the 2022 RX350 as the RX350L is too small as a family ride. The legroom is quite smaller, which further compresses the booth space.

Just a bit of a twist, I prefer the 2018-2022 Highlander with a 3rd row seat to the RX350L. It has a bigger leg room, better boot space for luggage with better seating arrangement for family.

In terms of resale value, both hold same or similar value. Remember, resale value is a function of good maintenance culture.

Both vehicles are the same & share similar characteristics. The 2020 RX350L has a longer wheel base & longer body design that accommodates a 3rd row seat. However, the 3rd row is quite small & can comfortably sit a child as an adult wl struggle their.

The 2022 RX350 has 5 more horsepower than it's predecessor at 295hp. Both models have the AWD version for better traction on a wet road.

I'm not sure there's any more difference between the 2 vehicles.

chido20:
Guys. I like this two cars, the rx 330 and the Venza. Am looking for speed and comfort. If you have driven this two cars let me know and plz recommend btw the two with your reasons

These 2 vehicles have different engine design & size. If speed is your concern, the 3.5l 2gr fe 6cyl engine in the Venza commands decent power & offers you some level of comfort.

The RX330 on the other hand, is a 3.3l engine, solid, rugged & delivers a decent power. Offers a luxury accent than the Venza which is essentially a Camry Wagon as succinctly captured by nurey.

Both offers a good ground clearance with the RX suits more to this purpose.

Dwarfgod:
15m tukonbo Suv car will mostly be boring one except for 2010-2013 mdx but you are a first time car owner. You might not understand acura, not like it's a rocket science but they need attention.

I will advice you to go for 2013 to 2015 rx350 Nigerian drive. They are so many of them for sales. You chances of getting a good one is above 70% if you calm down and take your time.
Hint to get a better one
1.) Low mileage not more than 100kmiles
2.) Don't ever accept one which the fan is connected to run always. Chances of sludge is higher.
3.) Verify the mileage online to be sure it's not rolled back or severe accidented car/flooded.
4.) Look underneat for oil leaks. Rear main seals etc.
5.) Timing valve cover leaks.
6.) Don't buy upgraded ones with china bumpers and headlights.
7.) Go with a car scanner to scan the car for possibly transmission code or engine code
8.) Then lastly is interior neatness/body/windows/ door locks/radio/speakers and test driving to check gear movement and engine sound on high rpm.

Why i am recommending this 2013-2015 rx350 for you is because you will enjoy the value of your money/prestige and won't feel like changing the car very soon in less than 2years.

Note: get one with AWD. How to know? It will have a big pad that looks like a computer mouse and a lock differential buttion close to heated and ventilation seat button.

It's impossible to get a Nigerian used 2013/2015 RX350 with less 100k miles below 22M except a highly compromised one. Your focus should not be mileage buy well maintained.

A less than 100k Tokunbo of this RX350 with no serious accident history will be well over 30M. For an owner to seller it lower means car isn't properly maintained. Don't buy cars because they are cheaper from the market price, there's always a reason a vehicle is sold at a reduced price. Don't fall victim.

Once you buy, you may never recover your money. A well maintained RX350 of those years would sell anywhere around 22M & above even if the mileage is above 200k miles.

If you use original & recommended fluids, your engine at 200k miles is still very fresh & smooth.

It is people like you with unreasonable expectations that make unscrupulous dealers to tamper with mileage.

@9icetoo has offered you some reasonable options. You may consider them as your realistic option.

Elui2:
Hello

Pls what the best plug/ original plug to use for es 350.

Secondly what type of radiator is best to replace an old radiator, the one currently in is a single cell.

Is it best to buy single cell or double cell?

Your question is already answered by @kingreign however, I will just add that it'd better to replace your radiator with the same spec it came with (single cell) but you won't find it in the Nigerian market except you want to order it oversea.

ajanxx:
Can anyone recommend an experienced mechanic who is very good with vehicle suspension? My mechanic told me to change my shocks, linkage, steering rack, hub, etc, but my car still squeaks and makes noise when I drive. My car model is ES350 Lexus; all the mechanics I have called just do a guessing work, a trial-and-error approach. I want a mechanic with technical skills and experience who resides between Ogba, Berger, Omole, Agege, Akute, and their environs. Edakun before kazeem finish me

Can you describe the noise? Sometimes, the noise may not be suspension related. Apparently, you lack access to competent mechanics. Why not visit raduautoworks in Lekki & get a proper diagnosis?

