BNPL: How e-Commerce and Credit Are Redefining Car Ownership

More Malaysians are now buying car tyres online, much like how they would shop for power banks or pet food. E-commerce platforms like Shopee have made it easy to browse, compare prices, and book installation - all without stepping into a physical workshop.

According to The Malay Mail, online tyre purchases allow customers to arrange everything in advance. Many buyers enjoy extra discounts through vouchers, avoid the hassle of haggling, and can even book their preferred installation time - making the entire process seamless. 

There’s no need to wait around; just hand over your keys and you’re done in about an hour, or less.

The report also highlighted how some customers are willing to drive further for better online deals. One buyer shared how walk-in prices are usually higher, whereas buying online saved him over RM30. Adding to this the entire experience was smooth, thanks to everything being pre-arranged.

This digital shift is transforming the workshop industry. Lucas Liow, owner of Performance Tyre Malaysia, highlighted that online sales have made customer flow more predictable and reduced idle time.

This digital revolution results in personal touch taking a backseat to convenience, competitive pricing and more importantly flexible payments.

This shift is also being fueled by Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options. Services like Shopee’s SPayLater make it easier for customers to commit to purchases, even during financially tough months. While this adds convenience, it also raises concerns.

A recent Shopee survey published by The Edge found that 81% of over 40,000 Malaysian users rely on BNPL to cope with financial shocks. Most aren’t using it for luxuries - but rather for essentials like vehicle repairs and insurance.

Online platforms like Shopee easily provides micro-financing and clearly indicates the discount received and monthly payment should buyers opt for their BNPL equivalent service - Shopee SPayLater

This highlights a deeper issue - financial fragility. Over half of BNPL users say it's their only access to credit. Nearly 60% use it for daily necessities, including car maintenance which was once a planned expense, now often delayed or split into instalments.

While BNPL helps ease short-term cash flow, it risks creating longer-term debt dependence. Malaysians are increasingly borrowing for even minor purchases, reflecting broader concerns about household financial stability.

As BNPL becomes a go-to solution for many Malaysians, it’s worth asking: should it now be regulated like other forms of credit - before debt dependency becomes the norm?