Q
how much does a car weigh
A typical sedan usually weighs between 1,000 and 1,500 kilograms, while larger vehicles like SUVs or MPVs can tip the scales at 1,800 to 2,500 kilograms. Of course, the exact weight depends on the model, size, materials used, and the specs you go for. Over in the Malaysian market, common family cars such as the Perodua Myvi come in around 900 to 1,000 kg, whereas SUVs like the Proton X70 are heavier, weighing in at roughly 1,600 kg.
Car weight isn't just a number—it plays a big role in fuel efficiency, handling, and safety. Lighter cars generally sip less fuel, but heavier ones might offer better protection in a collision. On top of that, with electric vehicles becoming more popular, the added battery packs make EVs heavier than traditional petrol cars. Take the Tesla Model 3, for example; it weighs about 1,600 to 1,800 kilograms.
Understanding a car's weight is super important when picking the right model for your needs, especially with Malaysia's varied road conditions. Balancing weight with power and fuel consumption is definitely something buyers should think carefully about.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.
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Q
What happens if you never wax your car?
Long-term failure to wax a car can have multiple impacts. The paint will age faster due to lack of protection, as ultraviolet rays, acid rain and pollutants directly erode the surface, causing fading, oxidation and loss of luster, which makes the vehicle appear aged. Additionally, unwaxed paint surfaces have increased friction, making them more prone to accumulating stubborn stains and harder to clean. Minor daily scratches are also more likely to leave marks.
From a practical standpoint, the absence of a wax layer reduces the vehicle's water resistance and anti-static properties. Rainwater may create a convex lens effect that burns the paint, while metal components become more susceptible to rust. Regarding used car value, paint condition is a critical assessment factor - the dullness and minor damage resulting from prolonged non-waxing directly impact resale prices.
It's advisable to select appropriate car wax based on usage conditions, such as UV-resistant or carnauba wax. Regular vehicles require waxing every 2-3 months, while garage-kept cars can extend to 4 months. Monitor water bead formation on the surface (uniform, round beads indicate good condition) to determine when rewaxing is needed. New vehicles shouldn't be waxed for the first five months to preserve the factory protective coating. Dark and light colored paints should use corresponding wax shades for optimal visual results.
Q
What is the main purpose of the exhaust system?
The main function of an automobile exhaust system is to efficiently process and discharge the exhaust gases generated by engine combustion, while reducing noise and minimizing environmental pollution. This system consists of components such as the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe working in coordination. The exhaust manifold collects exhaust gases from each cylinder and delivers them to the catalytic converter through the exhaust pipe. The converter utilizes three-way catalytic technology to transform harmful substances like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen. The muffler substantially reduces exhaust noise through either sound wave cancellation or sound-absorbing structures. Ultimately, the tailpipe safely channels the purified exhaust gases outside the vehicle. Exhaust system design also involves backpressure optimization to enhance engine intake efficiency; for instance, V-type engines frequently employ a dual-exhaust configuration to improve exhaust flow. Regular inspection of the exhaust pipe's sealing integrity, the catalytic converter's effectiveness, and the muffler's condition is essential for maintaining system performance, ensuring compliance with environmental standards while prolonging the vehicle's service life.
Q
Is the exhaust system important?
The automotive exhaust system is an indispensable core component of a vehicle, and its importance is mainly reflected in three aspects. First, it collects exhaust gases from each cylinder of the engine through the exhaust manifold, transports them to the three-way catalytic converter via the exhaust pipe, and converts harmful substances such as carbon monoxide into harmless gases like carbon dioxide, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Second, the muffler in the system reduces exhaust noise to approximately 20-30 decibels through the principle of sound wave cancellation, significantly improving driving and riding comfort. Finally, as an end device, the exhaust tailpipe needs to ensure that exhaust gases are safely discharged outside the vehicle, preventing high-temperature gas backflow from damaging the engine. It is worth noting that the design of the exhaust system also affects engine performance; for example, equal-length exhaust manifolds can optimize airflow efficiency, while the working efficiency of the catalytic converter is directly related to fuel quality, so it is recommended to use fuel that meets the RON95 or higher standard. If exhaust abnormal noise or power reduction occurs, it may be due to muffler perforation or catalytic converter blockage, and timely maintenance should be carried out to avoid more serious mechanical damage.
Q
What is in the exhaust of a car?
