In my earlier post, I mentioned that transportation in Malaysia is a necessity. This is due to the fast paced development that is booming around the different districts of Malaysia.
In Johor Bahru alone, the highways are busy with different types of cars passing to and from different corners within the various business district areas like Johor Bahru, Pasir Gudang, Setia Tropica, City Square, Iskandar, Senai, Kota Tinggi, Kluang, Batu Pahat, Kulai and a lot more.
And I believe that this is not only happening in Johor but also similar to other busy states like Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Melaka, and Peneng.
Hence, one has to adapt with the fast paced life here. You must have your own transport to deal with your business life or shall we say, routine. It would be difficult for you if you are only depending on public transport, especially when your job is located about 5-10 kms or more away from where you are staying.
When applying for a job, most employers will ask if you have your own transport. This has an advantage to foreign spouse(s) who are looking for a job, especially when you are in the industry of teaching, hospitality, engineering or other technical jobs that requires traveling.
Here are the guidelines and things I have learned in finding a suitable car:
Look for a second hand car. I decided not to get a brand new car because as a foreigner, I need to adapt to the driving method via right hand way. I have to familiarize myself on how motor vehicles function here in Malaysia as well as the transactions regarding spare parts, traffic conditions, parking procedures, road signs and a lot more, before I go for a brand new one.
Set your budget. I am aware that we have limited budget, so I played with my stated budget allocation. Second hand cars actually in Malaysia is not bad for as long as you know how to get the right one.
Set your expectations. I already set my expectations that there will be repairs and additional maintenance costs for the car in the long run.
Select a local brand type of car. I decided to get a second hand car that is locally produced. Local cars here in Malaysia are mainly the Proton and Perodua models. At the same time, spare parts are not expensive. But if you can afford to buy other models like Toyota, Mercedes, Ferari, BMW, Honda, KIA ( new model), Nissan, and other sports car, no one is stopping you. Just remember that spare parts for this branded car are also expensive.
Have your online research. When exploring those sites, it will surely gives you an idea on how second hand business is set here in Malaysia. Sometimes you need to personally call those dealers for further information. Sad to say that most dealers cannot speak well in English. Before you start the conversation, you need have to introduce yourself in simple English, then they in return will also speak to you in Malaysian English. But if your spouse can speak in Bahasa Melayu or Mandarin, that should be better.
Know how to use WhatsApp. Mobile messaging is not common to car dealers. They usually use WhatsApp or email. So better set-up a WhatsApp in your own phone. I’m sure you will also use this in future and it’s free as long as you have mobile data.
Be straightforward to your dealer. Make sure that you are clear to your car preferences specially on the financial aspect. Some dealers may cheat you with over priced car so better be guided by your online research. However some dealers are also honest in their marketing strategies. You can gauge that on how they deal business to you and on how they explain things about the background of the car when you are in doubt. Just be straightforward so that they are aware that the person they are dealing with is serious and is really interested to buy second hand car.
Get feedback from friends. It is better to get advise from friends or from your local network (organization) who have experience dealing with second hand cars. This will help you get away from being cheated of over priced cars.
Ask the dealer to explain the definition of “ON THE ROAD” (OTR). They always say this but as a foreigner, you have to know what thus this means. O-T-R means everything is settled, including the transferring of the car’s name to you as the buyer as well as the insurance and PUSPAKOM inspection.
Ask for the record of the car. This is very important for you to know to have a background knowledge of the last owner and to check if the car has been involved in any crime or accident. It is highly recommended to get a first owner car with low mileage and at least not more than 10 years.
Check the interior and exterior of the car. This is your right as a buyer. But take note that second hand dealers can only provide warranty to the gearbox and engine. For the accessories like sun visors, wipers, steering lock, solar film, car mats and others, some dealers may give it for free but it all depend on how you deal with the dealer.
Make sure to respect the dealer. Do not shout at the dealer or say anything that is offensive or that damages their reputation as a second hand dealer. If this happens, I guarantee that you will not be entertained nicely and that free items might be minimal.
Make sure that the breaks are also functioning. This refers to the front and back break pads. Some second hand dealers are willing to change the front and back brakes if the brake pads are already below 60 percent usability.
Timing and pump belts are also necessary as part of your talking points. If the car is beyond 10 years old, it is a must to change the pump and timing belt. The dealer should know this principle.
It is also the practice to have a booking fee once you have decided to buy the car. The remaining amount will be paid when the car is ready and has been transferred to your name.
Know what is within the warranty agreement. Gearbox and engine for second hand car is usually with one month warranty while the spare parts that you’ve requested to change falls for one week warranty only.
Make sure to get the contact number of your dealer and other details, especially on the documents. Remember to contact them thru WhatsApp.
Know more about the car maintenance. Change oil, fuel filters, radiation flush and under chassis check shall be part of the maintenance responsibility check of the second hand car dealer before passing you the car.
Second hand car dealers in Malaysia are basically the Chinese, Malays, and some Indians. So when dealing with them, make sure you have an interpreter or somebody who can assist you to negotiate due to communication barrier.
Request to test drive the car. This is your right as a buyer. You are allowed to try the car so that you can check for yourself the condition of the car you are buying based on your agreed transaction.
In my case, I met this second hand car dealer named Steven in Johor Bahru. He was able to explain to us politely about the car that I am interested in. He is a Malaysian Chinese and he cannot speak well in English. However, he tried his best to speak in English for me to understand his points.
Sometimes, he speaks in Mandarin and my mum-in-law has to translate it to me. He is very patient in explaining the realities of transportation world in Malaysia such as JPJ transfer fees, insurance fees, road tax, and Puspakom inspection.
During our business transaction, he also gave me an update about the repairs that were made for the second hand car. So your dealer must also give you an updates specially on the condition and documentation processes of the car.
Now that you have signed your settlement about the car, the last but not least you have to remember is to express your gratitude to your dealer. They also deserved to be gratified. Better to be in good terms with them because who knows, you might need them specially when you need to repair your car.
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