Q

how to kill cockroaches in car

In Malaysia's hot and humid climate, cockroaches in cars are a common headache. Here's how to kick them out for good. First off, keep your interior spotless – no leftover food crumbs or sugary drink spills, since those are basically roach magnets. Next, step up with roach bait or spray. Go for small, car-friendly bait stations and tuck 'em under seats or in corners. If you're using spray, make sure to air out the car afterward to avoid lingering fumes that might bug your lungs. Natural fixes work too – try tossing in bay leaves or mixing baking soda with sugar (roaches hate the smell). Don't forget to regularly check your AC filters and seat crevices, as those dark spots are prime real estate for roach eggs. If the infestation's bad, call in the pros – they've got safer, car-specific treatments. Day-to-day, keep your windows rolled up when parked to cut down on uninvited guests. One thing to note: harsh chemicals can mess up your car's plastic or leather over time, so start with physical removal and natural remedies first. And keep that trunk and under-mat areas clean and dry – a tidy, moisture-free space is your best defense against these creepy crawlies coming back.
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 I don't wax my car?
Long-term failure to wax a car will accelerate the aging of the paint and cause various problems. The protective film formed by car wax effectively shields against ultraviolet rays, acid rain, and dust erosion. Without this protective layer, the paint surface will fade and turn yellow due to direct sunlight, which is particularly noticeable on white cars. Acidic substances in rainwater can penetrate the paint surface, forming water marks and dark spots, while metal parts may rust as water droplets focus sunlight. Additionally, increased static electricity on an unwaxed car body attracts more dust, making it prone to fine scratches from daily friction and harder to clean. From an economic standpoint, poor paint condition directly impacts the resale value of used cars. Although waxing isn't mandatory maintenance, regular application significantly extends the paint's lifespan. It's recommended every 3-4 months, with shorter intervals during rainy or high-temperature seasons. Opting for car wax containing polyurethane or ceramic components offers longer-lasting protection, while applying care to avoid rubber and plastic parts.
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.
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Latest Q&A

Q
How long does car wax last?
The protective effect of car wax typically lasts 1 to 4 months, with the specific duration depending on the type of car wax, parking environment, and maintenance methods. High-quality synthetic waxes or products containing resin components can extend protection for over 3 months, while ordinary paraffin wax may only last about 1 month when the vehicle is parked outdoors and washed frequently. Ensuring the paint surface is clean and applying the wax evenly during application enhances durability; using neutral car wash detergents is recommended to minimize wax layer degradation. Car wax itself has a shelf life: unopened solid wax can generally be stored for 6 years, but once opened, it should be used within 1 year to prevent oxidation and reduced effectiveness. Regular inspection of the wax layer's condition and timely reapplication are crucial for maintaining the car's paint gloss, particularly in rainy or high-salinity coastal areas where the maintenance interval should be reduced to every 2 to 3 months.
Q
What is the least damaging car wash?
The following key points should be noted for the car washing method that is least harmful to the car paint: First, ensure the engine is completely cooled to avoid pressure on the paint surface caused by thermal expansion and contraction, and choose a shaded area for operation to prevent direct sunlight from accelerating water evaporation and forming water spots. When cleaning, use a dispersed water flow instead of a high-pressure water gun, as high-pressure water may blast sand particles onto the paint surface and cause scratches; if the water pressure cannot be adjusted, it is recommended to rinse from the side at an angle. The car wash solution must be a neutral special product; dish soap or laundry detergent containing alkaline components will corrode the car paint, while regular car wash water usually contains protective car wax. In terms of tools, a soft sponge is better than an ordinary towel, as the latter easily harbors particles and has rough fibers, while microfiber cloths or chamois are suitable for the final drying stage. The process should follow the sequence of pre-rinsing to remove surface impurities, applying the car wash solution from top to bottom, and thoroughly rinsing off the foam, then blotting the water dry with a cotton towel. Regular waxing or coating can enhance the stain resistance of the paint surface and reduce the frequency of daily cleaning. It should be noted that acidic rainwater residues should be cleaned up promptly after rain, and car washing should be postponed in sandy and windy weather to prevent dust from rubbing against the paint surface.
Q
Can I leave wax on my car?
Car wax needs to be wiped clean promptly after it is completely dry. Typically, you can polish it with a non-woven towel after waiting for 3 to 10 minutes, with the exact duration adjusted based on the wax type and ambient temperature. Once solid wax forms a protective film, removing residual wax flakes won't compromise its effectiveness. However, if not cleaned promptly, wax residue trapped in crevices like headlights or chrome trim may lead to corrosion. The primary purposes of waxing are water resistance, UV protection, and enhancing paint finish gloss. Premium car wax can provide approximately one month of protection, though frequent washing or using cleaners containing sodium chloride will accelerate wax layer degradation. When selecting car wax, ensure compatibility with your vehicle's paint color (dark-colored vehicles should use black/red/green shades, while light-colored ones suit silver/white/pearl tones). Avoid application in high-temperature or dusty conditions to maintain proper adhesion. New cars should use non-abrasive hard wax, whereas vehicles parked outdoors may require more frequent waxing every 2-3 months.
Q
How effective is car wax?
The effects of car wax are mainly reflected in aspects such as glossiness, smoothness, water resistance, corrosion resistance, and durability. High-quality car wax can make the car paint show a uniform and bright natural luster, which is smooth and easy to apply. After wiping clean, the surface feels as delicate as silk satin. When exposed to water, it forms small water droplets that slide off quickly, effectively blocking ultraviolet rays and acid rain erosion, protecting the car paint from oxidation and fading, and the effect can last for several months. For example, Turtle Wax Gold Class Carnauba Paste Wax is suitable for vehicles parked outdoors for long periods, 3M Perfect-It Show Car Paste Wax excels in water and UV resistance, while Meguiar's Ultimate Wax can fill in fine scratches. As a natural ingredient product, carnauba wax combines mildness and strong protection, making it especially suitable for car owners who prioritize environmental friendliness and high gloss. When choosing, it is necessary to comprehensively consider the vehicle's usage environment (for instance, synthetic wax is recommended for cars frequently parked outdoors), car age (glaze wax is ideal for new cars), and budget (paste wax is cost-effective, while spray wax represents a premium option). Regular waxing can significantly extend the lifespan of the car paint and preserve its visual quality.
Q
Should you wax or polish a new car?
The paint surface of a new car comes with factory-applied protective wax when it leaves the factory, which typically maintains its protective effect for 5 to 7 months. Therefore, it is recommended to postpone waxing during this period to avoid compromising the factory-applied protective layer. If the vehicle is an imported model or has undergone long-distance transportation, consider using a dedicated wax-removing car wash solution for "dewaxing" treatment before applying a new-car-specific wax. Such car wax should be free of abrasive components and must be applied evenly using straight-line reciprocating motions in a cool, ventilated environment. Waxing can effectively reduce water droplet adhesion by 50%-90% and protect against UV rays and acid rain erosion. However, note that polishing will diminish the paint thickness, and this step is unnecessary for unoxidized new car paint. If the application sponge shows paint transfer, immediately discontinue use and address the paint damage. For routine maintenance, waxing every 6 months is advisable, as excessive polishing may reduce the paint surface's lifespan by over 30%.
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