Q
how to start car engine
Starting your car engine is a pretty straightforward process. First off, make sure the gear is in Park (for automatics) or Neutral (for manuals). Then, press and hold the brake pedal (automatics) or the clutch pedal (manuals). Next, either insert the key and turn it clockwise to the start position, or hit the start button if you've got keyless entry. Once the engine fires up, let go of the key or keep holding the button until it's running smoothly. If you're driving a diesel, you might need to wait for the glow plug indicator light to go off before cranking it.
Living in Malaysia's hot and humid weather? It's a good idea to regularly check your battery condition and starting system. Nothing's worse than dealing with a dead or moisture-affected battery when you're in a hurry. These days, most modern cars come with smart key systems—just keep the key fob in your pocket, walk up to the car, and it unlocks. Starting it is just as easy, which is super convenient.
If you do run into starting issues, it's usually one of the usual suspects: a flat battery, low fuel, or maybe an ignition system problem. Best to call in a pro mechanic to diagnose it properly. And remember, keeping up with basic maintenance like checking the battery, spark plugs, and fuel system will go a long way in extending your engine's life and making sure it starts up without a hitch every time.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.
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Related Q&A
Q
What happens if tire pressure is too high?
Excessively high tire pressure can cause various problems, primarily manifested as increased driving safety risks and reduced vehicle performance. Overinflated tires decrease the contact area between the tire and the road surface, resulting in reduced friction and adhesion, which prolongs braking distance. This is particularly likely to cause loss of control on wet surfaces or during emergency braking. Additionally, high tire pressure accelerates localized wear of the central tread pattern, significantly shortening tire lifespan, and increases the risk of tire blowouts due to diminished carcass elasticity—a phenomenon more pronounced when encountering sharp objects or high-speed impacts. Regarding driving experience, the steering wheel may vibrate or pull to one side, while intensified body vibrations compromise the durability of components such as the suspension system and degrade ride comfort. Although higher tire pressure can marginally reduce rolling resistance to enhance fuel efficiency, after comprehensive consideration of safety hazards, it remains essential to strictly adjust the pressure according to the standard values specified in the vehicle manual (typically 2.2-2.3 bar for unloaded front tires and 2.6-2.8 bar for fully loaded rear tires). It is advisable to check tire pressure at least monthly, with particular attention before long-distance trips. If abnormal tire pressure is detected, calibrate it to the appropriate range using a professional tire pressure gauge after the tires have cooled.
Q
Which car is the cheapest in Malaysia?
Currently, the cheapest car model on the market is the Kia Rio, priced at approximately 60,000 Malaysian Ringgit. This South Korean compact car is known for its affordability and practicality, equipped with a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine, making it suitable for urban commuting. If considering used cars, mainstream brand models aged 3-5 years, such as the Toyota Vios or Honda City, can be purchased for 30,000 to 50,000 Malaysian Ringgit. It is worth noting that the newly launched entry-level version of the Chery Tiggo 8 in 2026 is priced at 129,800 Malaysian Ringgit. Although not the cheapest option, it stands out for its cost-effectiveness as a seven-seater SUV. Its 1.6T turbocharged engine delivers 197 horsepower and comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, priced approximately 30,000 Malaysian Ringgit lower than comparable joint-venture brand models. When purchasing a car, it is advisable to compare price variations between Johor and Borneo regions, where differences for certain models may reach 5%-10%. Additionally, ancillary costs such as insurance and road tax should be factored in, typically amounting to 3%-5% of the vehicle's price.
Q
What is the best SUV to buy in Malaysia?
Currently, various SUV models on the market have their own distinct features. As a representative of emerging electric SUVs, the XPENG G6 is priced between RM158,888 and RM193,888, attracting tech enthusiasts with its intelligent features. In the traditional fuel vehicle segment, the 2025 Perodua Ativa offers a cost-effective option with an entry price of RM62,500, while the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover is positioned as a high-end luxury model at RM2.69 million. The recently launched 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 introduces an entry-level variant with a seven-seat configuration, powered by a 1.6T engine (197hp/290N·m) and priced at RM129,800—RM30,000 lower than the Pro version—making it ideal for practicality-focused family users. Among German brands, the 2025 BMW X1 starts at RM250,800, delivering a premium driving experience. For those preferring local options, the 2025 Proton X50 is priced at RM85,800, striking a balance between value and functionality. It is advisable to select based on budget and requirements (such as space, performance, or tech features), and we recommend test-driving to assess handling and comfort differences firsthand.
Q
What is the top 5 expensive car?
