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How Does A Turbocharger Work and How Does It Benefit My Car?

By

Brian Wong

A particular British motoring show host once said, “A turbo: Exhaust gasses go into the turbocharger and spin it, witchcraft happens and you go faster”. That, my friends, is what forced induction does to you. What started off as a novelty for performance seekers to an everyday appliance for fuel efficiency and economy.

What is a Turbocharger?

Prior to the invention of turbochargers, superchargers were invented first to accommodate more power to aircraft engines at higher altitudes. Early patents for turbochargers have also been found to be used in steam engines. Turbochargers eventually worked their way into land transportation by use in cargo trucks and later, into passenger-oriented vehicles and motorsports. Turbochargers are a highly sought-after upgrade by automotive and motoring enthusiasts alike.

Today, turbochargers are a main staple among automotive manufacturers. Be it for performance cars or simply for improving gas mileage. Turbochargers are also used to provide extra power for smaller engines and displacement for more economical purposes. Motoring enthusiasts even go to the lengths to retrofit a turbocharger system to a naturally aspirated engine for the thrill of performance and chasing horsepower.

Read More:
Squealing Brakes Are a Cry for Help. Bring It to a Stop before It’s Too Late!

How Does A Turbocharger Work?

In the automotive industry, a
turbocharger
, or turbo for short, is a
forced induction
 device. A snail shell-like turbine forces compressed air into the engine via the flow of exhaust gasses, through an intercooler, then introduces cold, oxygenated air into the engine, hence the term forced induction. Contrary to popular belief, a turbocharger isn’t just a device; it’s a whole
construction of a system
.

A bog-standard turbocharger consists of three main sections – The turbine, the compressor, and the center housing/Rotating Assembly (CHRA). However, the entire turbocharger system can consist of more components:

The Turbo

Turbine

Compressor

Center Housing/Rotating Assembly (CHRA)

The Whole System

Intercooler

Wastegate

Blow-off Valve

Piping and Manifolds

Hot/Cold Side Piping

Petrol engines need oxygen to combust fuel. But what happens when the vehicle or the driver requires more power? Manufacturers in the olden days compensate by adding a larger displacement or more cylinders to their engines. The larger the engine, the larger the total volume of air and fuel mixture pushed through the engine and by the cylinders. This is commonly known as Cubic Centimeters (CC). Hence, it’s pretty common to see displacement in cars ranging from small, four-cylinder, 1.5 Liter (1499 CC) engines in Hondas, to a behemoth 8.3 Liter (8,285 CC) V10 engine found in the Dodge Viper.

Higher displacement dishes out more power. While this may seem good, a weekly trip to the gas station and its annual road tax will make you weep to the bank. Higher displacement engines also take up a lot of weight from the engine size, not to mention the fuel needed to store in capacity. For engines with turbo or forced induction systems, however, it can offer up to a similar performance close to high displacement engines, while being lighter in weight.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrCwmpjR77U

Do All Cars with Turbochargers Gain Performance and Fuel Economy?

Yes, it does. Even if performance is not a priority, having a turbocharged engine will do wonders for your fuel economy. For example, the current ongoing Perodua Ativa boasts a small, 1.0 Liter, three-cylinder engine, yet Wapcar reports that the fuel consumption of
the Perodua Ativa
 is 5.29L/100km. In comparison, the
Honda Jazz in Malaysia
 reports fuel consumption of 6.7 L/100 km for a naturally aspirated, 1.5 Liter, four-cylinder engine.

Turbochargers are also
popular
 among auto manufacturers due to their
low-emission output
. Without going too much into
mechanical engineering
, the more air is sucked into the engine, fuel combustion is improved, thus providing more power while reducing the amount of unburnt fuel wasted and expelled. This is known as Volumetric Efficiency.

Obviously, the bigger the turbo, the more fuel-efficient the car becomes. But when you have a car that comes with super big turbos, that is another whole new territory on its own – performance cars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgLAgCJZdYo

Pros and Cons of Turbochargers

Pros

Huge increase in horsepower

Improved fuel consumption and economy by mixing more air into the fuel

The sound of the turbo flutter when you up/downshift your gears

Reduced exhaust emissions compared to naturally aspirated engines

Cons

Mechanical complexity and cost due to additional parts involved

Turbocharged engines wear out faster than naturally aspirated engines due to mechanical stress.

Powersurge from tampering with the boost controls. For inexperienced drivers, this can lead to fatal accidents.

Without proper care for the intercoolers, turbochargers can suffer from overheating.

Turbo lag occurs among vehicles with larger turbos due to the larger turbine that is built into it.

Read More:
What to Do During a Tire Blowout and How to Avoid Crashing?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StzxurC95-E

Types of Turbocharger Setups

Single Turbo

Single turbos are the most common type of forced induction among auto manufacturers. Often, single turbos are preferred by manufacturers as they are simple and the most cost-effective way to maximize performance out of a small engine. They are commonly found in ranging from small, three-cylinder economy cars to medium and large luxurious vehicles.

Twin Turbo

As opposed to single turbo engines, a twin-turbo setup is similar to it albeit with two turbos working in tandem together. Twin-turbo engines can be had with two different setups – sequential or parallel patterns; these setups are commonly found in performance-oriented vehicles from six-cylinder engines to V-shaped patterned engines.

In short, sequential twin-turbo setups will have two turbochargers—usually, a small one and a larger one behind it, hence the sequential setup. In lower RPM the small turbo spools up faster to minimize turbo lag. When higher RPM is introduced, a valve opens up that allows the air pressure produced from the smaller turbo to feed the bigger one. Bi-turbo is also used interchangeably with sequential twin-turbo setups. Mercedes Benz for example has multiple famous bi-turbo badges and lineups.

For parallel patterned turbos, they are placed side-by-side of each other. Parallel patterned twin turbos, unlike sequential turbos, share the workload equally to provide a boost to the engine. Parallel patterned turbos are favored by V-patterned engines as it delivers air pressure equally to each cylinder bank of the V-patterned engine. Parallel turbos also greatly provide more benefits than sequential due to less piping for the intake manifold required and being simpler to install.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xV0DDJJPjyU

Twin Scroll Turbo

This setup is uncommon among auto manufacturers. Twin scroll turbo setups are two airflow channels located inside a single turbo housing as opposed to a single channel. Each air channel inside a twin-scroll turbo is spun by two or more cylinders to power a central turbine in order to reduce spool times or turbo lag. To deconstruct how it works, say a twin-scroll turbo is attached to a four-cylinder engine. Cylinder one and four sends exhaust pressure to the first channel while cylinder two and three flows through the second one.

