Q
how to remove water stains on car
In Malaysia, those watermarks on your car's paintwork are usually caused by limescale or mineral deposits, especially if you don't dry the car thoroughly after washing or use hard water. To get rid of them, start by gently wiping with a neutral car shampoo and a soft cloth. If that doesn't work too well, try diluted white vinegar or a dedicated water spot remover – spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse off. Just avoid using abrasive tools or strong acid/alkaline cleaners, as they can damage the paint. Also, regular waxing or coating will add a protective layer to reduce watermarks sticking. If the marks have already seeped into the clear coat, you might need professional polishing. It's best to dry your car right after washing, and try to use soft water or add a water spot preventer – these tips will really help cut down on watermarks. For really stubborn stains, checking with a professional car detailing shop is the safer bet; they can give you a tailored solution based on your paint's condition.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.
Popular Models
Related Q&A
Q
How does suspension affect a car?
A car's suspension system directly impacts ride comfort, handling stability, and safety. It balances different driving needs by absorbing road vibrations and keeping the tires in contact with the ground. Softer suspensions effectively filter out bumps, making them ideal for daily commuting, but they exhibit more body roll during cornering. Sport-tuned suspensions are stiffer, delivering clearer road feedback and stronger support—perfect for drivers who prioritize handling, though they're more sensitive to rough road surfaces. Suspension design also involves geometric configurations; for instance, multi-link setups precisely control wheel angles to enhance cornering grip, while torsion beam structures are more cost-effective and durable. The synergy between tires and suspension is crucial too—high-performance tires paired with well-tuned suspension can fully unlock their grip potential. Additionally, electronic suspension systems that adjust damping stiffness in real-time, balancing comfort and sport modes, are becoming increasingly common in higher-trim models. Regularly inspecting suspension components like shock absorbers, ball joints, and worn bushings is essential. Oil leaks or unusual noises may indicate the need for repairs, as neglecting these issues can compromise driving stability and accelerate tire wear.
Q
How many types of rear suspension are there?
In automotive engineering, common rear suspension systems mainly include torsion beam, multi-link, double wishbone, and solid axle types. The torsion beam features a simple structure and low cost, mostly used in economy models, offering good space utilization but slightly inferior comfort. The multi-link type independently controls wheel movement through multiple links, balancing handling and comfort, commonly found in mid-to-high-end models. The double wishbone type adopts an upper and lower wishbone structure with high lateral stiffness, suitable for vehicles emphasizing sporty performance. The solid axle is mostly used in rugged off-road vehicles or commercial vehicles, relying on a rigid axle to ensure high load capacity but with weaker comfort. Additionally, some high-performance cars or luxury vehicles employ air suspension or active suspension technology, which adjusts damping in real-time through electronic systems to adapt to different road conditions. The choice of suspension system directly affects the driving experience; for example, the multi-link type can effectively filter out road vibrations, while the double wishbone type provides more precise steering feedback when cornering. Consumers can weigh space, cost, and performance based on their daily needs.
Q
How does front suspension affect handling?
The front suspension system directly impacts a vehicle's handling, primarily through three aspects: geometric design, damping tuning, and structural rigidity. MacPherson struts are common in regular cars due to their simple structure and low cost, offering decent steering feedback and comfort, but body roll is more noticeable during aggressive cornering. Double-wishbone or multi-link suspensions, on the other hand, improve tire contact with the road through more complex geometries, maintaining better grip especially in corners, making them ideal for performance models. Spring stiffness and shock absorber damping settings also alter handling characteristics; stiffer setups reduce body roll but compromise comfort, while electronically adjustable suspensions can balance both. Additionally, the caster angle design affects steering wheel self-centering force and high-speed stability—a larger caster angle enhances straight-line stability but increases steering effort. It's worth noting that suspension performance also needs to match tires, steering system, and vehicle center of gravity. For example, low-profile tires improve cornering precision but amplify road feel transmitted through the suspension. In daily driving, regularly checking the condition of suspension bushings and shock absorbers is important too; worn components can lead to vague handling and even affect driving safety.
Q
Do all bikes have front suspension?
