Vehicle History Dictionary
(Nigeria Edition)

Police/insurer/body-shop accident entry.

Assess severity; focus on structure/SRS.

Airbag(s) deployed or replaced.

Indicates crash; resistors sometimes used to cheat SRS.

Vehicle sold via salvage/wholesale auction.

Normal for export; inspect grading/notes.

Title with no total-loss brand.

Fewer surprises; still inspect for hidden accident repairs.

State emissions test history.

Hints at engine health even if not enforced.

Title for export or 'title only' transaction.

Standard for exports; confirm brand status.

Exposed to fire/heat.

Brittle wiring and structural compromise.

Water intrusion or flood brand.

Persistent electrical/corrosion risks.

Primary load-bearing structure.

Compromise affects safety/tire wear.

Cosmetic dents from hail.

Mostly appearance; mechanicals usually fine.

Repurchased for unresolved defects.

Chronic issues; parts scarce locally.

Lender has a legal claim until paid.

Ensure lien release before export/title.

Listed/sold several times at auction.

Others passed; hidden issues likely.

Mileage reporting not required (often older).

Assume higher use; inspect wear items.

Mileage inconsistent/tampered.

Assume higher mileage; price accordingly.

Number/duration of owners and states.

Many owners in short time is a flag.

Former salvage repaired and inspected; road-legal.

Quality varies widely; verify structural and SRS integrity.

Manufacturer safety/quality campaign.

Open recalls rarely serviced locally.

Insurer declared total loss; salvage brand applied.

Heavy prior damage; likely structural/electrical issues.

Documented maintenance events.

Good sign; boosts confidence.

Damage to frame/unibody recorded.

Safety and resale risk; alignment issues common.

Vehicle was stolen and/or recovered.

May have missing parts or damage.

Any official title label (Salvage, Rebuilt, Flood, Lemon).

Brand strength guides risk and pricing.

Repair cost exceeded insurer/state threshold.

High-severity incident; reliability risks later.