Yesterday, I saw a car Camry 2008 model with a "for sale" sticker. I got interested because a friends wants to buy it. So we approached the driver to inquire about the price. But just to unleash my curiosity, I asked how long it's been used. Surprisingly, the man said 3 months. Just to get further details I asked "why would you buy a car only to sell within 3 months of use. He quickly replied that he wants to upgrade. I didn't bother to probe further but I think there's a problem with the vehicle which he does not want to disclose, though, the car looks clean interior and exterior.

Can you send mileage & price to bravolad@yahoo.com

What year & model is it? What is the current mileage? You can send further details to bravolad@yahoo.com

lomomike:


65 litres of fuel can't get you an average of 330miles of driving, rather it can get you 330kilometres (206miles) of driving.

For your 3MZ-FE 3.3L V6 which is used in ES330, 1S330, GS330, RX330, Highlander 3.3LV6 04-07, Camry 04-06. Toyota/Lexus recommends Multigrade SAE 5W30 oil.

Recommended sparkplugs are: DENSO SK20R11 or NGK IFR6A11

Spot on @Mike plus the 2004/2005 Toyota Sienna on 3MZ-FE 3.3L V6 engine. It would be amazing to get that mpg on 65 litres of fuel.

Happy birthday bruh.

It's a bit off the line comparing the maintenance of a generating set to that of a car. They are entirely different, but could help to cultivate the culture of good maintenance habits. Certain parts in a car don't show any sign of wear before they fall apart. However, if you adhere to the manual and change items as per the recommended intervals; you will enjoy a less troublesome motoring.

However, I think people's concern for this model is reliability & the cost of spare parts in the long run. I have had two friends who used BMW in the past, while both admitted the adoring feeling they derived from its performance, luxury and plushness of the ride, they could not vouch for its reliability also complained about the high cost of keeping it to shape.

My take, depending on your cash in flow, stick with what offers you comfort and happiness.

@Kcbaba007 this is 2008/2009 model not 2010 as you posted.

The hybrid system is highly technical and complicated technology that requires specialised skills & training. Hybrid technicians undergo a rigorous training & certification before they qualify as hybrid certified agents/mechanics. In Nigeria however, I doubt we have such qualified personnel at the moment. Should they exist, I presume a handful. From research, the inverter system is very expensive to replace when they cave in and requires specialised tools to replace.

You may not have much of a problem if you are buying a brand new hybrid vehicle as they last long. Whatever gains you make in fuel economy will be lost when you do need to replace the system. I have read elsewhere about many owners abandoning their hybrid cars after a few months of use due to lack of know how in the country.

If you must buy, ensure a proper research with regard to spare parts availability, knowledgeable mechanics and cost of maintenance before dabling into it.

abatically:


To chucky every Honda is better than any Toyota no matter the model, so arguing with him is pointless. I'm also a Honda fan. When comparing from 1999-2006 model the acord triumphs, but comparing a 2007 Honda DC to 2007-2011 camry is just going too far.

Spot on bruh! I didn't bother responding to his subsequent comment. An apparent waste of time.

The years (13) may seem much but if it's properly maintained backed with a good history report, there's nothing wrong in buying it. Older cars that are well maintained still drive anew. The problem more often is maintenance, but since it's used overseas, they have better maintenance culture, knowledgeable mechanics, availability of serviceable parts & the drive to carry out repairs as at when it is due.

For the 2009 Honda Accord and 2008 Toyota Camry, they are basically the same thing depending on the trim you are looking at. Both are also good. But again, depending upon how long you intend to use it. If it's going to be a lone commuter for you (the only car), Camry seem to be more durable to withstand a daily use with minimal maintenance cost. Both also have good resale value but Camry has some edge.

I am a bit skeptical when buying a Nigerian used car. Most car users here don't have good maintenance habit. They don't even understand what it means to use the right & recommend engine oil and transmission fluid owing to either their inability to read manuals that come with vehicle they are using or unable to comprehend such manuals. Yet others seem very busy to read the basic instructions for proper maintenance. Except you know the owner & how meticulous he/she is with maintenance, I will advice you to stay away from Nigerian used. Most of the ones put up for sale have one underlying fault or the other arising from negligence from owners. One typical example is that most car owners here drive with their check engine lights, ABS, Trac VSC lights on without out knowing the implication. Still many others remove their thermostats and connect their fans direct based on mechanics advise.