Not all motorcycles come with front suspension systems—it really depends on the bike's design and intended use. Your typical street bikes, sport bikes, and adventure bikes usually have telescopic front forks to soak up road vibrations and improve handling. But some budget-friendly commuter models or retro-style underbone bikes (like the Cub series) might skip the suspension altogether, using rigid forks or simple fixed setups to keep costs down. For dirt bikes, inverted front forks are more common since they offer better impact resistance. These suspension differences directly affect the ride: on local twisty roads or unpaved trails, a good front suspension makes a huge difference in comfort and safety. If you're thinking about upgrading, make sure the shock's travel and damping characteristics match your bike, and don't forget to regularly check the fork seals and oil condition to keep things working right. Every brand tunes their suspension differently too—some are stiffer for sporty riding, others are softer for better bump absorption. Definitely test ride before you decide.
Q
Do you need front suspension?
Whether a front suspension system is needed depends on the vehicle type and usage scenario. Most modern cars come equipped with a front suspension system because it is crucial for handling, comfort, and safety. The front suspension system absorbs road bumps through components like shock absorbers, springs, and linkages, maintaining tire contact with the ground and ensuring precise steering and ride comfort—especially important on the twisty or uneven roads common around here. Some specialty vehicles like go-karts or all-terrain buggies might use a rigid front axle or no suspension at all, but those aren’t meant for daily driving. It’s worth noting that suspension design and tuning directly impact the driving experience; independent suspension typically offers better handling and comfort, while torsion beam suspension prioritizes durability and cost-effectiveness. Regularly checking suspension components—like whether shock absorbers are leaking oil or bushings are aging—is necessary. A damaged suspension can cause abnormal tire wear, poor handling, and even affect driving safety. Different brands have their own unique suspension technologies, but the core function is always to improve driving stability and ride quality.
Q
How long does a front suspension last?
The lifespan of a car's front suspension system typically ranges from 80,000 to 160,000 kilometers, depending on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. If you frequently drive on rough roads or overload the vehicle for extended periods, suspension components will wear faster, potentially reducing their lifespan to around 60,000 kilometers. Conversely, good driving habits and regular maintenance can extend their service life. Key suspension components like shock absorbers, control arms, and ball joints gradually age over time. Unusual noises, decreased handling performance, or uneven tire wear may indicate that the suspension system needs inspection or replacement. It's recommended to have the suspension system checked every 20,000 kilometers, especially for shock absorber oil leaks or cracked rubber bushings. Promptly replacing damaged parts can prevent further damage to other related components while improving driving safety and comfort. Suspension component quality and design vary by brand, but following the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations and using original or high-quality replacement parts will ensure the suspension system performs at its best.
Q
Should I drive in D or OD?
In automatic transmission vehicles, Drive (D) is the most commonly used gear for daily driving, suitable for most road conditions like city streets or highways. It automatically shifts gears based on speed and throttle input, ensuring smooth operation and fuel efficiency. Overdrive (OD), a sub-function of D, is usually activated via a button or shifter on the transmission. When engaged, it uses higher gears (like 5th or 6th) during highway cruising to lower engine RPM, reducing fuel consumption and noise—perfect for steady, long-distance drives, such as maintaining a constant speed on the North-South Expressway. However, if frequent acceleration or hill climbing is needed, it’s better to turn off OD (by pressing the OD button). This prevents the transmission from upshifting too often, delivering more direct power response. Note that some newer models have eliminated the standalone OD button, relying instead on intelligent shift logic to adjust automatically, so always check your vehicle’s manual for specific operations. Additionally, using gears properly not only enhances driving experience but also extends transmission life—for example, switching to Low (L) or Sport (S) mode when going down steep hills or carrying heavy loads to increase torque output.
Q
What is the difference between direct drive and gear driven wheels?
The main difference between direct drive and gear-driven wheels lies in how power is transmitted. Direct drive systems typically connect the motor directly to the wheels, eliminating traditional transmissions and driveshafts. This simpler structure reduces energy loss, which is why it's common in electric vehicles—it delivers more immediate power response and smoother acceleration. Gear-driven systems, on the other hand, use mechanical components like transmissions and differentials to transfer power. By utilizing various gear ratios to adapt to speed and torque demands, this design is standard in traditional gas-powered cars, offering the advantage of flexibly adjusting power output for different road conditions. Maintenance-wise, direct drive systems have fewer parts, theoretically lowering failure rates, but gear-driven technology is mature with relatively manageable repair costs. Notably, some hybrid models in recent years have started combining both technologies—using electric drive (close to direct drive principles) at low speeds and switching to gear drive at high speeds to boost efficiency. No matter the drive type, automakers choose the best technical solution based on the vehicle's positioning and purpose.
