Selling a Car in Malaysia

A car can be sold privately, traded in through a dealer or sold through several established online platforms. A private sale may achieve a higher price, but the seller must typically handle inquiries, inspections, payment, and the transfer of ownership. Online car-buying platforms generally inspect the vehicle, make an offer and handle much of the paperwork.

Before advertising the car, check comparable vehicles and gather the Vehicle Ownership Certificate, servicing records, spare keys and any outstanding finance information. An existing hire-purchase loan must be settled as part of the sale. Where the selling price is lower than the outstanding loan, the owner will usually have to pay the difference.

For a private ownership transfer, the vehicle must undergo a PUSPAKOM transfer-of-ownership inspection. The published inspection fee is RM30. The seller can then initiate the transfer via the MySIKAP system or complete it through JPJ. (a government agency under the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, responsible for regulating and enforcing road transport policies). Passports are accepted as identification for foreign owners.

The seller should only release the vehicle, keys and original documents after payment has been received and cleared. Keep copies of the sales agreement, payment receipt and ownership-transfer confirmation