My first choice will be the Benz if I can't afford a direct tokunbor of the Accord or Camry.

chucky234:
You picked out the replies that favours the Camry, hmm nice one, but can you paste the full article here as well for all to see.
By the way I don't idolize Honda because I'm not brand person, I just hate it when people over hype Toyota cars especially the Camry.

Reading through your comments & arguments, they don't add up. You have a personal bias for Honda and that always leave your argument rather too narrow. Each brand has its strong points as well as areas of weakness. When considering a car to buy in Nigeria, buyers are more concerned about maintenance in the long run. I have used both Toyota & Honda cars at different times, and therefore, can make certain conclusions. Often times I see you argue with people, I struggle to comprehend your points. Learn to be articulate in your analyses and argument rather than just argue to win. Be guarded by reasons and logic not sentiment.

It's common knowledge that Toyota is much more rugged for long time users in this part of the world the its immediate nearest competitor (Honda). In comparison to their ability to guarantee satisfaction for its users in performance, it's subject to debate based on driving pattern, driver's will to push the gas pedal etc. Whereas I could manage my worn out ball joints, stabiliser linkage, suspensions etc. in my Toyota vehicle, pending when I get money to replace them, you can not do the same with a Honda vehicle. In addition, Toyota commands a better resale value in Nigeria than Honda. This is often the crux of people's preference for Toyota.

In terms of aesthetics, design and performance, both vehicles are essentially the same but the Toyota has an edge over the Honda when durability is considered.

Now, in all honesty, eliminating sentiments and narrow mindedness, it's a sacrilege to compare a 2005 EOD to a 2008 Camry. It makes no sense and could only lead to an absolute blind alley to make such comparison. Both cars are no rivalries and would never be seen as such.

@Op, it's your choice to pick any car of your taste, budget and class. Do not let people decide for you what choice you make. If you like the Honda, by all means, read about it and buy it. But if the Camry tickles your fancy, by the same token, read users reviews and decide. You can't compare a 2005 car to a 2008 one. They are separated by time, distance and space. Good luck in your choice.

This is 2008/2009 model and not 2010 model as you posted. Pls correct it.

There's nothing to worry about. It's normal for animals such as rats, cats & sometimes snakes to creep into the engine bay. It provides them with shelter. You need not escalate it any further before some people use it to make money off you by asking you to pay money for prayers.

Shortlist is real. It's owned and managed by Philips consulting. Their address is clearly stated on the shortlist website. A little more research would show you they are not scammers. I feel their recruitment strategy is somehow weird by inviting applicants who have over six (6) years work experience to converge on one (1) centre for an aptitude test.

What is however surprising is their inability to give feedback to applicants after inviting them to tests.

Obviously, he just copied the specs of another car and pasted it on a CRV. Apparent lack of attention to details.

sultaan:
I have had thAt thought for a long time but apparently those in. Nigeria are More affluent than those of us abroad who use the same car for 5 years so don't be a player hater. Reason is that Nigeria s are only exposed to the usual Camry and Accord they pay a boatload of money to find out those cars are boring now they want to buy the next fad and it all end up the same as last purchase

Exactly.

I need no reassurance from an online car retail or advert sites in Nigeria. I doubt any website owner will give you any assurances but will urge you to carry out some verification before paying for any car. Except where the owner of the website doubles as the owner of the cars in question. But what kind of assurance do you intend to get from an online retail car shop. However, I will ensure that the car in question actually exists but would never make any payment or commitment without physically inspecting the vehicle.

There's a lot of fraud going on especially using the online medium, so your best bet is to visit the car stand to verify things yourself. Yes you can identify the car online but you must ensure that you transact with the right owner, inspect the car, verify authenticity etc prior to financial commitment.

I have often wondered the reasoning behind this trend of people buying cars and in less than one year of useage, they want to sell. So many of such adverts litter the auto section of this forum. With the knowledge that purchasing a vehicle is not a one day decision. For many, it's a decision made over a period of time (from 6 months to one year or even more) depending on the frequency of one's income. Majority of buyers save money over a period time prior to buying cars of their choice. Yet others take loan in order to buy a car.

The only exception to this rule of the thumb is the rich who can decide to purchase a car with little or no time to think about it, provided the car tickles their fancy & satisfies the need for it thereof.

Now, after deciding upon budget, brand and model, someone buys a car. All of a sudden, the enthusiasm about the car starts to dwindle & then there's a quest for a higher, newer model or even a different brand entirely. I believe there's only a fraction of users within this group who can frankly afford the upgrade.

