How to buy a car

1. Set your budget

Think about the total cost, not just the price: insurance, road tax, servicing, tyres and fuel all add up.

If you're taking a loan, most banks ask for a deposit of at least 10%, and hire purchase can run up to 9 years. A longer loan means a lower monthly payment but more interest overall. Every car page on AutoGetz has a calculator to estimate the monthly payment.

2. Search smart

Filter by price, year, mileage, body type and town. Tap "Save this search" to get an email when new matching cars are listed, and heart the cars you like to get an email if their price drops.

Use Compare to look at up to 3 cars side by side: differences are highlighted.

3. Ask the seller the right questions

• Why are you selling, and how long have you owned it?
• Is there a service record? Has it had any accidents or flood damage?
• Is there still a loan on the car? How will it be settled?
• Can you send a photo of the registration card (geran), with personal details covered?

A good seller answers clearly. Vague answers are a warning sign.

4. View and test drive

Always see the car in person, in daylight, before paying anything. Our viewing checklist covers what to look at, inside and out.

5. Check the paperwork

• The name on the geran or JPJ ownership record should match the seller (or the dealer's company).
• The chassis and engine numbers on the car should match the geran.
• If there's an outstanding loan, agree in writing how the bank will be paid and when ownership will be released.
• Check road tax and insurance are current.

6. Agree the price and pay safely

• Never pay a deposit before you've seen the car and its documents.
• Get the agreed price, what's included and any warranty in writing, with a receipt for every payment.
• Pay by bank transfer to the registered owner or the dealer's company account. Avoid large cash payments.
• Be wary of pressure to pay quickly, and of prices that seem too good to be true.

7. Transfer ownership and insure it

Ownership is transferred through JPJ. The seller or dealer usually arranges it, and a Puspakom inspection is normally part of the process for a used car. Make sure the car is insured in your name, with valid road tax, before you drive it away.