Automobile exhaust is primarily composed of harmless components and harmful pollutants. Among them, nitrogen accounts for approximately 71%, carbon dioxide about 14%, and water vapor around 13%, which are normal combustion byproducts. The harmful constituents include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), lead-containing compounds, and particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10). Although their combined concentration constitutes merely 1%, their impact is substantial. Carbon monoxide impairs blood's oxygen-carrying capacity; nitrogen oxides irritate the respiratory system and contribute to acid rain formation; among hydrocarbons, 32 polycyclic aromatic compounds such as benzo[a]pyrene are carcinogenic; while particulate matter can adsorb heavy metals and deposit deep within the lungs. Additionally, although carbon dioxide in exhaust is non-toxic, it remains the principal contributor to the greenhouse effect. Black smoke emission indicates incomplete fuel combustion; white smoke may result from coolant entering the combustion chamber; and blue smoke signifies abnormal engine oil combustion. To mitigate exhaust pollution, regular vehicle maintenance (including inspection of the three-way catalytic converter), use of compliant fuels, and avoidance of aggressive driving behaviors like sudden acceleration are recommended. Modern vehicles compliant with Euro 6 or China 6 emission standards achieve significant pollutant reduction through optimized combustion technologies and advanced exhaust aftertreatment systems.
Q
Is the exhaust system connected to the engine?
The exhaust system of an automobile is indeed directly connected to the engine, with the connection point located at the exhaust manifold on the engine cylinder head. As the starting component of the exhaust system, the exhaust manifold is tightly connected to the engine cylinder block via a flange, responsible for collecting the exhaust gases generated after combustion in each cylinder and directing them into the exhaust pipe. This rigid connection ensures the efficient transmission of high-temperature and high-pressure exhaust gases. Meanwhile, the design of the exhaust manifold needs to balance between reducing exhaust resistance and avoiding exhaust interference between cylinders to optimize engine performance. The entire exhaust system consists of components such as the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe. In particular, V-type engines employ a dual-exhaust manifold design to connect two separate exhaust systems. If the exhaust system develops leaks or becomes clogged, it may lead to problems such as decreased engine power, increased fuel consumption, or abnormal emissions. Therefore, regular inspection of the exhaust manifold gasket sealing and system integrity is crucial for maintaining vehicle performance.
Q
What happens when exhaust fails?
When the exhaust system malfunctions, the vehicle will exhibit various abnormal phenomena, including changes in exhaust color, increased noise, reduced power, and higher fuel consumption. If the exhaust is black, it is usually due to incomplete fuel combustion, which may be caused by a clogged air filter or faulty fuel injectors; blue exhaust indicates engine oil burning, commonly seen with worn piston rings or aged valve stem seals; white thick smoke may result from a damaged cylinder head gasket allowing coolant to leak into the combustion chamber. A sudden increase in exhaust noise often stems from damaged sound-absorbing materials inside the muffler or a cracked exhaust pipe, causing the airflow impact sound to be directly emitted. Reduced power occurs because retained exhaust gas impedes the intake of fresh air-fuel mixture, lowering combustion efficiency, while increased fuel consumption results from the engine compensating for power loss by increasing fuel injection. Additionally, failure of the three-way catalytic converter will trigger the malfunction indicator light, leading to diminished exhaust purification capacity and potentially affecting compliance with emission inspections. Exhaust pipe corrosion perforation or oxygen sensor failure will also exacerbate the problem—the former causing exhaust leaks and noise, while the latter leads to improper fuel metering. It is recommended that vehicle owners regularly inspect the exhaust system, use approved fuel, and perform timely repairs to prevent cascading component damage, ensuring the vehicle meets performance and environmental standards.
Q
What does a full exhaust system consist of?
A complete exhaust system mainly consists of three major parts: the exhaust manifold, the mid-pipe, and the tailpipe. The exhaust manifold is directly connected to the engine cylinder head and collects the exhaust gases from each cylinder after combustion through branched pipelines. Its key components include a three-way catalytic converter for purifying exhaust gases and an oxygen sensor for monitoring the air-fuel ratio.
The mid-pipe runs through the chassis as an exhaust gas transmission channel. It typically features a double-layer corrugated pipe design with a steel wire mesh sleeve, secured with clamps to enhance flexibility and durability. The material is predominantly SUS304 stainless steel, known for its high temperature and corrosion resistance.
The tailpipe is located near the rear bumper. Its built-in muffler reduces noise through multi-channel airflow diversion. Some high-performance models employ specially shaped mufflers like S-type and G-type to optimize exhaust efficiency.
The entire system accomplishes exhaust gas collection, purification, noise reduction, and emission through precise coordination. The corrugated pipe structure effectively absorbs vehicle vibrations, while the three-way catalytic converter transforms harmful gases into harmless substances, complying with environmental regulations.
