What to check when viewing a car

Before you go

• Arrange to view in daylight and dry weather: rain hides paint and panel problems.
• Ask the seller not to start the engine before you arrive, so you can hear it start from cold.
• Bring a friend and a torch, and the questions you want to ask.

Documents

• Registration card (geran) or JPJ record: the owner's name, and the chassis and engine numbers, must match the seller and the car.
• Service book and receipts: regular servicing is a good sign.
• Road tax and insurance status.

Outside

• Panel gaps that aren't even, paint that doesn't quite match, or paint on rubber seals can mean accident repairs.
• Rust on wheel arches, the bottom of doors and the sills, and underneath. Cars kept near the coast need a closer look.
• Tyres: even wear and enough tread. Uneven wear can mean alignment or suspension problems.
• Lights, mirrors and glass: check for cracks and chips.

Signs of flood damage

Flooded cars can look fine but develop electrical and rust problems later. Look for:

• A damp or musty smell, or strong air freshener hiding one.
• Water stains, mud or sand under the carpets and seats, and in the boot.
• Rust on seat rails and on bolts under the dashboard.
• Condensation inside the lights, and electrics that work only sometimes.

If you're unsure, walk away or get an inspection.

Inside

• The air-conditioning should blow cold within a minute or two.
• Test every switch: windows, locks, lights, wipers, audio, camera.
• Warning lights should come on when you turn the key, then go off once the engine starts.
• Wear on the seats, steering wheel and pedals should fit the mileage.

Under the bonnet

• Oil at the right level and not milky; coolant at the right level.
• No leaks, and no loud knocking or rattling when it starts cold.
• Blue or white smoke from the exhaust after it warms up is a warning sign.

The test drive

Drive for at least 15–20 minutes on different roads.

• The gearbox should change smoothly, with no jerks or slipping.
• The car should drive and brake straight, without pulling to one side.
• Listen for knocks over bumps and noises when turning.
• The brakes should feel firm and stop the car smoothly.

Afterwards

An independent inspection by a trusted workshop costs little compared with buying the wrong car. A good seller won't mind.