Q

how hydrogen car works

Here's how hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) work: they generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell stack, which then powers an electric motor to drive the vehicle. The only emission in this process? Water vapor—totally zero pollution. To break it down, high-pressure hydrogen from the storage tank and oxygen from the air undergo electrochemical reactions at the fuel cell's anode and cathode, respectively. This generates electricity to feed the motor, with pure water as the only byproduct. These vehicles typically boast a range of over 500 kilometers and can be refueled in just 3-5 minutes. That efficiency, way better than pure battery EVs, makes them a solid fit for Malaysia's long-distance driving needs. Major global automakers have already rolled out several FCV models, but here in Malaysia, the hydrogen refueling station infrastructure is still in the building phase—that's the main hurdle to wider adoption. It's worth highlighting that hydrogen can be produced by electrolyzing water using renewable energy, making the entire lifecycle environmentally friendly. Looking ahead, as green hydrogen technology advances, fuel cell vehicles are poised to play an even bigger role in Malaysia's low-carbon transportation landscape.
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Related Q&A

Q
Does changing the air filter help with acceleration?
Replacing the air filter does help improve vehicle acceleration performance, as the principle lies in optimizing the engine's air intake efficiency. When the filter element remains unchanged for an extended period, causing dust accumulation and clogging, the increased intake resistance restricts airflow. This leads to deviation from the ideal air-fuel ratio of 14.7:1, resulting in incomplete combustion and consequently reduced power output. A new filter restores proper airflow, enabling the ECU to calculate more accurate fuel injection quantities based on sensor data. With improved combustion efficiency of the air-fuel mixture, throttle response and acceleration performance show noticeable enhancement. Note that standard filters typically require replacement every 15,000 kilometers or annually, with shorter intervals recommended for frequent driving on dusty roads. While high-performance aftermarket filters may theoretically increase airflow, they require corresponding ECU recalibration to realize power gains; otherwise, they might activate protective mechanisms that could degrade performance. Regular replacement of OEM-spec filters not only maintains acceleration capability but also decreases engine wear and reduces fuel consumption by approximately 5-10%, making it one of the most cost-efficient routine maintenance procedures.
Q
What happens if you don't change your car's air filter?
If the car's air filter is not replaced regularly, it will reduce the engine's air intake efficiency and cause multiple chain problems. A clogged air filter will reduce the amount of air entering the cylinders, leading to incomplete fuel combustion, which will decrease power output by approximately 10%-15%, manifesting as sluggish acceleration and difficulty climbing hills. Simultaneously, fuel consumption may increase by over 10%, and long-term accumulation will significantly raise vehicle operating costs. More critically, unfiltered dust particles will accelerate wear on core components such as piston rings and cylinder walls, potentially causing cylinder scoring in dusty regions and substantially reducing the engine's lifespan. Furthermore, incomplete combustion increases harmful emissions like carbon monoxide, adversely affecting the vehicle's environmental compliance test results. For models equipped with cabin air filters, prolonged neglect may elevate interior PM2.5 concentrations and promote mold growth, compromising respiratory health. It is recommended to adjust replacement intervals based on operating conditions: every 10,000 kilometers or annually for urban driving, reduced to 5,000 kilometers or semi-annually in dusty environments, with hybrid vehicles requiring particular attention to filter condition's impact on battery cooling systems. Regularly replacing filters costing approximately 40-150 ringgit can prevent subsequent engine repair expenses amounting to thousands of ringgit.
Q
Are air filter and cabin filter the same?
The air filter and the cabin air filter are two components in a car with completely different functions. Although their names are similar, their roles are distinct. The air filter is primarily responsible for filtering the air entering the engine combustion chamber, preventing impurities such as dust and gravel from entering the cylinder and causing wear. It is typically installed in the air filter housing within the engine compartment and features a pleated paper structure. Replacement is recommended every 15,000 kilometers or based on driving conditions. Prolonged failure to replace it may result in reduced engine power and increased fuel consumption. The cabin air filter purifies the air entering the vehicle interior, capable of filtering PM2.5, pollen, and odors. It is commonly installed behind the glove compartment on the passenger side, with materials ranging from standard filter paper to activated carbon and HEPA high-efficiency types. Replacement is advised every 6 to 12 months or 10,000 kilometers. A deteriorated filter may lead to diminished airflow and unpleasant odors inside the cabin. Key differences should be considered when selecting these filters: the air filter must match the engine's air intake requirements, whereas the cabin air filter can be chosen based on specific needs—activated carbon for odor removal or HEPA for enhanced filtration. Regular replacement of both filters not only safeguards engine performance but also enhances in-vehicle air quality. Car owners are advised to establish a replacement schedule in accordance with the maintenance manual while accounting for actual usage conditions.