In theory, a twin-scroll turbo setup offers much more performance than a standard single-turbo setup. The only flaw of twin-scroll turbos is the mechanical complexity and cost involved in it, hence, its rarity in application.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7JTRRlSEYI

Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT)

This setup is even rarer in petrol engines but commonly found in diesel engines.
VGT Systems
 serves as a middle-ground solution for turbo sizes. Bigger turbos take longer to spool, hence experiencing turbo lag. Smaller turbos on the other hand overheat quickly and cannot dish out as much performance compared to larger turbos. Diesel engines have lower exhaust temperatures and are highly prone to engine failure. VGT systems rectify this by controlling the engine exhaust flow through the turbine wheel by using a row of vanes. For the uninitiated, vanes are similar to fan blades. They are a set of broad blades attached to a rotating axis such as a wheel that is propelled by air pressure.

According to
Garrett’s page
, at low RPMs, the vanes in a VGT system close and restrict exhaust flow into the turbine by an actuator. The turbo still spools but provides a controlled and minimal boost to the engine. When higher RPMs are introduced, the vanes open up and spool up the turbine, even more, giving the engine the power it needs. Its innate complexity and cost make it rare among passenger-oriented vehicles.

Electrically Assisted Turbochargers (EAT)

EAT systems are a relatively new design in the market. Unlike traditional turbocharger systems which solely rely on the flow of exhaust gasses, the spooling of the turbine is now aided by an electrical motor or generator to eliminate turbo lag. BorgWarner was the first to test this mechanism in the early 1990s. Mercedes Benz and Volvo have experience with EAT systems in their vehicles and it has a considerable amount of success in
Formula 1
. With the sad grunts of car enthusiasts at every brand-new law for electrical vehicles implemented, it’s unknown whether this technology will take off. Porsche, however, has some ideas in mind with their brand new EAT system in this video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piaB84MYjWs

With that, we hope that this article has explained well the types of turbochargers out there. Good luck with your search for the right car!

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Car Types
Cars
Comparison
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Tips

Brian Wong


How Much Does It Cost To Own A Car In Malaysia? [Infographic]

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Lifestyle
How Much Does It Cost To Own A Car In Malaysia?

By

carsomeadministrator

After doing thorough research, you have finally decided on getting a new car. The price is attractive, but other than that, you want to know more about the cost of owning a car for the next 5 years. Fret not as we have put down and calculated the total cost of car ownership in this simple infographic below.

What do you think? Are you ready for the total cost of car ownership with the additional payments as listed above?

Always remember that owning a car requires more than just repayments to your loan. It requires the right support and advice to help reach your goals.
Click here
 and follow these steps to a more affordable auto loan!

Looking to get that car of your dreams?
Click here
 for a guide to 5 Crazy Ideas To Raise Money For Your Dream Car!

Want to get a car loan, but you're not sure about what it entails?
Click here
 for A Beginner's Guide To Car Loans!

This article was produced in partnership with Hong Leong Bank Malaysia.

Tags
Cars
Costs
Lifestyle
Maintenance

carsomeadministrator

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Buying A Car
How to Buy a Used Car – 10 Tips You Should Follow

By

Haziq Asyraf

A brand-new car loan is between RM 700 to RM 1200 per month on average for a 7-year loan. Compare that to the monthly installment of RM 300-RM 600 per month for a used car. That’s about RM 5,000 to RM 7,000 a year in savings if you choose a used car that is less than 10 years old and has a mileage of less than 100,000 km priced at RM 60,000. If this is not a steal, then we don’t know what is anymore!

If you want to go down the road with a used car (which is better than a new car in so many ways), here are 10 tips you can follow before you buy your new used car!

Set a Budget
 – The most important tip when it comes to buying a used car is to set a reachable budget according to your financial ability. You can find different car models that can be purchased based on your set budget. Let’s say your budget is RM 50,000. You can get a monthly loan from as low as RM 300 to RM 500 for 5 to 7 years depending on your monthly commitment.

How to Calculate Your Total Loan based on your Pay.

Make sure the price of the car does not exceed your annual pay. If you earn RM 2,700 monthly, the price of your used car must not exceed RM 32,400 (RM 2,700 x 12 months).

The monthly payment should be more than 15% of your total salary. So, the ideal amount for a salary of RM 2,700 would be between RM

300 to RM 500 per month.

Make sure you get a car according to your need and your financial ability, not based on your wants and dreams. To make life easier, you can use Carsome’s loan calculator to help you gauge your monthly allocation based on your budget.

Survey Online
 – In this modern age and time, every information is right at your fingertips. No more travelling far to a used dealership to survey for used cars because there are various online platforms like Carsome that offer used car trading services. It is also best not to go directly to a physical dealership without doing proper research online. You might get swooned by their smooth-talking skills and get something which is above your budget.

Other than that, online car trading platforms also allow you to set “filters” according to your set budget and needs which makes it easier to pick out cars that are within your budget.

Check the Car’s Age
 – Just like the budget, setting the age limit of a used car is also an important tip to know. For example, with a budget of RM20,000, you will be presented with a variety of used cars that you can purchase. If you already have an estimated age of a used car that you want, you can then set the filter to narrow down your search according to it (eg – cars not more than 5 years). You can find the average age of cars that was sold the most to Carsome was between 6-8 years.

Check the Mileage
 –
In general, if the mileage of a used car is high, this would affect the value of the car. You want to choose a car with a low-medium mileage as that makes it easier for you to feel confident when it comes to quality. Low to medium mileage used cars often
offer quality that is near to what you would find in a brand-new car. But do keep in mind that this also depends on the age of the car. Buying a higher mileage but newer car is better than buying an older car with low mileage as components in a car deteriorate over time regardless of how far it has driven.

