Q

what does it mean when my mercedes says stop vehicle leave engine running

When your Mercedes displays "stop vehicle leave engine running," it means the vehicle's emissions system—typically the diesel particulate filter (DPF)—is undergoing an active regeneration cycle. This process needs the engine to keep running to burn off accumulated soot particles and prevent filter clogging. You should pull over safely as soon as possible but keep the engine running for about 10-15 minutes until the message clears. Shutting off the engine midway can interrupt regeneration, and doing this repeatedly over time will hurt your exhaust system's performance and drive up repair costs. This issue is pretty common here in Malaysia, especially for diesel vehicles used mostly for short trips. When the engine never reaches optimal operating temperature, it can't complete passive regeneration. We always tell owners to take their cars for regular highway runs to let the engine fully warm up—that helps the system clean itself automatically. Also, keep an eye on the DPF warning light on your dashboard. If it pops up frequently, it might be time to head to an authorized service center for a check-up. All modern diesel cars come with these eco-friendly systems, and proper operation really extends component life. With Malaysia's hot climate, staying on top of maintenance is even more crucial—poor-quality fuel with excess impurities can speed up filter clogging, so don't skimp there.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.

Related Q&A

Q
When to shift going by RPM?
When driving a manual transmission vehicle, gear shift timing primarily depends on engine speed (RPM) and driving demands. It is generally recommended to upshift between 2000 and 3000 RPM to ensure smooth power delivery and optimal fuel efficiency, while rapid acceleration or hill climbing may require delaying shifts until above 3500 RPM to utilize maximum torque. Downshifting should be adjusted based on vehicle speed and road conditions—for instance, selecting a lower gear during overtaking or descending hills to maintain the engine within its optimal operating range (approximately 1500 to 2500 RPM), thus preventing engine lugging or excessive RPM. For automatic transmission vehicles, although the transmission shifts automatically, the same principles apply when using manual mode. Particularly in mountainous terrain or during spirited driving, manual gear selection can enhance control. Note that optimal shift points vary by vehicle due to engine characteristics: turbocharged engines typically produce peak torque at lower RPMs, whereas naturally aspirated engines require higher RPMs. Sustaining proper shifting habits over time helps prolong drivetrain longevity and optimize fuel economy.
Q
What is the normal RPM for a truck?
The normal RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) range of a truck varies depending on the engine type and manufacturer settings. At idle, it is usually between 600 and 800 RPM, and around 1500 RPM when starting. Under normal driving conditions, the engine RPM is generally maintained between 1000 and 3000 RPM. For cruising on flat roads, it is recommended to keep it between 1000 and 1500 RPM, while it increases to 2000 to 3000 RPM during acceleration. When driving at high speeds, the RPM should be controlled between 1500 and 2500 RPM to balance power and fuel efficiency, and an RPM of around 3000 is suitable for scenarios requiring maximum power output. It should be noted that excessively low RPM may cause engine vibration, while excessively high RPM will increase fuel consumption. Therefore, during driving, the gear and RPM should be matched to avoid low-gear high-speed or high-gear low-speed operations, so as to protect the engine and extend the vehicle's service life. If abnormal RPM is detected, timely maintenance should be carried out to ensure the truck is in optimal working condition.
Q
What happens if the torque is too high?
Excessively high torque can have multiple impacts on vehicle performance and mechanical components. Engine torque is a key indicator for measuring power output; while high torque can significantly enhance acceleration performance, climbing ability, and load-carrying capacity, exceeding a reasonable range will lead to negative effects. Firstly, excessively high torque will increase the load on the transmission system, which may cause problems such as premature wear of the clutch, excessive stress on gearbox gears, and even deformation of the drive shaft. In terms of the chassis, excessive torque output may cause the drive wheels to slip, especially on wet roads, reducing the effectiveness of the traction control system. For the engine itself, continuous operation at high torque will accelerate the fatigue of core components such as piston rings and crankshaft bearings, affecting their service life. From the perspective of driving experience, if excessively high torque is not properly limited by the electronic system, it may lead to overly sensitive throttle response at low speeds, increasing the difficulty of handling in urban congestion. It is worth noting that although turbocharged engines can provide high torque at low speeds, improper tuning can easily lead to torque steer, affecting driving stability. It is recommended that car owners choose torque parameters according to their actual needs. A torque range of 200-400 N·m can balance power and fuel economy for daily driving. For professional off-road or towing needs, models with more than 400 N·m can be considered, but they require reinforced transmission and cooling systems.
