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Buying Guide | Purchase a Car in Thailand

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  • Buying Guide | Purchase a Car in Thailand

    The Process of Buying a New Car in Thailand

    Buying a new car anywhere in the world can be exciting, yet a bit stressful if you don’t have sufficient knowledge on the process. In Thailand, expats who wish to buy a new carmay be faced with an additional set of stressors that include language barriers and laws. Here, we have a guide to buying a new car in Thailand to help you be more prepared for the buying process.

    Deposit
    After choosing the car you want, you need to reserve the car by paying a deposit. This is because most new cars in Thailand are made to order. Usually the deposit is anywhere from 5,000-10,000 baht. Upon paying, you should get a receipt that includes the details of your new car. From the make and model to the colour and delivery date, the receipt should act as a written confirmation that you have reserved the car. Keep in mind that ordering a new car can take up to 6 months for it to be delivered. However, delivery times vary widely.

    Check over the new car from top to bottom
    Once your car has arrived, check the car from top to bottom. The outside, inside, and how it drives all need to be checked upon receiving. Additionally, any freebies that you were promised need to be verified as well. The warranty, manufacture date, inspection date, and engine number also need to be checked before accepting the car. Bringing a car expert with you to help you check these things can also ease the burden of future issues.

    Verify documents received
    When you receive your car, you should also receive the necessary documents. A car manual, CPTI, temporal red book, tax sticker and car insurance documents should all be in your hands the day you receive the vehicle.

    License Plates
    New cars will feature a red license plate that will be replaced with official white plates in a few months. The red plates cost around 2,500 THB but that cost is refunded when you switch the license plates over to the official white ones. Remember, if you don’t transfer the plates, it could result in a fine by police. And, vehicles with red license plates are restricted to driving only during the day and province in which the car is registered. When you do transfer the red plates to white plates, you should receive the official blue book (ownership) on the same day as the transfer or a few days after. If you financed the new car, you will receive a copy of the blue book with the financial institution listed as the owner. This will go into your name once the car loan is paid in full. The registration paperwork must be taken to the Department of Land Transport. As your car was purchased new, the dealer should do this step for you once you have prepared the following documents:
    • Passport (signed copies of all visa pages and photo page)
    • Certificate of residency (Issued by the Immigration Bureau or applicant’s Embassy), or a work permit. All need to be signed.
    • Valid Thai driving license
    Transferring ownership
    First, you must submit the required paperwork and get it checked by an official. Once the official has checked the paperwork, it must be stamped. If you bought a car from another province, you may be asked to come back in a few days as they will need to verify the details. When you return, you need to inspect the car to make sure the details match the details on the submitted paperwork. After this is done, you will be asked to come back and collect the plates and the Blue Book. The transfer cost is based on the estimated sale value of your car. In addition to the stamp fee, there is a 105 THB transfer fee. The stamp fee is .005 THB from the estimated price. So, if your car is estimated at 300,000 THB, the transfer cost would be (105+ (300,000 x .005)).

    Tax
    Buyers will pay an initial tax as part of the registration process. As the tax depends on the make and model of your car, it is usually between 800 THB - 10,000 THB per year. Your dealer should be able to tell you how much tax you will be expected to pay. Tax is paid at the same time as the CTPL. This can be done through the Department of Land Transport or a 3rd party representative. After paying the tax, make sure you stick an updated tax sticker on your car. After taking note of these steps in the process of buying a new car, you should feel a bit more at ease as the process isn’t as bad as you may think. Additionally, since a dealership is involved, you most likely have an easier process as they can help guide you along the way. Dealership representatives should also have a better command of the English language to help communicate important details to you more fluidly. Remember, to always check documents and your cars registered numbers, especially if someone else prepares the documents for you.

  • #2
    Buying a Car in Thailand: Research, Negotiate, Paperwork and Payment

    Buying a car in Thailand is an important decision that requires careful consideration, research, and planning. With a diverse automotive market offering a variety of brands and models, buyers have numerous options to consider. Navigating the Thai automotive market can be a rewarding experience, as long as you’re well-prepared and well-informed. Additionally, having a basic understanding of the Thai language or seeking assistance from a local friend or translator can be helpful in communicating with dealerships and completing the transaction. In this guide, we’ll explore the key steps and considerations to keep in mind when buying a car in Thailand, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.




