Syed Asyafirhan bought a faulty car that required costly repairs.
Shortly after purchasing a Japanese-marque vehicle from a used car dealer, Syed Asyafirhan Syed Muhamad began experiencing difficulties – just one day after taking possession
The claimant, 24, who works as a food delivery rider in Singapore, went to the dealer last June 17 at Taman Kemas, Tampoi, Johor Baru.
Along with his father and the dealer, who was also the car owner, Syed Asyafirhan took the 15-year-old vehicle, priced at RM41,000, for a test drive.
“The engine was jerking and its air-conditioning system was faulty,” he told StarMetro outside the Johor Consumer Claims Tribunal, noting that the dealer acknowledged the problems.
Despite these concerns, Syed Asyafirhan paid a RM5,000 deposit and took delivery of the car, which had 30,000km on the clock.
“More problems surfaced on June 18, forcing me to send the vehicle to a workshop in Kampung Pasir, Tampoi, for repairs,” he said.
Syed Asyafirhan noted that, in addition to a faulty air-conditioning system, the mechanic detected issues with the drive shaft and various other components.
“The mechanic estimated that the repairs would cost between RM3,000 and RM4,000. The car has remained at the workshop since then,” he added.
When he informed the dealer, the latter offered to reduce the car’s price from RM41,000 to RM40,000.
“But he was unwilling to take back the car, claiming that he had spent RM10,000 before selling it to me,” he said.
Syed Asyafirhan claimed that the vehicle had been involved in seven accidents since 2010, including two major collisions, though the dealer denied the allegations.
“I discovered the car’s history after verifying the records with the South Johor Baru traffic police,” he added.
Tribunal president Hafez Zalkapli ruled that the respondent must refund the RM5,000 within 14 days, after which the claimant is to return the car.
Those needing Tribunal assistance can call 07-227 1755 or 07-227 1766 or visit the Tribunal office at Level 17, Menara Ansar, Jalan Trus, Johor Baru, from 8am to 5pm (Mondays to Thursdays) and 8am to 4pm on Fridays.