Check the History of the Car
 – Make sure you check the history of the car before you decide on any used car. Usually, used cars sold at a price that is lower than the market price may have its own hidden history. Find out in advance whether the car you want has been involved in any major accidents, any major overhauling, if it has been flooded, how many times it has changed owners, etc as all this would affect the maintenance of a car in the long run. Avoid getting deceived by the perfect outer appearance of the car.

Record of the Car’s Service Schedule
 – Used cars that are serviced consistently according to its schedule gives an indication that the car is in a good shape. If it is possible, you should look out for car owners who service their car at their respective brand’s service centers.

These service centers would have a proper record of all service done to the car. This maintenance information is particularly helpful when you want to find out in depth about the used car that you want to purchase, be it information related to spare parts or major damages to engines and other parts of the car.

Check the Exterior and Interior of the Car
– You should check out for any dents, bumps, or defects on and inside the car that you are planning to buy because if there are any, getting these fixed can be quite tiresome and costly. What you can do is try to negotiate for a discount if you detect any damage on the car that the owner does not wish to repair.

Take in mind the repair cost – repainting the car’s body is about RM 2,000 to RM 5,000, to remove a dent from the car starts from RM 150 and this is based on how deep the dent is. Meanwhile to deep clean your seats can cost up to RM 200 based on the material.

Inspect the Other Parts of the Car
 – Here’s what you should look out for when you are inspecting all additional parts of the car.

High and low lights, fog lights and hazard lights.

Air conditioner.

Car horn.

Radio and compact disc (CD) player or touch screen.

Car door handles and compartments.

Power window switch, side mirrors.

2.4V socket or spark plug.

Trigger oil tanks, bonnet, and car boots.

Seat belts and seat adjusters.

Storage tires and toolbox.

Dashboard indicator lights.

Check the Engine of the Car
 – Once you are satisfied with the exterior and interior of the car, the next step is to check the engine. If you are not so well versed with the engine of a car, especially when it comes to technical matters, do seek the help of a trusted mechanic.

Just by listening to the engine of a car, they would know exactly what is wrong with it and would be able give you proper advice on the car that you want to purchase. But if you want to do it yourself, here is a guide that you can follow –

Check for any leakage of oils.

To check the radiator condition, open the top cover to inspect the murkiness of the radiator water.

Check the connection cables if there are any damages or if it is disconnected.

Make sure no components are detached, worn out or damaged.

Check the engine oil.

Test Drive the Car
 – No matter from where you get your used car, whether it’s from a dealer or an owner, you have every right to test drive the car before you purchase it.

Test driving would give you the ultimate satisfaction and help you decide if you would like to purchase that car. Here’s are some tips for test driving a used car –

Test the car brakes. Identify if there are any strange sounds during braking.

Test the steering wheel during turns (sharp turns or normal turns). Look out for strange noises when you turn.

Test drive in uneven terrains. This is to check the tires, suspensions, and gears.

Drive at various speeds to put the engine to test.

Make sure the car gears move smoothly no matter if it’s automatic or manual.

We hope these 10 tips will help you when you start looking out for a used car. But if you want to make your life easier, you can always
buy your new used car
 at Carsome. Carsome is an online platform that buys and sells used cars, hassle free!

Covering 175 inspection points, used cars sold by Carsome are definitely Carsome Certified, with no major accidents, frame or flood damage. In fact, if you get your car through Carsome, you will enjoy a one year extended warranty and 5 days money back guarantee under the Carsome Promise.  Check out the website to know more.

Haziq Asyraf
A self-proclaimed foodie and gamer whose passion for food and games has recently extended to cars.


From Engine Oil to Coolant: Here’s How to Check the 6 Essential Car Oils & Fluids

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Car Tips
From Engine Oil to Coolant: Here’s How to Check the 6 Essential...

By

Devan S

Everybody knows that a car requires regular maintenance to keep it running reliably and efficiently. But did you know that maintaining your car’s oils and fluids is one of the most important aspects of car maintenance? Keeping your car’s fluids at the proper level will not only increase your car’s longevity but make it safer to drive. In this article, we’ll look at how to check the various car fluids from the engine oil to the brake fluid.

Engine Oil

The engine oil is probably the most important car fluid. Since the pistons and other
engine
components move thousands of times a minute, they face extreme friction. Engine oil prevents serious damage to the engine by lubricating the various components while the car is running.

There are three types of engine oils on the market: mineral, semi-synthetic, and fully-synthetic. While all engine oils should be able to do the job, they differ in their effectiveness and lifespan. In terms of cost, mineral oils are the cheapest, followed by semi-synthetic, and fully-synthetic oils being the costliest. Mineral oils also require a change every 5,000 kilometers, while semi-synthetic and fully-synthetic oils should be changed every 7,000 and 10,000 kilometers respectively.

How to Check Your Engine Oil

Checking the engine oil is easy and is something every car owner should know how to do. To start, locate the engine oil dipstick which should be near the top of the engine. Make sure the engine is cold or has been turned off for at least 10 minutes to get an accurate reading. Then, pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel. Reinsert the dipstick and pull it back out to check the engine oil level.

There are minimum and maximum oil level markers on the dipstick. It’s best to have the oil level to be close to maximum. If it’s near or below the minimum, add more engine oil as driving with low engine oil can damage your engine. If you have a low engine oil level, it’s best to get your car checked as it could indicate that your engine is burning oil or leaking.

Check Your Car Engine Oil Color

Besides the engine oil level, checking its condition is equally important. While checking, look at the color of the oil on the dipstick, if it’s yellow or a light amber color, that’s good news. If it’s dark brown or black, it’s time to change your oil. However, if the oil has a milky color, you could have coolant leaking into the engine.

Another thing you should check is whether there are foreign particles in the oil. To check it, touch the oil on the dipstick. If it’s smooth, you’re all good. However, if it feels gritty, that could mean your engine components are wearing down and getting deposited in the engine oil.

Radiator Coolant

The radiator coolant is another vital car fluid as it prevents your engine from
overheating
. The coolant absorbs all the heat produced by the combustion and friction in the engine and dissipates it through the radiator. The coolant replacement interval varies between cars, so it’s best to refer to your owner’s manual but in general, it averages from 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers.