    Research and Select
    Start by researching the available car models in the Thai market, considering factors like budget, vehicle type, brand preferences, and required features. Online resources, automotive magazines, and local dealerships can help you make an informed decision. Buying a car is a significant investment, and it’s important to make an informed decision to avoid regrets later on. Without proper research, you may end up with a car that doesn’t meet your needs or falls short of your expectations. Secondly, there are several factors to consider when buying a car in Thailand, such as the type of car, its features, and its price. By doing your research beforehand, you can narrow down your options and choose a car that best fits your budget and lifestyle. understanding the laws and regulations governing the purchase of cars in Thailand is also important. Without the proper knowledge, you may end up facing legal issues or buying a car that doesn’t meet the required safety standards. Conducting research allows you to compare different dealerships and their prices. You can also read reviews and get recommendations from other buyers, which can help you make an informed decision.

    Determine your budget and financing options
    Establish your budget and explore financing options if needed. Compare interest rates and loan terms from various banks and financial institutions. Typically, a down payment of around 20-25% of the vehicle’s value is required for financing. Buying a car is a major life decision, and it’s essential to determine how much you can afford to spend. By establishing your budget, you can avoid overspending and taking on unnecessary debt. Moreover, it allows you to focus your search on cars that fit your budget, making the purchasing process more manageable. Financing a car in Thailand can be challenging, especially for non-Thais. Therefore, it’s important to research financing options before you start shopping for a car. Knowing your financing options can help you identify lenders who offer competitive interest rates and loan terms that fit your financial situation. It can also help you avoid predatory lenders who may charge excessive fees or offer unfavourable terms. Armed with your budget and financing options, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate with dealerships. By knowing how much you can afford and what financing options are available to you, you can negotiate a fair price for the car and the financing terms. You can also avoid being pressured into taking on loans or payments that are beyond your financial capacity. Purchasing a car beyond your financial means can cause financial strain and affect your ability to meet your other financial obligations. Therefore, it’s crucial to establish your budget and stick to it to prevent financial strain in the future. It may highly interest you to read to get the best deals for car loans here if you are on a tight budget!

    Visit dealerships and test drive
    To get a firsthand experience of your preferred car, visit local dealerships and take it for a test drive. This will help you assess its performance, comfort, and suitability. Test driving a car allows you to experience the car’s features and capabilities firsthand. You can feel how it handles the road, how comfortable it is, and how it performs. This firsthand experience will help you make a better-informed decision when selecting a car to buy in Thailand. By visiting dealerships, you can inspect the car’s condition and evaluate whether it meets your expectations. You can also ask questions about the car’s history, maintenance records, and any existing issues. This information will help you make an informed decision and avoid buying a car with hidden problems. Visiting multiple dealerships and test-driving different models allows you to compare the features, performance, and price of each car. This comparison will help you narrow down your options and choose the best car that meets your needs and budget. Building a relationship with dealerships is important, especially when it comes to future maintenance and repairs. By visiting dealerships, you can establish a relationship with the dealership and its staff, which may be beneficial in the long run. Test driving a car and visiting dealerships also gives you an opportunity to negotiate a better deal. You can use the information gathered from your test drives and dealership visits to negotiate the price, financing terms, and other aspects of the purchase.

    Price negotiation and deal finalizing
    Once you’ve decided on a specific car, negotiate the price with the dealer. Be prepared to discuss discounts, promotions, or additional benefits like extended warranties, accessories, or free servicing. Negotiating the price of a car can help you save money. By negotiating the price, you can potentially reduce the cost of the car, and in turn, lower your monthly payments or reduce the loan amount. It is especially important to negotiate the price of a car in Thailand, as the initial price is often inflated, and negotiation is expected. Dealerships have a lot of experience in selling cars and negotiating deals. By negotiating the price, you can level the playing field and ensure that you get a fair deal. It is important to do your research beforehand to know the average price of the car you are interested in so that you can be prepared to negotiate a fair price. Negotiating the price is a crucial step in finalizing the deal. By agreeing on a price, you and the dealership can move forward with the purchase, and you can be confident that you are paying a fair price for the car. It is important to get the negotiated price in writing and to read through the contract before signing to ensure that there are no hidden fees or charges.

