Car Inspection Malaysia: Which Inspections Still Require PUSPAKOM?
Summary: Private vehicle ownership transfer (MV15) inspections can now be carried out at authorised Vehicle Inspection Centres (VICs), but inspections for road tax that have expired for more than three years and other special cases still require PUSPAKOM.
If you've heard that you no longer need to visit PUSPAKOM for a car inspection in Malaysia, that's only partly true.
Malaysia has started opening up its vehicle inspection industry by allowing authorised Vehicle Inspection Centres (VICs) to carry out selected inspections. This gives motorists more choices when completing certain vehicle inspections.
However, the change only applies to one inspection type: the MV15 inspection for private vehicle ownership transfers. If your road tax has expired for more than three years, your vehicle has undergone major modifications, or JPJ requires a special inspection, you'll still need to visit PUSPAKOM.
Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection in Malaysia?
Most private vehicles do not require routine inspections in Malaysia.
Instead, a vehicle inspection in Malaysia is only required in specific situations set by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). These usually involve a change in ownership, registration status, or the vehicle's roadworthiness.
You'll typically need a car inspection if you're:
Buying or selling a used private vehicle
Renewing road tax after it has expired for more than three years
Registering an imported or rebuilt vehicle
Applying for approval for major vehicle modifications
Directed by JPJ to undergo a special inspection
Let's look at each situation in more detail.
Ownership Transfer (MV15)
If you're buying or selling a used private vehicle, an MV15 inspection is usually required before JPJ can complete the ownership transfer.
The inspection verifies the vehicle's identity by checking details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine number, and chassis number. This helps prevent fraud and ensures the vehicle matches JPJ's records.
Unlike before, you can now complete an MV15 inspection in Malaysia at either PUSPAKOM or an authorised Vehicle Inspection Centre (VIC).
Planning to buy a used car? Our guide explains how you save thousands in transferring car ownership through your NCD.
Road Tax Expired for More Than Three Years
If your road tax has expired for more than three years, you'll need to pass a PUSPAKOM inspection before you can renew it.
This applies regardless of your vehicle's age. The inspection confirms that the vehicle is still roadworthy after being inactive for an extended period.
Other Special Inspections
Some inspection types have not been liberalised and must still be carried out at PUSPAKOM.
These include inspections for:
Major vehicle modifications
Imported or rebuilt vehicles
Vehicles directed by JPJ for a special inspection
Other special inspection categories required by the authorities
If your vehicle falls into any of these categories, you'll need to book a PUSPAKOM inspection before completing the relevant JPJ process.
If you're planning to modify your car, read our guide on Car Modification Rules in Malaysia to understand when JPJ approval is required, and when you should inform your insurer.
What Is an MV15 Inspection?
An MV15 inspection is a vehicle identity inspection required when transferring ownership of a used private vehicle in Malaysia.
During the inspection, officers verify the vehicle's VIN, engine number, and chassis number to ensure they match JPJ's records. This helps protect both buyers and sellers by preventing ownership fraud and the transfer of cloned or stolen vehicles.
It's important not to confuse an MV15 inspection with other car inspection Malaysia requirements. An MV15 inspection is only for private vehicle ownership transfers. Inspections for road tax expired for more than three years, imported vehicles, rebuilt vehicles, and major modifications still need to be completed at PUSPAKOM.
Where Can You Get an MV15 Inspection?
Private vehicle owners now have more choices when completing an MV15 inspection in Malaysia.
Previously, MV15 inspections could only be carried out at PUSPAKOM. Today, you can also visit an authorised Vehicle Inspection Centre (VIC) for private vehicle ownership transfers.
However, this only applies to MV15 inspections. Other inspection types, such as road tax that has expired for more than three years, vehicle modifications, and imported or rebuilt vehicles, must still be completed at PUSPAKOM.
These companies are now authorised to carry out MV15 inspections for private vehicle ownership transfers:
Carsome Academy Sdn Bhd
Car Medic Sdn Bhd
Carro Technology Sdn Bhd
Beriman Gold Sdn Bhd
Wawasan Bintang Sdn Bhd
More authorised centres are expected to open in the future. Before making an appointment, check whether your preferred vehicle inspection centre is available in your area.
What Does a Vehicle Inspection Check?
The items checked depend on the type of inspection. For example, an MV15 inspection mainly verifies the vehicle's identity, while other inspections also assess its roadworthiness.
