Recon or second-hand: what to expect

What's the difference?

A recon (reconditioned) car is a used car imported from abroad, usually Japan and sometimes the UK, refurbished, and registered in Malaysia for the first time.

A second-hand car (locally used) has already been registered and driven in Malaysia, by one or more owners.

Recon: the good and the less good

• Often a higher specification, and sometimes models or versions not sold new here.
• Usually low recorded mileage, and often sold with a dealer warranty.
• Usually costs more than a similar locally used car.
• Its condition depends on how it was used and stored abroad, so the auction report matters.

What to check with a recon

• The auction report (grade sheet): ask the dealer for it. It records the car's grade, condition and mileage when it was sold at auction in Japan.
• Year of manufacture and year of registration: a recon is registered later than it was made. Both are shown on AutoGetz when the seller gives them.
• The warranty, in writing: what it covers, for how long, and where the car must be serviced.
• Tyres and battery: cars can sit in storage for months before sale.

Second-hand: the good and the less good

• Usually a lower price for the same model and year.
• A service history in Malaysia that you can often check.
• More wear and tear is likely, so a careful inspection matters.
• Check for an outstanding loan and for accident or flood history.

What to check with a second-hand car

• How many owners it has had (shown on the geran or JPJ record).
• Service records and receipts.
• Whether there's still a hire-purchase loan, and how it will be settled.
• Our viewing checklist, especially the flood and rust signs.

Which should you choose?

If you want a newer, better-equipped car with a warranty and can spend more, recon is worth a look. If price matters most, a well-kept second-hand car with a full service history can be the best value. Either way: view it, check it, and don't rush.