    Paperwork and payment
    When buying a car in Thailand, it is important to complete the paperwork and payment process to legally transfer ownership of the vehicle. This includes registering the car with the Department of Land Transport, obtaining the car’s registration and license plates, and transferring the ownership of the car to your name. Completing the paperwork and payment process before buying a car in Thailand can help you avoid scams and fraud. This includes ensuring that the seller has the legal right to sell the car, that the car has a clean title, and that all necessary taxes and fees have been paid. Completing the paperwork and payment process also helps ensure the accuracy of information about the car, such as the car’s mileage, accident history, and ownership history. This information is important for future reference, especially if you decide to sell the car. Completing the paperwork and payment process allows you to get the necessary documents, such as the car’s registration and license plates. These documents are necessary for legal driving and insurance purposes. Paperwork is a lengthy process.

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    • #3
      Thai PM promises to accelerate Thailand’s electric vehicle future


      The Thai PM wants to cement Thailand’s reputation as the biggest SE Asian hub for car manufacturing, and electric cars too. Currently Thailand is the world’s 10th largest manufacturer of vehicles (OICA 2021).
      Some of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers – Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Ford, Volvo and BMW – have manufacturing plants in Thailand. Last year, the production volume of automobiles was 1.69 million. The export volume of automobiles in Thailand was over 850,000 units.


      Now Thailand is aiming to assemble electric vehicles, aka. EVs, and parts. domestically within the next year. This accelerates the earlier target of 2024, according to the Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-cha. The PM says that the government is “speeding up promotion of EV assembly in Thailand” and plans to kick off full EV-builds in the Kingdom during 2023. Earlier, the Thai Energy Ministry’s Energy Planning and Policy Office forecast that sales of EVs in Thailand would rise from 9,000 back in 2018 to 406,000 in 2028, and beyond 1.2 million in 2036. They also project there will be 690 charging stations by that stage.

      Speaking at the Federation of Thai Industries yesterday, the PM said that significant parts, used in the manufacture of EVs, such as batteries, traction motors, battery management services, portable EV chargers, AC/DC converters, inverters, circuit breakers and EV “smart charging” systems will all be manufactured in Thailand over the next few years. The PM also met with the CEO of Foxconn Technology Group on Tuesday to announce plans to start EV assembly in Thailand within a year. That EV facility will serve full end-to-end operations, including design, manufacturing and assembly of EVs within Thailand.

      Already Chinese manufacturers MG and GWM (who currently assemble the Naval H6, Jolion and Ora brands in Rayong, Thailand) have a strong EV presence in Thailand and have become instant hits with the Thai car-buying public. MG, the former iconic British brand, now owned by SAIC Motor Corporation in China, reached their production of 100,000 builds in Thailand in late 2020 and is now manufacturing both hybrid and plug-in models.

      Honda are also building an electric hybrid version of their popular HRV SUV model at a plant in Ayutthayah. Chinese EV manufacturer BYD is also preparing to set up a new manufacturing plant in Thailand where it will make electric cars for right-hand-drive markets including the UK and Australia. Speaking about the acceleration of EV manufacturing in Thailand over the next fe years, the Thai PM said that, despite other parts of the Thai economy being harmed by the closure of borders during the Covid pandemic, car manufacturing has continued to thrive in Thailand and remains the region’s biggest exporter.

      “If all parties join hands together, the Thai economy can recover this year and next.”
      Prayut noted that EV development, of both cars and parts, will be a key part of the Thai government’s ongoing efforts to restructure the Thai economy “to become high technology”. At the same seminar yesterday the federation urged the Thai government to speed up its EV development to stay ahead of Indonesia if it wants to become a major regional EV production hub.Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the FTI’s chairman noted that Thailand “is good at manufacturing cars and auto parts, Indonesia is rich in the resources required to serve the EV industry”.

