Q
What safety features are included in the Chery Tiggo 7?
The Proton Saga, one of Malaysia's most beloved homegrown economy cars, delivers real-world fuel efficiency figures of around 14-16 km/liter in the city and 16-18 km/liter on the highway for its 1.3L variant. Of course, these numbers can vary a bit depending on your driving style, the roads you take, and how well you keep the car maintained. Under the hood, you'll find the tried-and-tested Campro VVT engine, paired with either a 4-speed auto or 5-speed manual gearbox. It strikes a pretty solid balance between sipping fuel and delivering smooth, usable power for everyday drives.
Now, if you want to keep those fuel costs in check, regular maintenance is key. Simple things like changing the air filter on schedule, using the right viscosity engine oil, and keeping your tires properly inflated can all help optimize how efficiently the Saga runs. For those really chasing maximum mpg, Proton does offer other models with smaller turbocharged engines, but the Saga still holds its ground as a value champ for city commuting, thanks to its wallet-friendly price tag and low upkeep costs.
And let's not forget Malaysia's hot and rainy weather – it's a good idea to pay extra attention to your cooling system and battery with regular checks. These little details might seem minor, but they can definitely play a part in keeping your Saga running at its best.
Special Disclaimer: This content is published by users and does not represent the views or position of PCauto.
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Q
How often should you replace front suspension?
The replacement frequency of the front suspension system usually depends on the vehicle's usage conditions, driving habits, and road conditions. Generally speaking, front suspension components like shock absorbers, control arms, and ball joints have a lifespan of around 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. However, if you frequently drive on bumpy roads or carry heavy loads, you may need to inspect or replace them earlier. It's recommended to conduct a comprehensive suspension system inspection every 20,000 kilometers or once a year, especially if you notice abnormal noises, steering wheel vibration, or uneven tire wear—then you should promptly take it to a professional repair shop for testing. In addition, maintaining the suspension system is important; regularly cleaning and lubricating relevant components can extend its service life. Understanding how the suspension system works also helps car owners better maintain their vehicles. For example, the role of shock absorbers is to absorb road vibrations, while control arms connect the wheels to the car body, ensuring driving stability. Ignoring suspension system issues not only affects driving comfort but can also endanger driving safety, so regular inspection and maintenance are essential.
Q
What happens if the rear suspension fails?
When the rear suspension system fails, the vehicle will exhibit a noticeable decrease in handling and instability while driving. Especially when cornering or passing over uneven roads, the rear end will swing or lean abnormally, increasing the risk of rollover. At the same time, tire wear will also intensify, which may lead to dangerous situations such as tire blowouts. In addition, a faulty suspension will affect the vehicle's load-carrying capacity, causing the rear to sink or produce abnormal noises. To ensure driving safety, it is recommended to regularly inspect various components of the suspension system, including shock absorbers, springs, and control arms. If any abnormalities are found, they should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner. When driving normally, also pay attention to avoiding overloading or passing through bumpy sections at high speed, as these will put additional strain on the suspension system. If you frequently drive on harsh road conditions, you can consider upgrading suspension components to improve durability, but it should be noted that modified suspension may affect the original factory tuning balance, so it is best to do so under the guidance of professional technicians.
Q
What are the benefits of rear suspension?
The advantages of the rear suspension system mainly lie in three aspects: enhancing driving comfort, handling stability, and vehicle adaptability. Independent rear suspension effectively absorbs road bumps and reduces the transmission of vibrations into the cabin, making it particularly suitable for the local winding road conditions and providing passengers with a smoother ride. In terms of handling, advanced rear suspension structures such as multi-link or double wishbone can precisely control tire contact with the road, enhancing grip during cornering, which is especially important for drivers who often encounter rainy and slippery road surfaces. In addition, an excellent rear suspension design can also balance changes in vehicle load, maintaining stable body posture whether carrying full passengers or transporting items. It is worth noting that different suspension types have their own characteristics. For example, the torsion beam structure is lower in cost and saves space, while the air suspension can automatically adjust the height. The choice needs to be considered based on actual vehicle usage needs. With technological advancements, some models now are also equipped with active rear suspension systems, which can adjust damping force in real-time through sensors to further optimize the driving and riding experience.
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.
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Q
What is front wheel braking?
Front-wheel braking refers to a system design where the front wheels take on the primary deceleration task when a vehicle brakes. This is the standard setup in most regular cars because when you hit the brakes, the vehicle's weight shifts forward, and the front wheels need stronger stopping power to keep things stable. The front brake system usually includes components like brake discs, calipers, and brake pads. When you press the brake pedal, the hydraulic system pushes the calipers to clamp down on the discs, using friction to slow the vehicle down. Compared to rear-wheel braking, front-wheel braking delivers more direct deceleration, which is especially crucial during emergency stops. Modern vehicles typically use a mixed braking setup, with the front wheels handling about 70% of the braking force and the rear wheels around 30% to ensure balance. Some high-performance or modified cars upgrade their front brake systems—like using larger discs or multi-piston calipers—to boost braking performance. In daily driving, it’s important to regularly check the wear on the front brake pads. If you hear strange noises when braking or notice a drop in stopping power, you might need to replace the pads or check the brake fluid condition. Knowing this stuff helps car owners maintain their vehicles better and keep driving safe.
