How to Avoid Car Scams and Forgery in Malaysia
As a senior Perodua Sales Advisor with 15 years of experience, I’ve helped countless customers buy new cars without any hassle. Unfortunately, even in the realm of new car purchases, scams and forgery can occur. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced car owner, it’s essential to stay alert to avoid potential scams. Here are 8 key points to help you avoid car scams when purchasing a new Perodua vehicle in Malaysia.
1. Buy Only from Authorized Dealerships
- Official Dealership Guarantee: The most important step when buying a new car is to always purchase from an authorized Perodua dealership. Official dealerships follow strict protocols, ensuring that you receive a legitimate car along with proper documentation.
- Avoid Unlicensed Brokers: Be wary of individuals or third-party brokers who claim to offer deals on new cars. Stick to authorized outlets to avoid fake offers or forged documents.
2. Verify Dealer Credentials
- Deal with Certified Sales Agents: Ensure that the salesperson you are dealing with is officially certified by Perodua. Authorized agents will have identification badges and proper dealership credentials.
- Check Online Reviews: Research the dealership’s reputation by reading reviews online or asking around. Established Perodua dealerships will have a long-standing, trustworthy presence.
3. Scrutinize Promotions and Deals
- Beware of Unrealistically Low Prices: Scammers often advertise new cars at significantly lower prices than what’s typically offered by Perodua. Before committing to a deal, compare the price with Perodua’s official price list. Deals that seem too good to be true probably are.
- Clarify What’s Included: Scammers may offer cars at a “low price” but exclude essential features or services, such as insurance or road tax. Always clarify what the full cost includes.
4. Verify All Documents Carefully
- Check Your Car’s Documents: When buying a new Perodua, always ensure that the Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC), sales agreement, and warranty documents are legitimate. Official Perodua paperwork will have the brand’s logo and detailed information on the vehicle.
- Don’t Sign Blank Documents: Avoid signing any document that is incomplete or blank. Scammers might use this as a trick to add false information later.
5. Inspect the Car at Delivery
- Match the Vehicle Details: When your new Perodua is delivered, cross-check the details, such as the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and engine number, with the information provided in your documents. This ensures that you are getting the exact car you purchased.
- Check for Manufacturing Date: Make sure the car’s manufacturing date matches what the dealership promised. Some scams involve selling older models under the pretense that they are brand new.
6. Request a Vehicle Test Drive
- Verify the Vehicle’s Condition: Go for test drive will help you to see the car condition after it been used. Even though it’s brand new, inspecting the car ensures that it hasn’t sustained any damage during transit or storage. Scammers sometimes deliver vehicles that have undergone repairs or touch-ups, so look for any irregularities.
- Test Drive Before Finalizing: A reputable Perodua dealership will always allow a test drive. This not only helps you familiarize yourself with the car but also ensures that it’s running smoothly. Insist on a test drive to confirm everything is in perfect working order before committing for booking.
7. Be Cautious with Online Sales
- Purchase Directly from Official Websites: If you’re buying online, make sure you are on Perodua’s official website or a verified dealership site. Avoid third-party sites that offer deals on new cars, as they could be scams designed to steal your money or personal information.
- Online Scams: Some scammers may create fake websites or online profiles to lure in buyers. Always double-check the legitimacy of any online offer by contacting Perodua’s official customer service or visiting the dealership in person.
8. Review Your Insurance and Financing Options
- Get Financing from Trusted Sources: If you’re financing your new Perodua, go through trusted banks or financial institutions that Perodua partners with. Some scammers may offer “too-good-to-be-true” financing deals with hidden charges or fees.
- Beware of Forged Insurance Policies: Ensure that the insurance policy offered by the dealer is genuine and from a reputable insurer. Always verify the policy documents with the insurance company directly.
Conclusion
Buying a new car should be an exciting experience, but it’s essential to remain vigilant to avoid scams and forgery. By purchasing only from authorized Perodua dealerships, carefully verifying documents, and avoiding suspicious offers, you can protect yourself from potential fraud. Follow these tips, and your new Perodua will not only be a safe investment but also a vehicle you can enjoy with peace of mind.