I have a strong feeling that others just dabbled into car ownership when they are not financially ready or buoyant enough for the kind of vehicles they bought. For this group of car owners, cost has gone up exponentially in terms of fuelling and general maintenance. It has become a struggle to maintain a balance albeit keeping the car and sustaining their families and for the single ones among this group, keeping up with other financial demands. Within this period of car ownership (less than a year), depending on the state of the car; certain parts are expensive to replace. And sometimes, there's an underlying problem that came with the car which they can not cope with or afford to replace.
Often times when I see the advert "3-6 months used or used less than 1 year", this group of owners readily comes to mind.

This does not detract from the fact that some very few genuinely desire an upgrade or in the least a change. A simple cost benefit analysis would help a lot of these kinds of owners determine at first what they really need and not what they want.

What do you think? Am I alone in this thinking or missing something?

Usually, when buying a car online within Nigeria, the right approach would be to discuss with the online seller after you have identified a particular car. Request details of the car which of course includes VIN number. With due diligence done, you can proceed to meet with the seller one-on-one in other to inspect the said car in the company of your mechanic before you proceed with payment.

This is my modus operandi when buying a car in Nigeria. Any other way is at your own peril.

Fuel economy is out of the equation when considering an SUV with a 3.5l v6 engine that produces 265 hp and 253 lb.ft with a gross weight of about 4451 lb. Expect a further drop in mpg because of the quality of fuel imported into Nigeria. Yet, if decide to go with the Allwheel model, a drastic reduction in mpg should be anticipated.

In terms of the differences between the year models, I do not think there's much of a difference. Noticeable difference is the fact that the 2005 model has a satellite controlled GPS and standard XM Satelite Radio. I do not know how well these devices are supported in Nigeria. On the Touring Edition, you also have the Bluetooth hands-free cell phone interface. I think the GPS in the 2003 model is disc operated.

There was a recall for the 2005 - 2006 models due to Transmission harsh shifting. So you need to be sure it's corrected in anyone you choose to buy. When buying a Nigerian used, be sure it is serviced with the right engine oil & transmission fluid at the recommended intervals. Get a competent garage or mechanic to help you with basic checks in addition to obtaining a VIN report, absolutely essential. Even though it's been used here.

About 3 to 4 years ago, a colleague of mine used it and it served him well. As I have always said, maintenance is paramount to durability and efficiency. Personally, I will choose the 2005 model over the 2003 model.

L

inspiredm:


Chomiz,

Allegations Comes, Allegations GOES, Despite all Odds We are still In Business, Arguably Nigeria's Strongest Online Auto Dealer for 9 Years and Counting.

In Business Transactions, Allegations and Misunderstanding Will Always Come, they dont bother Us, We've been through it all.

When we're Wrong, We apologise and Move on, We learn Everyday.

There are other Several Transactions Successfully Done without Hitches, so One or two Negatives Wont Deter Us.

Cheers
Inspired

Your response is a direct admission of those allegations and an indictment on your shoddy business practice. It's a big shame and portrays you as a dealer who cares less about the feelings of your customers. It is understandable when certain pre-order business go wrong resulting from circumstances beyond your control not when they are deliberately created out of greed. The fact that your client owes you some balance is not a justification to give him a forged documents. It's a clear indication you engage in fraudulent activities. I doubt you are as established in this business as you claim. I think the OP admitted that both of you agreed on a balance in October. The least you could have done would be to give him photo copies of the original documents not forged ones, (it's an absolute no no and predisposes you to litigation if he so desires).

This is one complain too many against you. I remember similar recent complaint against you by some customers. You also have a poor customer relation/service. Even though you still enjoy some patronage from people who don't understand your modus operandi, over time, such patronage will dwindle. A good name is always better than money.

disloman:
Bros!this is nt to discourage him with v6 engine.i knw what i'm saying n this is his 1st car.Let him enjoy his ride.Bros when v6 start with its issue,u will regret buying cars with v6.

I don't seem to understand what you mean by "when v6 starts with its issues"... My dear, cars have issues irrespective of the engine displacement, whether an in-line 4 or v6; maintenance is key. If you use the right engine oil & carry out servicing at the right intervals with the right and original parts as well as using a knowledgeable mechanic, your experience of car ownership could be problem free. An abused i4 can make you dread car ownership.

The problem with car ownership in this part of the world as I have observed is, most owners do not engage in preventive maintenance. The syndrome of if it's not broken don't fix it is prevalent in Nigeria. I use a v6 engine and in over 3 years of ownership, it's a joy to drive.

