2026 Malaysian car resale values: trends and a seller’s guide

Market Outlook (2026): The Malaysian used-car market remains robust. 

In 2025 it was valued at about USD 18.67 billion, and is projected to grow at ~6.5% annually through 2030.Analysts report strong underlying demand (aided by favourable income policies) and rising car ownership, even as new-car policies evolve. 

For example, Malaysia’s Budget 2026 introduced a scrappage incentive (up to RM 4,000 for scrapping 20+-year-old cars when buying a new Proton/Perodua).and extended rebates for locally-assembled EVs. 

Meanwhile, the anticipated 2026 revision of import duties (OMV) has prompted forward-buying of new cars indirectly supporting used-car demand. 

Despite temporary slowdowns (e.g. late-2024 sales eased due to aggressive Chinese EV promotions and e-invoicing rules ), experts expect steady growth in 2025–26. Carsome’s chief business officer notes Malaysia overtook Thailand as SEA’s #2 auto market in 2024, and foresees used-car sales “equal if not exceed 2023’s results.

• Key Trends (2026): Continued demand for affordable, reliable models; rising interest in SUVs and EVs; government incentives (scrapping/grants, EV policies); and digital sales platforms expanding. Sedans and SUVs dominate used-car transactions ( kenresearch.com) ,, while MPVs and luxury/“continental” brands tend to depreciate faster. ( comparehero.my ) .

Factors Affecting Depreciation

Several factors influence how fast a car loses value:

• Age & Mileage: New cars lose most value early. Typically, driving a car off the lot cuts its value ~10–20% instantly, and by the end of 1 year it may have depreciated ~20%. On average, Malaysian ICE cars lose about 30–40% of value in 3 years and ~50–60% in 5 years. High annual mileage accelerates depreciation (e.g. 10–12k km per year is typical.
• Brand & Model: Popular, reliable brands hold value best. In Malaysia, Asian models dominate – Perodua, Proton, Toyota, Honda and Nissan are most in demand. For example, first-generation Toyota Vios and Perodua Myvi can retain 30–40% of their original price even after 10 years. Continental (European) and luxury cars generally depreciate faster due to higher parts costs and lower local demand.
• Market Demand and Trends: Cars in hot segments depreciate slower. Currently SUVs and compact sedans are highly sought (e.g. Proton X70/X50, Perodua Ativa), so they hold value. By contrast, an outdated model or unpopular segment (e.g. an older MPV or finicky EV) may lose value quickly. Notably, pure EVs today tend to depreciate faster than petrol cars in the first 5 years (due to battery wear, rapid tech changes, and charging infrastructure limits).
• Condition & History: A well-maintained, accident-free car will sell for more. Regular servicing, complete service records and a clean title are essential.Cars with cosmetic damage, excessive wear or a shady accident history can see steep price cuts. Likewise, original parts and warranty coverage (if any remains) boost confidence and value.
• Fuel Efficiency & Features: Economical fuel usage, recent model facelifts or desirable options (e.g. safety features, infotainment) can enhance resale. Conversely, niche colours or extensive aftermarket mods can narrow the buyer pool and cut value. Even car colour matters – safe hues (white, black, silver) generally resell better than flashy or uncommon colours.
• Ownership Factors: Fewer previous owners is better. Cars with many owners or one that’s been used intensively (e.g. for ride-sharing) often fetch less. In general, a car kept by one owner and lightly used will sell for a higher price.

Resale Values by Brand and Segment

Certain models famously retain value. Perodua models and Japanese sedans are consistently top performers. Examples from recent data: 

Table: Example 5-year resale for popular models (approximate values).Values vary by condition.

These examples illustrate that hatches and compacts (Myvi, Bezza) often retain ~80–90% of price after 5 years, while larger sedans/CUVs hold slightly less. SUVs like the Mazda CX-5 and pickups like Toyota Hilux are also known to demand strong prices , thanks to durability and loyal followings. By contrast, less popular models (e.g. older Perodua Alza MPVs, or newer unproven EVs) typically fetch lower shares of their original price. 