How to Check Your Radiator Coolant

To check your car’s radiator coolant, you have to locate the radiator coolant reserve or overflow tank. This tank is located just beside the radiator and has a hose at the top connecting it to the radiator. Check the tank to make sure the coolant level falls between the minimum and maximum indicators on the tank. If the level is low, just fill the tank with coolant up to the top. However, make sure that you add the right type of coolant. If you’re not sure, you can check your owner’s manual.

While it’s uncommon, some cars may come without a radiator coolant reserve tank. If that’s the case, open the radiator cap and make sure that the coolant is filled to the top. Remember to always check the coolant water when your engine is cool as the pressure can build up in the radiator when it’s hot, and you can burn yourself if hot coolant sprays out.

Read More:

A Guide to Car Warning Lights and Indicators

Brake Fluid

Brake oil or fluid is essential to prevent accidents as it helps your car to stop when needed. When you step on the brake pedal, a plunger pressurizes the brake fluid in the brake lines. The fluid transfers the force to your brake pads which then clamp onto the brake rotors, slowing down your car. Over time, brake fluid can leak and lead to a spongy brake pedal feel. Water could also enter the brake lines resulting in corrosion in the braking system and reduced braking performance.

How to Check Your Brake Fluid

The brake fluid reservoir is located in the engine bay, usually at the rear of the engine compartment. You can usually identify the brake fluid cap by the brake fluid text and brake symbol on the cap. When checking your brake fluid, make sure the level is between the minimum and maximum indicators.

You can top up the car brake fluid if it’s below the minimum line but make sure it’s compatible with your car. Also, check that the fluid is clean and translucent. If it’s dark and cloudy, you should get it replaced at a workshop. Replacing brake fluid requires a fluid flush, so it’s best to get it done professionally.

Transmission Fluid

The gears, clutches, and valves in a transmission work together to provide smooth gear shifts so you can drive comfortably at any speed. Being an essential car fluid, the transmission fluid lubricates and cools the components inside the transmission so that it works smoothly. If you have low transmission fluid levels, or if it’s deteriorated, your car could have rough shifting, noises during shifting, and random jerking or surging while driving. It’s generally advised to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 kilometers.

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Checking the
manual or automatic transmission
 fluid involves the same process. Some cars have a transmission fluid dipstick while others require a mechanic to check it. If your car has this dipstick, it should be located near the rear of the engine bay, where the transmission meets the engine. Keep the engine running while you check the fluid it needs to be at operating temperature to get an accurate reading. You should also check your owner’s manual whether to keep your car in Park or Neutral gear while taking the reading.

If your engine is warm enough, you can check the oil level on the dipstick and make sure that it’s within the minimum and maximum levels. If the level is low, you can add more fluid. After checking that you’ve added enough, shift the gear selector through all the gears with your foot on the brake. This will help the new transmission fluid to travel through the whole transmission and coat each component. Transmission fluid is typically red and translucent when new. If it’s dark, gritty, or cloudy, it’s a sign that it should be changed.

Power Steering Fluid

Most modern cars have a hydraulic power steering system that uses fluid to make turning the steering wheel easy at any speed. When you’re low on power steering fluid, the steering could feel heavy or jerky to turn which impacts your car’s maneuverability. The recommended replacement interval for the power steering fluid is every 50,000 to 100,000 kilometers depending on the vehicle, so be sure to check your owner’s manual.

How to Check Your Power Steering Fluid

Checking the power steering fluid is similar to checking other car fluids. Most vehicles have a power steering fluid reservoir with a cap that says ‘power steering fluid’. It’s usually located at the rear end of the engine bay near the driver’s side. You then need to check the fluid level and make sure it’s between the minimum and maximum markings on the reservoir.

You can top up the fluid level if it’s low, but make sure to use the fluid type specified for your vehicle. Power steering fluid is usually red, pink, or yellow in color when new and turns brown or black when it ages. If you have a dark colored power steering fluid, it’s a good time to get it replaced.

Read More:

A Guide to Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Windshield Washer Fluid

A clear windshield is essential for safe driving, so maintaining your windshield washer fluid is important. You can check your windshield washer fluid by locating the reservoir with the windshield symbol on its cap. If the fluid level is low, you can simply add new washer fluid into the reservoir until it’s full and close the cap.

Windshield washer fluids are available at auto supply stores and petrol stations, and some even contain special additives to keep your windshield clearer in the rain. But in a pinch, you can make your own windshield washer fluid at home by diluting a few drops of shampoo with water.
Now that you know how to check the various car oils and fluids, you can make sure they’re in good condition without waiting for problems to arise.

Choose CARSOME Certified for Quality Pre-owned Cars

If you’re looking for a
pre-owned car
 in top condition, check out the large selection of cars at CARSOME.
Each of our cars is put through a 175-point inspection to ensure they’re free from major accidents and flood damage. Only selected cars pass our CARSOME Certified requirements so each car has our guarantee of quality. We also replace the lubricants and fluids in our cars so they can serve you better.

Additionally, every CARSOME Certified car includes:

A professional refurbishment to give the car complete comfort,  safety beyond standards, and a refurbished aesthetic.

Fixed prices without any hidden fees, including road tax, Puspakom inspection fee, ownership transfer fee, and loan application fee.

A five-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind.

A one-year warranty to ensure further peace of mind.

So what are you waiting for? Visit
CARSOME
and find your dream car today!

Devan S
Devan believes written content is here to stay despite our depleting attention span and the rise of short videos. He loves four and two-wheeled vehicles, and movies of all makes and models.


Check ‘Saman’ Online: MyEG, AES, JPJ, and PDRM

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Check 'Saman' Online: MyEG, AES, JPJ, and PDRM

By

Haziq Asyraf

With the extended Covid pandemic, we are thankful for all the ways we can check and settle our summons from the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Road Transport Department (JPJ), and AES online. Here, we will be sharing with you how you can check your
saman
 from these related departments online, via SMS, or with your car plate number.

