Prosperity on the dashboard: popular CNY car accessories in Malaysia
As Chinese New Year approaches, many Malaysian drivers share the same thought: How do I start the year with good luck on the road?
Beyond spring cleaning homes, Malaysians are increasingly turning their attention to their cars—the very vehicles that carry them to family reunions, open houses, and balik kampung journeys. From dashboards to rearview mirrors, Chinese New Year car accessories have become a festive ritual, blending tradition, belief, and personal style.
Why Chinese New Year car accessories matter
In Malaysian Chinese culture, the New Year symbolises renewal, prosperity, and protection. Decorating your car is believed to:
Attract wealth and good fortune
Provide spiritual protection during travels
Start the year with positive energy
For many, it’s also about expressing festive spirit—just like wearing red or giving angpow.
Most popular Chinese New Year car accessories in Malaysia
1. God of Wealth figurine
Why it’s popular:
Symbolises prosperity and business success
Commonly placed on dashboards or centre consoles
Available in traditional, modern, and cartoon styles
Pro tip: Choose compact, non-slip figurines to avoid obstructing your view—especially important for Perodua Axia, Myvi, or Proton Saga dashboards.
2. Red Tassels & Chinese Knots
Red tassels featuring Chinese knots or characters symbolising fortune remain a timeless favourite.
Common placements include:
Rearview mirrors
Air-conditioning vents
They’re affordable, lightweight, and instantly festive—making them one of the most common Chinese New Year car accessories in Malaysia.
3. Lucky Coins & Feng Shui Charms
Feng shui coins tied with red string are believed to:
symbolise financial good fortune
Protect against negative energy
ensure smoother journeys throughout the year
Many Malaysians place them on the dashboard or inside the glove compartment for subtle symbolism.
4. Chinese Zodiac Charms
Every year, zodiac-themed car accessories surge in popularity. Malaysians often choose:
The current zodiac animal for the year
Their birth-year zodiac for personal luck
These charms are commonly found as hanging pendants, dashboard ornaments, or air fresheners.
5. Mini Lanterns & Festive Stickers
For drivers who prefer minimal decoration, mini lanterns or removable stickers are a popular option.
Why they work well:
Easy to install and remove
No permanent marks
Ideal for leased or company cars
They’re especially popular among younger urban drivers in Klang Valley and Penang.
Where Malaysians buy Chinese New Year car accessories?
Malaysians shop both online and offline during the festive season:
Petrol stations & highway R&R stops – Convenient for last-minute buys
Pasar malam & pop-up stalls – Wide variety at bargain prices
Online marketplaces (Shopee, Lazada) – Biggest selection and zodiac-specific items
Car accessory shops & DIY stores – Better quality and safer fittings
Prices typically range from RM5 to RM50, depending on material and
Safety tips: decorating without breaking the law
Festive décor should never compromise safety. According to Malaysian road regulations:
Do not block windshields or mirrors
Avoid dangling items that cause distraction
Secure accessories firmly to prevent them from falling while driving
A festive car is great—but a safe car is luckier.
Frequently asked questions [FAQ]
Are Chinese New Year car accessories allowed by JPJ?
Yes, as long as they do not obstruct the driver’s view or distract while driving.
What is the best place to put feng shui car accessories?
The dashboard or glove compartment is ideal, provided visibility is not affected.
Do Malaysians remove car decorations after lantern festival [Chap Goh Mei]?
Most do. Chinese New Year car accessories are typically seasonal.
Are zodiac charms better than general lucky charms?
It depends on personal belief. Some prefer yearly zodiac symbols, while others stick to lucky coins.
Can car accessories affect resale value?
Temporary decorations won’t—but permanent adhesives or damage may reduce resale value.
Selling your car after Chinese New Year? Motorist Malaysia can help
Thinking of upgrading or selling your car after the festive season? Motorist Malaysia makes it effortless.
Why Motorist Malaysia?
Free car valuation within 24 hours
Access to 2,100+ certified dealer partners
Full handling of JPJ & Puspakom paperwork
100% hassle-free Auto Concierge service
Whether you drive a Perodua, Proton, or imported model, Motorist Malaysia helps you sell your car at the best possible price—without stress.
Download the Motorist Super App or visit www.motorist.my today and let the experts handle everything for you.
Read More: Balik kampung ready: Chinese New Year car prep checklist
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.