Notably, exhaust system design must balance back pressure and exhaust efficiency. Excessively low back pressure may impair low-RPM torque output, necessitating comprehensive consideration of the vehicle's power characteristics during modifications.
Q
How much money to fix car suspension?
The maintenance cost of car suspension varies significantly depending on the vehicle model, suspension type, component quality, and service location. For standard vehicles, replacing a single suspension component typically costs between 280 to 600 Malaysian Ringgit. A complete suspension replacement at an authorized 4S dealership ranges from 1800 to 2500 Malaysian Ringgit, while independent repair shops charge approximately 900 to 1200 Malaysian Ringgit.
MacPherson strut suspensions, owing to their simpler design, incur lower maintenance costs of about 2000 to 5000 Malaysian Ringgit. In contrast, multi-link suspensions with more complex structures command higher repair fees of 3000 to 8000 Malaysian Ringgit. Premium systems like air suspensions demonstrate substantially elevated maintenance expenses: basic retrofitting starts around 20,000 Malaysian Ringgit, while professional-grade modifications may exceed 100,000 Malaysian Ringgit.
Regarding components, standard-brand shock absorbers offer economical pricing, whereas performance-oriented brands such as Bilstein may cost 1000 to 5000 Malaysian Ringgit per unit. Vehicle owners are advised to select either manufacturer-authorized or third-party service providers based on actual requirements, prioritizing component reliability to optimize the cost-performance ratio. Implementing regular maintenance can prolong suspension lifespan up to five years, and minimizing travel on rough terrain effectively reduces component degradation.
Q
How long does car suspension repair take?
The time required for car suspension repair usually depends on the extent of damage and the type of repair. A standard suspension repair (such as replacing shock absorbers or springs) takes approximately 2 to 4 hours at a professional repair shop. If complex systems like multi-link or air suspension are involved, it may take half a day to a full day. The repair time is also affected by parts availability; if genuine parts need to be ordered, the process may be extended by 1 to 3 days. For a conventional MacPherson suspension, a skilled technician can complete a single-side replacement within 3 hours, while 4S shops may take slightly longer due to standardized procedures but offer greater reliability. Air suspension repairs for high-end models typically require 6 to 8 hours or more due to necessary system calibration. Car owners are advised to schedule appointments in advance and verify parts availability to prevent delays. Prompt suspension system repairs are critical as they directly impact driving stability and ride comfort, while regular inspections can help prevent unexpected failures.
Q
Is it worth replacing car suspension?
Whether it is worth replacing a car's suspension system requires a comprehensive consideration of the vehicle's condition, driving needs, and maintenance costs. For ordinary family cars, the cost of replacing a single suspension component (such as shock absorbers or springs) through non-original channels is approximately 280 to 380 ringgit, while original parts cost around 600 ringgit. Replacing the entire system at a 4S shop costs about 1800 to 2500 ringgit, and independent repair shops can save 30% to 50% of the cost. If the suspension produces metallic abnormal noises, the car body tilts significantly, or the tires exhibit abnormal wear (with a tread depth difference on one side exceeding 1.5mm), it is recommended to inspect and repair immediately; otherwise, it may accelerate tire wear (increasing the abnormal wear rate by 300%) and compromise driving safety. For Japanese cars with a mileage of 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers or German cars with 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, aging shock absorbers are normal, and regular maintenance can preserve the vehicle's residual value (increasing it by 15%-20%). The maintenance cost for air suspension in luxury models is relatively high, with single-part replacement potentially costing 5,000 to 20,000 ringgit, so original parts should be prioritized to ensure compatibility. It is recommended that car owners perform basic suspension inspections (including shock absorber oil seals and bushing lubrication) every 10,000 kilometers and complete thorough maintenance (such as damping coefficient testing) at 40,000 kilometers. Daily faults can be predicted by observing the vehicle's straightness deviation (<2cm) or its roll angle when cornering at 60km/h (<5°).
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Q
Do modern cars still need to be waxed?
Modern cars still require regular waxing, which provides multiple protections for the car paint and enhances its appearance. The core functions of waxing include waterproofing and acid rain resistance, reflecting ultraviolet rays to delay paint aging, reducing static-induced dust accumulation, and enhancing the vehicle's gloss. New cars come with factory-applied protective wax, and it is recommended to start waxing after six months of use to avoid compromising the original protective coating. The waxing frequency should be adjusted based on usage conditions: vehicles parked outdoors or frequently exposed to acid rain and intense UV radiation should be waxed every 1 to 2 months, while those parked in underground garages can extend the interval to 3 to 6 months. Notably, excessive waxing may damage the paint surface, with 3 to 6 applications per year generally being optimal. For more durable protection, options like ceramic coating or paint sealing can be considered, though at higher costs. For cost-conscious owners, regular waxing remains an economical and effective paint maintenance solution.