Q
Is AWD a type of drivetrain?
AWD (All-Wheel Drive) is definitely a type of drivetrain that sends power to all four wheels to boost a vehicle's traction and stability across different road conditions, making it especially handy for slippery surfaces or light off-roading. Compared to two-wheel-drive setups like front-wheel drive (FWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD), AWD can dynamically adjust torque distribution between the front and rear axles, or even left and right wheels, cutting down on skidding risks when it's rainy or you're on gravel, for example. Common AWD tech includes mechanical systems (think center differentials) and electronically controlled ones (which tweak things in real time using sensors), and some high-performance models even throw in torque vectoring to sharpen up cornering. It's worth noting that AWD isn't the same as 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive); 4WD is usually part-time and built more for serious off-roading, while AWD is often full-time and works automatically. Also, AWD systems might add a bit to fuel consumption and vehicle weight, but they do a solid job boosting everyday driving safety. Most major brands offer AWD as an option, so shoppers can pick the right drivetrain for what they need.
Q
How do driving wheels affect handling?
The layout of the drive wheels has a direct impact on vehicle handling. Front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) differ significantly in power distribution, steering characteristics, and dynamic performance.
In FWD vehicles, the engine and transmission are concentrated on the front axle, resulting in a heavier front end. This makes them prone to understeer (plowing) when cornering at high speeds, but they are easier to handle in daily driving, more fuel-efficient, and suitable for family sedans. Their compact structure also improves the utilization of interior space.
RWD vehicles, on the other hand, transfer power to the rear wheels via a driveshaft, leading to a more balanced front-to-rear weight distribution. During acceleration, the weight shift to the rear enhances rear-wheel traction, making them better at climbing hills and maintaining straight-line stability. However, they are prone to oversteer (tail-sliding) on wet or slippery roads and require more advanced driving skills, which is why they are commonly found in performance cars or luxury models.
Additionally, FWD vehicles exhibit more pronounced "nose-diving" during braking due to the concentrated components at the front, while RWD vehicles offer more responsive handling during spirited driving but incur higher maintenance costs. When making a choice, one needs to balance handling requirements and usage scenarios—for example, FWD is preferred for urban commuting, while RWD can be considered for those seeking driving pleasure.
Popular Cars
Model Year
Car Compare
Car Photo
Latest Q&A
Q
Can you drive with bad rear suspension?
Driving a car with a damaged rear suspension is possible, but definitely not advisable due to serious safety risks and higher repair costs down the line. The main job of the rear suspension is to support the vehicle's weight, keep the tires in contact with the road, and absorb bumps. If it's damaged, you might notice the car handling poorly, uneven tire wear, or longer braking distances—plus, it's way easier to lose control, especially at high speeds or when cornering. On top of that, driving around with a messed-up suspension for too long puts extra strain on other parts like the drivetrain, tires, and even the body structure, leading to more severe damage. If you spot suspension issues—like the car leaning to one side, weird noises, or a loose feeling while driving—get it checked and fixed ASAP. Regular maintenance on the suspension system, including inspecting the shock absorbers, springs, and linkages, can really extend its life and keep you safe on the road. If you can't get it repaired right away, at least avoid high speeds and heavy loads to minimize the risk.
Q
What are the four types of suspension systems?
There are four main types of automotive suspension systems, namely independent suspension, non independent suspension, air suspension, and active suspension. Independent suspension allows each wheel to move independently, providing better comfort and handling, commonly found in multi link and MacPherson structures, suitable for vehicles that prioritize driving experience. The non independent suspension structure is simple and durable, with low cost, and is mostly used in torsion beam design. It is commonly seen in economical vehicles, but its performance is slightly inferior on bumpy roads. Air suspension adjusts the airbag pressure to change the height and hardness of the vehicle, balancing comfort and passability, and is commonly seen in high-end models or modified cars. Active suspension adjusts damping or stiffness in real-time through an electronic system, which can adapt to different road conditions and driving styles, and is a high-tech configuration. The choice of suspension system will affect the handling, comfort, and durability of the vehicle. Different brands and models will adopt different combinations according to their positioning. For example, sports cars tend to have independent suspension, while off-road vehicles may enhance the reliability of non independent suspension. Understanding these characteristics can help you make more appropriate decisions when choosing or modifying a car.
