A simple WhatsApp message was all it took to leave a Mercedes-Benz sales adviser stunned.
“Hi boss. I make RM2,000 with my work. Can I get a Mercedes C200?”
Can you really get a Mercedes with a RM2,000 monthly salary?
The inquiry came from a prospective customer interested in purchasing a brand-new Mercedes-Benz C200. The salesman, Zaki, shared the screenshot of the conversation on his Threads, saying that it wasn’t his first time dealing with such a situation.
In a conversation with WORLD OF BUZZ, Zaki said that recently, he has been receiving many inquiries from people earning below RM3,000 wanting to buy a brand-new Mercedes.
According to the advisor, there is nothing wrong with dreaming of owning a luxury car. However, many prospective buyers underestimate the financial commitment that comes with it.
“Without a financially strong guarantor, it’s almost impossible for the bank to approve the loan,” he explained.
“Banks typically require at least three months of salary slips for applicants earning a fixed basic salary. For those whose income includes commissions or allowances, six months of income records are usually needed to assess repayment ability.”
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The hidden costs behind the monthly instalment
Even if financing was somehow approved, the monthly instalment is only one part of the cost.
Zaki told WORLD OF BUZZ that a brand-new Mercedes-Benz also comes with significant ownership expenses that many overlook.
- Minor scheduled servicing can cost between RM1,500 and RM2,000, while major services may range from RM3,000 to RM4,000.
- Insurance for an entry-level model, such as the A-Class, can cost between RM8,000 and RM10,000 annually for drivers with no No Claim Discount (NCD).
“With a RM2,000 monthly salary, it’s simply not realistic to cover the instalment, maintenance, insurance and road tax,” he said.
Zaki also stressed that he never intends to belittle anyone based on their income.
“As salespeople, we’re not looking down on anyone. We just want customers to measure their financial capability, and not be trapped in debt or go bankurpt,” he said.
He added that many customers still visit the showroom to admire the cars, and he welcomes them warmly. However, when they express serious interest in purchasing, he explains the financing requirements honestly.
“Most of them understand after I explain the realities,” he said.
Zaki’s advice is simple. Owning a luxury car should be the result of sound financial planning, not a decision that risks years of debt or financial hardship.
Also read: M’sian With RM5.4k Salary Tries to Purchase RM260k Luxury Car, Asks If He Can Use Wife as Guarantor