Q
Can I polish my car without waxing?
Car polishing can be performed without waxing, but the two serve distinct functions and are recommended to be used in combination. Polishing primarily removes the oxidized layer and fine scratches on the paint surface through abrasion to restore its smoothness, while waxing forms a protective layer post-polishing, offering sustained protection against water, UV rays, and acid rain. If only polished without waxing, the paint surface will temporarily regain its shine, but the absence of a protective layer makes it susceptible to environmental damage. Particularly in rainy, humid climates with intense UV radiation and frequent acid rain, the paint surface will oxidize more rapidly. New vehicles do not require waxing within the first six months, but those used for over a year should be waxed immediately after polishing. Cars parked outdoors need rewaxing every 1-2 months, while those kept in a garage can extend this interval to 3-6 months. For more durable protection, ceramic coating or glaze sealing may be considered, offering protection for 6-12 months, though at a higher cost and requiring periodic maintenance.
Q
Can you wax a car in direct sunlight?
It is not recommended to wax a car under direct sunlight, as high temperatures will reduce the adhesion of the car wax, leading to uneven application and affecting the final gloss effect. The correct approach is to move the vehicle to a shaded and ventilated area, and wait until the body temperature drops to normal before proceeding. This ensures that the car wax covers evenly and forms an effective protective layer. In addition, the car body must be thoroughly cleaned before waxing to avoid residual dust or sand particles scratching the paint surface. Meanwhile, new cars usually do not need to be waxed in the first five months after leaving the factory, so as not to waste the original protective layer. For vehicles parked outdoors, it is recommended to wax them every 2-3 months, while garage-parked vehicles can extend the interval to 3-4 months. When choosing car wax, attention should be paid to matching the color of the car paint: dark-colored car paint is suitable for black or red series, while light-colored car paint is suitable for silver or white series. During the waxing process, a sponge block should be used to apply the wax evenly in a straight back-and-forth motion, and an ultra-fine fiber towel should be used to wipe and polish before the wax is completely dry. Finally, residual wax deposits in gaps such as headlights and license plates need to be cleaned to prevent corrosion.
Q
How long will wax last on a car?
The protection duration of car waxing typically ranges from 1 to 4 months, depending on the type of car wax, parking environment, and usage conditions. Natural waxes such as palm wax have high glossiness but relatively weak durability, usually lasting 1 to 2 months; synthetic waxes or composite waxes, due to their strong chemical stability, can extend the protection period to 2 to 4 months. If the vehicle is parked outdoors for a long time and exposed to ultraviolet rays, acid rain, or sand erosion, the wax layer will wear out quickly, so it is recommended to re-wax every 2 to 3 months; for vehicles parked in indoor garages with a milder environment, the interval can be extended to 3 to 4 months. New cars come with factory-applied protective wax when they leave the factory, so no additional waxing is needed in the first 5 months to avoid damaging the original coating. To determine if the wax layer has failed, you can perform a touch test (the paint surface feels rough) or a water beading test (water beads are incomplete). Timely re-waxing can effectively waterproof, resist ultraviolet rays, and delay paint aging. Before waxing, the car body must be thoroughly cleaned. Solid wax has better durability, while liquid wax is easy to apply; car owners can choose according to their needs. A reasonable waxing frequency can not only protect the paint surface but also avoid wax layer accumulation or paint damage caused by over-maintenance.
Q
Can I wax my own car?
Of course, you can wax your car yourself. This is a cost-effective maintenance method that can effectively protect the car paint. Before operation, you need to prepare tools such as special car wash liquid, car wax, decontamination clay, sponge, and microfiber towel, and choose a cool and windless environment. First, thoroughly clean the car body, paying special attention to areas prone to dust accumulation such as grilles and gaps around lights to ensure the paint surface is free of dust and impurities. Then, use a sponge to apply the car wax evenly and thinly in circular or straight-line motions, avoiding rubber parts. For new cars, it is recommended to use color coat polishing wax, while ordinary cars can choose pearl or metallic paint series wax. After application, wait 5-10 minutes until the wax turns white, then use a soft towel to polish in straight lines until it shines. Note that waxing frequency should be about once every 2-3 months, and the process should not be performed under high temperatures or direct sunlight. Before the first waxing, check the paint surface for any scratches that need repair. Mastering proper waxing techniques can not only enhance the paint's UV resistance and anti-oxidation properties, but also improve the vehicle's gloss. However, if the sponge picks up paint color, this may indicate paint damage requiring immediate attention.
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