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What is Your Car Market Value & its Depreciation Rate in Malaysia?

By

Haziq Asyraf

There are many factors to consider before deciding to buy a car besides the obvious purpose of driving from point A to point B safely. While you may also review the price, overall design, safety features, or its fuel consumption rate, there is one key factor that many overlook –  the car’s depreciation value, also known as the future car market value.

Knowing the depreciation rate of your soon-to-be car is important because it helps you estimate its value within the next five years. So, here is what you need to know about the depreciation rate, including factors that affect the car market value, how the estimate of your car’s depreciation rate, as well as the estimated buyout price of popular cars that are sold to Carsome.

What does the Depreciation Rate of a Car Mean?

The depreciation rate of a car refers to the difference between the original value of a car at the time of purchase and the final value at the time of sale of that car.

Usually, the declining market value of a car depends on its daily use (wear and tear). In other words, if a car is used regularly, the depreciation rate is higher and that lowers down the current market value of a car.

However, the depreciation rate of a car also varies depending on the car model, brand, and the year it was manufactured – typically, the average depreciation rate is around 15 to 35 percent in the first year, while it can hike up to 50 percent when it reaches its fifth year and above.

For example: If you buy a Perodua Myvi for RM55,300 today, you will probably lose between 40 to 50 percent of its original value if you sell it in the next five years – this means you can sell it off for a price range between RM27,000 and RM33,000. This, of course, could fluctuate depending on your car’s condition as well.

Meanwhile, according to automotive experts, selecting a car with a higher resale value is better (and more profitable) than selecting a fuel-efficient car. A medium-sized family car purchased three years ago may depreciate or lose an estimated RM12,559 off its original value today. Yet, the cost of petrol may cost more than this depreciation rate, based on a calculation of 12,000 miles per year, over a period of three years.

10 Factors that Affect the Car Market Value

Here are some factors that can affect the depreciation of cars in the market:

Mileage
 – If a car is used regularly or if the mileage reading of a car is high, the higher the depreciation of the car.  On average, the estimated mileage for a year is around 10,000 – 12,000 km.

Reputation and Reliability
 – Some models or brands have a certain reputation that makes them popular among buyers. Therefore, the reliability rate of a particular brand or model can affect the depreciation rate of a car. Cars with a bad reputation (eg: model recalls) have a potential of depreciating even faster.

Consumer’s Choice
 – Just like fashion trends, consumers’ choice of cars also changes according to situation and circumstances. As seen from the current automotive trend, it focuses more on the usage of SUV-like vehicles such as Proton X70 and X50. Popular car models usually have a lower depreciation rate.

Number of Owners
 – If a car has been sold or changed owners several times, this tends to affect the depreciation rate of that car.

Car Condition
 – Certain damages to the vehicle’s body, interior, and exterior features will also reduce the car market value.

Service History
 –
Maintenance or services
 that are done regularly, or according to schedule ensures that the car is in good condition. This, in turn, slows down the depreciation rate of your car because it is maintained well. It is advised to keep records of the servicing schedule or receipts of expenses in the maintenance manual to show proof of proper maintenance.

Warranty Period
 – Some car manufacturers offer a warranty period between five and seven years. A longer warranty period can indirectly be a bonus when selling your car.

Desirability
– Some car models offer a facelift version or an upgraded design every few years. So, if you purchase a recently upgraded car, the resale value of that car would be high as well.

Size
 – Larger-sized cars tend to depreciate more compared to smaller-sized cars because they usually require larger maintenance costs (car servicing, spare parts) and expenses (fuel costs).

Fuel Efficiency
– Typically, cars with fuel-saving technology are offered at a higher price as they are more popular among used car buyers.

What is the Average Depreciation Rate of a Car?

Although there are many factors that affect the depreciation rate, new cars generally depreciate faster than used cars regardless of the model or brand.

Here is a generic car depreciation timeline:

After one minute:
As soon as a new car is driven off from the sales center, it starts to depreciate somewhere between nine and 11 percent. For example, if you bought your car for RM60,000, driving it home for the first time lowers your car value by a whooping RM6,600.

After one year:
Based on statistics, new cars experience the largest depreciation in the first 12 months of ownership. After a year, your car would have a depreciation rate of up to 20 percent from its original price.

After five years:
 New cars typically depreciate between 15 to 25 percent annually until the fifth year. After the fifth year, the car loses about 60 percent of its original value.

The table below shows the estimated depreciation rate for cars in Malaysia. For this, we will use the actual selling price of a Perodua Myvi (RM55,300) as an example.

A New Perodua Myvi 1.5L AV

Percentage of Depreciation Rate

Value of Depreciation Rate

Car Valuation After Depreciation

Price Before Purchase

5%

RM2,765

RM52,535

First 6 Months

10%

RM5,530

RM49,770

6 Months – 1 Year

15%

RM8,295

RM47,005

1 Year – 2 Years

20%

RM11,060

RM44,240

2 Years – 3 Years

30%

RM16,590

RM38,710

3 Years – 4 Years

40%

RM22,120

RM33,180

4 Years – 5 Years

50%

RM27,650

RM27,650

More than 5 Years

Determined jointly between the owner and the insurer

–

 Determined jointly between the owner and the insurer

What is the Estimated Buyout Price of Cars at Carsome?

While most new cars experience a significant drop in its depreciation rate, there are a few popular brands and models with a relatively lower depreciation rate.

Based on Carsome’s Insight 2020,
 popular brands
 such as Perodua, Honda, and Toyota have a high reputation and reliability among consumers, therefore recording lower depreciation rates.

Meanwhile, here are seven popular car models sold to Carsome in 2020

Perodua Myvi

It is no surprise that Perodua Myvi ranked first in sales for the year 2020 (29,313 units), followed by Axia (28,107 units) and Bezza (25,416 units). This makes Myvi the best-selling Perodua model in Malaysia for the year 2020. In addition to that, Perodua Myvi recorded a high demand within the used car market. Basically, increased demand for Perodua Myvis in the new car market has a positive influence on their demand within the used car segment.

Based on Carsome’s internal data, the depreciation for a five-year-old Perodua Myvi 1.5 AV is 33.44 percent or one-third of its original price. Hence, a new Perodua Myvi purchased at RM56,518 (excluding insurance) in 2015 can be resold at an average price of RM37,618 in 2019.

In fact, this car has a lower depreciation value compared to other Proton models in the market such as a Proton Iriz 1.6 Premium CVT, which was valued at RM59,731 in 2015 – this model later depreciated by 49.31 percent in 2019 to RM30,277.32.

2. Honda City

Honda Malaysia has maintained its
number one position among the non-national car brands
 segment in Malaysia for six consecutive years. The Honda City model recorded the highest sales at roughly 34 percent. This new model, which comes with an attractive price package, received an encouraging response among buyers. Similar to the Perodua Myvi, this car also recorded a low depreciation rate of less than 50 percent in five years.

According to Carsome Insight 2020, Honda City recorded an average resale value of between 68 and 75 percent of the original price of a new Honda City. With that, you will not suffer from major losses if you decide to sell or trade-in your old Honda City car.

3. Nissan Grand Livina

Nissan Grand Livina recorded an average depreciation rate of 35 percent in the first three years of ownership. This low depreciation rate is – to some extent – influenced by the fuel consumption factor which is arguably low for such a large-sized car. Based on a Carsome survey, a used 2015 Grand Livina model can be purchased for around RM50,800 – which stems from a depreciation of about 49 percent from its original value (RM99,800).

The Nissan Grand Livina can be categorized as one of the best compact MPV models sold in Malaysia with a spacious interior that can accommodate seven people at a time, thus making a great vehicle for long-distance travel.

4. Toyota Vios

The Toyota Vios is also arguably among the most used car models on the road. This compact sedan model has a variety of features and advantages that are comparable to its competitors from the same category, as well as class such as Honda City, Nissan Almera, and many more.

According to data from Carsome Insight, Toyota Vios recorded an average depreciation rate of around 35 percent in the first three years of ownership. For comparison, Vios (2016) recorded an average resale value

of around 76 percent compared to the original price for three-year-old cars.

In fact, the Toyota Vios (2014) also recorded an average resale value of around 68 percent for a five-year-old car. This high resale value is indirectly driven by consumer trust in Toyota’s brand, as well as the safety aspects offered by this model.

5. Proton Saga

Proton car models recorded a depreciation rate of around 35 percent for the first three years of ownership. Based on data from Carsome Insights, Proton Saga retained 71 percent of its original value over a three-year period, which was better than the Perodua Myvi that only retained 65 percent of its original value over the same period.

However, the Proton Saga was only able to retain about 47 percent of its original value compared to the Perodua Myvi (53 percent of its original value) after five years. This situation is could potentially be influenced by external factors including the warranty (Saga offers a longer warranty than the Myvi) and safety features (Saga BLM/FLX is not equipped with stability control) offered by previous models. However, as noted above, the depreciation rate or resale value of a car can change depending on the type of model (latest model, enhanced safety features, and so on).

6. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Luxury brands generally have a high car market value and lower depreciation rates than other brands. In Malaysia, Mercedes-Benz models have a higher resale value than other luxury brands such as BMW, Volvo, or Lexus.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the bestselling models in Malaysia from the brand itself and recorded an average depreciation rate of around 40 percent in the first three years of ownership.

7. BMW 3 Series

In addition to Mercedes-Benz, BMW is also one of the famous manufacturers of luxury cars. The driving quality, safety features, and luxurious elements fueled its high demand, especially in the used car market. On average, BMW models recorded an estimated depreciation rate of around 35 percent in the first three years of ownership.

As for the BMW 3 Series model, it recorded an estimated depreciation of up to 40 percent over the same period. This low depreciation rate is indirectly influenced by the factors of the brand, quality, comfort, and safety aspects offered by BMW.

Tips to Minimize the Depreciation Rate of a Car

Unfortunately, you can’t run away from the value of your car depreciating. However, here are some steps you can take to minimize and slow down the depreciation rate if you plan to sell your car.

Keep mileage readings low.

Focus on the care aspect. Repair immediately if there is any damage.