      “The country has nickel, which is used in the production of lithium batteries.”
      There are currently more than 700,000 workers in Thailand’s automotive industry and the FTI chairman said that a pivot to EV production could also accelerate additional local jobs.

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      • #4
        Bugatti in Bangkok: 1 of 20 limited edition sports cars spotted cruising in Thailand

        One of only 20 Bugatti Chiron Sport 110 Ans in the world, valued at US$3.2 million, was spotted cruising around the mean streets of Bangkok on Sunday. Let’s just hope the driver has insurance. The Bugatti, which sports a Cambodian registration plate that reads ‘BOSS,’ is allegedly owned by a Cambodian businessman who is the son of a politician. The mystery man is allegedly married to a ‘High So’ Thai businesswoman worth millions.

        The sports car is one of the fastest cars ever made but probably didn’t get a chance to flex its speed in Bangkok traffic. Only 20 Bugatti Chiron Sport 110 Ans were produced in celebration of Bugatti’s 110th anniversary since the company was founded in 1909 by Ettore Bugatti. The limited edition Bugatti emphasis the company’s French heritage, with the Tricolore “Le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge” flag decorating the body and interior in several places, including the wing mirrors. The car is valued at US$3.2 million, although a used car dealership in Munich, Germany, claimed to be selling one for US$4.5 million in 2019.

        “Is it insured for millions? A motorbike driver won’t be able to fix a scratch on that even if he sells his organs,” one netizen joked.
        Unsurprisingly, the Bugatti Chiron Sport 110 Ans is one of the most expensive cars in the world to insure. With a 10-percent down payment (US$326,000) and a 1.54-percent insurance-to-MSRP ratio, the Chiron Sport 110 Ans costs owners US$50,251 annually in insurance rates or $4,188 per month. The cost of insuring the Bugatti Chiron 110 Ans costs more than buying two Hyundai Kona crossovers (at US$19,240) and insuring them for a year, according to ValuePenguin.

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        • #5
          A guide to Buying 2cd hand cars Online in Thailand

          Ready to uncover the world of second-hand cars online in Thailand? You’re in for a treat! Bangkok offers an impressive array of affordable, reliable pre-owned vehicles to suit every need and taste. Plus, you can save time and energy by browsing numerous options from the comfort of your own home. With just a few clicks, easily compare prices and features. So, let’s dive into the exciting and convenient world of second-hand cars online in Thailand – your dream wheels are closer than you think!

          Where can I buy second-hand cars online in Thailand?

          One2Car (one2car.com)
          Facebook One2Car is a go-to destination for second-hand cars online in Thailand. Featuring a user-friendly interface, the platform makes it a breeze to find your ideal pre-owned vehicle. With a vast selection ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury models, One2Car caters to every taste and budget. You can easily sort through the available options by brand, model, year, price range, or even specific features. Each listing typically includes detailed information about the vehicle, such as mileage, engine type, and service history, accompanied by clear photos to give you a complete picture of the car’s condition.

          Motors (motors.co.th)
          Motors is a renowned platform for finding second-hand cars online, making it an excellent choice for car enthusiasts in Thailand. You can discover popular brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and many others, all available in different models and styles, such as sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and trucks. To connect with sellers and make a purchase, Motors provides contact information for each listing, allowing you to directly reach out and discuss the specifics of the transaction. With its extensive range of second-hand cars online, Motors simplifies the car-buying journey and brings your dream vehicle within reach. What sets Motors apart is its additional focus on providing informative articles and resources about the automotive market in Thailand. This extra layer of support helps you make informed decisions when choosing your ideal pre-owned vehicle.