The five most expensive car models currently on the market include the Bugatti Brouillard 2026 (approximately MYR 90,000,000), Bugatti Centodieci 2020 (approximately MYR 36,000,000), Ferrari F80 2025 (approximately MYR 16,000,000), Bugatti Chiron Super Sport Red Dragon 2024 (approximately MYR 16,500,000), and Bugatti Divo 2026 (approximately MYR 17,100,000). These models are all limited-edition or high-performance customized versions from ultra-luxury brands, with their prices driven by exclusivity, handcrafted artistry, and cutting-edge technology. For instance, the Bugatti Brouillard features a W16 engine and carbon fiber monocoque structure, while the Ferrari F80 utilizes a hybrid powertrain and race-track-inspired aerodynamic design. Notably, certain models like the Bugatti Centodieci command substantial premiums due to their global production limit of just 10 units, and the price variation between the 2025 and 2026 Ferrari F80 models may result from bespoke customization options. Such vehicles typically require advance reservations and have extended delivery timelines, primarily targeting affluent collectors and automotive connoisseurs.
Q
What car should I buy with my salary in Malaysia?
When purchasing a car in Malaysia, one should comprehensively consider personal income level, vehicle usage requirements, and budget. With a monthly payment budget of approximately 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit and a down payment of 10,000 Malaysian Ringgit, the Toyota Veloz is an excellent option due to its spacious practicality. For those prioritizing economical commuting, Japanese sedans like the Vios or City offer a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency. For tighter budgets, the Perodua Myvi or Bezza are viable choices—these local models typically feature monthly payments below 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit and lower maintenance costs.
Before finalizing a purchase, it is crucial to conduct a test drive to assess the vehicle's space, handling, and features to ensure they align with daily needs. For instance, those frequently transporting goods should avoid short-rear models.
Regarding financing, required documents include an ID card, three months' salary slips, and bank statements. Self-employed individuals must provide company financial statements.
Additionally, car prices vary by region. Kuala Lumpur's higher tariffs result in more expensive vehicles, whereas local models in Johor and other areas are more competitively priced. Ownership costs—including fuel expenses (which fluctuate weekly under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism), insurance, and maintenance—should also be factored in. Opting for fuel-efficient models can help reduce long-term expenditures.
For those who favor stylish designs or reputable brands, Japanese models like Honda and Toyota, or local options such as the Proton Saga, are worth considering. However, the final decision should align with both financial capacity and practical needs.
Q
Which car brand is most popular in Malaysia?
Currently, the most popular car brand in Malaysia is the local brand Perodua, which sold 169,847 units in the first half of 2024, accounting for a 41.3% market share. Its flagship models Myvi and Axia have become the preferred national cars due to their economic practicality and high cost-effectiveness. Closely following is another local brand Proton, ranking second with 72,088 units sold; its models such as the X70 SUV and Iriz have performed prominently in the family car market. Among Japanese brands, Toyota and Honda have shown stable performance—economical sedans like the Toyota Vios, Corolla Cross, and Honda City hold significant market shares—while luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz are mainly concentrated in the urban high-end market. Overall, Malaysian consumers prefer models with affordable prices and low maintenance costs. Local brands dominate the market due to policy support and advantages in localized services, among which Perodua's compact car designs are particularly in line with local road conditions and family travel needs, continuing to lead the sales rankings.
Q
What is the best-selling Chinese car in Malaysia?
Currently, the best-selling Chinese brand car in the Malaysian market is Chery, with annual sales reaching 4,493 units in 2023 and further increasing to 6,898 units in the first half of 2024. Among these, the OMODA 5 became the only Chinese model to enter the TOP 30 best-selling models. BYD specializes in new energy vehicles, with sales of 3,728 units in 2023 and electric vehicle sales reaching 4,368 units in the first half of 2024. Its models such as the Seal and Atto 3 have performed prominently in the electric vehicle segment. Although the overall market share of Chinese brands remains below 2%, they are gradually gaining favor among young consumers, particularly the Chinese community, which shows higher purchase intention, thanks to their advantages in intelligent features and new energy technologies. It is worth noting that the Malaysian automotive market is still dominated by local brands Proton and Perodua, along with Japanese cars, with fuel-powered vehicles accounting for as much as 88% of the market. However, the penetration rate of electric vehicles has risen rapidly from 0.36% in 2022 to 2.6% in the first half of 2024, providing Chinese brands with opportunities for differentiated competition.
Q
Why is P7 the most expensive?