Q
Does more RPM mean more torque?
The relationship between engine speed (RPM) and torque is not a simple linear proportionality, but rather an inverse relationship under the premise of constant power. At low engine speeds, due to the extended fuel injection and intake duration, the combustion pressure inside the cylinders increases, resulting in higher torque output, which is suitable for scenarios requiring strong traction such as vehicle launch, hill climbing, or heavy loads. Conversely, torque decreases at high speeds, but power may increase to support high-speed driving. This characteristic stems from the physical formula "Power = Torque × Speed × Constant." Therefore, different vehicle models are calibrated for torque curves based on their intended purposes. For example, diesel engines or turbocharged engines typically emphasize high torque at low speeds, while high-performance vehicles prioritize power output at high speeds. In daily driving, rationally utilizing transmission gear ratios to match speed and torque (such as using first gear for high-torque hill climbing and higher gears for low-RPM cruising) can optimize fuel economy and dynamic performance.
Q
What is low RPM high torque?
Low RPM high torque refers to the characteristic of an engine that can deliver substantial torque within a relatively low RPM range (typically 1500-3000 rpm). This design significantly enhances a vehicle's launch acceleration and hill-climbing capability. When engine power remains constant, torque is inversely proportional to RPM. Consequently, generating high torque at low RPM enables the crankshaft to produce greater power per revolution, providing ample traction without requiring high engine speeds—particularly advantageous for urban stop-and-go driving or mountainous terrain. Turbocharged models often excel in this regard; for instance, certain popular local SUVs achieve peak torque at 1800 rpm, facilitating loaded hill ascents or overtaking maneuvers. By contrast, low-torque engines must rely on higher RPMs to compensate for power deficiency, resulting in increased fuel consumption and acceleration lag. Notably, the low-RPM high-torque characteristic also reduces shift frequency, minimizes mechanical wear, and improves driving smoothness—especially beneficial for drivers frequently encountering congested conditions. When evaluating this parameter during vehicle selection, prioritize models whose torque curve peaks earlier, typically indicated in specifications as "XX N·m @ 1500-4000 rpm."
Q
What happens when you max out RPM?
When the engine speed reaches or approaches the redline area (typically above 4500 rpm), the short-term impact on the vehicle is limited. However, prolonged high-speed operation will significantly accelerate internal component wear. Critical parts such as piston rings, crankshafts, and connecting rods may deform or sustain damage due to excessive friction. High engine speeds also cause a rapid temperature rise. If the cooling system fails to dissipate heat effectively, it may result in premature oil degradation, diminished lubrication performance, and even mechanical failures like piston seizure against cylinder walls. Peripheral systems including turbochargers and transmissions also face elevated failure risks under sustained high-pressure conditions. While modern vehicles are generally equipped with rev limiters to prevent over-revving, prolonged operation within the high-torque range of 3500-4000 rpm still reduces component lifespan and increases fuel consumption due to incomplete combustion. Properly managing engine speed, avoiding abrupt acceleration, and performing regular maintenance (such as using premium-grade oil and inspecting cooling systems) can effectively mitigate adverse effects and ensure stable engine operation within specified parameters. Notably, occasional high-rpm operation aids in carbon deposit reduction, though a balance must be maintained between performance demands and mechanical durability.
Q
What are the benefits of low end torque?
The core advantage of low-end torque lies in the engine's ability to deliver sufficient rotational force at lower RPM ranges, bringing multiple benefits. First, in terms of fuel economy, the required power can be obtained without revving the engine high, effectively reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, which meets energy-saving needs. Second, regarding driving convenience, the power response is rapid during start-up, climbing hills, or overtaking at medium and low speeds, making it particularly suitable for congested urban road conditions and ensuring smoother vehicle operation. Mechanically, low-speed operation reduces the load on the engine and transmission system, minimizes wear and tear, extends component lifespan, and enhances the reliability of the overall powertrain. In terms of ride comfort, lower vibration and noise at low RPMs improve the driving and riding experience. Additionally, it has strong adaptability: it can maintain high fuel efficiency on urban roads and provide stable power support on highways. Properly tuned low-end torque output (such as within the "golden torque range") can balance power performance and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for daily commuting and economy models, while also contributing to energy conservation, emission reduction, and sustainable development.
