The RM120K Reality Check: When Your Insurance Job Dreams Meet Mercedes Maintenance Bills

So you’ve landed a RM120,000 a year job in insurance. Congrats — you're officially on the path to corporate flex mode. Naturally, your first thought might be, “Time to buy that dream car. Maybe a Mercedes. "But hold on. That dream can burn a hole in your wallet faster than you think.

The Mercedes Trap: More Than Just the Downpayment

Sure, you might afford the down payment on a C-Class with your new salary. But luxury comes with a price. That shiny emblem? It’s not just status — it’s a subscription to high maintenance.

• Annual road tax and insurance can hit RM5,000 to RM7,000 easily. get your Car Insurance with Motorist Malaysia.

• Servicing costs? A basic oil change could cost RM1,200. Major servicing can climb beyond RM4,000.

• Need tyres? That’s RM2,000+ for four.

Let’s Break Down Your Monthly Commitments

You're earning about RM10,000 a month gross. After EPF, tax, and SOCSO, you’re probably left with around RM7,500. Here’s what a basic C-Class might cost you monthly:

• Loan instalment (7 years, 90% loan): RM2,100

  • Calculate yours using the Motorist Loan Calculator

• Insurance and road tax (monthly avg): RM500

• Maintenance (monthly avg): RM400

• Petrol: RM600 — check latest prices here

• Parking, tolls, summonses, etc.: RM300-RM500

Total: RM3,900 to RM4,100 per month — over half your net income, gone.

Now Add the Real Life Stuff

• Rent or mortgage

• Parents, groceries, internet, insurance, Netflix, Grab rides, dating life, gym membershipYou’ll soon find yourself counting coins in a car you can’t afford to maintain.

Consider These Smarter Moves Instead

1. Start with a reliable used car. Check the market and sell your current ride if needed.

2. Get a free Car Valuation before buying or selling anything.

3. Compare car insurance deals that won’t wipe out your bonus.

4. Keep an eye on traffic cams and fines — know where the traps are.

5. Check border wait times if you drive to Singapore for extra cash — live updates here.

Final Word: Is It Worth It?

A Mercedes might look good in the ‘gram, but not when you're secretly skipping meals to pay for premium engine oil.

Want to drive smarter? Download the Motorist App to sell your car, get instant car valuations, compare insurance, calculate loans, and stay updated on petrol prices — all in one app.

Sometimes, the smarter flex… is financial freedom.

Read More: No more parking tickets? Selangor’s smart parking starts soon

Download the Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage vehicle related matters.