Table of Contents

Check PDRM and Other Summons Online

Check Summons on MyEG

Check Summons on JPJ’s Official Website

Check Summons via RILEK

Check Summons via PDRM’s SSO

Check Via MyBayar Saman Platform, by the PDRM

Check Saman using Car Plate Number via SMS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Check PDRM and Other Summons Online

Here are 5 ways you can check if you have any unpaid summons online:

Check Summons on MyEG

MyEG
 is short for  Malaysian Electronic-Government (“E-Government), and is the MSC’s Flagship Application. MYEG builds, operates and owns the electronic channel to deliver services from various Government agencies such as the PDRM and JPJ to Malaysian citizens and businesses. It offers services such as road tax and insurance renewal, driving license renewal, MyKad (ID) replacement, and PDRM summons services where you can check for PDRM summons and pay them.

Once you’ve logged on to the MyEG website, simply log in and click on “Check Summons”. You will be able to see all the information related to your summons here and choose to settle these summonses online through the many online payment options. With this platform offering various other services, you can save time by settling other tasks on MyEG besides checking your
saman.

Check Summons on JPJ’s Official Website

You can also check your JPJ and AES summons on
JPJ’s website.
 The JPJ summons are usually records of notices or summons issued against vehicle users or owners who commit traffic offenses. The AES summons refers to offenses detected by automatic detection systems that are installed on the main roads all over Malaysia using cameras (pictures and videos).

Summons that are issued by JPJ are divided into two types – summons that can be compounded and summons that cannot be compounded. A compoundable summon can be paid within the period specified. Whereas a summon that cannot be compounded must be settled in court as specified in the summon slip. JPJ or AES summons can be paid at any JPJ State Office, JPJ Branches near you, or through e-Services.

The installation of AES (Automated Enforcement System) Cameras in the AWAS (Automated Awareness Safety System) is one of the proactive measures introduced by JPJ to reduce the number of accidents and deaths on the road that indirectly involves offenses related to speed limits and red-light violations. AES is an automated method of enforcing traffic rules and laws that operates 24 hours a day regardless of weather conditions in certain locations such as on highways and traffic light intersections.

This list is classified into 2 different categories – speed limit and traffic lights. Currently, there are a total of 45 AES cameras (29 for speed limits and 16 for traffic lights) at various locations all over Malaysia.

Check Summons via RILEK

RILEK
 which is an abbreviation for “Rangkaian Interactif Laman Electronic Kerajaan” or Government Interactive Network Portal is a website that provides interactive access to different government agencies. This website allows you to check on your PDRM summons inquiries and make payments.

Check Summons via PDRM’s SSO

The
‘Sistem Semakan Online’ (SSO)
 or the Online Review System is a service provided by PDRM that allows the public to review online services such as reviewing your police report’s status and investigations (if any), the status of unexplained traffic summonses, and the latest recruitment or vacancy positions within PDRM. Before you check your police summons online, you need to register on the platform with your information including IC number, address, and phone number.

Check Via MyBayar Saman Platform, by the PDRM

The
MyBayar Saman
 is an online platform that allows users to pay their traffic summonses online and it can be done on the website or on the mobile application. It is an initiative by the PDRM’s traffic investigation and enforcement department (JSPT) to create a better online payment system that
allows users to check their PDRM
saman
fast, efficiently, and easily.

Check
Saman
 using Car Plate Number via SMS

Traffic summons can also be checked via SMS (Short Message System). A service charge of RM 0.15 will be charged for each delivery and RM 0.20 for each message received.

Check PDRM Summons via SMS

Type POLICE <distance> SUMMONS <distance> MyKad number or Car Plate Number

Send to 15888 or 32728

Example – POLICE SUMMONS CDK1 or POLICE SUMMONS 920201115394

You can also apply for detailed information regarding your summons via email. Details of the summons will be sent to you via the email address provided

Type POLICE <distance> SUMMONS <distance> MyKad number or Car Plate Number <distance> email address

Send to 15888 or 32728

Example – POLICE SUMMONS CDK1 tester@gmail.com or POLICE SUMMONS 920201115394
tester@gmail.com

Check JPJ Summons via SMS

Type JPJ <distance> SAMAN <distance> MyKad number or Car Plate Number

Send to 15888

Example – JPJ SAMAN 920201115394 or JPJ SAMAN CDK1

6 Ways to Check PDRM, JPJ and Summonses Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.What happens if I fail to pay my summons?

Failure to settle your outstanding summons can result in offenders being blacklisted or/and issued arrest warrants thus resulting in offenders not being allowed to renew their road tax and driving licenses. Offenders will only be removed from the list after clearing all the outstanding summonses.

2. Who should be responsible if a newly purchased used car has an outstanding summon from the old owner?

If you buy a used car and realized that it has an outstanding summon – you only need to show the car purchase documents (copy of the ownership transference form and the new grant) to JPJ. Once it is proven that the summon was issued before the ownership of the used car was transferred, you do not have to pay the summon on behalf of the old owner.

3. Are there any discounts for these summonses?

Typically, these discounts are usually based on the ongoing announcement at that current time. You can follow JPJ’s and PDRM’s official websites or social media sites such as Facebook or Instagram to know when discounts for summonses are given. Last year, from the 18th to the 21st May 2020, PDRM offered discounts up to 50% for selected outstanding traffic summonses when you pay them through MyEG and RILEK.

For any other used car services and news, do check Carsome out! You can
sell your used car
 at Carsome for the best price, fast payment, and no paperwork hassle. Check the website today to know more.

* Original article was published on 10 March 2021 and has been updated for clarity and updated information on 14 September 2021.


From Small to Large Families: Here Are the Best Family Cars in Malaysia

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From Small to Large Families: Here Are the Best Family Cars in...

By

Haziq Asyraf

There are a lot of things to consider when buying a family car but right at the top of the list are usually space, comfort, practicality, and safety. That being said, each family has different needs and budget so you have to vet your choices wisely.  That’s why we have picked some of the best family cars in Malaysia for a wide range of users, from the young newlyweds to the larger families with extended relatives. We also highlight some of the top safety features that a car should have to ensure you and your family are safe on the road.

Top Safety Features to Have In a Family Car

There can be various hazards on the road that can cause accidents, and while older cars generally have safety features for the driver and front passenger, they are not enough for the whole family. Fortunately, car safety technology has made tremendous progress over the years that there are now numerous features designed to protect all occupants and even other road users. Before we take a look at the best family cars available in Malaysia, here are some car safety features you should look out for.

