Malaysians definitely take their vehicles seriously, with new motor vehicle sales hitting an all-time high of about 800,000 units in 2023. In fact, the local automotive industry has grown to become a powerhouse in the region – recently, we have overtaken Thailand to become Southeast Asia’s second-largest auto market. A major part of this vertical’s success comes down to the support from the service and maintenance sector, as well as the used-car businesses that are the backbone of our automotive market. They are the unseen drivers of the market – ensuring your vehicles are in tip top shape and providing budget-friendly access for aspiring car owners.
However, despite such achievements, there are growing concerns revolving around the market’s lack of transparency and deceptive practices. Customers are constantly forced to second guess their choices or risk getting scammed by unscrupulous services, from buying a second-hand car to even regular maintenance checks. Being vigilant both on and off the road is now a vital requirement for vehicle owners to have a safe drive.
The Hidden Dangers of the Auto Market
Our second-hand car market has long been a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. As citizens of a car-oriented society, driving is our main mode of everyday travel especially in areas lacking a good public transport system. However, numerous cases have surfaced where used vehicles have been tampered with to conceal defects, leading to substantial financial and safety repercussions for unsuspecting buyers. Odometer fraud, where the mileage of a vehicle is rolled back to appear less used, is particularly rampant. This practice not only inflates the market value of the car, but also misleads buyers about the vehicle’s true condition and remaining lifespan.
Another critical issue is the proliferation of workshops that do not meet lawful requirements. These establishments often use substandard parts, perform inadequate repairs, and lack certified technicians, putting vehicle owners at risk. The lack of stringent oversight and enforcement allows these workshops to operate with impunity, further eroding consumer confidence in the automotive service industry.
Shifting Gears Towards A Transparent Industry
As these issues continue throughout the numerous workshops and dealerships in the country, it is imperative for consumers and industry stakeholders to take decisive action.
First and foremost, empowering consumers with knowledge is essential to combat deceptive practices in the automotive market. Many buyers become victims simply because they do not have the information to recognise red flags. Having access to such information – whether it is through online guides or becoming introduced to customer support systems – enables buyers to make informed decisions and avoid fraudulent dealerships and workshops.
Additionally, the adoption of new technologies can also play a crucial role. With innovative tools such as MotorCheckUp, consumers now have the ability to access a full and accurate assessment of their car’s condition. This diagnostic tool, which was introduced in Malaysia by Automotive Synergy, enables a full internal analysis of the engine, gearbox, brakes, and power steering with just one drop of fluid from those respective parts, providing owners and potential buyers an accurate report of the vehicle’s condition.
Adopting such technologies will not only educate vehicle owners, but also empower workshops to practice transparency in all aspects of their services. Similarly, used car dealers can ensure their customers with a fully functioning vehicle before purchase, improving transparency and trust for customers and service providers alike.
It is safe to say that our automotive industry is at a critical juncture, poised to become a cornerstone of our economy if we are able to address these issues promptly. Let us drive towards a more transparent and trustworthy future – one vehicle at a time.
Attributed to Ian Sia, Founder of Automotive Synergy