          Kaidee (kaidee.com)
          Photo: Website Kaidee is a popular online classifieds website in Thailand, where you can find a wide variety of second-hand cars online. Unlike other platforms that exclusively focus on vehicles, Kaidee offers a diverse range of products and services, making it a one-stop shop for all your needs. Kaidee sets itself apart as a unique platform for second-hand cars online in Thailand by offering a broader range of items beyond vehicles. The website caters to an extensive array of categories, including electronics, property, and even job postings. This diverse selection makes it an attractive option for users seeking a comprehensive online marketplace.
          Another distinct feature of Kaidee is its user rating system, which allows buyers to rate sellers based on their experiences. This feedback mechanism helps create a transparent and trustworthy environment for users, enabling them to make more informed decisions when choosing a second-hand car online. When it comes to second-hand cars, Kaidee’s extensive user base results in a constantly updated and refreshed inventory of vehicles. You may come across rare models or unique deals that might not be available on more specialized car-focused platforms. Additionally, since the website features both private sellers and dealerships, you can explore a wider variety of options and pricing.

          Carro (carro.co.th)
          Photo: Website Carro is a unique platform for second-hand cars online in Thailand, offering a curated selection of quality pre-owned vehicles and excellent customer support. What sets Carro apart from other online marketplaces is its commitment to providing buyers with a seamless and transparent car purchasing experience. With a strong focus on quality, Carro ensures that each listed vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection and certification process. This attention to detail guarantees that you can confidently shop for a reliable second-hand car that meets their high standards. Another distinguishing feature of Carro is its range of value-added services, such as financing options, trade-in deals, and warranties. These offerings are designed to cater to different customer needs, making the car-buying process more convenient and accessible for all.

          Thaicar (thaicar.com)
          Thaicar is an innovative platform for second-hand cars online in Thailand, connecting buyers and sellers through a user-friendly and efficient system. Unlike some other online marketplaces, Thaicar primarily serves as a bridge between potential buyers and sellers, making it a valuable resource for those who appreciate direct communication and negotiation. What makes Thaicar stand out is its emphasis on creating a community-driven environment. The platform encourages users to share their experiences and knowledge about cars, fostering a sense of trust and confidence when purchasing a second-hand car online.

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          • #6
            Used Car Dealerships | Where to buy used cars in Bangkok

            Looking for second-hand cars in Bangkok, but don’t know where to buy one? You’re not alone! The bustling city is packed with used car dealers, but trying to figure out the reliable ones can be a little overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top five dealerships where you can buy a used car with confidence. These dealerships are known for their good selection, fair prices, and customer services.