Q
What are wheel brakes?
Wheel brakes are the core component of a vehicle's braking system, using friction to convert wheel kinetic energy into heat energy to slow down or stop the vehicle. They mainly come in two types: drum brakes and disc brakes. Drum brakes feature an internal design where brake shoes rub against a rotating brake drum. They're lower in cost and offer good dust resistance, commonly found on the rear wheels of economy cars. Disc brakes, on the other hand, work by calipers clamping down on a rotating brake disc. They provide better heat dissipation and more responsive braking, making them popular for front wheels or high-performance models. Modern vehicles typically use a mixed front-rear setup to balance cost and performance, such as front discs with rear drums or four-wheel discs. It's worth noting that electronic assist technologies like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) are now commonly integrated into wheel brake systems. These systems effectively prevent wheel lock-up and optimize braking force distribution, significantly enhancing safety on slippery roads. In daily use, it's important to check brake pad thickness and brake fluid condition. Unusual noises or increased braking distance are signs that require prompt inspection and repair. Regular maintenance ensures the braking system remains in optimal working condition.
Q
How do I know if I need to replace the suspension?
To determine whether the suspension system needs to be replaced, several common signs can be observed, such as abnormal noise (such as creaking or knocking) when the vehicle is driving, especially when passing through bumpy roads, or feeling the body sinking or tilting significantly, and decreased stability when cornering. In addition, if there is uneven wear on the tires, it may also be due to aging of the suspension system causing inaccurate positioning. If you find that the shock absorber leaks oil (with oil stains on the outer cylinder) or rebounds more than 2-3 times after pressing a corner of the vehicle, it indicates a decrease in shock absorption effect. If you feel a significant increase in bumps during daily driving, which may even affect comfort and handling, it is recommended to check as soon as possible. The suspension system not only affects the riding experience, but also relates to driving safety. During regular maintenance, technicians can focus on inspecting components such as connecting rods, shock absorbers, and bushings. The suspension life of different car models varies greatly, but it is generally necessary to pay attention to aging after driving 80000 to 100000 kilometers. Some high-performance cars or vehicles that frequently drive in harsh road conditions may be replaced earlier. If the budget allows, upgrading the original or reliable auxiliary suspension components can also improve the driving experience, but it is necessary to choose a professional store for installation to ensure accurate parameter tuning.
Q
How to test for bad rear shocks?
To test if your rear shock absorbers are damaged, there are a few simple ways to check. First, look for oil leaks on the shock absorbers when the vehicle is stationary—oil stains or heavy grime buildup usually mean the seals are aging or there’s internal damage. When driving, if you hear a "creaking" noise from the rear wheels when going over bumps, or if the body rolls significantly more during turns, those could be signs the shocks are failing. Another method is the "bounce test": press down hard on the rear of the car near the trunk and let go quickly. If the body bounces more than twice before settling, the shock absorbers' damping ability has deteriorated. During daily driving, longer braking distances or slipping easily in the rain might also be linked to shocks not keeping the tires properly planted. It’s worth noting that frequent driving on rough roads accelerates shock wear. I recommend inspecting the suspension system every 20,000 kilometers and regularly checking tire wear for uneven patterns, as faulty shocks often cause abnormal tire tread wear. If you notice any of these symptoms, head to a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection ASAP to avoid compromising driving safety and handling stability.
Q
How much should it cost to replace rear shocks?
The cost of replacing rear shock absorbers typically ranges from RM800 to RM2500, with the exact price depending on the vehicle model, type of shock absorber, and repair shop chosen. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) shock absorbers are 20% to 50% more expensive than aftermarket brands, while high-performance or adaptive shock absorbers may cost even more. Installation labor fees are around RM200 to RM400, but luxury cars or models with complex structures may require more labor hours. It's advisable to regularly check the condition of your shock absorbers. If you notice significant leaning during cornering, uneven tire wear, or abnormal noises while driving, these could be signs of aging shock absorbers. When choosing a repair shop, prioritize authorized service centers as they can provide genuine parts and professional diagnostics. Although slightly more expensive, they offer better quality assurance. In daily driving, try to avoid speeding over speed bumps or driving with heavy loads, as these habits can extend the lifespan of your shock absorbers. If on a tight budget, reliable quality aftermarket shock absorbers are also a good option, but note that electronic shock absorbers for some models require professional equipment for matching.
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