Skip to main content
Roda
Guides

PUSPAKOM Inspection for Used Cars — What Buyers Must Know

· Roda Editorial · Updated

puspakominspectionused cars

PUSPAKOM is the company appointed by the government to inspect motor vehicles in Malaysia. If you buy a used car, you will probably deal with it at least once: most car ownership transfers need a PUSPAKOM-type inspection report, and a loan for a used car needs another. This guide explains which inspection does what, when you need it, and how to use it to protect yourself as a buyer.

Inspection names, fees and validity periods change. This guide reflects PUSPAKOM and JPJ information as of October 2026. Check PUSPAKOM's website for the current details before you book.

The inspections a used car buyer meets

PUSPAKOM lists several inspection types. These are the ones that matter when you buy or sell a private car.

Ownership transfer inspection (MV15, formerly B5)

  • When: before the JPJ ownership transfer of a car. JPJ's transfer guide says all motor vehicles except motorcycles need it.
  • What it checks: that the vehicle is what its registration says it is. PUSPAKOM describes its purpose as screening out unlawful vehicles, such as cut-and-join cars built from two or more vehicles.
  • Validity: from 1 July 2026, the report is valid for 120 days, according to an announcement reported at the time. If it expires before the transfer, the car needs a new inspection.
  • Where: PUSPAKOM centres. The Ministry of Transport has also appointed other companies to run MV15 inspection centres.
  • What to bring: the original vehicle ownership certificate (VOC, or the older geran card).

Hire purchase inspection (B7)

  • When: PUSPAKOM says this is required when you buy a used vehicle with a hire purchase loan. Your bank will ask for the report.
  • What it is for: it confirms the vehicle for the loan. Ask your bank which inspection it needs and who books it.

Private vehicle inspection (voluntary)

  • When: any time you want an independent condition check, for example before buying.
  • What it covers: PUSPAKOM's inspection guide lists checks from identification and emissions to brakes, suspension, the undercarriage and headlight alignment. Ask what is included before you pay.

Special inspection

PUSPAKOM lists a special inspection for cases such as a private vehicle whose road tax expired more than three years ago, changes to the engine, chassis or body, and imported vehicles. JPJ will tell you if your case needs one.

MV15 is not a full condition report

The MV15 confirms identity. It does not tell you whether the gearbox is about to fail, whether the car has been in a flood, or how worn the suspension is. Many buyers combine:

  1. A condition check before paying the balance: PUSPAKOM's voluntary private vehicle inspection, or a workshop you choose.
  2. The MV15 for the transfer.
  3. The B7, if you are taking a loan.

Agree with the seller in writing who books and pays for each one.

How to book

PUSPAKOM takes bookings online through its GiCheck system, which is linked to JPJ's MySIKAP. Some centres accept walk-ins for some inspection types. Bring:

  • The VOC or registration details.
  • Your IC, and an authorisation letter if you are not the owner.
  • The vehicle, in a clean and running condition.

Arrive early, and allow time for a queue.

If the car fails

PUSPAKOM's FAQ says a vehicle that fails must have the failed items repaired and come back for re-inspection. As a buyer, a fail is useful information:

  • A failed identity check is a serious warning. Do not proceed until the seller can explain it with JPJ.
  • A failed brake, emissions or lighting item is a repair cost. Use it in your negotiation, or ask the seller to fix it before the transfer.

Fees

PUSPAKOM publishes its fees for each inspection type on its website. Fees may include a processing charge and SST at some centres. Check the total before you book, and agree who pays.

A simple buyer sequence

  1. Agree a price, subject to inspection, in writing.
  2. Book a condition check and review the results.
  3. Book the MV15 (and B7 if you take a loan).
  4. Settle any loan on the car, then complete the JPJ ownership transfer while the MV15 is valid.
  5. Pay the balance when the transfer is ready.

For the wider process, read how to buy a used car in Malaysia and how to avoid WhatsApp scams. Browse used cars on Roda when you are ready.

Commercial vehicles

Lorries, vans and other commercial vehicles have their own routine inspections, which PUSPAKOM lists as every six months under the Road Transport Act 1987. If you are buying a lorry, ask the seller for its inspection history. See trucks on Roda.

Sources

Used cars

See all used cars

Related reading