Q
Which engine gives more torque?
Among the engines in the Malaysian market, the one with the highest torque is the Hybrid powertrain equipped in the Tank 500, which delivers a combined torque of up to 750N•m. This system features a Miller-cycle 2.0T engine with a combined power of 300kW, balancing strong performance and fuel efficiency—boasting a combined fuel consumption of only 2.06L/100km and a fuel consumption of 8.80L/100km when the battery is depleted. It also comes with BorgWarner's new-generation EMOD intelligent four-wheel drive system, with a pre-sale price below 350,000 Malaysian Ringgit. In addition, the 2.8L turbocharged diesel engine of the Toyota Hilux generates 500N•m of torque, while the 2.4L version produces 400N•m; the 2.4L twin-turbocharged diesel engine of the Mitsubishi Triton Athlete delivers 470N•m; the 2.0L TGDI turbocharged engine of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro offers 390N•m; and the 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine of the Proton X70 provides 255N•m. These engines are applied in different models to meet users' power needs for various scenarios such as daily commuting, off-roading, or cargo hauling.
Q
How much torque is equal to 1 hp?
Torque and horsepower are not directly convertible units; their conversion requires consideration of engine speed. According to the formula, horsepower (hp) = torque (Nm) × speed (rpm) ÷ 5252. Thus, the torque value corresponding to 1 horsepower depends on the rotational speed: at 5252 rpm, 1 horsepower equals 1 Newton-meter of torque; when the speed decreases to 2626 rpm, 1 horsepower corresponds to 2 Newton-meters of torque. The higher the speed, the less torque is required to produce the same horsepower. Additionally, this relationship can be derived from the power formula: power (kW) = torque × speed ÷ 9549, where 1 horsepower is approximately 0.735 kilowatts. Substituting these values yields the same relationship between torque, horsepower, and speed. This conversion helps in understanding vehicle performance characteristics. For instance, diesel engines, with their low-speed high-torque output, are well-suited for heavy-load applications, while gasoline engines, delivering high horsepower at elevated speeds, are better adapted for high-speed driving requirements.
Q
How do you calculate horsepower from torque?
To calculate horsepower from torque, it is necessary to combine rotational speed with the corresponding unit formulas: metric horsepower (PS) is calculated by multiplying torque (Newton-meters, N·m) by rotational speed (revolutions per minute, rpm) and then dividing by 9549; imperial horsepower (hp) is calculated by multiplying torque (pound-feet, lb-ft) by rotational speed (rpm) and dividing by 5252. For example, if an engine has a torque of 300 N·m and a rotational speed of 3000 rpm, the metric horsepower is 300×3000÷9549≈94 PS. Horsepower is essentially a unit of power, reflecting the engine's ability to do work per unit time, while torque is a measure of rotational moment. The two are related through rotational speed—when the rotational speed increases, horsepower will increase even if the torque remains unchanged. In addition, for unit conversion, 1 kilowatt ≈ 1.36 metric horsepower, 1 metric horsepower ≈ 0.735 kilowatts, and the conversion ratio between imperial horsepower and metric horsepower is approximately 1 hp ≈ 1.014 PS. In actual calculations, the corresponding formula should be selected according to the torque unit used to ensure the accuracy of the result.
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Latest Q&A

Q
When to shift going by RPM?
When driving a manual transmission vehicle, gear shift timing primarily depends on engine speed (RPM) and driving demands. It is generally recommended to upshift between 2000 and 3000 RPM to ensure smooth power delivery and optimal fuel efficiency, while rapid acceleration or hill climbing may require delaying shifts until above 3500 RPM to utilize maximum torque. Downshifting should be adjusted based on vehicle speed and road conditions—for instance, selecting a lower gear during overtaking or descending hills to maintain the engine within its optimal operating range (approximately 1500 to 2500 RPM), thus preventing engine lugging or excessive RPM. For automatic transmission vehicles, although the transmission shifts automatically, the same principles apply when using manual mode. Particularly in mountainous terrain or during spirited driving, manual gear selection can enhance control. Note that optimal shift points vary by vehicle due to engine characteristics: turbocharged engines typically produce peak torque at lower RPMs, whereas naturally aspirated engines require higher RPMs. Sustaining proper shifting habits over time helps prolong drivetrain longevity and optimize fuel economy.