Q
Can a dirty air filter cause acceleration problems?
A dirty air filter can indeed cause vehicle acceleration issues, as it restricts the airflow entering the engine and impairs combustion efficiency. When the filter element is clogged with dust, the engine cannot obtain sufficient oxygen, resulting in an overly rich air-fuel mixture and incomplete combustion, which manifests as reduced power and sluggish acceleration. Prolonged use of a dirty filter element may also accelerate internal engine wear, increase fuel consumption, and even pose a risk of overheating. It is recommended to inspect the filter condition every 5,000 kilometers; in dusty environments, the maintenance interval should be shortened. When cleaning, use compressed air to blow from the inside outward to avoid damaging the filter paper with excessive pressure. Regular replacement of the filter element ensures optimal engine performance, extends service life, and maintains fuel efficiency. If the vehicle exhibits weak acceleration or abnormally high fuel consumption, the air filter condition should be prioritized for inspection.
Q
What happens if I have a bad air filter in my car?
When a vehicle's air filter fails, it can cause various mechanical problems and performance degradation. First, unfiltered dust and particles will directly enter the engine, accelerating the wear of core components such as piston rings and cylinder walls. Prolonged exposure will shorten the engine's lifespan, and in severe cases, cylinder scuffing may occur. Second, a clogged filter element restricts air intake, resulting in incomplete combustion. This not only reduces power output (manifesting as sluggish acceleration or rough idling) but also increases fuel consumption by approximately 10%-15%. Additionally, emissions of harmful substances like carbon monoxide may exceed environmental standards. For turbocharged models, contaminants may damage turbine blades, leading to reduced boost efficiency. Furthermore, substandard filter elements or poor sealing may cause abnormal air flow meter readings, compromising the precision of electronic fuel injection systems. In extreme cases, this can result in engine stalling or exacerbated carbon buildup. It is recommended to inspect the filter element every 10,000 kilometers or 6 months (whichever comes first). In dusty environments, maintenance intervals should be shortened. When replacing, prioritize OEM filters or ISO 5011-certified products, which filter over 99% of 20-micron particles while maintaining pressure loss below 2.5 kPa, ensuring optimal airflow and engine protection.
Q
What happens if the air filter in a car is dirty?
When the car's air filter is dirty or clogged, it will directly affect the engine performance and vehicle operation. A dirty filter element will obstruct the normal airflow into the engine, causing an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture ratio in the combustion chamber and resulting in incomplete combustion. This not only reduces power output and causes sluggish acceleration but also increases fuel consumption by approximately 10%-15%. Prolonged use may raise the fuel cost per kilometer by several sen. Unfiltered dust and particles will accelerate wear on critical components such as piston rings and cylinder walls, and in severe cases, may lead to cylinder scoring, with repair costs potentially amounting to thousands of ringgit. For turbocharged models, contaminants may also damage the turbine blades, leading to even higher repair expenses. Additionally, insufficient air intake can cause the ECU to miscalculate the fuel injection quantity, resulting in rough idling or cold-start difficulties. Simultaneously, the exhaust emissions will contain excessive levels of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, failing to meet environmental standards and potentially causing the vehicle to fail annual inspections. It is recommended to inspect the filter element every 10,000 kilometers or 6 months. In dusty environments, the replacement interval should be reduced to 5,000 kilometers. Opt for OEM filters or those meeting ISO standards (typically priced between 50-150 ringgit) and avoid substandard products that may compromise sealing. Regularly replacing the filter element not only ensures optimal engine performance but also extends the engine oil's service life, thereby indirectly lowering maintenance costs.
Q
Does changing car air filter improve performance?
Replacing a car's air filter can indeed improve vehicle performance, mainly reflected in four aspects: First, a clean air filter ensures sufficient and pure air enters the engine, allowing fuel to burn more completely, thereby enhancing power output—this is particularly noticeable when climbing hills or accelerating rapidly. Second, optimized combustion efficiency can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 5% to 10%, leading to savings in fuel costs over long-term use. Third, effective filtration of dust and impurities reduces wear on key components such as cylinders and piston rings, extending the engine's lifespan. Finally, a more complete combustion process reduces emissions of harmful substances like carbon monoxide, meeting environmental protection requirements. It is recommended to replace the air filter every 15,000 kilometers or once a year; if driving frequently in dusty areas, the replacement interval should be shortened. Note that cleaning old filters with a high-pressure air gun should be avoided, as this damages the filter paper structure and compromises filtration efficiency. Choosing high-quality filters compatible with the vehicle model (such as brands like Mahle) yields better results; the set costs about 99 Malaysian Ringgit, offering better cost-effectiveness than replacement services at 4S shops.