Personally, I will choose the Avalon over the Honda of the same year. The Avalon offers a better performance, resale value, more rugged but with a reduced mpg. I'm also assuming the Honda is also the v6 version as well.

Emperoh:


had this done on the 22nd of December and then did a total of about 750 miles of driving over the xmas period.
Could it have fallen off alignment?

There is a high possibility that could happen especially with the level of potholes on our roads. It would not be out of place to do it again.

Emperoh:
what could be causing constant but mild vibrations at speeds of above 110km/hr and above?

Lexus ES330 2005

Carry out a wheel balance & alignment. Most likely the culprit.

Abiola031:
Reverse camera
3-row seater(7-seater)
3.5L V6 Engine, 24 valves, 270 hp @ 6200 rpm.
5 speed Automatic transmission
Leather seats
Power adjustable sets(8-ways adjustable)
Seat heaters
Factory Fitted dual climate control A/C
Rear AC & audio controls
PushStart Ignition
Steering controls for Audio volume, cruise, Temp & Disp.
ABS
4 Power outlets in total
Factory Alloy wheels
Power windows(Driver and passenger side one-touch up/down)
Power mirrors
6-CD loader and AM/FM player.
Driver, Sides and passenger airbags.
Surround speakers
Great ground clearance
Keyless Entry
Fog lights
price..2.1m

Are you for real...or some form of scam? Explain why you are selling it at an outrageously ridiculous amount.

I have a feeling OP might be swindled by this agent of his. The first good step he's taken is coming on this forum to verify the possibility of such transaction. The onus is on him to either heed to the various advise he's been given herein, or proceed with the transaction & bear the consequences of such action.

However, I feel the same energy he has exerted to uncover some of the information he ordinarily would not have known should also be channelled to reading through other websites (including the ones already provided in this thread as well as autos section of Nairaland) in other to compare prices of those vehicles he has in mind. This will offer a first hand experience and knowledge before he jumps to accept an offer that looks to good to be false.

More importantly, the agent might get such cars at ridiculous prices because they are stolen cars. So, it is not just enough to see the car prior to payment but you need to be smart and verify that it's a genuine transaction.

In addition, just googling the price of a particular model of vehicle will provide you with the dollar equivalent of such cars. A simple conversion to the current Naira/dollar exchange gives you an idea of the cost of such cars in Europe, America or any of the country of manufacture.

AutosBay:
If you are bringing in the vehicle through road i.e Boarders its highly illegal but you could ship it through container, but the clearing cost and shipping cost is the same thing as shipping a newer brand.

Not exactly true that the cost of clearing is the same as a brand new vehicle. So, if I ship a 1997 Mazda, I could pay as much as I pay for a 2014 Toyota Corolla? Just a few months ago, I ship a 1997 Nassan Almera via roro on Grimaldi and paid my Agent N250,000 to clear. It could have also been cheaper if I used other shipping lines. I could have paid between N150 ,000- N180,000 if it were 2000 model.

It is still permissible to import cars above 15 years but as I said earlier, higher import duty is probably the penalty for such.

Such importation attract higher import duty. You can still import cars above 15 years but your duty payment will be high. Similarly, in the UK & US, you can still use such cars but with higher tax and insurance. This is why such cars are cheap over there.

Then, it's his responsibility. Your best course of action is to go to their office an lodge a complaint possibly in writing. Ask to speak to a superior officer. They should get it sorted out.

It does matter. You should not have accepted it. It's a horrible mistake. Both registrations are different and the costs differ as well. It also depends on what you told them prior to registration. You need to rectify this immediately.

There are implications driving a non-commercial vehicle with commercial number plate. You will be restricted from entering certain places such as hotels, residential estates etc. if instructions prior to registration were clear, the Officer who facilitated the registration would have to bear the burden of change of use.

After assembling the cars in Nigeria by the various automobile manufacturers, how do you keep them running? Do you begin to import the serviceable parts? How can a user who drives his/her car in Sokoto maintain it? Perhaps, he can tow it to nearest dealership in Kaduna or Abuja & wait for the parts to be imported.

A poorly conceived policy that can hardly stand the taste of time. We re watching....Events in Nigeria develop like movies, we will wait for subsequent parts.

GAZZUZZ:

Another nonsense from autosbay.

I feel the autosbay is a spam because there's no originality in all his posts; just copy & paste. I don't bother reading his posts.