Buy a used car to avoid significant depreciation rates.

Avoid excessive modifications such as spoilers, larger tires, flared wheel arches, etc.

Sell

the car at the right time before the brand introduces a facelift or upgraded model.

Choose a
popular car color
.  While you might like some bright colors for your car, that might not appeal to general buyers when you sell.

Do a survey before buying a new car. Identify depreciation rates for similar models from the brand.

Make the best choice when buying a car. A selection of metallic colored paint and leather elements is best for executive cars.

Regular car maintenance.  Keep a history of scheduled maintenance to give peace-of-mind to potential buyers.

Also read
 –
1
0 Tips to buy a Used Car

and
Best Time to Buy and Sell a Used Car

For any other used car services and news, do check Carsome out! You can
sell your used car

at Carsome for the best price, fast payment, and no paperwork hassle. Check the website today to know more.


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4 Mitos Kereta Yang Biasa Kita Dengar, Benar Atau Tidak?

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Written by Carsome Editorial

Kita semua mesti biasa dengar tentang mitos-mitos berkaitan kereta yang membuatkan kita ragu-ragu sama ada mitos kereta tersebut adakah benar atau tidak.
Carsome
 menyenaraikan 4 mitos kereta yang biasa kita dengar dan merungkaikan mitos kereta tersebut dengan sokongan fakta untuk panduan anda.

Mitos #1 – Menggunakan Telefon Bimbit di Stesen Minyak

Mitos:
 Penggunaan telefon bimbit di stesen minyak akan menyebabkan kebakaran kerana gelombang mikro yang dipancarkan dari telefon bimbit boleh menyalakan api.

Kebenaran:
 Menurut Dr. Chandima Gomes, profesor kejuruteraan elektrik dari Universiti Putra Malaysia dalam artikel yang diterbitkan oleh
The Star
, walaupun gelombang mikro dapat menghasilkan percikan api ketika bersentuhan dengan bahan logam, gelombang yang dipancarkan daripada telefon bimbit terlalu lemah untuk memulakan letupan. Mitos ini bahkan diuji oleh
MythBusters
 oleh
 Discovery Channel
dan telah dibukti sebagai palsu.

Walaupun terdapat bukti saintifik mengenai hal ini, penggunaan telefon bimbit masih dilarang di stesen-stesen minyak di negara kita. Oleh itu, kita perlulah sentiasa peka dan patuh dengan undang-undang yang telah ditetapkan.

Mitos #2 – Panaskan Enjin Kereta Sebelum Memulakan Perjalanan

Mitos:
 Memandu kereta anda tanpa memanaskan enjin terlebih dahulu akan merosakkan enjin.

Kebenaran:
 Mitos ini sebahagiannya benar. Karburator pada kereta yang lebih lama perlu dipanaskan terlebih dahulu agar dapat berfungsi dengan baik. Tanpa ini, karburator tidak boleh mencapai tahap campuran udara dan bahan bakar yang tepat di dalam enjin, mengakibatkan enjin terhenti.

Namun, kereta moden kini dengan
fuel injection
 elektronik tidak memerlukan pemanasan terlebih dahulu. Sekiranya anda perlu memanaskan enjin, anda boleh memandu perlahan untuk seminit atau dua sebelum menaikkan kelajuan.

Mitos #3 – Meletakkan Gear Kepada ‘Neutral’ Semasa Berhenti di Lampu Isyarat

Mitos:
 Tindakan meletakkan gear ke neutral di setiap perhentian lampu isyarat akan menjejaskan transmisi.

Kebenaran:
 Malangnya, mitos ini tidak ada jawapan pasti. Tetapi pakar kereta seperti Jason Fenske dari saluran YouTube
Engineering Explained
mengatakan bahawa tiada alasan untuk beralih ke neutral jika kereta tidak bergerak kerana ia tidak menjejaskan transmisi.

Selain itu, artikel Joey Bernadez, Penyunting Teknikal Top Gear Filipina turut menyatakan bahawa beliau secara peribadi melakukan peralihan gear ke neutral sebagai tabiat. Tambah beliau lagi, tabiat ini sedikit sebanyak membantunya mempunyai kereta dengan had perbatuan melebihi 200,000km tanpa sebarang masalah.

Mitos #4 – Nilai Kenderaan dengan Status
e-hailing
 Lebih Rendah

Mitos:
 Nilai jualan semula kereta
e-hailing
 anda adalah lebih rendah berbanding kenderaan persendirian.

Kebenaran:
 Sebenarnya tidak. Jika anda ingin

menjual kereta lama
 anda kepada Carsome, nilai kenderaan anda bergantung kepada keadaan dan jarak perjalanannya seperti kenderaan persendirian lain. Walau bagaimanapun, anda akan diminta untuk menukar status kenderaan anda sebelum pemeriksaan Carsome.
Untuk mengetahui dengan lebih lanjut, klik untuk
panduan (dalam Bahasa Inggeris) langkah demi langkah sebelum
menjual kenderaan
e-hailing
 anda kepada Carsome
.

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Written by Carsome Editorial


Car myths: Fact or fiction?

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Car myths: Fact or fiction?

Car myths: Fact or fiction?

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Written by Carsome Editorial

We’ve heard it before: warm up your car in the morning before you drive and put your gear into neutral when you’re at a traffic stop; the list goes on. Do these stories hold any truth? We list a few car myths and old tales that have been floating around and find out the truth behind them.

Using mobile phones at petrol stations

The myth:
 The use of mobile phones at petrol stations will cause a fire because the microwaves emitted from a mobile phone could generate a spark.

The truth:
 According to Dr. Chandima Gomes, an electrical engineering professor from University Putra Malaysia in an article published by
The Star
, while microwaves can generate sparks when in contact with metal, the waves emitted from phones are too weak to create an explosion. This myth was even put to test by Discovery Channel’s MythBusters and debunked as false.

Despite scientific evidence proving this otherwise, the use of mobile phones is still prohibited at the station and you should follow the law.

Warming up your engine before driving

The myth:
 Driving your car without warming it up will damage the engine.

The truth:
 This myth is partially true. Carburetors in older cars need to warm up to work well. Without it, the carburetor won’t be able to get the proper mix of air and fuel in the engine, resulting in the engine stalling.

However, modern cars now feature electronic fuel injection which does not require the wait. If you need to warm up your engine, drive off slowly for a minute or two before picking up speed.

Putting your gear into neutral at a traffic light

The myth:
 Putting your gear into neutral at every traffic stop will increase wear and tear on the transmission.

The truth:
Unfortunately, there isn’t a definitive answer but experienced individuals like Jason Fenske from YouTube channel Engineering Explained have said that although there isn’t much wear since the vehicle isn’t moving, there really isn’t any reason to shift to neutral at all. Comparably, an article written by Joey Bernadez, Technical Editor of Top Gear Philippines mentioned that he does it personally and has a car over 200,000km without any transmission issues.

Your car value is lower because it’s an e-hailing vehicle

The myth:
 You will get a lower resale value for your e-hailing vehicle because it isn’t a private vehicle.

The truth:
 No, you will not. The belief that you will get a lower price because it was previously used as an e-hailing vehicle is false. When it comes to selling your car to Carsome, your vehicle value will be subject to its condition and mileage as any other passenger vehicle. However, you will be required to change your vehicle status before coming to Carsome for inspection. To find out more,
click here for a step-by-step guide on what you should do before selling your e-hailing vehicle to Carsome
.

Read below for more stories!

Your car tires are more important than you think.
Click here
 for basic knowledge on car tires all car owners should know!

Learn more about car batteries
, the myths, and how to improve its lifespan.

Looking to clean and disinfect your vehicle?
Click here for tips and types of disinfectants to use
!

Selling your car is now easy and straightforward. Carsome professionally, conveniently, and fast for you!

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Lifestyle

Written by Carsome Editorial


How to Transfer Your NCD & Carry Your Insurance Savings Over to Your Next Car

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How to Transfer Your NCD & Carry Your Insurance Savings Over to...

By

Devan S

For most of us, owning a car is not cheap. With the monthly loan installments, maintenance costs, road tax, and insurance, it’s easy to see how quickly the cost of owning a car can climb. Fortunately, the no claim discount (NCD), which is available to all car owners in Malaysia can help you save on your yearly car insurance premium. What’s more, you can even transfer your NCD whenever you buy a new car, ensuring that you retain those savings.

So what exactly is an NCD and how do you transfer a car NCD in Malaysia? We’ll discuss it further below.

What Is a No Claim Discount (NCD)?

NCD or a no claim discount, is a form of discount that is offered by insurance providers to you (the vehicle owner) if you haven’t made any claims against your motor insurance policy in the past year. NCD is applied every time you renew your motor insurance, so the longer you go without claiming against your motor insurance, the more you save on your premium. This acts as an incentive to encourage
safe driving
 and indirectly helps to reduce the number of
road accidents
.

In Malaysia, you can enjoy a maximum discount of up to 55 percent from your NCD if you don’t claim against your insurance for six consecutive years and above. Here’s how your NCD can be preserved and carried forward to the next year:

No claims have been made in the 12 months prior to the date of renewal of your motor insurance.

No accident claims have been made against your insurance policy by a third party in the past 12 months.

How to Calculate Your NCD Rate?

The NCD rate is set by Persatuan Insurans Am Malaysia (PIAM) and varies according to the type of vehicle. The different NCD categories in Malaysia are private cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. The maximum discount obtainable is capped at 55 percent for cars and 25 percent for both motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Below are the NCD rates for the different vehicle types.

No Claim Period

Private Car (%)

Motorcycle (%)

Commercial Vehicle (%)

1st Year

0

0

0

2nd Year

25

15

15

3rd Year

30

20

20

4th Year

38.33

25

25

5th Year

45

25

25

6 Year Onwards

55

25

25

When you renew your car private car insurance in the second year, you’ll obtain a 25 percent discount on your premium if you haven’t made any claim against your insurance policy in the past 12 months. In the sixth year, which is after five years of not making any insurance claim, you’ll obtain the maximum NCD rate of 55 percent. You can enjoy this discount for the rest of your life, as long as there are no claims against your policy.

