Buying a car usually means viewing the vehicle in question and going for a test-drive. But the enhanced social-distancing measures to combat COVID-19 infections have resulted in showroom closures.
We recognise that during this time, many want to defer big-ticket purchases till later.
But there may still be some buyers who, for varied reasons, need to acquire a new vehicle.
So, if you really need a brand-new car, how do you get one?
ONLINE AND OVER THE PHONE
While showrooms are currently closed, salespersons remain contactable.
And although test drives are still not possible, contactless car sales are actually available during this time.
One such dealership offering this is Mazda, which also has an ongoing promotion for the carmaker’s 100th anniversary.
Borneo Motors, the official agent for Toyota, Suzuki and Lexus, is also offering contactless car sales for all their brands.
Necessary documents, such as ICs or purchase agreement, can be scanned, converted to PDF files and e-mailed over. The deposit can be made via a secure link or perhaps even a bank transfer.
ON THE PLUS SIDE
Booking or buying a new car now usually means you lock in the prices offered. In the (unlikely) event that COE premiums rise when bidding resumes, you are “protected”.
So, if you need a new car stat, buying during this period could make sense.
That said, nobody knows what will happen after May 4. But if the enhanced measures are rolled back, you’ll be able to take delivery of your new car.
BUT TAKE NOTE!
Unless you have actually test-driven the car in question, buying a car blindly is never a good idea. You don’t know whether it suits you and your needs.
Also, although these facilities enable you to book or buy a new car, you can’t take delivery till later.
Nobody knows when the enhanced social-distancing measures to fight the coronavirus will end. If infection rates do not diminish, the measures are likely to be extended.
That means you won’t be enjoying your new car anytime soon.
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