As a pure electric SUV under GAC Honda, the relatively high pricing of the P7 is mainly influenced by multiple factors. First, as a joint-venture brand model, the P7 has to bear high import tariffs and localization costs. Although Malaysia's excise duty on imported cars (with a tax rate of up to 105% for vehicles with a displacement exceeding 2500cc) does not directly apply to electric vehicles, the supply chain costs remain approximately 30% higher than those in China. Second, the P7 is positioned in the mid-to-high-end market; features such as a 2930mm wheelbase, 650km range, and intelligent dual screens have driven up manufacturing costs, while the Honda brand premium is also reflected in its pricing strategy. Notably, investments in electric vehicle technology R&D (e.g., battery safety and electronic control systems) have further increased cost allocation. Compared with competing domestic brand models, the P7's joint-venture status results in a price premium of 20,000 to 30,000 Malaysian ringgit. However, the manufacturer recently adjusted its market strategy with a limited-time price reduction of 50,000 Malaysian ringgit, indicating that the alignment between pricing and local consumer expectations still requires optimization. In the long term, electric vehicle prices in Malaysia are also affected by factors such as exchange rate fluctuations, the availability of charging infrastructure, and government subsidy policies.
Q
What is the top selling car brand in Malaysia 2025?
Perodua was the best-selling brand in the Malaysian automotive market in 2025, with total annual sales reaching 359,904 units, far exceeding Proton's 151,561 units in second place. This achievement confirms its absolute advantages in cost-effectiveness and market penetration as a local brand. Toyota ranked third with 129,085 units, continuing to lead the non-national car segment, while Honda ranked fourth with 75,599 units, reflecting the solid position of Japanese brands in the traditional fuel vehicle sector. Notably, Chinese brands Chery and BYD entered the top six with 31,666 units and 14,407 units respectively, with year-on-year growth rates as high as 60% and 68%, demonstrating the success of their electric vehicle and cost-effective SUV strategies. From the monthly data, Perodua's monthly sales remained stable at over 30,000 units, and set a record of 33,657 units in November, with its flagship model Bezza continuing to lead the segment. Overall, the market pattern in 2025 showed a situation of dominance by the two national car giants, steady performance of Japanese brands, and the rise of Chinese brands. Although electric vehicle brands like Tesla did not enter the top ten of the year, their monthly sales have exceeded 1,300 units, indicating that future competition will become more diversified.
Q
Who has the best car history report?
In Malaysia, as representatives of local automotive brands, Proton and Perodua possess the most comprehensive and historically significant reports on automotive development. Since its establishment in 1985, Proton has gradually achieved localization by adopting Mitsubishi's technology; its models such as Saga and Persona have become national car icons, and in recent years, it has launched SUV models like the X70 and ventured into the electric vehicle sector. Perodua, through its partnership with Daihatsu, has captured approximately 40% of the market share with economical compact cars such as Myvi and Axia, and its reports document the transformation from imported component substitution to independent R&D. Both brands regularly release production and sales data as well as technical white papers through the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), while third-party platforms like AutoBuzz and Wapcar also provide long-term reliability tracking reports based on user feedback. Notably, local brand reports typically encompass government policy support (e.g., domestic tax incentives), local supply chain integration, and export milestones (such as Proton's expansion into the Middle East market)—content rarely featured in international brand reports. For specific model histories, one may consult Proton Saga's 35-year evolution records or Perodua Myvi's detailed archives highlighting its 15 consecutive years as the best-selling model.
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Latest Q&A
Q
What is cold tire pressure?
Cold tire pressure refers to the tire pressure value measured when the vehicle has been parked in a stationary state for at least three hours or driven no more than 2 kilometers. At this time, the tire temperature is consistent with the ambient temperature, which can accurately reflect the actual pressure state of the tire. Since friction between the tire and the ground during driving generates heat that causes tire pressure to rise, the data measured in a hot tire state needs to be subtracted by approximately 0.2 bar to be regarded as cold tire pressure. The standard cold tire pressure values for different vehicle models usually range from 2.1 to 2.7 bar, and the specific values can be found in the vehicle manual or body labels (such as the B-pillar or fuel tank cap). Maintaining the correct cold tire pressure is crucial: excessively high tire pressure will intensify tire noise, affect braking performance, and cause abnormal wear, while excessively low tire pressure will increase fuel consumption, accelerate tire deformation, and even lead to the risk of tire blowouts. It is recommended to check the cold tire pressure at least once a month, and be sure to confirm that the tire pressure meets the standard before long-distance driving. The pressure can be appropriately increased by 0.1 to 0.2 bar when the vehicle is fully loaded. In addition, regular tire rotation (every 10,000 kilometers or when the tread depth difference reaches 1.5 millimeters) helps to extend tire life.
Q
How does PSI affect driving performance?
