Are Total Loss Vehicles Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know About BER & ATL Repairs in Malaysia.

When you hear the term "total loss vehicle", it might sound like a car that's completely unusable. But in Malaysia, many of these vehicles can actually be safely repaired and returned to the road—with strict guidelines in place.

What is a Total Loss Vehicle?
Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) defines total loss vehicles in two categories:

• BER (Beyond Economic Repair): Repair costs exceed the current market value of the vehicle.
• ATL (Actual Total Loss): The vehicle has been completely destroyed, beyond physical repair.

Are BER Vehicles Still Roadworthy?
Yes, BER vehicles can still be roadworthy. While insurers may declare a car BER due to the cost of repairs, it doesn’t always mean the damage is structural or unsafe.

With proper repair work following BNM’s Motor Claims Guidelines, and a mandatory PUSPAKOM inspection, these vehicles can legally return to the road.

What Does the Repair & Inspection Process Involve?

• Thorough Assessment - Every vehicle is carefully assessed to ensure it is structurally intact and safe for repair.
• Repair by Licensed Workshops - Repairs must be carried out by certified workshops that follow manufacturer guidelines and safety standards.
• PUSPAKOM Inspection - After repairs, the vehicle undergoes a PUSPAKOM inspection to verify roadworthiness and ensure it meets all safety and emission standards.
• Ownership Transfer & Road Tax - Once cleared, the vehicle can be legally registered and insured again.

At Pickles Auctions, we provide full transparency about each salvage vehicle’s condition and total loss status.

Ready to discover value in salvage cars?
Visit www.pickles.my and explore the next Salvage Auction today.