Buying used cars in Malaysia can be very exciting and in some ways fulfilling if you know where to start and how to go about with it. If you are not careful, you might be cheated. Malaysian cars have certain similar traits that you need to look out for as Malaysian drivers are very unique. We list out the top tips for you before you go shopping.
Know what you want – Before you buy a second-hand car, determine what you want by doing some research. You can read magazines or read online articles and even watch television programmes while getting advice from your friends might help. After all, you will notice that a lot of Malaysian drivers are self-proclaimed automotive experts.
Specifications – After you have determined the model you want, then you need to learn about the specifications. Take note that the Toyota Camry Malaysian version and the Camry reconditioned have different specifications so you need to know what you are looking for.
Be mindful – Buying a car is very different from everything else. If the market price for a 2010 Honda City is RM85,000 and someone is selling to you at RM70,000, something fishy might be up. You need to find out why it is so cheap.
Second Opinion – Always bring a friend with you when you are viewing a car or negotiating the dealer. If possible, your friend should be someone who has substantial knowledge of cars or have experienced in buying a used car because he or she might help you to ask the right questions.
Looks not everything – Remember that looks are not everything. You might view a car that looks good with low mileage but you must not let the cosmetics influence your purchase.
Inspecting – If your friend can inspect the car, then it would be good. Otherwise, learn to inspect the car yourself or bring an expert with you before you make the final purchase. Accident-free in Malaysia means a lot of different things.
Electronics – Everyone knows that Proton cars (especially Wira) has the niggling automatic window problem. So if you are buying Proton cars, then you need to check that electronic component. It would however be most ideal if you check all electronics including the air-conditioning, hazard light buttons, indicator levers and such before deciding.
Negotiating Tips for buying a used car
Buying a used car can be quite a challenging process especially if you are not sure where to start. In fact, it can be quite distressing because it requires some research and homework before you find a car you like. As you might be buying a used car from a dealer or an individual owner, you will need to negotiate for the best price before you can think about inspecting and other issues. So how should you go about with this? We teach you how.
Identify the model – The most important thing you need to do first is to identify the model. You can have a budget and there is no point you wander around the used car dealer or on websites ‘browsing around’ for something that meets your budget. Bear in mind that the dealer is always ready to sell you something that ‘fits’ your budget.
Know the popular ones – If you are in the market for popular models, then you have better bargaining power. You can go around looking for a Land Rover knowing that it is not a popular model in Malaysia and when you find one, the price is inflated because demand is scarce. If you are looking for a Honda Civic, which is among the most popular models in Malaysia, then you could have a better purchasing power because you can find it almost at any used car dealer.
Know the market price – Never go into a used car dealer with absolutely no idea about pricing. Once you know the model and year of make, then you must research on the market value. Start from low and give yourself a ceiling price before deciding. Even if you have negotiated for a good price agreeable by both parties, you can still decide later.
Obligation to buy – Always remember that you are not obligated to buy the car even after you have come to an agreement. Buying a used car involves tens (or hundreds) of thousands of ringgit. You need to be absolutely sure before you buy it.
Records – During negotiation, you have the right to demand for service and maintenance records of the unit you are talking about. It might not all be genuine but you can at least have a shallow impression of the seller. If there are no records or it looks suspicious, move on to another seller.
