dollz:

hey abeg nlanders pls if u kno an autoshop in abuja or lagos that changes the gearbox of a tourareg, pls ad vise accordingly

@OP
Your thread topic states you need the Gear Box, BUT your post states you need an auto shop where the gearbox can be changed, so Im guessing you need both where you can buy the Gear Box and where you can have it changed also.

You have to go to Owode Onirin - There is a car lot there where they have salvage or used high end vehicles (Like the touareg, Hummer, Navigator, Range Rover, X5, etc) for sale, scrap or part, there you can ask for a complete gear box and they get you people that will change it in 2 hours.

The last time I referred someone there, he got the complete gear box for 450k (It might be cheaper now though). Its easy to spot, just by a filling station after the weigh bridge - you will see about 3 VW Touareg vehicles parked outside the filled-up compound.

That model and the transmission is always having problems - Hope he gets a good mech/rewire to get it done.

From what I saw online, it seems a normal Honda problem especially that model and year range (We've also seen a few cases on nairaland too) - IF its as simple as a switch (or a transmission cable as suggested online), then it should be an easy fix BUT IF it entails opening or/and dropping the gear box, its a 50/50 thing. And will cost a bit too.

With good research online, OP can learn more about his vehicle and the gear problem - eg. http://www.google.com.ng/search?q=honda+accord+gear+stuck+in+Park+P&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&client=firefox-a

Change it.

@Poster
Elms is very correct - IF you must use a different brand, you should drain and flush the initial first.

On the other hand, you need to have someone take a look at the radiator system (including the hoses and pipes) for possible leakage - very important check to find out the cause of the lowering of the initial coolant level, checking the fan's operation is also key.

I can imagine a Collabo with 2Face - EOD

@OP
This post simply shows you are not a core IT person but an empty dupe who uses specific aspects of IP tunneling to make transactions and usage "invisible" - clearly, you are an illiterate.

Please move this trash to the Technology "Market" thread - you might find fellow shallows like yourself there.

Sylvan:


Wow, thanks guys for the response.

Details: The car is actually a write-off from a company pool I was lucky to get from the company (its about 7years old, and properly maintained, just being phased out). But when it came, the brainbox, and a number of other stuff were missing (as well as a 'sensor' in the main key).
As a result, I had to pay to buy the missing parts, plus the brainbox, which the mechanic said has to be programmed to match the keys.

@Siena, I'll get the number on the new brainbox asap.
I'm a DIY person, but I just don't want to dabble into these things yet. The issue is that I need to know what the mechanics are doing, u know as Naija be now!
So, I see mr.official mentioned 16k for reprogramming, thanks, at least i have an idea of what it cost.

I've seen a thread talking about the pros and cons of a Bora, but I need one or two more bits of information: what's the average second-hand value of this car? Also, how much would the key sensor likely cost? Would be glad if anyone can tell me, just a ballpark figure.

Thanks a bunch, you guys are d bomb.

@Sylvan
This means you bought the vehicle with the electronics missing - That makes very good sense now. I think your best right now is to get the items removed and have them programmed to match/work with the transponder (the key). There is a guy on nairaland.com that advertises the keys with transponders - not just the empty shell.

@mr.official
Thanks for that help. Probably, the OP can hook up with you to let your man help him out.

@OP
Buy the Porsche; Its the best of them all. Like I said in my earlier post; online statistics would favour the Lexus BUT here in Nigeria the RX would fade very easily, especially due to the fragile body (makes it look like its falling apart after a while). The Porsche is very durable - firm build, solid interior materials and long lasting.

The Porsche will give you a good value for your money and wont easily get faulty - I know a few people here who own that model and they practically take it for granted. Since you live outside Nigeria, then you can import parts and accessories for servicing and repairs. The X5 would have been a good option in the pack BUT with the Porsche there, its a whole new level.

By the way, personally, the positioning of the gear knob in the Lexus and general interior gives it a Girly feel and look - unlike the other crossovers. It will be nice if you are female though

@Jaxxy
Is this vehicle an 8 Cyl ?