Read More:

5 Misconceptions about Pre-owned Cars Busted

How to Transfer Your NCD to a New Car?

You can transfer your NCD to another car to continue enjoying a discount on your insurance premium. However, there are two conditions you need to fulfill before doing so.

Both vehicles must belong to the same owner:
 Both the old and new cars must be registered to your name and identity card. That means if you’re buying a car or taking over a car from a family member, you have to change the ownership of the car at the Road Transport Department (JPJ) before transferring your NCD.

Both vehicles must be of the same type:
 You can only transfer NCD between vehicles of the same type, meaning from a private car to another car or from a motorcycle to another motorcycle. This is because the NCD rate varies between different vehicle types.

Steps to Transfer Your NCD to a New Car in Malaysia

Transferring your NCD to another car is actually an easy process. Here are the steps you have to follow to do it.

Prepare the necessary documents including a copy of your MyKad and bank details.

Go to the nearest branch of your car’s insurance provider and fill up the form to transfer your NCD. You’ll receive a copy of the form once your application has been approved.

If you have a remaining balance on your premium, you’ll have to pay it before renewing your new car’s insurance. You can usually make payments in cash or online.

Next, you just need to renew the insurance for your new car and provide the necessary documents including the copy of the NCD transfer form mentioned in step 2.

If your insurance has expired, you can renew the insurance for your current/old car and reset its NCD to 0 percent. Then, present your old car’s vehicle ownership certificate (VOC). Make sure it’s the latest VOC which should display the highest NCD rate you have when renewing the insurance for your new car to transfer the NCD.

Don’t forget to double-check your new NCD rate and make sure all your information is accurately updated.

Read More:
How to Claim Your 1-Year CARSOME Extended Warranty

What Happens to Your NCD If You Get Involved in an Accident?

If you get into an accident and are at fault, you will get your NCD reset to 0 percent when you make a claim against your policy. However, getting involved in an accident won’t necessarily reset your NCD as it depends on who is at fault and how the accident claims are settled. Here are some situations where being in an accident won’t affect your current NCD.

When you or the third party involved chooses to cover the repair costs on your own
 without claiming against your policy. This usually happens when the accident is minor and the repair cost is small. However, you can also choose to pay for the repairs out of pocket if the cost is lower than the savings you enjoy from your NCD. This is an option some drivers take especially if their basic insurance premium is high.

If you’re involved in an accident and are not at fault
. Once the police confirm that you’re innocent after you make your police report, you can file a No-Fault Own Damage claim (NFOC) against the insurance provider of the third party involved.

If you have additional coverage
 such as a windscreen cover, you can claim for a windscreen repair without it affecting your NCD. You can also get a
special perils coverage
 which covers damage from floods, landslides, and other natural disasters.

How Much Can You Save with an NCD Transfer?

The amount you can save by doing a car NCD transfer depends on the value and insurance premiums of your cars. If you transfer the NCD from a lower-valued car to a higher-valued car, such as from a
Perodua Myvi
 to a
Honda Civic
, you’ll be able to save a good amount of money on your insurance premiums. Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’d need to pay with and without doing an NCD transfer.

Without Transferring Your NCD

With Transferring Your NCD

Insurance premium of your old car (Perodua Myvi): RM800

Insurance premium of your new car (Honda Civic): RM4,000

Perodua Myvi: RM360 (RM800 – 55% NCD)

Honda City: RM4,000 (0%)

Perodua Myvi: RM800 (0%)

Honda City: RM1,800 (RM4,000 – 55% NCD)

Total premium: RM4,360

Total premium: RM2,600

Based on the table above, you can save RM1,760 if you transfer the NCD from a Perodua Myvi to a Honda Civic. So, the next time you buy a car, make sure to transfer your NCD so you can enjoy better savings on your insurance premium.

Other Things to Know About Your NCD

If you still have doubts about transferring your car NCD in Malaysia, here are the answers to some common NCD-related questions

1. Can I transfer the NCD from my car to my motorcycle?

No, you can’t transfer the NCD from one vehicle type to another.

2. How much NCD do I have if I’m buying a car for the first time?

If you’re a first-time car buyer, you wouldn’t have any NCD to your name. Therefore, your NCD rate will be 0 percent and will accumulate until you reach the maximum NCD of 55 percent, provided that you have not claimed against your insurance policy.

3. Does my NCD expire? How long does it last?

Your NCD won’t expire if you renew your motor insurance every year and don’t claim against your policy. However, if you skip renewing your motor insurance the next year, your NCD rate will drop one tier and continue dropping for every year that you skip your insurance renewal. For example, if you have a 55 percent NCD and skip renewing it next year, then the NCD will drop to 45 percent. If you don’t renew your motor insurance, your NCD will continue to decrease until it eventually reaches 0 percent after about five years.

Read More:

What to Do in a Car Accident

We hope this article on how to transfer your NCD can help you when you get a new car in the future. If you’re looking for an affordable, quality pre-owned car, check out
CARSOME
. We put all CARSOME Certified cars through a stringent 175-point inspection. Additionally, we professionally refurbish each one to ensure their safety, comfort, and quality.

Each car also comes with a guarantee of a fixed price with no hidden fees, a one-year warranty, and a five-day money-back guarantee.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit
CARSOME
 to find your dream car today.

Devan S
Devan believes written content is here to stay despite our depleting attention span and the rise of short videos. He loves four and two-wheeled vehicles, and movies of all makes and models.


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Changing Your Car Paint Color in Malaysia

By

Haziq Asyraf

Changing the paint color of a car is a common trend in Malaysia – we have seen some wild colors on the roads ourselves. The vibrant colors of car paint not only highlights the exterior appearance and its aesthetic value, but it also reflects the owner’s personality, as well as character.

According to experts, it is said the colors you choose say a lot about your physical, mental, and emotional state. Similarly, the colors you dislike mirror your weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

But as with most car modifications, there are always rules and legalities. So, if you are looking to change up your car’s body paint, here are the need-to-knows.

Can You Change Your Car Paint Color Freely?

Changing your car’s paint color is definitely not an offense in Malaysia. In fact, you can change your car paint at any time. Based on the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) website, modifications that involve minor changes or installation of additional equipment, such as accessories, do not require an application beforehand – however, this is subject to the fact that the identity of the vehicle remains unchanged and these modifications do not interfere with vehicle safety features.

However, modifications to the car paint color must be approved and declared by JPJ in line with Section (12) of the Road Transport Act 1987 – Inspection of Motor Vehicles and Information to the Director General. Every change to a vehicle, including the car paint, has to be reported to the nearest JPJ office within seven days for the application to be approved.

According to the Director of the Automotive Engineering Department, JPJ, Datuk IR. Haji Mohamad Dalib, any changes made to certain parts of the vehicle must be reported to JPJ within seven days after these modifications are made.

So, what are the procedures to change your car paint color?

Decide what color you intend for your car. If you choose to paint it in multiple colors, the dominant color or the one that covers 60 percent of the car body will be considered the primary color of your car.

 Bring your newly painted car to your nearest JPJ office for inspection and declaration.

You need to fill in the JPJ K8 form (Notice of Change of Vehicle Details and Registered Owner) and submit it to the officer on duty.

JPJ officers will then check the paint color on your car before approval is given. Your paint job will then be updated in the MySikap system.

The best part? No fee is charged for this procedure.

image source:
JPJ’s official Facebook

The Importance of Making Modifications to your Car Paint with the Approval of JPJ

Pursuant to Section (12) of the Road Transport Act 1987, every vehicle owner who changes the color of the car will be handed an Inspection Direction Notice or PG1. The notice is given so that the owner declares to JPJ on the car color change. JPJ usually does not issue a summon because the owner changes the color of a vehicle. However, summons is issued when the owner ignores the Inspection Direction Notice or PG1.

For example, in a roadblock situation, if a JPJ officer stops your car and finds out that the color of your car is not the same as the information stated in their system, the officer will issue an inspection instruction letter that will require you to head down to the nearest JPJ office and make a declaration of color change and further review. If you fail to do, a summon will be issued for default of the Inspection Direction Notice and not for the change of paint color.

Is Private Car Body Wrap Considered Illegal?

In addition to changing the car paint color, many drivers choose to do a body wrap or embellish their car using special stickers. This method is not only simpler and easier, but it is also more effective as it protects the original paint color of the car. However, just like changing the color of car paint, the use of body wrap can also be an offense under the same category as car paint it if is not declared beforehand.

Will Your Car Insurance Claim be Affected?

When it comes to
insurance claims
, there are no implications that can be associated with the color change of the vehicle. Nevertheless, differences between the registration record and the current condition of the car may be a source of dispute or complication during an insurance claim. For example: if your vehicle is involved in an accident and the insurer finds that the color of the car stated in the registration record is not the same as the current paint color, there are chances that the insurer will not cover the loss as stated in the claim.

For now, your car paint color change application and declaration can only be done at any JPJ offices. To make this process easier, you can download and pre-fill the Notice of Change of Vehicle Details and Registered Owner (
JPJ K8
) form on JPJ’s official website to avoid wasting time at JPJ’s counters. For more information on this, you can always visit JPJ’s website to get additional information.

Read also
:
The Most Popular Car Color in Malaysia based on Carsome Insight 2020

For any other used car services and news, do check Carsome out! You can
sell your used car

at Carsome for the best price, fast payment, and no paperwork hassle. Check the website today to know more.

Haziq Asyraf
A self-proclaimed foodie and gamer whose passion for food and games has recently extended to cars.


Skip the Expensive Coatings: Tips to Keep Your Car’s Paint Shining On a Budget

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Skip the Expensive Coatings: Tips to Keep Your Car’s Paint Shining On...

By

Amarnath

Aside from changing the oil as well as replacing wear and tear items on your vehicle, many owners often neglect another aspect that requires periodical maintenance – the paint. While you’re cocooned comfortably within the cabin, the layers of paint are battling the elements of our harsh tropical climate that will diminish its gleaming finish if left unchecked.

UV rays from the sunlight, acid rain, airborne pollutants, and bird droppings are some of the contaminants that could ruin the paint, leaving it oxidized, scratched, or stained. If you leave these contaminants on the paint for too long, the damage might be irreversible.