Q
How to check rear suspension?
To check if your rear suspension is functioning properly, start by looking at your car when it's parked to see if one side sits lower than the other—this could mean the shocks or springs are worn out. Then, take it for a quick test on a safe road: drive slowly over speed bumps or rough surfaces and listen/feel for any unusual bouncing at the rear or clinking metal sounds, which might indicate failing shocks or worn control arm bushings. Another trick is to press down firmly on the rear bumper and let go quickly—normally, the car should settle right away. If it bounces multiple times, the shock absorbers are losing their effectiveness. For a more thorough inspection, you'll need to lift the car to check the suspension components for oil leaks, cracked rubber parts, or bent metal—pay special attention to leaking shocks, torn control arm bushings, and broken spring coils. It's a good idea to have the suspension checked every 20,000 kilometers during regular maintenance. Humid climates speed up rubber deterioration, so regular checks are even more important. A healthy suspension doesn't just make rides smoother; it ensures proper tire contact with the road and stable handling. If you notice any issues, get them fixed promptly to avoid compromising driving safety.
Q
How does suspension affect a car?
A car's suspension system directly impacts ride comfort, handling stability, and safety. It balances different driving needs by absorbing road vibrations and keeping the tires in contact with the ground. Softer suspensions effectively filter out bumps, making them ideal for daily commuting, but they exhibit more body roll during cornering. Sport-tuned suspensions are stiffer, delivering clearer road feedback and stronger support—perfect for drivers who prioritize handling, though they're more sensitive to rough road surfaces. Suspension design also involves geometric configurations; for instance, multi-link setups precisely control wheel angles to enhance cornering grip, while torsion beam structures are more cost-effective and durable. The synergy between tires and suspension is crucial too—high-performance tires paired with well-tuned suspension can fully unlock their grip potential. Additionally, electronic suspension systems that adjust damping stiffness in real-time, balancing comfort and sport modes, are becoming increasingly common in higher-trim models. Regularly inspecting suspension components like shock absorbers, ball joints, and worn bushings is essential. Oil leaks or unusual noises may indicate the need for repairs, as neglecting these issues can compromise driving stability and accelerate tire wear.
Q
What vehicles use rear suspension?
Many vehicles use rear suspension systems to enhance driving stability and ride comfort, with common types including independent and non-independent setups. Sedans like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic typically feature multi-link or torsion beam rear suspensions, balancing handling and space efficiency, while luxury cars such as the Mercedes S-Class or BMW 5 Series often come with air suspension or multi-link independent systems for even better comfort. SUVs like the Proton X70 or Perodua Aruz tend to use torsion beam or multi-link designs to handle various road conditions. Pickups and commercial vehicles such as the Toyota Hilux or Isuzu D-Max generally adopt non-independent suspensions with leaf springs or coil springs, focusing on load capacity and durability. Additionally, high-performance cars like the Porsche 911 are equipped with more advanced suspension technologies, such as active suspension systems, to optimize dynamic performance. Understanding suspension types helps balance comfort and handling when choosing a car—each design has its pros and cons. For example, independent suspension offers better comfort but costs more, while non-independent suspension is simpler and cheaper to maintain, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those who often carry heavy loads.
View MoreLatest News

Return to the top! Land Rover Defender D7X-R Swept the top two spots in the Dakar Rally's Production Class
RobertJan 20, 2026

GWM showcases diesel hybrid technology to meet the needs of users overlooked by the market
MichaelJan 20, 2026

Mazda2 and CX-3 will be discontinued in 2026, Mazda small cars are disappearing
AshleyJan 20, 2026

The new generation of Xiaomi SU7 MAX endurance test, continuous driving for 24 hours covering 4264 kilometers
AshleyJan 20, 2026

Honda Super-One EV debuted in Singapore, which is a bit unusual
JohnJan 20, 2026
View More



Cars