A vehicle inspection in Malaysia usually include checks on:
Braking system
Steering system
Suspension
Tyres and wheels
Headlights, brake lights, and signal lights
Chassis condition
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Engine number
Chassis number
Exhaust emissions, where applicable
Overall roadworthiness
If your car has been parked for a long time, it's a good idea to service it before the inspection to reduce the risk of failing.
Documents Needed for a Vehicle Inspection
Bringing the right documents can help you avoid delays on inspection day. Depending on the inspection type, prepare the following:
MyKad for Malaysians, or passports for non-Malaysians
Original or digital copy of the Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC)
Inspection appointment confirmation, if required
Any supporting documents requested by JPJ
Requirements may differ depending on the inspection. If you're unsure, check with the inspection centre before your appointment.
What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails the Inspection?
Failing a car inspection in Malaysia doesn't necessarily mean your vehicle can't be registered or renewed. In most cases, you'll need to repair the issues identified and return for a reinspection within the timeframe set by the inspection centre.
Some common reasons for failing include:
Worn or damaged tyres
Faulty headlights, brake lights, or signal lights
Steering or suspension problems
Cracked windscreen that affects visibility
Illegible VIN, engine number, or chassis number
Illegal vehicle modifications
To improve your chances of passing the car inspection, inspect your tyres and lights, test your brakes, and ensure your VIN and chassis numbers are clearly visible before your appointment.
Can You Renew Road Tax Without a Vehicle Inspection?
For most private car owners, yes. Whether you need a vehicle inspection or not in Malaysia depends on why you're renewing.
Road Tax Expired Less Than Three Years
If your road tax has expired for less than three years, you can generally renew it without a vehicle inspection. Simply renew your car insurance first, then proceed with your road tax renewal.
Renewing road tax has never been easier today. Our Road Tax Renewal Guide explains the process step by step.
Road Tax Expired More Than Three Years
If your road tax has expired for more than three years, you'll need to complete a PUSPAKOM inspection before renewing your road tax. Once your vehicle passes the inspection, you can proceed with the renewal.
Renew Your Car Insurance and Road Tax with PolicyStreet
Most private car owners can renew their car insurance and road tax without needing a vehicle inspection.
With PolicyStreet, you can compare quotes from multiple insurers, renew your car insurance online, and renew your road tax in one place. You can also enjoy extra savings through Drive+, including road tax discounts and exclusive member rewards worth up to RM360.
Whether you're renewing your insurance, road tax, or both, PolicyStreet makes the entire process simple, convenient, and hassle-free. Compare plans and renew with confidence in just a few clicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I still need to go to PUSPAKOM for a vehicle inspection?
Yes. While MV15 ownership transfer inspections can now be completed at authorised Vehicle Inspection Centres (VICs), inspections for road tax that have expired for more than three years and other special inspections are still required to be done at PUSPAKOM.
2. Which inspections can now be done outside PUSPAKOM?
Currently, only MV15 inspections for private vehicle ownership transfers can be carried out at authorised Vehicle Inspection Centres (VICs).
3. What is an MV15 inspection?
An MV15 inspection verifies the vehicle's identity, including the VIN, engine number, and chassis number, before JPJ processes a private vehicle ownership transfer.
4. Does road tax that has expired for more than three years still require a PUSPAKOM inspection?
Yes. A PUSPAKOM inspection is required if your road tax has expired for more than three years. You can only renew your road tax after your vehicle passes the inspection.
5. Which companies are authorised to carry out MV15 inspections?
The authorised operators that can carry out MV15 inspections are:
Carsome Academy Sdn Bhd
Car Medic Sdn Bhd
Carro Technology Sdn Bhd
Beriman Gold Sdn Bhd
Wawasan Bintang Sdn Bhd
6. What documents do I need for a vehicle inspection?
The documents you’ll need are your MyKad or passport, vehicle registration details, inspection appointment confirmation, ownership transfer documents for MV15 inspections, and any supporting documents requested by JPJ.
7. What happens if my vehicle fails the inspection?
If your vehicle fails the inspection, you'll need to settle the identified issues and return for a reinspection within the timeframe specified by the inspection centre.
8. Do I need a vehicle inspection to renew my car insurance?
No. Renewing your car insurance does not usually require a vehicle inspection.
