A Guide on Buying a Used Car in Malaysia
With the ongoing pandemic, everyone is doing their best to save as much money as they can to prepare themselves for the possibility of losing a job, let alone the idea of buying a new car. Therefore, buying a used car may be the best alternative if a car is sorely needed. It doesn’t just save you money, but it will serve its purpose. How does one buy a used car? Here’s what you’ll need to know:
Selecting “The One”
There are different used car brands in the market for you to choose from. You’ll need to do some research on which car brand you’d buy. You may consider these sought-after used car brands in Malaysia – Proton, Perodua, Toyota or Honda.
Nowadays, most car dealers’ websites offer Virtual Reality (VR) car tour. Whereby as a buyer, you’ll be able to view the car’s exterior and interior as if you are actually in the car. However, you’ll need to arrange an appointment with the car dealer to have a detailed inspection.
Drive it Around
Never buy things blindly without testing them out, especially a used car. Once you’ve eyed the car of your dreams, you’ll need to check thoroughly to get your money’s worth. You don’t want to buy a used car that’ll lead to a mountain of repairs at the end of the day. It may even cost you more than what you’ve paid!
Financial Commitment
Although buying a used car won’t cost you more than buying a new one. You’ll still need to apply for a car loan to pay it off. You can decide the clear off the price tag immediately, if you have sufficient cash in hand. If not, there are different banks out there ready for you to commit to their car installment plans.
Suppose you’ve decided on the car of your liking. You can properly re-calculate your budget before finally signing the papers. Remember, a wise buyer must always have a clear mind before entering into any financial commitment.
Car Plate Number
Driving a car means you’ll need a car plate number (consists of alphanumerical keys). The purpose of having one is for easy grant identification by the authorities. This process is compulsory and unavoidable. Even if you’ve decided to continue with the current car plate number, you’ll still need to re-register it to be under your name.
Previously, car buyers depended on car dealers to have a runner to bid for car registration numbers at Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ). However, with the advancement of the internet – you can bid your desired car registration number yourself.
There are two portals for you to bid for car registration numbers. Which are MYSIKAP (ordinary numbers) or JPJeBID (unique numbers). Through MYSIKAP, you’d need to identify the number that you like from the provided list and proceed to payment.
As for JPJeBID, you’ll need an MYSIKAP account before being able to proceed with bidding. Kindly be informed that the bidding process can become overwhelming. Make sure you’re financially and mentally prepared to fight against other bidders.
Being Insured
Is it compulsory to have your car insured? Why yes! According to the Road Transport Act 1987, you’ll need a third-party car insurance to renew your road tax. Basically it’s a chicken or an egg situation. NO car insurance equal to NO road tax and driving without a road tax will result in you getting a fine.
By having your car insured, you’ll be at ease when inevitable situations were to happen. Example, natural disasters, car collision or you’re car needs to be towed. Your insurance policy will cover the costs incurred during these times.
Why not myTukar?
Make sure to take your time in deciding which used car to choose. Did you know myTukar offers a 5-day money-back guaranteed service? Only if you wish to change your recent purchase to another or, in some cases – returning it. Not to mention, we also offer 1-year extended warranty inclusive 30 days quality guaranteed.
Are you still feeling anxious about the buying process? No worries, our myTukar sales representatives are always here throughout your car buying journey.