Fortunately, maintaining your car’s paint doesn’t require a lot of money or expensive coatings. Some elbow grease and basic tools will go a long way in ensuring your car’s paint will look like it just rolled off the showroom floor.

Here are five tips that won’t break the bank to keep your vehicle as shiny as the day it was made.

1. Wash Your Vehicle Regularly

This one kind of seems like a given but we’ll gladly repeat it. Wash your vehicle on a regular basis, at least once a week. Even if it doesn’t appear dirty, there are always tiny dirt particles and pollutants from acid rain on the paint surface.

If you allow it to sit on the paint for too long, it will result in the pollutants slowly eating away or tarnishing the clear coat layer on top causing your paint to look dull.

For example, on a hot day, the clear coat expands at a molecular level and the uric acid from bird droppings will seep in. At night, the clear coat shrinks slightly and effectively seals the droppings inside. This will become corrosive to the paint.

Most experts agree washing your car once a week is enough to keep the clear coat and paint surface clean of contaminants. If you do find bird droppings on your car but can’t find the time to give it a wash, the best thing you can do is just remove the bird droppings first using a damp microfiber cloth and some car shampoo. Don’t allow it to solidify on the paint for too long.

Read More:

A Guide to the Easiest Car Colors to Maintain

2. Use the Right Method When Washing

Remember, there’s a right method in washing your car. Yes, that does sound like we’re asking you to wash your vehicle yourself. After all, if you want something done correctly, you have to do it yourself, right?

Although sending it to the neighborhood car wash is the easy way out, they tend to be a little harsh on the paint and the cloths are also of unknown provenance. If the cloths aren’t cleaned properly, the debris stuck to them will cause more damage to the paint as they wipe over it.

An easy way to avoid this; and one that most cheap car wash businesses don’t adhere to, is to always have the 2-bucket system. One bucket will hold the car shampoo and the other will be for rinsing the car.

That way, you can avoid transferring any debris into the rinsing bucket, keeping the water clean for when you rinse away the soap and debris on your car.

3. Use the Right Products/Tools

Once your car’s paint is damaged, it could cost quite a sum to restore it. A little initial investment will go a long way in maintaining the paint in the long run. With that in mind, always remember to use the right car cleaning products and tools when going about it.

Some people might say you can use everyday household cleaning products such as dishwashing detergent to clean your vehicle. However, that is not true. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt this on your car’s paint.

Dishwashing liquids contain harsh chemicals and strong concentrations of sodium that will harm the paint and could even cause it to chip if used all the time. Car shampoos on the other hand are specially formulated to gently clean your car and leave a very thin layer of lubrication that acts as an additional layer of protection.

Invest in some decent car shampoo. It’s not necessary to splurge on the most expensive one because on a fundamental level, most car shampoos perform the exact same function. We would, however, recommend getting one from a reputable brand and not those that come in recycled mineral water bottles sold online.

To go with the car shampoo, ensure you use microfiber cloths instead of regular rags. The rags can harden over time and scratch the surface more than clean it.

Read More:
 Wrap VS Paint: A Guide to Refresh Your Car’s Looks

4. Apply a Layer of Car Wax Every 3 Months

Car wax is a simple method to add a layer of protection over the paint. Although not as durable as ceramic coatings, wax is much easier to apply and is friendlier on the wallet too. Coatings form chemical bonds that are more resistant to heat, UV rays and environmental contaminants. Wax doesn’t but still provides an extra layer of protection.

Furthermore, wax will create a hydrophobic surface over the paint that acts to repel water. This will prevent acidic rain droplets from sticking to the paint and corroding the surface.

Lastly, wax also gives paint that irresistible sheen. If you ever noticed a vehicle having a wet, glossy finish, wax is probably the reason. In fact, a high-quality wax can even add some shine back to slightly faded paint jobs, making it look new.

Therefore, applying a good layer of wax every 3 months should go a long way in keeping the paint looking new and you can even do it yourself.

5.
Avoid Parking under Direct Sunlight

Now, we understand this is easier said than done for most people but if you do have the opportunity to park in a shaded area or out of direct sunlight, you will be doing a huge favor to your car’s paint.

Not only do UV rays from the sun damage the paint but it can also lead to discoloration of leather bits and turn plastic trims brittle. So, if you can find a covered parking spot, we highly recommend you make the most of it.

If you can’t find a shaded parking spot, the next best move is to invest in a car cover and wrap up the car if it’ll be parked under the sun for long periods of time. If that’s too much effort, you can just use a sunshade to at the very least protect the interior.

Now all these steps are meant to keep your vehicle’s shiny paint continuously gleaming for years and rest assured, if your vehicle is CARSOME Certified, it’s undergone extensive detailing at the expert hands of the CARSOME Certified Lab to bring out the glossy finish.

At the CARSOME Certified Lab, all vehicles will have dents or paint imperfections refurbished just like the manufacturer would. That means proper surface preparation and OEM paints for a factory-like finish.

Everything is finished with a detailed wash for a pristine surface before delivery.

Buy CARSOME Certified for Peace of Mind

Here at CARSOME, we believe in creating an end-to-end buying journey to eliminate the concerns common in a traditional used car buying experience.
CARSOME Certified
 is the new standard of buying pre-owned cars backed up by our
175-point inspection
 together with our
CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process
. By creating a trusted used car ecosystem, CARSOME Certified guarantees trust, transparency, and choice.

Check out our CARSOME Certified Cars
here
.

Amarnath


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How To Bid For Your Favorite Car Plate Number

By

Haziq Asyraf

When someone buys a car, they wish they can pick their own vehicle registration numbers also known as the car plate number. This set of numbers/alphabets might just be something that identifies your car but for some, their number plate brings real significance. Whatever it means to you, every car in Malaysia must have one.

While the main reason for car plate numbers is to identify cars, car plate numbers are seen as a sign of status and symbol for those who would go to great lengths just to get the plate that they want. . Previously, people would have to depend on salesmen and runners to get their special vehicle registration numbers but now, to make things so much easier, you can simply buy these vehicle registration numbers manually at any JPJs or get it through their digital platform, MYSIKAP.

Fun Fact: The highest bidding recorded in Malaysia for one number is for the car plate number “Malaysia 1” which went up to RM 1, 111, 111. It even broke the previous record that was held by the number plate “V1” that was bid for RM 989,000.

Here are three different ways you can get your preferred vehicle registration numbers.

Manually at JPJ – All you need to do is head on down to one of their many branches where you will be presented with a list of numbers that are currently on sale. Unique numbers still need to go through a rendering process but for normal numbers, you can get it as easily on the spot.

MYSIKAP Online Platform – The process is quite similar to number 1, but this process is all done online. All you need to do is identify the number that you like, then proceed to the payment page to process your purchase. MYSIKAP only sells ordinary running numbers, and none of the rare, unique ones.

JPJeBID Online Platform – For unique and special numbers that mean the world to you, you can bid them on this portal. The bidding amount starts from as low as RM 300 and can go up all the way to RM 1,111,111. You would still need an account on MYSIKAP to get on JPJeBid.

So for those who are interested in getting a unique and special number for your car, Carsome made a ‘need to know list’ on everything JPJeBid.

What is JPJeBid?

JPJeBid
 is the Online Vehicle Registration Number Bidding System initiative by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). It was mainly created for transparency, from registration to payment, so you know what you are doing and how much you are bidding. This implementation not only simplifies the bidding process but also improves and streamlines the online trading system.

1.JPJeBid Registration Process

image source:
Twitter

This system is open to individuals or companies who want to get a specific vehicle registration number. However, the registration process for this system requires you to register with MySIKAP first. MySIKAP registration can be done at any JPJ branch. You can refer to the infographic below to find out how to register a MySIKAP public portal ID.

When it comes to bidding, there is no limit on how many vehicle registration numbers you pick. However, the total number won is limited to three registration numbers only for each individual and five numbers for each company. Each number that is bid will be charged a service charge of RM 10.

2. Vehicle Number Registration Category

The car plate number or the vehicle registration numbers that are offered for bidding is classified to three different categories.

Popular Numbers – popular digits like 121, 242, 575, 898, 909 and others.

Attractive Numbers – attractive numbers like 11, 44, 88, 777, 9999 and others.

Golden Numbers – numbers like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and others.

3. Latest Vehicle Registration Numbers Review

State/District

Latest Car Plate Number

SELANGOR

BRK8734

TERENGGANU

TCT1563

JOHOR

JWH5773

KEDAH

KFQ2569

LANGKAWI

KV5148E

KELANTAN

KV5178E

KUALA LUMPUR

VKX5351

MELAKA

MDS2494

NEGERI SEMBILAN

NDX8470

PAHANG

CET9665

PULAU PINANG

PQV8941

PERAK

ANB9753

PERLIS

RAQ8145

KOTA KINABALU

SJ4798

SANDAKAN

SMK5385

KUDAT

SK7470D

TAWAU

SWH3753

BEAUFORT

SB5262G

KENINGAU

SU3072K

LAHAD DATU

SD9531U

KUCHING

QAB4685G

SIBU

QS9536R

MIRI

QM9842M

SRI AMAN

QBF7334

SARIKEI

QRT1344

BINTULU

QTY5186

LIMBANG

QLE3237

KOTA SAMARAHAN

QCP9604

KAPIT

QPC4867

LABUAN

LH1768

PUTRAJAYA

–

* List is up to date as of  4:35 pm, Wednesday, 26 July 2023

The information above is based on the data from JPJ’s website which is updated every Tuesday. If you would like to know more or get other information about the bidding services, you can get it straight from JPJ’s official website
here
.

4. Payment Methods

The payment for the bidding system can be paid via credit or debit card only. You can use more than one credit/debit card to make extra bidding.

5. Vehicle Registration Number Booking Price

For every plate number that is booked, a minimum booking fee is charged according to the vehicle registration number category below:

The first bid amount must be the same or exceed the minimum price set by the category. The increase in the minimum bid is 5% of the minimum price amount and there is no limit to the maximum increase.