            MotorwayThailand – Used Car Dealer
            Stepping into MotorwayThailand, it’s easy to see why this dealership prides itself on being a premium Grade A used car centre. With over 200 cars, spanning a diverse range of brands, you don’t just walk into a showroom – you walk into a world of options. Whether you’re after a sophisticated European flavor like Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Audi, or the reliable efficiency of Japanese markers such as Toyota or Nissan, their collection caters to a variety of tastes. And rest assured, each car has gone under a thorough evaluation and inspection, backed with their 30-plus years of experience in the automotive business. But it’s not just the cars that makes MotorwayThailand a standout choice. Their spacious showroom is strategically located, making it easy to find. One thing that shines throughout the dealership is their marketing strategy. They go an extra mile not only in maintaining car conditions but also in developing their staff’s skills. Their mantra is to make their customers happy and feel at ease when using their services. So, it’s not surprising they have a stellar reputation among their clients. One customer recalls that upon purchasing a car, the dealership made sure to check it thoroughly, and then followed up a few days later to ensure satisfaction. So whether you’re buying your first or second car from Motorway, you can expect nothing short of excellent service.
            • Opening hour: Monday – Saturday, 09:00 – 18:00; Sunday, 09:00 – 17:30
            • Address: 399 Pradit Manutham Rd, Wang Thonglang, Bangkok 10310
            • Google Maps
            Siam Motor World
            Siam Motor World is a used car dealership that primarily cater to the expatriate community in Thailand. With over two decades of experience, this establishment is managed by a British and Thai duo who have a deep understanding of the local car market. Siam Motor World offers a broad range of services, from selling to maintaining cars. The dealership is well-known for providing quality used and new cars, including 4×4 vehicles straight from the manufacturers, at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a Ford or a Ferrari, you can trust Siam Motor World to present you with the best options. They also engage in the local buying and selling of cars and offer monthly rental services. One thing that sets Siam Motor World apart is their all-inclusive services. They handle all the necessary legalities of buying or selling a car – from paperwork and tax to insurance and registration. Therefore, the whole process is easier for expats who are unfamiliar with local regulations. Additionally, this dealership can provide service and regular maintenance for your purchased car. They also facilitate the import and export of vehicles and related accessories. In need of car accessories or a performance upgrade for your vehicle? Siam Motor World handles that too.
            • Opening hour: Monday – Saturday, 09:00 – 17:00
            • Address: Sukhumvit 103 Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10250
            • Google Maps
            Autobest Car Center
            Auto Best Car Center has been known for their exemplary service in the used car market for over 36 years. Living up to their name, Auto Best is all about providing the ‘best’ to their customers in every aspect. Offering a whole spectrum of well-maintained and carefully selected cars, they ensure uncompromised quality with every purchase. Their extensive stock carries cars of all kinds and the prices are impressively affordable. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, trade, or exchange cars, Auto Best has got you covered. Not only are the cars Grade A and in good condition, but they also guarantee there’s no crash or heavy accident history – a key concern for many used car buyers. Their payment terms also accommodate to everyone’s needs, boasting down payments starting from 0% and affordable, easy installment plans. They even promise an easy approval process, regardless of where you are in the country, with a registration book ready to transfer. One of the key strengths of Auto Best is the high regard they have for their customers, as evident from their skilled technicians who thoroughly check the vehicles to ensure you drive home a car that’s ready to use. And let’s not forget, they’re available everyday – talk about commitment!
            • Opening hour: Daily, 09:00 – 18:30
            • Address: 20 Kanchanaphisek Rd, Bang Chueak Nang, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170
            • Google Maps
            Regent Home Car
            Regent Home Car distinguishes itself with its round-cornered pledge of quality – they offer cars in good condition, graded ‘A’. They extend a warranty for engine and transmission for 10,000 km/3 months, assuring the quality of every car they sell. They guarantee none of their stock has been in a serious accident or has sustained flood damage. Their inventory gets regularly updated, and clients have mentioned that all vehicles in stock are in excellent condition. A standout feature of Regent Home Car is their customer-friendly financial solutions – offering assistance with installments and even free downpayments. Customers have fondly mentioned how well the staff understands and communicates with expats, going as far as aiding with documentation, all of this served with a side of lunch – talk about service! Most importantly, the trustability and reasonability in Regent Home Car’s pricing have been repeatedly cited by previous customers.
            • Opening hour: Daily, 07:30 – 18:30
            • Address: 41, 41/1 Soi Paknam Krachomthong 15, Bang Phrom, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170
            • Google Maps
            Bangkok Car Center
            With over two decades of experience, Bangkok Car Center is a dealership that knows its trade well. For those on the hunt for Grade A used cars, they offer a wide selection of vehicles at highly reasonable prices, making them an excellent choice for budget-savvy customers. Their special interest financing service is also a significant appeal for those with varied financial plans. Though their main clientele is not primarily expats, they still deliver exceptional service to all their customers. Their vast range of options ensures that regardless of who you are or what you’re looking for, there’s likely a car waiting for you. From the lens of their customers, Bangkok Car Center is known for offering more than a hundred Grade A++ used cars. One customer commended their travel convenience while another shared their positive experience of buying a Nissan Navara NP300 Sportech on-site. Initially uncertain about the quality, the customer was happily surprised after a thorough check revealed the car to be in excellent condition. So, if you’re looking for used car dealerships in Bangkok that offer quality cars, reasonable prices, and excellent service, these 5 places should definitely be on your radar.
            • Opening hour: Daily, 09:30 – 18:00
            • Address: No. 115 Ramkhamhaeng 133 Alley, Saphan Sung, Bangkok 10240
            • Google Maps

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