Car Seat Support
 – Most cars make it fairly easy to get car seats in and out, but if you have multiple young kids at home, you will want to know how many car seats can fit in one row. Most cars made after 2002 come with the built-in ISOFIX system for easy car seat installation.

Collision Warning
 – These come in various forms and the function of it is to alert you when you’re too close to someone in front of you or if you’re moving in too quickly. They work not just for other cars, but also for pedestrians who are crossing in front of you. Some will even automatically apply the brakes.

Blind Spot Monitor
 – Using sonar sensors in the rear bumpers or sometimes cameras in the exterior mirrors, blind-spot monitoring systems watch adjacent lanes and can alert you to other vehicles that might be in the driver’s blind spot or hidden by the car’s roof pillars. The warning light goes off when someone is in your blind spot.

Parking Sensors
 – Sonar sensors in the rear bumpers that let you know when you are getting too close to other vehicles, shopping carts, or anything else above a certain height.

Lane Departure Warning
 – When you start to slip out of your lane, but your turn signal is not on, this will gently turn your steering wheel back and alert you.

Adaptive Cruise Control
 – You can set your maximum speed for Cruise Control and your car will speed up or slow down to keep pace with the car in front of you. In many modern cars, the cruise control can even work in stop-and-go traffic.

Best Family Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV): Honda CR-V

The
Honda CR-V
 is one of the best-selling SUVs in the country and it’s easy to see why. It has a spacious, refined interior, large cargo capacity, and Honda’s best safety technology – all in a modern, sharp package. A new Honda CR-V starts from RM139,912.53 for the base model powered by a 2.0L engine and from RM162,910.18 for the top-range four-wheel-drive model powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine.

This five-seater SUV is equipped with features that make traveling as a family easy. Some noteworthy features that make the CR-V one of the best family cars in Malaysia include all-around LED lights with auto-leveling headlights, dual-zone auto air conditioning, USB charging ports for the front and rear passengers, active noise cancellation to reduce noise in the cabin, six airbags, and the Honda SENSING safety suite. The boot also has a wide aperture, low floor, and hands-free power tailgate for easy loading and unloading.

Besides the regular safety features, Honda SENSING includes Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), a multi-view camera system, and more. Cargo space is generous in the CR-V at 522-liters which is expandable to 1,084-liters with the rear seats folded down.

Best Value Seven-Seater: Perodua Aruz

The
Perodua Aruz
 is the best family car in Malaysia for those looking for an affordable seven-seater. Based on the Toyota Rush, this SUV is a great budget option starting from only RM68,526. It’s powered by a 1.5L Dual VVT-i engine producing a maximum power of 102 PS and 133 Nm to the rear wheels which is not the highest in the segment, but adequate for most people.

As a seven-seater SUV, the Perodua Aruz prioritizes the comfort of the rear passengers with air conditioning vents and 12 V power sockets at the rear. There’s also an anti-snatch hook similar to the one found on other Perodua models, Hill-Start Assist (HSA), an integrated Driving Video Recorder (DVR) or dashcam, and a best in class fuel economy of 6.4 L/100 km. Families with children will appreciate the seat belt reminder for all seats, one-touch power windows with jam protection, and Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist 2.0 suite.

For those of you with furry family members, the foldable second-row seats offer plenty of space for your pets to sit and even stretch their legs. Plus, with the foldable third-row seats, you can expand the 213-liter boot to fit all your luggage and your pet’s supplies. All in all, the Perodua Aruz provides excellent value for money with its fuel economy, space, as well as comfort and safety features.

Best Family Sedan: Honda Accord

For users who want a large sedan that’s comfortable for the family and has a sleek, stunning look, the
Honda Accord
 is the answer. The current Honda Accord uses a 1.5L turbocharged engine found in the Honda Civic and CR-V that’s tuned for more power, as well as torque. It starts from RM178,203 and packs a lot of tech and premium finishing in a refined package. The cabin is designed to be quiet and comfortable allowing for pleasant drives in town and on the open road.

There are plenty of features to satisfy the driver and occupants including a wireless charger up front, two USB ports at the front and rear respectively, dual auto air conditioning, side door sunshades for rear passengers, six airbags, and a complete safety suite including Honda SENSING.

The 1.5L turbocharged engine provides a very respectable 201 PS of power and 260 Nm of torque with a fuel consumption of only 6.3 L/100km. With the performance, refinement, and safety that it provides, the Honda Accord is a top contender for the best family car in Malaysia.

Read:
Safety Features You Should Have in Your Car

Best Value Family Car: Proton Persona

Budget-conscious drivers who want a comfortable, spacious sedan that drives well should consider the
Proton Persona
. For a starting price of RM45,800 for the base Standard model and RM55,800 for the Premium one, the Persona offers great value as a family car. It has a decent cabin with leatherette seats on the Premium model, an 8-inch touchscreen display infotainment with Proton’s latest GKUI interface, 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity and six USB ports throughout the cabin.

Safety is crucial in a family car and the Premium model of the Proton Persona offers six airbags, along with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA), ESC, Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Hold Assist (HHA), and a reverse camera. Its 1.6L engine produces 109 PS of power and 150 Nm of torque. Coupled with Proton’s ride and handling, the Persona is stable to drive at speeds, even in the corners.

The cargo space is large at 520-liters, expandable by folding down the 60:40 split rear seats. Overall, the Proton Persona is a great family car at its price point; it’s practical, comfortable, and being a Proton, is affordable to maintain.

King of Practicality: Nissan Serena

The
Nissan Serena
 is easily among the most practical and feature-packed seven-seater MPVs available in the market. Users who have a large family and children will appreciate the thought that’s been put in the design of this family car. Prices for a new Nissan Serena start at RM140,226 for the base 2.0L Highway Star model. What makes the Nissan Serena great for parents with children is its rear hands-free powered sliding doors with kick sensors. Parents can just do a kicking motion under the door while holding their little child or bag of supplies and the door will open to reveal a wide opening that’s very easy to get in and out of.