Increase Formula

5% x Price of Minimum Bid = Minimum Price Increase

Price of Minimum Bid + Minimum Price Increase = Number of Bids

Category

Minimum Price

Minimum Bid Increase

Minimum Bid Increase

Number of Bids (Increase)

First

Second

Third

Golden Numbers

RM20,000

RM1,000

RM21,000

RM22,000

RM23,000

Attractive Numbers

RM3,000

RM150

RM3,150

RM3,300

RM3,450

Popular Numbers

RM800

RM40

RM840

RM880

RM920

Current Numbers

RM300

RM15

RM315

RM330

RM345

*The minimum amount increase will be displayed on the bid page as a reference. **All transactions during the bid are using a pre-authorization method.

Vehicle Registration Number Booking System FAQs

1. Are there any fees and extra charges charged for bidding?

A non-refundable fee of RM 10 is charged as a service charge for every vehicle registration number.

2. Is a deposit required before bidding?

No deposit is required but the bidder must pay the minimum amount according to the vehicle number category.

3. Can bidders withdraw bids?

No, bidders are not allowed to withdraw bids during the bidding period.

4. How can I find out the recent vehicle registration number tenders that are opened?

You can check it out on the official JPJ website or follow their social media sites, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.

5. How long is the bid process of a series of car plate numbers?

The process lasts for 5 days and ends at 11.59pm on the 5
th
 day.

6. What happens to the bid payment if the bidder’s bid is successful?

If the bid is successful, the bid amount will be deducted from the bidder’s credit /debit card immediately.

7. What happens to the bid payment if the bidder’s bid is unsuccessful?

Cancellation of the transaction by the bank will be done by the bank and the amount will be credited back into the card used by the bidder.

8. How long will it take for the payment to be settled if the bid is unsuccessful?

The payment will be credited into the borrower’s credit card within seven working days /debit card within 14 working days.

If you have any other questions on the bidding process, do not hesitate to visit JPJ’s official website to get your answers. For other
used cars

related enquiries, you can always check out Carsome’s website to know more. Carsome is a used car trading platform with attractive and affordable prices.


Car Polish or Wax –  How to Maintain Your Car’s Shine

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Car Polish or Wax -  How to Maintain Your Car's Shine

By

Devan S

Servicing your car
 regularly is an important task as a car owner. However, just as you want to keep your car running reliably, you should also take care of its paint job. Maintaining your car’s paint job will not only prevent corrosion and help you catch
scratches or dents
, it will also help your car retain more of its value.

There are two methods to maintain the shine of your car – using car wax or polish. But many people aren’t aware of the differences between the two and don’t know how to polish or wax a car. So if you want to learn about the benefits of car polish versus wax and how to preserve your car’s shine, read on.

Car Polish Versus Wax

Over time, a car’s paint job will develop marks, scratches, and become duller due to oxidization. To fix this, you’ll need car polish which is a mildly abrasive compound. It works by removing a very thin layer of the paint and any imperfections on it. As the polish is gently massaged across the car’s paint, it removes the imperfections and smoothens the paint, restoring its original sheen.

Car wax, on the other hand, improves the appearance of your paint by applying a layer of wax that fills in surface scratches in the paint. It also adds an additional protective layer that further smoothens and protects your car’s paint job. Besides protecting your car’s paint from
scratches
, the wax also prevents fading due to heat, ultraviolet rays, and other irritants. And of course, it adds a nice shine to your car’s surface. If you’ve just polished your car, waxing it afterward will improve the shine and make it last longer. Essentially, car polish removes imperfections and creates a shiny surface while wax protects and smoothens the paint’s surface.

When to Use Car Polish or Wax

Before deciding if you should use car wax or polish, you need to evaluate the condition of your car’s paint job. First, thoroughly wash and dry your car. Then, check the surface of the paint and feel for any rough spots or scratches. If you can see or feel scratches and bumps, you need to polish your car as the blemishes are most likely below the surface of the paint. If the paint is smooth, you can just apply some wax as per the product’s instructions.

To really enhance and preserve the shine of your car’s paint, you should wash, polish, and wax your car regularly. It’s advisable to wax your car once every three months to protect your paint. If you keep that up, polishing your car once or twice a year should be enough to keep your car scratch-free. While you can get great results when you use both car polish and wax on your car, there’s no hard and fast rule that you have to use them together. You can always use one over the other depending on your needs. However, avoid polishing your car too often as it could strip away excess paint and ruin your car.

Read:
A Guide to the Easiest Car Colors to Maintain

Types of Car Wax

Other than deciding between car polish or wax, you also have different types of waxes to consider. There are more types of car waxes compared to polishes, and they each have their own pros and cons. While all car waxes add an additional protective layer to your car’s surface, with so many types of waxes on the market, it can be tricky to decide on the right one for you. To help you decide what’s best for your needs, below are some of the most common types of car waxes and their benefits.

Paste Wax

Paste wax is the oldest form of car wax and is most popular among car enthusiasts, especially old-school ones. Compared to other forms, it creates a glossier, brighter finish when applied resulting in a look that’s hard to obtain with other types of waxes. It’s also very strong and provides excellent protection against UV rays, debris, some chemicals, and light scratches.

However, it requires more time and attention to detail when applying it, making it trickier to use if you’re new to waxing your car. Also, paste wax doesn’t last as long as liquid wax. It wears thin quicker, so you’ll need to reapply it after a few weeks, typically every 8 to 12 weeks. Paste wax also tends to be slightly costlier than other types, especially if it has natural ingredients like Carnauba wax and natural oils.

Liquid Wax

Liquid wax is the most commonly used type of wax as its texture makes it easier to apply than a paste. It functions the same as paste wax but tends to last longer – around 6 to 12 months. It doesn’t provide the same level of protection as paste wax and doesn’t give the same brilliant shine, but it’s more than enough for most car owners. Liquid wax is perfect for those who want a wax that’s easy to handle and lasts long. However, some liquid waxes can have a higher amount of abrasive particles, so be sure to read the label before buying one.

Spray Wax

Spray wax is designed to be a supplementary product to paste and liquid wax. Since you only need to spray it on your car and wipe it off, it takes significantly less time to apply than the other types. Spray wax can intensify the shine on a car that already has a high-quality finish, making it a great tool to touch up your car’s paint finish before you wax your car with a paste or liquid wax again. While it offers some protection from the elements and is a lot easier to apply, it doesn’t last as long as paste or liquid wax.

2-in-1 Wash and Wax

A 2-in-1 wash and wax combines a car shampoo and wax in one product, making it a good solution for car owners who don’t have the time to wash, polish, and wax their car. It doesn’t provide the same level of protection as a standalone wax and doesn’t last as long but it can still help your car look shiny and new. If you wash your car regularly with a wash and wax, you can still keep your car clean and give its paint job extra protection.

Easy Steps to Polish and Wax Your Car

If you’ve always wondered how to polish or wax your car, here are the steps you should follow.

Firstly, wash your car with water and car shampoo. Be sure to dry the car thoroughly with a soft dry cloth so as not to leave water spots. Whether you wash, polish, or wax your car, always do it in the shade or when it’s not hot outside. When you wash your car under the sun or when it’s hot, it can cause water spots to form on your car after it dries which will result in a dull paint finish after you polish it.

After you wash your car, it’s time to polish it. Put the polish on a suitable pad and apply it onto your car following the product’s instructions. Always apply the polish panel-by-panel in a circular motion. You can polish your car by hand, though using a machine will take less time and effort.

Polish the surface until the polishing compound disappears, leaving only the shiny paint behind. You can then move on and continue polishing the next area. Remember to stop polishing when the polish has disappeared as you may dull the finish if you continue polishing the already shiny paint.

After polishing, it’s best to wax your car to protect the finish and give it some extra shine. However, before you continue, you need to wash and rinse your car to remove any excess polishing compound that’s left behind.

After washing and drying your car, you can start waxing it. Put some wax on the pad or sponge that it came with and apply it to your car in a circular motion.

Apply the wax to the whole car, one area at a time. Unlike with polish, you need to let the wax dry before buffing it off. Once it’s dried, buff it off with a clean microfiber towel. Your car will now have a fantastic shine that can last for months.

We hope now you understand the differences between polish vs wax, and when to use them. You can use either one of them when you need to, but remember to use both polish and wax on your car every few months for the best results.
If you’re
looking for a used car
 in good condition or plan to
sell your own
, check out CARSOME. All our  CARSOME Certified cars have gone through a 175-point inspection to ensure they’re safe and in good working order. CARSOME also reconditions car paint to be like new prior to sale, so you can get your very own shiny, gleaming ride.


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What Can Auto Manufacturers Gain and Lose from Car Rebadging?

By

Brian Wong

Imagine copying someone’s homework and sending it for submission. You get the approval from the author under the terms the original author gets a cut of the marks gained in your homework goes into their overall grade. While we urge people not to try this in schools, this is a simple anecdote about how auto manufacturers like Proton and Perodua pulled off car rebadging. Take the all-new Toyota Veloz/Perodua Alza review from Carlist for example, which are both produced and sold locally based on the Daihatsu Xenia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhzhEq5UERs

Officially known as badge engineering or in layman’s terms, car rebadging is when an auto manufacturer resells a car built by another company with a new badge under the promise of a cut of the sale. Often, these cars are not 100% badge and paste. They usually differ from a slight alteration in design or vary in specs. The closest examples we have in Malaysia are our local Proton and Perodua cars which were birthed from a joint development with Mitsubishi and Toyota/Daihatsu. Why do these companies simply rebadge someone else’s car instead of building one from the ground up?