Q
Which RPM is best for mileage?
The most fuel-efficient RPM range for vehicles is typically between 2000 and 3000 revolutions per minute, with specific values adjusted according to the vehicle model, engine displacement, and driving conditions. For naturally aspirated engines, the economical RPM range is generally between 2000 and 2500 revolutions per minute. Turbocharged models, capable of delivering high torque at lower RPMs, may have an optimal fuel-efficient range as low as 1700 to 2000 RPM. Maintaining 2000 to 2500 RPM during urban driving optimizes combustion efficiency, while increasing to 2500 to 3000 RPM during highway driving helps balance power requirements with fuel economy. Manual transmission vehicles should avoid high-gear low-speed or low-gear high-speed operation, whereas automatic transmission vehicles can utilize eco-mode for better control. Note that prolonged operation below 2000 RPM may lead to carbon buildup, while exceeding 3500 RPM increases fuel consumption due to heightened mechanical friction. Small-displacement vehicles (under 1.5L) achieve optimal fuel efficiency at 60-90 km/h, while medium-displacement models (1.6-2.0L) perform best at 80-110 km/h. Matching these speeds with the ideal RPM range significantly reduces fuel consumption. During actual driving, monitor instrument panel indicators and combine smooth acceleration with anticipatory deceleration (such as gear coasting) to further enhance fuel efficiency.
Q
What RPM to shift Indian Scout?
The optimal shift RPM for the Indian Scout should be determined based on the characteristics of its 1250cc liquid-cooled SpeedPlus engine, which delivers peak torque at 6300 RPM and maximum horsepower at 7250 RPM, with a redline extending to 8500 RPM. For smooth daily driving, shifting between 2500-3000 RPM is recommended to balance power and fuel efficiency. However, when pursuing performance acceleration, the RPM should be maintained above 6000 to fully exploit the high-rev power advantage. Note the speed ranges for each gear: first gear covers 0-20 km/h, second gear 10-30 km/h. Additionally, adjust for load and road conditions—delay shifts to 3000-3500 RPM when climbing or fully loaded to prevent power loss. During actual riding, monitor both the tachometer movement and engine sound; when RPM rises steadily but acceleration weakens, it indicates an upshift opportunity.
Q
Is driving at 3500 RPM good?
Whether maintaining an engine speed of 3500 RPM while driving is harmful to the engine requires case-by-case analysis. This speed falls within the normal operating range for most passenger vehicles (typically 3000-4000 RPM being the ideal range), and short-term use won't cause significant issues—in fact, it helps reduce carbon buildup. However, prolonged operation at this speed may accelerate wear on internal engine components (such as pistons and crankshafts), while the increased temperature hastens oil degradation and raises fuel consumption. For turbocharged models in particular, sustained high RPMs impose additional stress on the forced induction system. Note that if the vehicle exhibits excessive torque output at 3500 RPM (manifested as abrupt forward movement during gear changes), downshifting at slightly lower RPMs is advisable for better fuel efficiency. Modern engines incorporate design safety margins; occasional high-RPM operation remains normal as long as extended periods near redline (typically above 4500 RPM) are avoided. For optimal engine longevity, daily cruising should primarily remain below 3000 RPM.
Q
What RPM before driving?
Before starting the vehicle, the engine speed should be properly controlled according to the warm-up phase. During a cold start, the initial idle speed typically ranges between 1200-1500 rpm (and may reach 1500 rpm in winter). This is designed by the ECU to accelerate warming through high idle speed. After approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute, it will decrease to around 1000 rpm, at which point you can engage gear and begin moving. It is advisable to maintain the speed below 2000 rpm during initial driving and avoid exceeding 3000-3500 rpm. Normal acceleration can be resumed once the coolant temperature reaches 60°C (after about 3 kilometers of low-speed driving). Note that modern fuel-injected vehicles do not require prolonged stationary warm-up; low-speed driving can commence once idle stabilizes. Excessively high engine speeds may cause fuel wastage and mechanical wear. Idle speed standards vary slightly among different vehicle models. After proper warm-up, the idle should stabilize between 550-850 rpm. The primary difference between summer and winter lies in the duration of high idle operation; colder environments require more time for engine oil to achieve full lubrication.
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