The PSI (pounds per square inch) of a tire is a key indicator for measuring tire pressure, which directly affects driving performance and safety. When the tire pressure is higher than the recommended value (usually 22-32 PSI for family cars; refer to the vehicle manual or the label on the door frame for specific values), the contact area between the tire and the ground decreases, leading to increased central wear, reduced grip, longer braking distances, and decreased driving comfort. Conversely, insufficient tire pressure increases rolling resistance, raises fuel consumption, causes excessive sidewall wear and even the risk of tire blowouts, and makes steering response sluggish. Proper tire pressure optimizes fuel efficiency, extends tire life, and ensures handling stability. It is recommended to check tire pressure at least once a month, and it is even more necessary to confirm it before long trips. The measurement should be carried out when the tires are cold to avoid errors. Different vehicle models have different tire pressure requirements due to differences in load and design, and appropriate adjustments are also needed when seasons change. Maintaining the manufacturer's recommended value is the core of balancing safety and performance.
Q
What is the 4 PSI rule on tires?
The 4 PSI rule refers to the recommended inflation pressure range for tire pressure adjustment. It is typically based on the tire pressure value recommended by the vehicle manufacturer and allows a fluctuation of ±4 PSI (approximately 0.28 bar) to accommodate different driving conditions or load requirements. For example, if the standard tire pressure is 32 PSI, the acceptable range would be between 28 and 36 PSI. However, attention must be paid to the MAX PSI (maximum pressure limit) indicated on the tire sidewall to avoid overpressure risks that may lead to tire blowouts.
As an imperial unit of pressure, 1 PSI is approximately equal to 0.0689 bar or 6.895 kPa. In the Malaysian market, tires are commonly labeled with both PSI and bar units. For instance, passenger car tire pressure is usually recommended at 30-35 PSI (2.1-2.4 bar), while SUVs may require 35-40 PSI (2.4-2.8 bar).
Regular tire pressure checks are essential, particularly before long-distance trips. Insufficient tire pressure increases fuel consumption and accelerates tire wear, whereas excessive pressure reduces traction. It is advisable to use a digital tire pressure gauge for monthly inspections and consult the manufacturer's recommended values found on the door jamb or fuel filler cap.
Note that applicable pressures may vary significantly across different vehicle models or tire types (e.g., high-performance tires vs. off-road tires). When replacing tires, strict adherence to the pressure requirements corresponding to the new tires' load index and speed rating is imperative.
Q
What happens if my tire pressure is too low?
Low tire pressure can have multiple negative impacts. Firstly, it significantly increases fuel consumption. As the contact area between the tire and the ground expands, rolling resistance rises, requiring the engine to consume more fuel to maintain driving. In terms of handling, the steering wheel becomes heavy and may pull to one side, affecting driving safety. More seriously, low tire pressure causes abnormal tire heating, accelerating cord breakage and rubber aging, leading to increased shoulder wear and shortening the tire's service life by approximately 30%-40%. When driving at high speeds, the tire may experience wavy wear due to structural deformation, further increasing the risk of a blowout, which is one of the most dangerous safety hazards during high-speed driving. Additionally, insufficient tire pressure reduces braking efficiency, prolonging the braking distance during emergency braking. It is recommended to check tire pressure at least once a month. Standard tires should be maintained at 240-250 kPa, while reinforced tires should be at 280-390 kPa. In summer, the pressure can be slightly reduced to 2.4 bar to account for thermal expansion. If the tire pressure is found to be below 170 kPa, it is considered a dangerous state and requires immediate attention. Common causes include natural leakage, temperature changes, or poor wheel hub sealing, and professional repair services should be sought promptly. Maintaining correct tire pressure not only ensures driving safety but also saves about 3%-5% in fuel costs and extends the tire's service life.
Q
Is 40 PSI too high for car tyres?
A tire pressure of 40 PSI may be on the high side for most family sedans, but this needs to be judged based on the specific vehicle model and the manufacturer's recommendations. The standard tire pressure range for most vehicles is usually between 30-35 PSI; for example, the recommended value for the Honda Accord is 32-35 PSI, and 40 PSI may exceed this range, which could lead to excessive wear on the central area of the tire, reduced grip, and decreased comfort. However, high-performance models or vehicles with special configurations may allow for higher tire pressures—some sports sedans, for instance, recommend maintaining a pressure between 40-45 PSI. Tire pressure needs to be adjusted according to the climate: it will naturally rise in high-temperature environments and may drop in low temperatures. It is recommended to check the cold tire pressure (after parking for more than 3 hours) monthly and refer to the official data on the door jamb label or the user manual. Maintaining excessively high tire pressure for a long time may shorten the tire's lifespan and affect handling stability, but short-distance driving usually does not immediately cause safety issues. If the pressure shows 40 PSI after inflation, you can compare it with the recommended value in the manual and release some air to a reasonable range if necessary. Regular tire pressure maintenance not only improves fuel efficiency (fuel consumption increases by about 3% for every 5 PSI the tire pressure is low) but also avoids the risk of tire blowouts. It is recommended to use a digital tire pressure gauge or have it checked at a professional service point to ensure accuracy.
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