Q
What does a car insurance policy cover?
Car insurance policies are mainly divided into three types. Comprehensive Insurance (Policy 1) offers the most comprehensive coverage, including third-party personal injury or death, third-party property loss or damage, as well as loss or damage to one's own vehicle caused by accidental fire, theft or accident. It is suitable for car owners seeking all-round protection. Third-Party, Fire and Theft Insurance (Policy 2) is moderately priced, covering third-party property loss, injury or death, as well as loss or damage to one's own vehicle due to fire or theft. It is suitable for car owners with limited budgets who still want certain protection. Third-Party Insurance (Policy 3) is the most basic type of insurance, covering only third-party bodily injury or death and third-party property loss or damage. It is suitable for car owners with very limited budgets. Insurance premiums are affected by factors such as vehicle price, model and engine displacement. The insurance premium for vehicles with a displacement between 0 and 6 liters is usually between 300 and 540 ringgit, while vehicles with larger displacements may incur higher premiums. Additionally, some insurance policies offer windshield coverage and natural disaster coverage. Windshield coverage includes all mirrors but is limited to one claim per year, whereas natural disaster coverage covers vehicle damage caused by natural disasters such as floods. Choosing the right type of insurance requires balancing personal needs and budget to ensure adequate protection in case of an accident.
Q
What happens if my tire pressure is too high?
Excessively high tire pressure can cause various problems. First, it reduces the contact area between the tire and the ground, leading to decreased friction and adhesion, prolonged braking distance, and compromised driving safety—especially increasing the risk of accidents in emergency situations. Second, overinflation can cause the steering wheel to vibrate and pull to one side, reducing driving comfort and handling precision. For the tire itself, excessive pressure accelerates localized wear on the central tread pattern, shortening the tire's service life. Meanwhile, the reduced elasticity of the tire body weakens its resistance to punctures, making it more prone to blowouts when encountering sharp objects. Additionally, increased vehicle vibration may indirectly affect the durability of components like the suspension system, and higher rolling resistance also reduces fuel efficiency. It is recommended to regularly check tire pressure with a pressure gauge; the standard values are usually marked on the vehicle's left center pillar plaque (front tires: approximately 2.2-2.3 bar when unloaded, rear tires: approximately 2.4-2.5 bar when unloaded). If overinflation is detected, slowly release air to the standard range after the tire has cooled down, as immediate operation may cause errors. As a consumable, tires should be replaced every four years or so. When purchasing, ensure they are genuine products and pay attention to the production date. After installation, a dynamic balance test should be performed to ensure performance.
Q
Should all four tyres be the same pressure?
Whether the tire pressure needs to be consistent across all four wheels depends on the vehicle's design requirements and usage scenarios. The standard tire pressure is typically 2.3-2.5 bar (230-250 kPa), but the specific value should follow the manufacturer's recommendation indicated on the door frame label or in the manual. Most passenger vehicles have different pressure requirements for front and rear wheels. For instance, front-wheel-drive vehicles may require the front tires to be 0.1-0.2 bar higher than the rear tires due to engine weight, while rear-wheel-drive vehicles or under full load conditions may need the rear tires adjusted to the upper range of 2.5-2.7 bar. Seasonal adjustments are necessary: in summer, maintain pressure 0.1-0.2 bar below standard to account for thermal expansion, whereas in winter, increase it by 0.2 bar to compensate for cold contraction. Special attention should be paid to reinforced tires (e.g., SUV tires), which may require 2.8-2.9 bar; always verify the MAX PRESS rating on the tire sidewall when using non-OEM replacements. Monthly checks should be performed on cold tires, ensuring no single tire deviates by more than ±0.1 bar. Prolonged pressure imbalance can cause uneven tread wear, increased fuel consumption, and reduced handling stability.
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Latest Q&A

Q
What happens if you don't change the car air filter?
Failing to replace the car's air filter for an extended period can obstruct engine air intake, impairing fuel combustion efficiency. This results in diminished power output, sluggish acceleration, and approximately 10%-15% higher fuel consumption. In severe cases, it may trigger the malfunction indicator light. Unfiltered particulate matter accelerates wear on critical components like piston rings and cylinder walls, reducing engine lifespan. Extreme cases may incur mechanical damage with repair costs reaching 500-2,000 ringgit. For vehicles frequently operating in sandy or construction environments, inspect the filter every 5,000 kilometers. Urban commuter vehicles may extend replacement intervals to 10,000 kilometers, subject to manufacturer specifications. A clogged filter also compromises air conditioning performance, elevating cabin PM2.5 levels and potentially affecting respiratory health. Regular replacement of genuine filters (priced at 30-150 ringgit) maintains optimal engine performance and prevents costly maintenance oversights.