The rear seats are spacious and multi-adjustable with each having USB charging ports for all members of the family. There’s also a ceiling-mounted monitor to keep the rear passengers entertained on any trip. The boot is big enough to fit several small suitcases and is expandable by folding the rear seats. Another feature that highlights the practicality of the Nissan Serena is its tailgate which can be opened in two ways. Users can either open just the top half to access the boot, or open the whole tailgate. This is especially useful when the vehicle is reverse-parked against a wall.

In terms of safety, the Nissan Serena doesn’t disappoint as a family car. It has six airbags including full-length curtain airbags, Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM), Intelligent Moving Object Detection (IMOD), and other conventional safety features. As a C-segment MPV, the Serena has a surprisingly small turning radius of 5.5 m and a decent 6.6 L/100km fuel consumption. With all these features, it’s easy to see why the Nissan Serena is one of the best family cars in Malaysia.

Now that you know what the best family cars in Malaysia are, we hope you can find the right one for your family. If you’re looking for
quality second-hand cars
 or even to
sell your car
, do check out Carsome. We’ll be more than happy to help you find the right car and best of all, there are no hidden costs when you buy from us.


The Simple Guide To Choosing a Used Car

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The Simple Guide To Choosing a Used Car

The Simple Guide To Choosing a Used Car

By

Brian Wong

Choosing a used car is a scary and complicated process for those who don’t know how to pick the right vehicle for the job. Often, cars get returned back to the dealer due to buyer’s remorse or claiming the car wasn’t practical to drive. I’ve seen a husband stuffing a family of four in a Subaru BRZ, a two-door coupe; and a university student owning a
Ford Ranger Raptor
, but doesn’t haul cargo nor go offroading. That being said, the latter can still have some practical use down the road.

Oftentimes prospecting new and used car buyers can get caught up in the chasm between needs and wants when buying a car. In this article, let’s explore the ideas/tools to help you streamline your decision-making process.

That car can’t be practical when the kids grow up one day.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Source:
simplypsychology.org

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a theory that suggests human needs can be arranged in a pyramid structure. At the base are the most basic physiological needs, such as food, water, and shelter. Then, people move up to safety needs, like security and stability. After that, they seek love and belongingness needs, such as friendships and relationships. Further up the pyramid are self-esteem needs, which include feelings of self-worth and respect. At the top of the pyramid is self-actualization, which is the desire for personal growth, creativity, and fulfillment. According to Maslow, people must satisfy lower-level needs before moving up to higher ones.

This brings us back to our decision-making process when choosing a car. Auto manufacturers and sales representatives are quick to sell the prestigious status of owning a certain brand and model. But how many people are able to maintain that kind of lifestyle? You should check your Debt Service Ratio (DSR) first.

What Is DSR?

For prospecting used car buyers, it’s important to calculate your Debt Service Ratio (DSR) to determine how much you can afford to spend on a car.
DSR
 is a method used by banks to calculate your ability to pay the installment for a loan. Here’s an example of how the DSR formula works.

To calculate your own DSR, you start by calculating your nett income (monthly income subtracting EPF/SOCSO contributions). Then, divide the sum of your monthly commitments + by the installment you are going to pay for e.g. house loan/car loan. Multiply the figure by 100% and that is the ratio of your debt to your income.

Now one thing to keep in mind:
DSR requirements
 may vary for each bank. Some banks may accept as high as 80% while others as low as 50%. Once you have a rough estimation of your budget based on your DSR, here are a few more additional points to consider towards choosing your used car.

Read More:
7 Car-Buying Tips to Score the Right Car for You

Understand Your Needs

Consider Make, Model, & Segment First

Now begins the step of choosing your car. There’s no harm in starting with a local selection of used cars as a fresh graduate or a university student. However, if your budget allows more room to wiggle, then you can move up to used Japanese vehicles. It is also important to consider the kind of lifestyle you have before choosing the right make or model. A university student buying a Ranger Raptor as their first car is peculiar but there’s nothing wrong with that; but what is the point if the owner isn’t going to haul cargo or go offroading? Conversely, a family husband buying a sports car for family use is impractical.

Here’s a recommended guideline from us that can streamline the decision-making process of choosing a used car – If you’re a fresh graduate or student, pick a small, economy car. A pickup truck or an MPV for heavy-duty work, and a hot-hatch or a sports car if you’re a thrill seeker who can afford it. Lastly, a luxury car should only be considered if you have excess money to spend.

Read More:
Why Aren’t Station Wagons Popular in Malaysia?

Then, the Price & Budget According to Specs

Often, many car owners experience
buyer’s remorse
 one month after owning the car. There are many reasons this could happen, notably, a lack of proper research into the vehicle. Don’t bite more than you can chew, as our elders would say. That’s why car loans remain one of the
biggest causes of bankruptcies
 in Malaysia.

Sometimes we let our inner child cloud our judgment when making a big purchase. We might think if we push our budget just a little bit more, we can afford something better. The hubris of this kind of purchase is going to bite you back when it comes to servicing your car and buying replacement parts, like when you buy a used Mercedes-Benz in Malaysia without being able to afford it.

Some variants can be more expensive or cheaper than others due to more features added to the vehicle. Manual transmission variants, although rare, are still the cheapest variant you can buy. For the wallet-conscious consumer who doesn’t mind rowing their own gears, the stick shift model will serve just fine.

Obligatory #savethemanuals support.

Read More:
Why the Manual Transmission is Dying.

Addressing Your Wants

A Sporty Car for a Not-So Sporty Lifestyle

Getting the latest hot-hatch or sports car on the market may sound like a dream. But what happens when you start a family and the commitments pile up? Choosing a car in the right segment is going to save you a huge hassle in the long run. Ask yourself this when going shopping for a car – how will this vehicle be
practical for me
 in the next six months to five years? Shelving an old interest is a heavy-hearted decision but you can always go back to it when things get better. Remember, a car is always a depreciating asset to own.

If you still want something fun to get around with while being a practical grocery-getter, consider getting a hatchback, station wagon or a sedan. These segments serve as the middle ground between practical and fun to drive. As a petrolhead myself, I would advise you to get a sports car or a vanity vehicle for the weekends when you have the money to burn after you’ve sufficiently increased your income.