Overall, sellers in 2026 can expect roughly 40–70% of the original price when selling a 5-year-old car, depending on model and upkeep. In general: 

• 1–2 years old: ~70–85% of new price (15–30% depreciation)
• 3–4 years old: ~50–70% (30–50% depreciation).
• 5+ years old: ~40–60% (50–60% depreciation).

Premium or very popular models (especially well-maintained ones) may exceed these averages, while niche or poorly kept cars will be on the lower end.

Tips to Maximize Your Car’s Resale Value

To get the best price when selling, consider these best practices:

• Regular Servicing & Documentation: Keep up with scheduled maintenance and retain service records. A comprehensive service history signals reliability. As Motorist notes, “regular servicing, keeping accident-free records, and maintaining the interior are essential” to protect resale value.
• Maintain Condition: Thoroughly clean your car (interior and exterior) and fix minor issues (scratches, dents) before listing. Ensure fluids, tyres and brakes are in good order. A crisp, well-presented car commands more.
• Accident-Free & Warranty: If possible, sell while any factory warranty (or extended warranty) is still in effect. Disclose accidents upfront; a one-owner, damage-free title always fetches more.
• Keep it Stock: Limit aftermarket modifications. Unusual modifications (e.g. body kits, loud audio) often deter buyers. A factory-standard car appeals to the widest audience.
• Gather Paperwork: Compile the road tax, Puspakom/inspection reports, receipts for new tyres/parts, and any manuals. Having these at hand reassures buyers and can justify a higher asking price.
• Use Online Valuation: Get a realistic price estimate first. Online tools (like Motorist’s free valuation) use market data to suggest a fair price. This helps you set expectations and negotiate confidently.
• Use Online Valuation: Get a realistic price estimate first. Online tools (like Motorist’s free valuation) use market data to suggest a fair price. This helps you set expectations and negotiate confidently.
• Time your sale: Selling just before you need a renewal (e.g. before road tax or insurance renewals) is often best. Also, avoid major market dips (for instance, holiday promotional periods when dealers might flood the market with deals).

Why Sell with Motorist Malaysia

For sellers in 2026, Motorist Malaysia is a leading online platform that streamlines the process. Motorist offers free, end-to-end service with several advantages: 

• Instant Online Valuation: Motorist’s Car Valuation tool provides a free quote within 24 hours You simply submit your car’s details, and a network of 600+ vetted dealers will bid on it. Motorist “relays the highest offers to you” quickly.
• Fast, Competitive Offers: Dealers compete for your car, so you don’t have to haggle multiple people. In practice, Motorist often finds a buyer within 1 day. 
• Free for Sellers: Unlike many listing sites, Motorist charges no fees or commissions to the seller. As one user emphasizes, “Other platforms have certain fees, whereas Motorist is free for sellers. You keep 100% of the sale proceeds.
• Wide Dealer Network: Motorist works only with approved, reputable dealers. Its 600+ certified partners mean you benefit from broad market access. This not only maximizes price, but adds security – Motorist vets its partners to “protect consumers from unethical dealers.
• High Customer Satisfaction: Motorist is highly rated by users. It has an average 4.9/5 star rating (766+ reviews) on Facebook and Google.
• Convenience: With Motorist you handle everything online or via app. No need to visit multiple showrooms. Motorist even “arrange[s] a non-obligation viewing with the buyer” once you accept the top offer.You simply submit details, get offers, then meet the chosen dealer at your convenience.

In short, Motorist Malaysia offers a one-stop selling solution. Its valuation tools, dealer network and customer support help ensure you get the best price with minimal hassle. As Motorist summarizes: by choosing high-resale-value models and using Motorist’s platform, you “maximize every ringgit throughout your car ownership journey”

Overall, Malaysian sellers in 2026 can expect moderate depreciation – roughly half the car’s value after 5 years for common models, but can significantly improve outcomes by timing, maintenance and choosing the right sales platform. Using Motorist’s free valuation and dealer-offer system is an effective way to achieve a top price, as evidenced by its positive reviews and featured endorsement by major media.

Read More: Yes, you can sell your car even If It has an existing loan! here’s how to do It

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