If you’re an expat, we know what it's like to be living in Malaysia. You've probably taken the train a few times, but it's just so slow! It takes forever to get anywhere and you're tired of waiting for your Grab driver to arrive. 

But now you want to get a car—but don't know how and where to start. Don’t worry, we've put together this guide to help you get a car to drive around Malaysia.

1. Know your budget

First of all, be prepared for some sticker shock. Car prices in Malaysia are very different from those in North America or Europe—even more so than in other parts of Southeast Asia. In Malaysia, car prices are inflated by an excise duty levied on all cars sold in the country.

For example, you can buy Honda Accord for just $21,480 (RM64,440) but in Malaysia, it costs around RM150K. 

This is why it's important to know what kind of budget you'll need to work with before you start shopping around. 

2. Research. Research. Research.

Do your research beforehand so that you know exactly what kind of car is right for your needs (and remember: it doesn't have to be a new one). 

There are plenty of used cars available at reasonable prices, but if you buy one without doing proper research first, you may end up with something that doesn't meet your needs.

3. Get An International Driving Licence

If you're wondering whether you need a Malaysian driving licence to drive around Malaysia, the answer is: No. 

It is legal to drive in Malaysia with a driver's licence from any of the nations listed in Section 28 of the Road Transportation Act of 1987. 

You can also drive with a  valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by your home country.

4. Prepare The Necessary Documents

Before thinking about getting a car, make sure you have all the right paperwork!

You'll need your passport, work permit, and payslip. And if you've been in Malaysia for longer than three months, you'll also need three months' worth of bank statements. 

With the above documents in hand, you are now in a position to apply for road tax, car insurance and register your car with Jabatan Pengakutan Jalan (JPJ). 

However, if you are planning to get a used car then you should bring your car to get inspected and get a certificate from Puspakom. 

5. Insurance

It is compulsory for all cars to be insured in Malaysia.

To maintain your car, you need to have it checked by an authorized mechanic. The mechanic will check everything from the engine to the tires. If there are any problems with your car, they will inform you and suggest how to fix them.

The cost of maintenance depends on the type of vehicle you own and what needs to be done. For example, if there is only a small problem with one part of the engine, then this would not cost as much as replacing everything in an engine that has completely broken down.

Take the hassle away with FLUX All-in-one Car subscription 

We know it looks like a big hassle for you to get a car in Malaysia. That's why FLUX is designed to make it simple and easy for you to get a car. 

Insurance, road tax, maintenance and wear & tear are included in your one simple monthly fee. 

We take care of all the paperwork so you can focus on more important things, like finding a nice place to live or learning Bahasa Malaysia!

So what are you waiting for? Visit our website & choose your car today at https://driveflux.com/cars/kuala-lumpur--malaysia.