Read More:
A Brief History of Malaysia’s Largest Automaker

Car Rebadging Saves Cost on Development

Making
char kuey tiow
 at home for a party is a tough and messy job. But if you order it from a hawker’s catering services and take the credit, it makes all the difference. Researching and Developing (R&D) a brand-new engine and platform takes up a lot of effort, even more so for an aspiring car brand. Rebadging someone else’s car while offering a cut of sales or via licensing, however, minimizes the risk of failure and loss of profits. In recent years some manufacturers have even joined hands in R&D-ing a new car from the ground up together as a shared platform like the Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ twins.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvw0XOooC5E

Before we’re quick to cast our judgment saying manufacturers are getting lazier these days, we need to understand that researching and building a car from the ground up is no easy feat for any auto manufacturer. It is also the fastest way for a young player in the auto industry to get a jumpstart to gain experience. Even if it’s possible, the end product would be expensive for the average consumer these days like
Mazda
 which now positions its cars as a luxury brand. Mercedes Benz spends
7.7 billion Euros
 on their R&D department in 2021, and that’s just one of the many departments the German marque runs. What about manufacturing, labor, and other
overhead costs
? Rebadging saves costs for brands and the hassle of developing a car from the ground up.

Read More:
The History of Proton

Market Localisation/Regional Brands

Another reason why auto manufacturers do car rebadging is due to market localization or selling under regional brands. Certain car brands are not widely available in other countries for a myriad of reasons like how most Mitsubishi cars were sold under Proton as a joint venture back in 1985. Daihatsu formed another joint venture with Perodua which gave them the sole rights to manufacture their cars on Malaysian soil with a new badge as Myvi, Axia, etc. Only Daihatsu’s trucks and vans are sold here.

The Iconic Proton Saga as we know it.

The 4th generation Mitsubishi Mirage/Lancer Fiore which the Saga was based on

To avoid confusion and product differentiation, car brands will usually have a slight alteration to the design and specifications of the car depending on market localization. A quick instance is the Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ twins. Both cars are identically similar in terms of chassis, engine, and specification. But the key difference aside from the badges is the front grille design. The Toyota sibling has an upwards-facing trapezoid design while the Subaru has it rotated 180 degrees.

Toyota GT86. Note the trapezoid design on the front grille.

Subaru BRZ. The front grille is rotated by 180 degrees on the other Toyobaru twin.

Closer to home, we have the
Toyota Veloz/Perodua Alza, both
 models produced locally here.
Both can be easily identified via the front trapezoid grille design and other devils in the details.

Toyota Veloz

2nd Generation Perodua Alza

But…If Everyone Rebadges Their Cars, There Will Be No More Unique Cars Out There

If you are familiar with the fifth generation A90 Toyota Supra, it was met with mixed reactions, notably being a rebadged BMW Z4 from chassis to engine. Critics were met with a conflict of interest either praising it or dismissing it due to the fact it was a lazy move by Toyota’s attempt to resurrect the iconic Supra lineup.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oC8cvUb0kI

Closer to home, Proton’s new lineup of X50, X70, and recently, the X90 are just rebadged Geely cars. If more manufacturers just keep rebadging their cars, will there be anything unique anymore? Innovation would be dead by then.

Proton X50 in Malaysia

Geely Binyue in China, which our Proton X50 is based on.

Read More:
Don’t Know What Car to Choose? Here Are All the Brands We Have In Carsome’s Inventory!

Tarnished Brand Image

Once upon a time in Italy, there was this little Italian auto manufacturer that made sports cars specifically for off-road rallying in the 1980s. This little brand is what rally enthusiasts know as Lancia. The Italian auto company had an incredible streak of line-ups designed to conquer the dirt roads during the golden era of rallying with the Lancia Stratos, Delta Integrale, and the 037. Bear in mind, these cars are not mass-produced vehicles available to the masses modified for rallying unlike a majority of their competitors; they were all designed from scratch. 10 victories and 45 seasons later, the Italian car manufacturer has decided the best course of action for the modern day is to just…rebadge Chrysler cars and sell them for their entire lineup?

Lancia at its peak. Top left to right clockwise: Lancia Stratos, Delta HF Integrale, 037, and S4.

Lancia Grand Voyager today, which is a rebadge of the Chrysler Grand Voyager.

Whatever Lancia’s corporate strategy was to adapt to the modern era is
flopping hard
 like fish out of the water. What was once a motorsport powerhouse has been reduced to a former shell of itself living in the shadow of Chrysler/Stellantis cars. Lancia’s poor fate serves as a dreadful lesson to all auto manufacturers about what happens when you don’t innovate, it tarnishes your entire company’s image. Today, Lancia cars are just barely getting by, with all their lineups immediately forgotten after an announcement of a new car. You won’t be surprised to hear people ask – Lancia is still around?

Everything, Everywhere, All Recalled At Once

Although rare, another downside of rebadging is if there is one fault caused by the original manufacturer, any models from the original manufacturer will be equally recalled back together. One notable incident happened in
Malaysia
 with the
Proton Inspira
, which is based on the 9th-generation Mitsubishi Lancer. The Lancer had to be recalled by the Japanese conglomerate due to a defect in the right-turn indicator switches with 20,300 affected units on Malaysian shores. Or another case in the United States where the 5th generation Toyota Supra was
recalled by BMW
 due to a failure in the brake assistance software. Poetic right?

Read More:
Buying a New Car? Here Are Some Mistakes You Should Avoid!

There is no perfect vehicle in this world. Even some of the most reliable or cost-efficient vehicles out there will eventually have an error or a lingering problem from the manufacturer. For potential car buyers, it’s important to do your due diligence by researching the make and model you have your eye on. Conversely, you can also dabble in used cars as most of these running models would be problem-free. CARSOME Certified cars are your safest choice as all of our cars are professionally refurbished and in running condition. All of our cars have to go through a stringent 175-point inspection to ensure they are flood-, accident-, and recall-free before we put them up for sale.

Until then, as long as it maximizes profit with minimal risk, we will continue to see car rebadging pushed by auto manufacturers for the foreseeable future.

This article was adapted from a video by Carlist.my: Review:
Is the Toyota Veloz the real top-spec Alza?

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Comparison
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Brian Wong


Returning Your Car & How to Choose a Car That’s Right for You

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Returning Your Car & How to Choose a Car That’s Right for...

By

Haziq Asyraf

You just bought your dream car and you’re looking forward to all the road trips you have planned with your loved ones in the future.

But after spending some time with your new ride, you begin to realize that the car does not drive the way you want to, it’s missing some important features, and you’re worried that the monthly installment might be too high for you.

In this case, what can you do when you change your mind about the car you’ve purchased? Is it possible to
return the car
 you bought?

Returning Your Car: Can You Do It?

Generally, in Malaysia it is not possible to return your car after purchasing it from a dealership. After you’ve signed the purchase agreement and the loan contract, there are currently no laws in Malaysia that legally binds the dealer to issue you with an exchange if you change your mind about the car you bought.

But depending on the dealer’s policy, some dealers like CARSOME offer consumers a money-back guarantee for the car they bought to provide their customers with peace of mind.

Read more:

7 Car-Buying Tips to Score the Right Car for You

CARSOME’s 5-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Every CARSOME Certified car is eligible for the five-day money-back guarantee, which means if you change your mind about your car purchase, you can return the car to us within five days for a refund, with no questions asked!

The five-day money-back guarantee only applies if the car:

Has not been modified or altered:
There should be no modifications made to the car’s interior and exterior, everything should be in the same condition as when you received it. All the relevant original documents should be returned as well.

Has traveled no more than 300km:
The travel distance of the car must be less than 300km.

Is free from fines and summons:
Any parking fees, traffic fines, or summonses that have been imposed to the customer within their five days of ownership must be paid by the customer before the car is returned.

Has not been resold or transferred to someone else:
The owner of the car must be the same person who bought the car from CARSOME.

Is returned within five days from the delivery date:
If you change your mind about your purchase, you have five days to return the car in order to get a refund.

How to Get a Car That’s Right for You

There are dozens of car brands and hundreds of car models available to choose from so it may be a challenge to find one that’s right for you. You might fall in love with a car at the first look, but after experiencing the car for a while, it may not bring the excitement that you expected from the driving experience.

Here are some tips to help you find a car that will suit your every need and prevent you from ending up in a situation where you may feel the need to return the car.

Read more:
Find the Right Car for You: Here Are 3 Questions to Consider

Know What You’re Looking For

Buying a car is not just about personal preference, you also need to consider if the car you’re buying is suitable for your current and future needs. By comparing what you want and what you need in a car, you’ll be able to narrow down your choice to a few makes and models, instead of going through every car available in the market.

On top of that, this also helps you determine your budget and how much you can spend on the car. Once you’ve decided on the make and model you’re interested in, you can start figuring out how much you need to prepare for down payment and estimate how much monthly installment you can afford.

Remember to Test Drive

It is important to get behind the wheels of the car you’re planning to purchase. This helps you get a feel of how the car drives, find out if the car is comfortable for you, and to see if the features of the car suits your driving needs.

Most people tend to overlook the importance of a test drive but it is the only time where you can thoroughly check out the car and bond with it before you buy it. Don’t skip the test drive if you want to make sure the car you’re buying is safe, comfortable, and reliable for you.

Read more:

Do Not Test Drive a Car Without Reading This First!

Get the Extended Warranty

Reliability is key when it comes to cars. If your car is protected, you can rest assured that you are making a reliable purchase. This is why it is important to invest in an extended warranty from the manufacturer if you have the budget to do so for your car.

Purchasing an extended warranty for your car will help you save significantly when it comes to repairs in the future, especially if the repairs involve a major component. Another advantage of having an extended warranty is that it will help boost your car’s resale value when you’re trying to sell it in the future.

Read more:
How to Buy a Used Car – 10 Tips You Should Follow

Make It CARSOME for Peace of Mind

Finding a quality car that fits your needs is as easy as browsing our selection online via carsome.my or on our mobile application. All CARSOME Certified cars have undergone a strict 175-point inspection to ensure they are free from major accident and flood damage.

To ensure safety beyond standards, complete comfort, and a refurbished aesthetic, every car has gone through the CARSOME Certified Refurbishment Process at our
CARSOME Certified Lab
.

Additionally, each CARSOME Certified car comes with these promises for your peace of mind.

Quality cars guaranteed:
Following our strict 175-point inspection, our skilled technicians will carry out a refurbishment process on the interior and exterior at our CARSOME Certified Lab to ensure CARSOME Certified cars have safety beyond standards, complete comfort, and refurbished aesthetics.

