Changing your car’s colour is a popular way for car enthusiasts in Malaysia to express individuality. Whether opting for a bold new hue or a sleek, modern finish, refreshing your car’s look can be exciting. However, in Malaysia, altering your car’s colour isn’t as simple as visiting a paint shop.
The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has clear regulations requiring that modifications, including colour changes, be registered and approved to keep records accurate. Failing to comply with these regulations may result in fines or other penalties.
Here’s what you need to know to ensure your colour change is compliant, hassle-free, and stress-free.
What are the legal requirements in Malaysia?
- Mandatory JPJ approval: Before changing your car’s colour, you must notify and seek approval from JPJ. The new colour must be registered with JPJ within seven days of the paintwork’s completion to keep vehicle records accurate.
- Dominant colour requirement: If the paint job includes multiple tones, JPJ considers the dominant colour — the one covering at least 60% of the vehicle — as the official registered colour. This means that whether you’re going for a multi-tone or accent look, the most visible colour must be recorded with the authorities.
- Inspection and approval process: Once your car is repainted, head to your nearest JPJ office for inspection. Fill out the JPJ K8 form to update vehicle details, including the colour change. The form is then reviewed by an officer, who will verify the new colour and update your vehicle’s details in the MySikap system.
- Penalties for non-compliance: Not reporting a colour change within the required timeframe may lead to penalties. Stay on top of the regulations to avoid costly fines!
Factors to Consider Before Changing Your Car Colour
Before diving into a colour change, weigh the impact beyond aesthetics. A new colour may influence your car’s resale value, as unusual or highly personalised colours can affect market appeal. If you’re considering reselling, think carefully about how your colour choice might impact future value.
While insurance premiums generally don’t fluctuate based on colour, your choice could influence legal compliance and maintenance needs. Bright or prominent colours might draw unwanted attention and require additional upkeep. Be prepared to consider the time and effort involved in maintaining your vehicle’s appearance and meeting legal standards when selecting a colour.
Finally, ensure your chosen colour complies with JPJ regulations and complete all necessary paperwork to avoid penalties. The colour of your car can also influence road safety, as brighter or lighter shades enhance visibility to other drivers, potentially reducing accident risk.
The Solution: Ngenco Spray-On Paint Protection (PPS)
Traditionally, vinyl wraps and paint jobs have been the go-to methods for changing car colours, but new technologies are making the process more efficient. For example, Paint Protection Spray (PPS) such as Ngenco offers an innovative, high-industry standard solution in Malaysia.
Datuk K. Lim, an avid car collector and entrepreneur, shared, “For enthusiasts like myself, changing a car’s colour goes beyond aesthetics—it is a form of self-expression. Previously, I was using a vinyl wrap, but it did not give me the finishing I wanted. With Ngenco, I get both paint protection and a colour change in one go, saving myself time and effort while ensuring compliance with legal standards.”
Unlike traditional painting, Ngenco’s Spray-On Paint Protection uses the original car manufacturer’s paint codes, ensuring a precise colour match to the brand’s specifications or the customer’s preferred shade. This system offers long-lasting protection without adhesive residue, safeguarding the car’s original paint. Additionally, it adapts to curved areas and intricate parts like front grilles and bumpers, all while providing a seamless, showroom-like finish.
Drive In Style!
Changing your car’s colour is a transformative way to make a bold statement and turn heads. It’s more than a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a chance to create a vehicle that truly reflects your personality.
By adhering to JPJ’s regulations and following the necessary steps, you can enjoy the excitement of a fresh look while keeping your car compliant and preserving its value. So, embrace the freedom to customise your ride confidently, knowing that a stylish transformation can be striking and street-legal! 
