Rise of 'STNK Only' Car Sales on Social Media, Avanza-BRV Prices Shock

The practice of buying and selling vehicles with ‘STNK only’ status is becoming increasingly common on social media. Not only motorcycles, but cars are also being openly marketed at prices far below market value.

An investigation by CNBC Indonesia across several Facebook groups revealed numerous posts for vehicle sales equipped only with an STNK, without the BPKB (ownership book). The offered prices are remarkably low.

One seller offered a 2010 Yamaha Mio Smile with ‘STNK only’ status for Rp3.8 million. The description noted the motorcycle still uses a standard factory engine, though the vehicle is sold as-is with several modified parts.

Another post offered a 2016 Honda Vario 125 in a similar status. The motorcycle was priced at Rp6.5 million, with the seller claiming the engine is in prime condition and regularly serviced, while also noting defects such as a speedometer needing repair and a dented rear rim.

Not limited to two-wheelers, cars are also being marketed using the same pattern. A 2015 manual transmission Nissan Almera was offered with only an STNK for Rp28 million. The seller claimed the engine is smooth, the air conditioning works normally, the suspension is quiet, and the oil has recently been changed, making it ready for use.

Additionally, a 2017 manual Toyota Avanza is being sold for Rp45 million, while a 2013 manual Agya TRD S is priced at just Rp31 million, subject to negotiation.

The most sensational offer involves a 2024 Honda BRV Prestige, being sold for Rp87 million (negotiable). The car is described as being in pristine condition with only 25,000 km on the odometer, a quiet suspension, and a smooth engine.

This phenomenon is evident from the large number of ‘STNK only’ vehicle trading communities on Facebook. Some groups have tens to hundreds of thousands of members, with activity exceeding 80 to 90 posts every day. Group names explicitly include terms such as ‘STNK only motor sales’, ‘empty vehicles’, and ‘surat sebelah’ (partial documents), covering various regions including Jakarta, Tangerang, Bekasi, Bogor, and Depok.

The surge in such transactions has caught the attention of the financing industry. This is because the vehicles being traded are generally still under credit, meaning the ownership documents (BPKB) are still held by financing companies.