When buying a foreign used car in Nigeria, focus on reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordable maintenance—not just import price. Whether you’re a Bolt driver, a small business owner, or just someone looking for a reliable personal car, maintenance matters. The term “Tokunbo” has become synonymous with reliability and affordability, but not all foreign used cars are built the same. Some break down faster, some have scarce parts, and others have poor fuel efficiency.
If you’re planning to buy a car, start by understanding what low maintenance really means in the Nigerian context. It’s not only about how cheap the repairs are, but also how often they’re needed, how accessible the parts are, and whether your local mechanic knows what to do when something goes wrong. Our breakdown of the essential documents for car owners in Nigeria also applies when registering any Tokunbo vehicle.
This post outlines the best foreign used cars with low maintenance based on current Nigerian market conditions, spare parts availability, fuel economy, and real user experience.
What is a Foreign Used Car?
Foreign used cars, also known as Tokunbo, are vehicles previously used abroad and imported into Nigeria. These cars are often cheaper than brand-new ones and, in many cases, are more reliable than locally used cars that may not have been properly maintained. Most come from the United States, Canada, or Europe.
In Nigeria, the most sought-after foreign used cars are those from Japanese automakers, especially Toyota and Honda. They are known for reliability, simple mechanical systems, and the fact that every mechanic on the street probably knows how to fix them. That makes a big difference when you’re stuck with a breakdown on a tight budget.
Recommended Low-Maintenance Foreign Used Cars
Let’s take a look at the top contenders. These cars are selected based on cost-effective maintenance, reliability, and part availability.
Toyota Corolla
This car is one of the most recommended foreign used vehicles in Nigeria. It’s tough, simple to fix, and doesn’t drink fuel like a thirsty camel. With around 30 to 40 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, it’s not just economical but dependable.
Annual maintenance costs for the 2013 model are estimated around $341 according to HotCars. Spare parts are everywhere, and so are mechanics that understand its layout. We also discussed this in our post on how to get the most out of your engine, where the Corolla’s longevity makes it a top pick.
Honda Civic
Another compact, efficient car with great user ratings and an average fuel economy of 28 to 42 mpg. Maintenance issues are minimal, and it’s a favorite among young professionals and ride-hailing drivers.
The Civic holds a good resale value too. As we covered in our article on buying Nigerian used cars, it’s among the models that give you peace of mind long after purchase.
Toyota Camry
Popularly called “muscle” or “spider,” depending on the generation, the Camry is a veteran in Nigeria. The 2015 model costs around $381 to maintain yearly, but the comfort and durability make up for it.
Its parts are as common as sachet water in Nigerian markets. If you’ve ever tried to fix a car during a fuel price hike, you’ll understand why this matters. We broke down the cost implications in our fuel price history article.
Honda Accord
The Accord is another well-loved model. Slightly larger than the Civic, it offers a smoother ride and premium features. With fuel economy of 22 to 34 mpg and moderate maintenance cost, it’s ideal for daily commutes and long-distance travel.
While it may require more attention than the Civic, it’s still within the budget of most used car buyers.
Honda CR-V
For those who need a bit more space, the CR-V provides SUV comfort with sedan reliability. Known for having low maintenance issues, it also suits families and business owners that need cargo room.
According to The Nation, the CR-V is one of the most practical vehicles for Nigerian roads—especially for people who want a reliable crossover without spending heavily on upkeep.
Other Honourable Mentions
Hyundai Elantra
This car is gaining popularity for its sleek design, affordability, and moderate maintenance needs. Fuel efficiency ranges between 28 and 38 mpg, and it’s especially appealing to drivers looking for something different from the usual Toyota and Honda dominance.
Kia Forte
Low running cost, comfortable cabin, and great fuel economy (27–39 mpg). The Kia Forte is gradually becoming a go-to model for those on a tight budget but unwilling to sacrifice on basic comfort and style.
Mazda3
Not very common in Nigeria, but globally recognised for its durability. It has a fuel economy range of 26–36 mpg. If you can find a well-kept Mazda3, it could be a steal.
Cost Comparison Table
| Car Model | Year | Maintenance Cost (Annual) | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | Known Issues |
| Toyota Corolla | 2013 | $341 | 30–40 | Minor engine light faults |
| Honda Civic | 2016 | Low | 28–42 | Very few issues reported |
| Toyota Camry | 2015 | $381 | 25–39 | Transmission faults in older models |
| Honda Accord | 2016 | Moderate | 22–34 | Electrical relays and brake wear |
| Honda CR-V | 2016 | $385 | 23–31 | Brake pad replacement |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2016 | Moderate | 28–38 | Electrical faults and suspension noise |
| Kia Forte | 2016 | Low | 27–39 | Brake wear and starter issues |
| Mazda3 | 2016 | Moderate | 26–36 | AC compressor and battery drain |
Note: These are average global data and may vary by condition and mileage in Nigeria.
Regional Considerations
In Nigeria, spare parts availability is almost as important as fuel economy. Cars like the Corolla and Camry are kings because you can find their parts even in roadside stalls. As we explained in our guide on Nigeria’s car maintenance culture, choosing the right car from the start reduces your repair stress significantly.
In cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja, you’ll find many car dealers stocking these models because of their demand. Also, resale value is high. If well-maintained, you can recover a good chunk of your investment, which we hinted at in our coverage of used car buying tips.
Why Fuel Economy Matters
Fuel is a daily cost. In a country where prices can change quickly, having a car that consumes less while doing more is a competitive advantage. Cars like the Corolla, Civic, and Elantra are favoured not just for reliability but for helping owners save money long-term.
We explored this more in our analysis of fuel price trends in Nigeria. If you drive regularly, those little savings add up fast.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Inspect Thoroughly: Use a trusted mechanic. Some faults are only visible on a test drive.
- Avoid Overly Fancy Cars: Luxury might feel good initially, but parts are rare and expensive.
- Know Your Use Case: Family use? Ride-hailing? Your choice should align with daily demands.
- Check Documents: We covered what you need in our essential documents guide.
- Drive Smart: Learn to maintain and optimise your car’s performance. Our guide on engine performance explains how small habits impact longevity.
Final Thoughts
If you want a foreign used car that gives peace of mind, won’t punish your pocket, and will still look decent on Nigerian roads, go for a Toyota or Honda. Corolla, Civic, Camry, Accord, and CR-V are more than just names—they’re trusted brands that have stood the test of time in Nigeria.
Always inspect the car, confirm part availability, and buy with a clear understanding of your needs. A low-maintenance car is not just cheaper to run—it’s easier to live with.
