Most cars on Ghana’s roads arrive second-hand from abroad. Done right, a home-used car is excellent value. Done in a hurry, it can bring hidden accident damage, tampered mileage or paperwork headaches.
Before you view
Get the chassis (VIN) number and run a vehicle history report to check for accident, flood or salvage records.
Ask for the customs duty documents and confirm the car was cleared properly.
Confirm the registration details with the DVLA match the car and the seller.
At the viewing
Look for uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint and fresh underbody coating — common signs of repair work.
Check the carpets, boot floor and seat rails for water marks, rust or a damp smell that could point to flood damage.
Compare the mileage with the wear on the pedals, steering wheel and driver’s seat.
Run the air-conditioning on full for several minutes; repairs are costly and you will need it.
Check the date codes and wear on all tyres, including the spare.
Before you pay
Take it to a mechanic you trust for an inspection and a proper diagnostic scan.
Test-drive on a rough road as well as tarmac, and listen for knocks from the suspension.
Walk away if the seller rushes you or resists an independent inspection. There is always another car.