Fixed price:
 The price you see on the listing is the full price of the car with no hidden fees so you know exactly how much you’re paying.

One-year warranty:
 All CARSOME Certified cars also have a one-year extended warranty for your peace of mind.

So what are you waiting for? Check out
carsome.my
 or download our mobile app to find your dream car today!

Haziq Asyraf
A self-proclaimed foodie and gamer whose passion for food and games has recently extended to cars.


Need More Cargo Space in Your Car? Think outside the Box with a Roof Box

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Need More Cargo Space in Your Car? Think outside the Box with...

By

Amarnath

Modern cars come with plenty of boot space and a million cubby holes, meaning the average motorist and their occupants shouldn’t have an issue finding a spot to store anything and the kitchen sink.

However, if the need to increase storage space arises, you don’t necessarily have to go purchase a larger car… unless of course you need extra space for humans.

A car roof cargo box is a simple and easy way to boost the amount of storage space in your car. Almost any car can be fitted with one. However, before you run over to the
accessory shop
 and throw your money on a roof box, it’s probably wise to take into consideration the pros and cons of fitting one.

An important thing to take note of would be the factory-fitment of mounting points for a roof rack. Some cars are equipped with it and some aren’t. It’s not a deal breaker by any means, just that it determines the approach in getting the roof box fitted.

If your car has mounting points for a roof rack, the process of installing everything becomes a lot easier. You mount the roof rack and fit the roof box to it.

However, if your car doesn’t have mounting points for a roof rack, you’ll need to get roof bars that clamp onto the door frame and the roof box mounts to that instead.

Regardless of the method, always ensure that your car’s roof rack and roof box are securely fastened with periodical checks to make certain nothing has loosened over time.

Read More:
Car Camping in Malaysia: Essential Supplies & Top Camping Spots to Visit

Weight & Speed Limitations

Another cardinal factor to consider if you fit a roof box is the weight limit of your car’s roof as well as the limited maximum speed.

Firstly, each and every car has a factory-rated weight limit for the roof. You can’t just throw everything and the kitchen sink on top of it without knowing the limit.

This information can be found in the owner’s manual. If the manual in your car is missing, the info should be easily available online. For example, a 2020
Honda CR-V
 has a roof weight limit of 75 kg. Bear in mind that this number also includes the weight of the roof rack and roof box as well.

In general, most cars have a roof weight limit of around 60-80 kg but it’s best to consult the owner’s manual to be absolutely certain. As a best practice, store heavy items in the car’s boot. The roof box is best for large but light items.

Next up are the limitations in speed. Fitting a roof box will lower the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and add a lot more surface area. This means your top speed will be limited but fret not as you’ll still be able to hit highway speeds. Just avoid going beyond it to be cautious.

Pros of a Car Roof Box

1. Extra Cargo Space without the Additional Footprint

In the case of fitting a roof box, you essentially get more cargo storage area without having to get a larger car. Furthermore, the need for extra cargo space usually crops up a handful of times a year, such as during
balik kampung
 trips. Hence, there isn’t a need for a large vehicle all the time.

The roof box gives you the extra cargo space but within the footprint of a much smaller car. Additionally, it’s also easily removable should you decide not to leave it there all the time.

2. Better Weight Distribution

In other parts of the world, you might notice that smaller trailers are a common sight to increase cargo space. However, not only is it inconvenient when it comes to parking, it also puts a lot more load on the rear tires and suspension.

A roof box might increase the center of gravity but it retains the weight distribution between the A-, B-, and C-pillars within the axles. This translates into much more predictable handling on the road.

Cons of a Car Roof Box

1. Increased Fuel Consumption

While some modern roof boxes are designed to be pretty streamlined and not be such an aero barrier, it’s still increasing the frontal surface area of your car rather significantly.

This will mean a decrease in aerodynamic efficiency that should see your fuel consumption go up. In this case, if you don’t have need for a roof box all the time, it might make sense to remove it and
save some fuel
.

2. Raised Height

Apart from the aforementioned elevated center of gravity, a roof box will also physically raise the height of your car. This might prevent you from entering multi-story parking lots or building basements.

If you live in a condo, it’s a good idea to check the additional height a roof box will add before you fit it and discover that you can’t park in your own home anymore.

Furthermore, going through toll gantries will be an issue as well. You’ll have to constantly remind yourself to take the heavy vehicle lane for lorries if your car and its roof box exceed the height limit at toll gantries.

If your car is too tall and you take the regular lane, you might end up completely destroying your roof box and all the cargo inside. That said, the embarrassment would still probably hurt more than the financial loss.

Read More:
Why You Shouldn’t Drive with an Almost Empty Fuel Tank

Conclusion

A car cargo roof box can be the easiest solution if you find yourself needing extra cargo room once in a while. The simplicity of removing it also adds to the convenience as you don’t have to drive around with it all the time.

If you do decide to go with one, remember to double-check the roof weight limit and the vehicle’s new height once everything is installed.

Looking for a quality pre-owned car? Check out
CARSOME
 or download our app from the
Google Play Store
 or
Apple App Store today
!

Amarnath


Malfunctions in Car Safety Features and How to Check Them Before It’s Too Late!

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Malfunctions in Car Safety Features and How to Check Them Before It's...

By

Brian Wong

Last month, word has been going around about a Proton X70’s airbags failing to deploy during a crash that was making waves on
social media
.
 Proton has yet to announce a recall for their airbags although recently, the CBU Proton X70 is the only variant involved, albeit it’s for
radiator fan assembly issues
.

Air Bag faults and recalls are not rare in the automotive industry. Some time ago, the Takata Corporation issued a massive recall for all vehicles around the world that had their airbags installed due to
numerous fatalities
 involving faulty airbags.
Consumerreports.org
 reported that as of 2021, 67 million vehicles worldwide have been greatly affected by this recall.

With that being said if a driver or dealer is completely unaware of these recalls or intends to sell a faulty car to you, how do you know if the car safety features still work? How do you check for car safety features without a mechanic or tools involved? We’ve got you covered in this article.

Read More:
Buying a Car? Here Are 17 Safety Features You Need

Start with the visuals. Walk around the car.

Modern cars have built-in sensors in the headlamps and grille. If the car you are buying has a forward collision sensor or adaptive cruise control, it will have a radar sensor built into the front. Take note if the bumper is replaced, misaligned, or has signs of damage – it usually means that the dealer has hastily replaced the bumpers on a car that has been in an accident and attempted to pass it off as accident-free. Moreover, those sensors would not work if the refurbishment process did not involve rewiring and reinstalling them back.

Broken Seat Belt Buckle

Seatbelts are prone to malfunctions too! The seat belt consists of three major components: The seat belt, the male buckle, and the female socket. This guide here won’t be going too much into detail on how to check the car, but we do have some tricks to inspect the seat belt without using tools to disassemble it.

Start by yanking the seat belt hard. Put all your elbow grease and strength into pulling the seat belt like you’re mimicking a car crash. A working seatbelt should tug itself sturdy and hard to
protect the occupant
 from a crash. Another way to check for a working seatbelt is to inspect the female socket. Unbeknownst to the previous owner or seller, dirt and debris can get caught inside the socket, or the socket is plain damaged and worn from years of use.

Do the Airbags Still Work?

Aside from seatbelts, an airbag would determine whether you will be meeting your maker today if your car does get into an accident. To check
 if the airbags still work,
 insert the car keys and give the vehicle a half start. You should see all the indicator lights, including the airbag light.

If the airbags are fine, the airbag indicator light should come on momentarily and go out. If the light stays on or flashes, there is a problem with the airbag system, it might be a sign of a faulty airbag system or it has been tampered with to pass on as mint.

Windshields

Did you know your windshields are crucial for the deployment of your airbag? In the case of an accident, our vehicle windshields are designed to withstand impact. A windshield that is damaged or improperly installed may force the airbag out of the frame from a crash as
demonstrated here
.

Furthermore, grab a flashlight, and look around the glass. If the windshield has been cracked and repaired, you should be able to spot
air bubbles, protrusions, or light cracks
.
 An improperly installed or damaged windshield would have gaps on the side frames. Thus, we’ve also
compiled a checklist
 to look out for in your windshield to see if it has been installed correctly:

Wavy Patterns on the Windshield

Source:
Auto Glass Now Youtube Channel

A properly installed windshield should be clear like water. Having wave-like patterns on your windshield means that there is light seeping through the sides of the windshield or poor-quality glass is used.

Car Cabin Sounds Like a Wind Tunnel

Your car cabin should not sound like it’s going through a wind tunnel while driving at all – it should be kept to a bare minimum or barely audible. An improperly installed windshield would have all these problems, especially when driving at high speeds. It can be annoying to passengers and compromise a car safety system too.

Read More:
Top Four Signs of a Malfunctioning Car Air Conditioner

Take the Car for a Test Drive

There really is no substitute for testing out the
vehicle for yourself
. As per customer service, you are usually entitled to have a test drive of the vehicle. If the car in question is modern in make, here’s what to look out for in the car’s safety features:

Reverse Camera/Sensors

This part is pretty much self-explanatory. Put the gear into Reverse and slowly back up to an obstacle. If the sensors still work, you should be able to hear a beeping noise or have a clear view of the vehicle’s rear.

Blind-Spot Monitor/Assist/Sensor

Several high-end vehicles like Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW come with a high-end blind-spot monitor or sensor installed.  If the vehicle has a blind-spot sensor built in by the manufacturer, there should be light blinking displayed in the side mirror. A lot of cars these days are armed to the teeth with sensors from bumper to rear. A shoddy dealer would have missed out on a spot or two.

Check Engine Light and Abnormalities

The dreaded Check Engine Light. The bane of all mechanics and car owners alike. This little icon lighting up on your dashboard can
mean many things
.
 Ranging from catalytic converter failure, faulty alarm system, or simply one or more of the electronics inside the engine falling. Even a skilled mechanic cannot even find the root cause in a short period of time. Some shoddy dealers would outright try to disable the check engine light to hide any issues with the car.

