Check used car's history before buying

GEORGE TOWN: A low odometer reading might not mean a used car is as “young” as claimed.

Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malay­sia president Datuk Tony Khor urged buyers to check for wear-and-tear to “get the real story”.

“If the steering wheel is shiny where we usually place our hands, if the brake pedal’s rubber is smoothed or if the driver’s seat cushion is worn, maybe the car had been used for over 100,000km, even if the odometer says less,” he said.

For cars under five years old or below 100,000km, Khor advised checking with the brand’s service centre for mileage and service history.

“Ask for full service records, including tyre replacements, because they will record mileage,” he added.

For cars over five years old, a low reading like 30,000km with obvious wear should be a red flag.

“It is not advisable to buy such a car as the mileage may have been altered,” he said, adding that tampering is illegal and requires workshop skills.

Khor said the association is developing an AI system to read mileage from the engine control unit, which is expected next year.

Consumer Association of Penang (CAP) president Mohideen Abdul Kader said complaints are common from buyers whose second-hand cars fail within months.

“They experience breakdowns, engine trouble, faulty dashboard signals, air-conditioner problems and strange noises,” he said.

He urged buyers to inspect a car’s history and condition thoroughly.

“If the price is unusually low, something is probably wrong.

“Choose cars serviced regularly at authorised centres where complete maintenance records are kept,” he added.

While CAP can help complainants reach settlements, he cautioned, “it takes a long time and can be cumbersome”.