Please post engine picture.

AGARIautos:

;DFINALLY, FINALLY AND FINALLY SOLD TO MADAFA OF NAIJA NAIRALAND AND TRANSPORTATION OF THIS BEAUTY WILL COMMENCE SOON AND BUYER UPDATED BOTH ON THIS FORUM AND MORE THROUGH BUYER EMAIL.

WE THANK YOU FOR HAVING THIS CONFIDENCE AND TRUST IN AGARIautos DESPITE ALL ODDS TO BE OUR FIRST EVER BUYER ON NAIRALAND, SECOND IN NIGERIA, AND NINETH IN AFRICA AND THE THIRTY-THIRD VEHICLE WORLD-WIDE SINCE COMMENCING AUTO BUSINESS IN JANUARY 2010.

FORUMITES, WE APPRECIATE YOUR KIND WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT, REFERRALS AND YOUR UNTIRELESS PATIENCE OF BROWSING THROUGH OVER AND OVER AGAIN, IT IS OUR PRAYERS THAT WE GET YOUR NEXT CAR FOR YOU AND WITHIN YOUR BUDGET FOR ONCE THERE IS LIFE THERE IS HOPE.

@AGARIautos
Congratulations on your first sale on nairaland. Wish you many more.

Out of curiousity, I just checked for Audi/VW problems with factory set modules and ECU setup and found that the "convenience" module gets more problematic than the main ECU itself.

If those guys dont get it working AND the OP is not ready to do some research on his Bora, then I guess he will have to visit one of these dealerships in VI for a complete overhaul and appropriate parts change. That will cost him a bit though.

People just need to be interested in the vehicles they drive enough to work it.

The issue is that one does not know what module was paid for and what was changed.

I still advise he pays after they are done with the programming AND IF it works. Most vehicles however, like mine (A mercedes Benz) on ECU replacement or reset requires a complete learning of all the functions on the vehicle like wipers, headlamps, sunroof, windows winding, memory seats, error codes, etcwhich in some quarters can be referred to as re-programming.

Would have preferred him sharing the problems before buying the new ECU.

@Siena
You should also understand that if there is another module; then that module is either ancilliary to the main ECU or depends on data from the ECU for its operations. The nature of the problems OR the tampering already done could have wiped whatever data is on the "convenience" module.

I guess its too late to ask why you had to change it in the first place. The VW might have only needed an ECU (Brainbox) Reset in the first place.

For 2000 and later models of those vehicles, the new brainbox will have to learn the vehicle's operations all over again (which is what the programming is all about). For some vehicles, the new ECU will have to learn everything down to headlamps on/off, wipers, sunroof operations, etc.

If you were a DIY person (basically a car enthusiast), you could get on a forum for owners of that model, research on the methods and do the thing yourself (They dont all require special tools) BUT as it is, you will need to let those guys do the "programming" and get them paid AFTER and IF IT WORKS.

Cheers

@OP
Im not sure why you have those particular vehicles as your options BUT I feel the BMW should be an X5 and not the X3 - that will make for a fair comparism.

Statistics would ordinarily show that the RX350 leads hands down due to its fuel management and ground clearance BUT for me the design gets very boring and flat after a while. Maintaining a Porsche Cayenne in Nigeria might prove to be a challenge when it comes to parts BUT how many of it do you see faulty lying around, I dont know about the BMW X3 as an option BUT I will go for the BMW X5 anyday - the parts are there and it remains sturdy and that design/looks is always catchy especially when well taken care of. The Audi Q5 is very cute and unique (It stands out) and sincerely is a winner here - the cost is an issue though (especially maintenance). For me, The Acura MDX is a mistake from the "luxury" arm (or is it leg) of Honda - you are better off with a Honda Pilot (The 09/10 is simply out of this world).