It will save you loads of time & money. Physical inspection & diagnosis is the only way to narrow your car issues.

Iceking1:
Boss, I can't record and allow them see me, the consequences would be out of this world, they might seize my phone or worst still land me lots of slaps before throwing me inside their van. I'm always calm when dealing with them, to avoid unforseen circumstances.

You seem naive & not willing to depart from it. If this story isn't made up, you are an accessory to your problem.

First, you aren't supposed to have any other document in the vehicle other than the proof of ownership, vehicle license, insurance & every other document given to you when the car was registered.

You are one of those that embolden the police to continue to extort innocent motorists. Apparently, they prayed on your ignorance.

Even after the incident, you are still acting like a notice & behaving like a 7 year old kid.. you hold the key to you boldness & confidence. Fear only exists in the mind & until you are ready to conquer it, you will continue to wallow in ignorance. Mind you, no one has advised you to fight the police but just stand your ground & get a lawyer if they keep your car at the police station. It not only illegal but malicious & your lawyer can sue for damages.

Police surely know their boundary but will fleece any weak man like you.

Piyke:
I don't sell the oil. I had contacted them many months ago after witnessing the effect of the oil, and asked if they could consider importing it, which they did. I also have no affiliation with mypartsng.com

Oh! I see. Thanks for the clarification.

Piyke:
Thanks mate. Appreciate the shares you've been doing.

Do you sell this in Abuja? Kindly reach out via inbox route or leave your contact & I will call you.

chelseamann:
Quick one Pls

Does the 2013 RX 350 Experience the issue of Melting/sticky Dashboard due to heat & sunlight??

No, it doesn't.

HENRYFORDmmeje:
Hi Guys, greetings.
I am looking for people who have experienced this, or have an idea on how to solve this issue.

My lexus RX330 2005 drives very fine. It doesn't throw up any error code as regards to it's drivability. Currently, the only error codes it is throwing up is 0430 and 0420 code "catalyst system inefficiency below threshold bank 1 and bank 2". I know it has to do with the China catalysts I installed in the bank 1 and 2 port as I don't have money for the original direct tokumbo ones. Mine was stolen.

Back to the subject, at every cold start up, mostly in the morning, when I put it in reverse, it moves fast and quickly as it should, but when I put it in drive, the car only revs as you pedal it but doesn't move, it will look as if it is in park or neutral. It doesn't move, it only revs and revs, then after about 8-10mins of the car idling and steaming (the car has become warm) then you pedal it, it will gradually and hesitantly start moving slowly and then pick up within some seconds and drive very fine all throughout the day. The gear selects very fine. This situation only happens when the car is cold (like 7-8hrs of parking). If it is warm, it doesn't happen. Me and my mechanic has inspected the selenoids in the gear body valve, inspected the gear shift sensor, the gear speed sensor, the 13 pins, all are okay. The right gear oil is what I use and it is gauged.

I have exhausted my research, me and my mechanic has run out of ideas, the mechanic is advising me to get a direct tokumbo japan 13pin gearbox and replace it, that the problem is from the gearbox drive fiber, that the gear is also old, since it is 2005; That if I don't change the gear, it will affect my engine. My engine is barely a month old (direct Japan tokumbo 3MZ). I just changed it after a failed oil pump destroyed the old one.

This gear box is very expensive, I can't afford it now and I don't want to jeopardise my 'new' japan tokumbo engine. Anyone have similar experience or have an idea of solving this problem?

Sorry for the long write up, I needed to detail this situation. Thanks for your expected input.

Your problem may stem from the Chinese cat you installed. Start by taking it out. It may have blocked the exhaust.

Also, get a more competent mechanic with capacity for scan & data stream. He may be able to ascertain the issues from running a live data.