Q
When should I replace my air filter in my car?
The replacement cycle of a car's air filter needs to be determined by considering both the vehicle's operating environment and the manufacturer's recommendations. It is generally recommended to replace it every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers or once a year. If the vehicle is frequently driven in dusty conditions, severe smog, or on rural roads, the replacement interval should be reduced to every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every 3 to 6 months. For highway driving, the interval can be extended to 30,000 kilometers. Air filters are categorized into dry and wet types. Most mainstream vehicles use dry-type filters made of filter paper or non-woven fabric. Slightly dirty filters can be cleaned with compressed air, while severely contaminated ones require immediate replacement. Regular inspection of the filter's condition is essential, as clogging may cause insufficient air intake, incomplete combustion, leading to reduced power output, increased fuel consumption, and accelerated engine wear. The specific replacement interval should primarily follow the vehicle's maintenance manual, as recommendations may vary by brand. For instance, urban driving typically requires inspection every 7,500 to 8,000 kilometers, while vehicles operating in dusty northern regions need more frequent maintenance. Timely replacement effectively safeguards engine performance and enhances fuel efficiency.
Q
Does changing the air filter help with acceleration?
Replacing the air filter does help improve vehicle acceleration performance, as the principle lies in optimizing the engine's air intake efficiency. When the filter element remains unchanged for an extended period, causing dust accumulation and clogging, the increased intake resistance restricts airflow. This leads to deviation from the ideal air-fuel ratio of 14.7:1, resulting in incomplete combustion and consequently reduced power output. A new filter restores proper airflow, enabling the ECU to calculate more accurate fuel injection quantities based on sensor data. With improved combustion efficiency of the air-fuel mixture, throttle response and acceleration performance show noticeable enhancement. Note that standard filters typically require replacement every 15,000 kilometers or annually, with shorter intervals recommended for frequent driving on dusty roads. While high-performance aftermarket filters may theoretically increase airflow, they require corresponding ECU recalibration to realize power gains; otherwise, they might activate protective mechanisms that could degrade performance. Regular replacement of OEM-spec filters not only maintains acceleration capability but also decreases engine wear and reduces fuel consumption by approximately 5-10%, making it one of the most cost-efficient routine maintenance procedures.
Q
How to tell if my car air filter is bad?
To determine whether a car's air filter needs replacement, a comprehensive assessment can be conducted using the following methods: First, inspect the appearance of the filter element. If its surface appears gray-black, has oil stains, or shows obvious damage (such as cracks or holes), it should be replaced immediately. Light dust can be removed by blowing compressed air in the reverse direction, but this is only a temporary solution. Second, observe changes in vehicle performance. Symptoms such as sluggish acceleration, an abnormal 5%-10% increase in fuel consumption, or a "whooshing" sound from the engine may indicate insufficient air intake due to a clogged filter. For turbocharged models, replacement is recommended every 10,000-15,000 kilometers or every six months to one year, while naturally aspirated models can extend the interval to 15,000-20,000 kilometers or about one year. However, in dusty environments, the replacement interval should be shortened. During installation, first release the clips of the air filter housing, remove any debris inside, then install the new filter. Avoid washing with water or using high-pressure air, as this may damage the filter media structure. Regular replacement effectively prevents engine wear. With a cost of only a few tens of ringgit, this maintenance procedure offers exceptional value compared to potential repair expenses.
Q
What are the signs of a bad cabin filter?
When the air conditioner filter is dirty, several obvious symptoms will appear. First, the most direct sign is a significant decrease in air output. Even when the fan speed is set to the highest level, the efficiency of cooling and heating will still be noticeably reduced—insufficient cooling in summer and slow heating in winter. This is because dust and debris block the filter, hindering air circulation. Second, the pollutants accumulated in the filter can breed bacteria and mold, causing musty, sour, or smoky odors when the air conditioner is turned on. This severely affects the air quality inside the vehicle, and sensitive individuals may experience coughing or allergic reactions. In addition, a clogged filter will weaken the defogging function. The front windshield tends to fog up continuously in rainy or cold weather, increasing potential driving safety hazards. A long-unreplaced dirty filter may increase the load on the air conditioning system, indirectly affecting the operating efficiency of the engine. It is recommended to replace the filter regularly according to the usage environment: for urban commuting, replacement every 6 months to 1 year is advised; in high-pollution or humid areas, the interval should be shortened to 3-6 months. Choosing activated carbon or HEPA filters can more effectively absorb odors and particles.
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