For better statistics overseas there is this website where you can check the average rating for these vehicles and compare:

1. http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2010-audi-q5.htm
2. http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2009-bmw-x5.htm

But locally, there is a place at Owode Onirin where you can take the statistics of high-end fragile vehicles - there, you will see close to brand new of these vehicles faulty and that will tell you which model is prone to faults and which is not: Most common is the VW Touareg (Its a disaster), next is the Audi A4, A6 (Mostly transmission issues) then so many VW Jetta and Passat models (transmission and engine). You wont see a Porsche Cayenne there, No X5, No G Wagon, a few H2 (Overheating and dead engines), No Landcruisers.

keyremotes:

I cringe at the reasoning of people. 
We are in big trouble in this nation.   
Something is banned. Why are you now interested in bringing the same thing in. 
It is obvious the illegality of importing contraband will spiral into bribing the customs to allow them in and a whole lot of other corrupt dealing.
We know how to criticize politicians and the rest,
But, we do what they do.
Is this topic really worth discussing?

@Keyremotes
Thats a good question to ask yourself.

But I understand your limitations. We are what we think, know and understand. You have your own views - and from what I can read, no one has the time or need to criticize you or your views, kindly do that for others.

And just so you understand; the original poster is not even an issue here, IF he doesnt do it, others have been and will continue doing it; the relevance of these posts is to make points clear and educate folks on dangers of Nigerian used and the effectiveness of the good grade foreign used.

I wouldnt have the time to be pretending that I dont buy foreign used tyres - I prefer them to thoserubber wrapped things they call brand new and I have my own views on the ban itself.

In some quarters; the UNLICENSED AND FREELANCE key programming service you offer is illegal and even criminal (based on the instance and circumstances) BUT like I said, no one actually has the time for those things, our views here are about used and imported tyres from a user point of view;

Politically biased/based policies by a government is not and has never been a stable point of reference and can be revised or ammended to suit whatever interest appeals to them. Its even more serious these days where the quality of services and goods made for particular zones and countries are market dependent.

For instance, someone educated us here on the quality or lack of basic safety features on the Kia Rio vehicles ordered by Dana - the question now is this; which would you chose - a Brand new 2010 Kia Rio from Dana Motors and a 2008 Kia Rio tokumbo?

Please understand our views - we do understand yours.

Why dont you just buy the one from Viperman? Its as neatr as it gets and the price is very okay for a vehicle like that.

@Siena
"People" doesnt mean you. Im trying to make a point here about how intelligent the Nigerian market is; and how people actually know what they are buying AND why they are buying it.

In my personal view; most of those "ban" are basically pointless, political and senseless with wrong advisory personnel involved. Nigeria is a developing country and there has to be some slacks in the business and trade industry to help the economy grow. China refused and still refuses to put any standardization on exports till date and we all know they are one of the wealthiest nations on earth right now (IF NOT THE WEALTHIEST); Cotonou right there makes more money from shipping duties alone than some states in Nigeria make from all their revenue channels put together.

Its actually common sense - more business (Inportation/exportation), more money - The safety issue when it comes to tyres and other goods become a buyers' choice and education - IF a driver is really a driver, he/she should be able to understand the quality of the parts to be used on his/her vehicle.

@Siena
What people should understand is that Nigeria is not a country filled with dumb people; IF you bring in 700 tyres and 500 of them are not up to grade - Retailers will only select the good ones and for the rest - no one will buy

I live here, and I know of people who bring in stuff thinking they will make a kill and the next thing they end up selling off just to buy a ticket and go back.

The market is very intelligent and runs itself, thats why I know that its better for the importer to bring in good grade tyres so he can get buyers for them, IF NOT he will be in debt. I have a guy who supplied tyres that are foreign used and high grade - those tyres come with barcode like stickers on them and they are very very okay - those I can vouch for and will be very happy to recommend to anyone. Like I said, the only thing is that they are a bit on the high price side BUT are very okay - I would take them than any of those pathetic ones wrapped in rubber and labelled brand new.