Read More:
Modern safety features you should have in your new car

Get a detailed Book of the Vehicle’s Service history

As the saying goes – The Devil’s in the details. A well-kept and maintained car should have a proper paper trail that documents all its service history at its official service center. These service records or books are usually kept in the glove compartment, located in the front passenger seat as standard.

A vehicle that has been serviced on time and through authorized centers will be in better running condition than one that has been serviced infrequently. If a dealer cannot present a detailed service book, it’s a sign you should run for the hills.

Read More:
5 Signs Your Car is About to Break Down

Worried About Shoddy Dealers? Choose
CARSOME
 Certified for Complete Peace of Mind

CARSOME
 promises quality used/pre-owned cars as we put all our cars through a stringent 175-point inspection that covers the exterior, interior, underbody, and road tests to rule out major accidents and flood damage. All CARSOME Certified cars undergo a professional refurbishment process to ensure they have safety beyond standards, complete comfort, and refurbished aesthetics.

Additionally, each
CARSOME Certified
 car offers excellent value with the following promises.

Fixed price:
 What you see is what you’ll be paying. No hidden fees or funny charges at the end of the deal!

Five-day money-back guarantee:
 Did you change your mind about the car you bought? You can return the car back to us within five days, no questions asked!

One-year warranty:
 All
CARSOME
 Certified cars also have a one-year extended warranty for your peace of mind.

Check out
CARSOME
 to find your dream car today!

Tags
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Brian Wong


Four Ways To Get Fast Cash

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Four Ways To Get Fast Cash

Four Ways To Get Fast Cash

By

Carsome Author

In times of economic downturn, everyone feels the pinch and will look for ways to make more money. If you are out of ideas, here are some things you can do to make some fast cash (legally, of course).

1) Offer car wash or minor car detailing services

You can start off by offering car wash or minor car detailing to people around you, like your neighbours.  Everybody could do with a clean car these days, especially under the Covid-19 pandemic as hygiene practices, including with personal vehicles, are of utmost importance.  With some hard work, you can charge several hundred ringgit per car if done well.

2) Get a loan from the bank

If you are in urgent need of cash, your finances can get a boost with a loan from the bank. It allows you to settle outstanding payments or help you with larger purchases in time of need. Getting a personal loan can vary in terms and amount borrowed. Borrowers will be subject to financial and credit worthiness to determine whether a loan will be granted to them, so proper research and consideration must be done.

3) Sell your preloved items/ declutter your belongings

You would be surprised to find valuable items in your possession lying somewhere in store. Whether it is a card collection, collectable memorabilia, antiques or even old cassettes and CDs, there are shops that take in used and old goods for cash. Just make sure to check for the value of some of these old collectibles online because you might be sitting on a potential goldmine!

4) Sell your car to Carsome!

If you have not heard of Carsome, it is a one-stop car-selling service that makes it easy to sell your second-hand car in 4 simple steps.  You only need to make a 2-minute appointment booking online at
Carsome’s website
. Then, send your car to one of Carsome’s inspection centers for a 30-minute inspection process. Upon agreement of sale, we will manage the vehicle ownership transfer and all necessary paperwork for you within the same day.  You can receive the payment in your bank account within 1 hour*!

Carsome is Professional, Convenient and Fast

Our service ensures that you receive the best value for your car based on its condition. You also have an option to choose our online bidding platform with over 1,800 certified used car dealers offering you the best price based on market demand.

Read below for more stories!

Looking to clean and disinfect your vehicle?
Click here
 for tips and types of disinfectants to use!

Are you a
non-Malaysian selling your vehicle or an owner with a Police or Army ID
? This is how you can sell your car to Carsome!

If you are looking to
transfer ownership of a vehicle of a deceased
, here is a guide to help you understand the processes.

Selling your car doesn’t have to be complicated. Carsome does it professionally, conveniently, and fast for you!

Carsome Author


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Buying A Car
Buying a Car? Here Are 17 Safety Features You Need

By

Haziq Asyraf

Spending extra money to add an advanced safety system when buying a car is a dilemma for many car buyers. But most people don’t realize that these safety features are not just useful to help drivers park their car, but they also are for driver and passenger safety when driving.

For example, by utilizing various sensors and cameras, the car’s safety system is able to detect potential collisions and alert the driver in order to prevent accidents. Car buyers should take the initiative to ensure their car has these crucial systems rather than just opting for the standard safety package.

So, here are 17.5 safety features that you should consider for your next car purchase.

1. Airbags

Another key safety feature for cars is airbags. While they used to be just frontal airbags that pop out during a crash, these days most are advanced enough that they can detect the presence, weight, and seat position of the driver and front passenger to minimize injury chances when they pop out.

Newer car models now also include side airbags and “side curtain” airbags that cover both front and rear side windows to shield car occupants when a side collision occurs, the car rolls over, and from flying debris.

2. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS prevents your tires from locking up and skidding when braking really hard. It does not function to shorten the stopping distance of the car, instead, it allows the driver to maintain steering control while braking so it can be maneuvered to safety.

When the ABS system kicks in, it rapidly applies the brakes so you will feel a pulsing sensation on the pedal. Don’t be alarmed when this happens, just push hard on the brake pedal and try as hard as you can to control the car.

3. Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

With an FCW system, the car makes use of sensors to scan the road ahead of you. It will send a visual and audio alert from your dashboard if there is a hazard ahead.

This gives you time to brake and reduce your speed and/or swerve the car out of harm’s way. However, the FCW system does apply brakes automatically for you.

4. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

AEB usually works together with FCW to sense objects ahead of you and send you an alert while driving. If you fail to brake in time, this system automatically slams on the brakes for you to prevent a collision and/or to reduce speed. Still, you shouldn’t overly depend on this system to avoid a collision, it’s always best to drive safely.

5. Adaptive Headlights

Some modern cars these days also include adaptive headlights, a fancy system that helps to better illuminate the roads when you’re driving to provide better visibility. This system works by using bulbs that pivot according to the car’s steering direction and sometimes speed. Some also include headlights that automatically switch between low and high beams in the presence of traffic to glare to other drivers.

6. Brake Assist

To further cut down stopping distance when suddenly braking, some cars are equipped with a brake assist system. It applies maximum force to your brakes automatically when it detects drivers slamming their brake pedal.

7. Traction Control

Traction control is a great safety feature that is used to help your wheels gain more traction with the road when accelerating suddenly in a stopped or slowed position, up a slippery hill, or when driving in slippery road conditions. It makes driving smoother and helps drivers stay in control over their cars during rainy conditions.

8. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The advanced version of the traction control system is the ESC system. Using a series of high-tech sensors, the system automatically helps the driver retain control of and stabilize the car when it veers off its intended path during hard steering maneuvers.

It was initially featured on luxury cars only but as automakers realize the importance of having one, all modern cars now have a form of ESC system equipped, with their own proprietary name. Although this system works very well in avoiding a rollover, you should always take note of the car’s system limits. Push it too far and you will pay dearly.

9. Adaptive Cruise Control

Staying true to its futuristic and high-tech name, adaptive cruise control system use cameras, radar, sensors, or a combination of these systems to maintain a set distance between you and the car ahead while driving on the road.

This allows you to focus on what’s happening around you while driving, instead of worrying about your speed and the space between your car and the car in front of you. A great feature to have, especially when you do a lot of driving in the city.

10. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

LKA  system works just as the name suggests, it will send out an alert and gently try to steer you back into your lane if it detects that you are drifting out of it. However, it is only reliable when lane lines are clearly marked on the road.

11. Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Just like the LKA system, the LDW system will send out a visual, audio, or vibration alert when it detects you steering out of your lane without your turn signals activated.

12. Pedestrian Detection

Taking the FCW system up a notch, the pedestrian detection system uses advanced sensors to alert the driver when it detects human movement in front of the car. For some cars, the system will also apply brakes automatically at a certain speed.

13. Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Rear cross traffic alert system gives you an extra set of eyes at the back of your car that allows you to reverse your car safely. It uses sensors that will detect cars entering your path when reversing that will prompt you with a visual and audio warning so you can brake in time.

Some modern cars are even capable of applying the brakes automatically when it detects an oncoming car. This is highly useful when reversing out of tight parking spaces.

14. Back-Up Camera

One more safety feature that helps keep you safe when reversing is the back-up camera. They help you to see objects that are directly behind your car. The camera tends to be obscured by dirt so some high-end cars have a cleaning feature that is dedicated to the camera.

15. Back-Up Warning

Usually coupled with the back-up camera, the back-up warning system uses sensors to alert you if there are any objects directly behind your car when reversing. However, the sensors tend to be quite sensitive so it’s always best to keep an eye out by using your rearview camera and mirror.

16. Parking Sensors

A very useful system that makes parking easier, the parking sensors alert you of an object’s distance as you try to park your car. The faster the ‘beep’ sounds are, the closer you are to an object.

17. Just Buy a Carsome Certified Car That Has Passed a 175-point Inspection

When you buy a Carsome Certified car, you will get a quality pre-owned car that has passed a stringent 175-point inspection and has been professionally refurbished to ensure safety beyond the industry standard with like-new aesthetics.

When a Carsome Certified car goes through our Carsome Certified Refurbishment Process, essential components are diagnosed and serviced to be good as new and if they do not meet our standards, the components will be replaced to ensure peak performance.

Read:
Modern safety features you should have in your new car

Make It Carsome for Complete Peace of Mind

On top of that, Carsome Certified cars also come with our Carsome Promise to provide you with peace of mind. This is our Carsome Promise.

175-point inspection:
You will get a high-quality ride that is free from major accidents, as well as frame, fire, and flood damage, thanks to our stringent 175-point inspection.

One-year warranty:
 We will provide you with a one-year warranty for coverage in your first year.

Five-day money-back guarantee:
 If you change your mind about the car, you can return it to us within five days for a full refund. No questions asked!

Fixed price:
 The price on our listings is the exact price you pay, with absolutely no hidden fees.

With that, we hope you can decide on what safety feature you would like to have in your next car. If you’d like to buy a quality pre-owned car that is guaranteed to be safe and comfortable with a like-new aesthetic, visit
carsome.my
 today!

Read:
Thinking of Selling Your Car? Here Are 17.5 Things to Improve Your Car’s Value