Those stabilizer rods are so easy to overlook. Good thing is they are cheap.

big father:

What the bleep !

Are those the kinda tyres you want to bring into the country ?! This ain't fairly used tyres bro.
They are simply KILLER TYRES !
LORD HAVE MERCY !

He better not be bringing in any of those off ones here; we have enough of them here already. There are very good grades like those at Ladipo, bit on the high side BUT very okay. Had a set for abot 2 years now and its still pulling up strong.

But a lot of people sell Nigerian used that are taken off imported vehicles that's been left stationary for months, OR outrightly condemned ones - they wash them and use a black shine to make it look glossy. The real toks are very solid BUT a bit on the high side.

@Poster
I wish you had tried another Crankshaft sensor before having them touch the brainbox in the first place. BUT if they replaced the original ECU back the way it was and you were there to supervise the whole thing, then I will suggest you try another crankshaft sensor.

This is why its very good to buy at least 2 or 3 of those sensors once one solves a problem with them. I just hope they replaced the ECU exactly the way it was without stealing or misplacing anything there.

And for average sized tyres for SUVs for instance; the last time I was at Ladipo to get tokumbo tyres with size 275x70x16 for an SUV - the cheapest price was NGN26,500 per tyre for a Grade A.

These are foreign used and not Nigerian used (which are mostly sold on the roadside and are merely washed used tyres).

@Kunle-A
Anything from 2200mm diameter is seriously expensive here - brand new goes for that range. The slightly smaller ones are also very expensive too.

The fact is even that you will not get them here; you will have to go to Kotonou to source for a good grade.

blacksta:

The fact still remain - it is still illegal to import tyres into Nigeria -

@poster

I would rather not have blood of people on my head - can you imagine the combination of bad tyres and bad roads (disasters waiting to happen)

@Blacksta
You are entitled to your view. I am posting a question TO the original poster - no offence

@Poster
You actually have to come to Nigeria and visit major tyre markets like in Ladipo. I think with the right grades of used tyres you can make it happen especially for big vehicles like Cranes, Tippers, Lorries. There are complains of them buying "new" ones that explode on full load at regular pressure - and they are very expensive too - about 250k - 350k per tyre. Im very particular about those.

But like I said, you need to come down and do a survey yourself, then you might meet people who will buy the lot off you and handle the shipping themselves - That way, you wont be bothered with logistics.

@Poster

Those tyres in the picture look like they are completely off; are those the exact ones you are looking at shipping OR you have better "grades" that can actually be used?

Very good business initiative. Well done guys!

@Poster
You are better off driving your Golf 3 the way it is. Most tunning and upgrades are not factory optimised and can lead to long-term side-effects you wouldnt like. If eventually you find a Golf that has the specs you want (4 or 5), then you buy.

There are shops there for brand new of those things - Just tell them you want brand new and not tokumbo.

Sorry about the distance, you either go and buy 2 or 3 tokumbo ones or buy a new one BUT you need to understand that even the new ones have no garranty. For instance I bought a brand new (sealed in box) Alternator "cut-out", it did not work, they had to go back and get me a used/tokumbo one (It was very dirty and covered in oil stains) - It worked.

I will suggest that whichever one you are buying, you should buy at least 2. But I will personally go for the tokumbo.

@Kunle-A
Thanks for the enlightenment. I've never really seen these things this new.

Thanks for the pricing too. It will be a smart move worth considering to have a fleet for transportation business. I only wonder if one can get good hands to handle the servicing here in Nigeria.

Go to Ladipo, park somewhere and get on a Bike to the line where they sell Honda sensors (Will be muddy now due to the rain) - Have the removed one (the one from your Honda) handy and make sure you buy from a shop where they give you at least 2 months return-garranty. You might want to buy like 2 or 3.

For the price - stick to N1,500, ask from about 3 shops at least and always pretend like you are walking off to buy from someone who had already offered you for that amount - that way you can buy at the best price.