Look Into Aftermarket Support & Reliability

Local cars are generally a safe bet. But, if you’re looking into used cars, it’s best to dig through a model’s history first. If you recall, the
Proton X50
 and
X70
 owners had a dry spell of spare parts in Malaysia during the COVID lockdowns in China. One tip when choosing a used car is to research the availability of spare parts for said vehicle before buying.

First-Gen Toyota Mark X

Second-gen Lexus IS250

These two cars share the same engine and transmission, thus sourcing parts is easier for maintenance.

Conversely, aftermarket parts support for used Continental cars, especially the newer models is still widely available although expensive to purchase. Again, it’s important to take your budget into account to maintain the car.

Lastly, How Will This Purchase Affect People around Me?

Unless you’re buying a car just for yourself, it’s also important to consider who else might be using your car. If I buy a manual sports car, will anyone in my family know how to drive one? What about an SUV with high ground clearance? Can my aging parents climb in easily? Don’t let your desires for a five-minute glory cloud your judgment.

To conclude, don’t be quick to make reckless decisions that can cost you a fortune. Take your time to consider your options, finances, and situation. Then, start researching which car serves as the middle ground to suit your requirements. Do you strictly want a workhorse, a family car, or a fun ride? Start from there, and work your way till you find your match made in heaven.

Now that you have an idea of what to look for in a used car, start browsing for your used car via our official CARSOME app! We have a wide selection of quality vehicles in various segments and our app also allows you to filter cars according to your budget. Download our CARSOME app for Android and Apple
here
!

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Brian Wong

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Turn Your Car Into a Feng Shui Machine This Year of the Rabbit!

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Turn Your Car Into a Feng Shui Machine This Year of the...

By

Brian Wong

The arrival of the Year of the Rabbit brings a fresh start for everyone. With the Lunar New Year drawing closer, you might be tempted to buy a car to impress your relatives this season or to last throughout the year. For staunch followers and those new to the
world of Feng Shui
, did you know you can channel it into your car this
Year of the Rabbit
?

Keep Your Car Uncluttered and Clean

Cleanliness and cockroach infestation aside, there is also a logical reason why Feng Shui masters tell you to keep your car clean all the time. Clutteredness is a sign of stagnation and will slow you and your progress down in life. Like a clogged drain, Feng Shui masters claim that good luck for the Year of the Rabbit will be blocked if you do not take the initiative now to clean up your car! If you need to transport items, keep the same colored bins in your trunk to have a good flow of luck.

It’s also important to keep the exterior of your car clean at all times. Not only is it presentable to others, but a dusty and dirty window won’t allow you to clearly see available opportunities this year. That, and hazards on the road.

Hang a Crystal Ball For Protection From Bad Energy

If you can splurge a little, hanging a small crystal ball can draw good energy and repel bad ones for this Year of the Rabbit. Aside from looking like a pretty disco ball, in the world of Feng Shui, crystal balls represent pleasant, smooth, and constant motion. Crystal balls are believed to repel negative energy from the faceted surface and draw in gentle ones.

Hanging a small, 20mm diameter crystal ball in your car, preferably on the rearview mirror will repel all the negative energy (and hopefully bad drivers) on the road while constantly drawing in good, gentle ones.

Put Coins in Your Car to Draw in Wealth

Putting loose change in your cup holders, glovebox, and side door pockets will come in handy should you need it. But in a cashless society today, physical coins seem obsolete. However, when it comes to Feng Shui for your car, masters, and sifus will tell you to keep them there as it is. Having money in your car at all times will remind you you always have money wherever you go and wealth will always be with you. Do top it back if you use the coins.

Read More:
9 Things to Check Before & After Your Drive

Pick the Right Color For Your Car Based On Your Zodiac Sign

Did you know picking the right color for your car based on your birth year can boost your luck? According to Feng Shui sifus, each year, the animal in the Chinese Zodiac has a corresponding element change; and choosing the right Feng Shui car color based on the Five Elements enhances the fortune it brings. The Five Elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth) all have their own distinctive colors.

Say this year is the year of the Fire Monkey, for example, you can either get a red car to fuel the flames of passion or a green car as green symbolizes wood that fuels the fire!

A famous Malaysian Feng Shui Master,
Joey Yap
, foretells that this year is the Year of the Water Rabbit, so why not get a blue-colored car to match? Even if the car that you purchased doesn’t have the corresponding color, you can always make an appointment with a paint shop. If you’re not sure what to choose, here’s a list of auspicious
car Feng Shui colors
 to choose from!

Red

Red is a powerful and vibrant choice. Often, red is associated with good luck, prosperity, and wealth around the world and not just in Chinese culture. Red also symbolizes a burning passion, love, and happiness. Overall red brings out the positive energy and passion in your car, hence it’s a popular choice among car owners. If you’re gifting a car to a loved one this year, make it red to show your passion and love for them!

Green

Green may seem like an odd choice for your car’s color. However, green is not only good for the eyes, but it also symbolizes growth, abundance, health, balance, and stability. Overall, green represents peace of mind and steadiness in life. In Feng Shui, green is used to create a peaceful atmosphere wherever you go.

Blue

Blue, like the ocean, symbolizes vibrant transformations and the constant movement of the seas. It also represents personal clarity and inspiration in our endeavors. For anyone in the creative field, getting a blue-colored car will keep the creative juices flowing this Year of the Rabbit.

Read More:
Why Committing a Fashion Faux Pas behind the Wheel Means Being Safer on the Road?

Choose a Good Pickup Date and Plate Number for Your Car

In the Chinese community, choosing the right date and the
right car plate number
 based on Feng Shui goes a long way as the
number
 phonetics can represent auspicious sounds (吉利 jílì). This is known as Chinese numerology and here’s
how it works
 for this Year of the Rabbit.

Read More:
How To Bid For Your Favorite Car Plate Number

Go For These

The Number Two (二)

In Chinese numerology, pairings are seen as auspicious. 二 (Èr) is commonly associated with doubles, 双 (Shuāng). It’s used to signify twice the joy, happiness, and wealth for others and is a Chinese calligraphy favorite to be decorated at homes. Consult more with a master for advice on the best car plate number for feng shui.

The Number Eight (八)

Number eight,
八 (Bā)
 bears similar phonetics to 发 (fā), which often is paired as a verb to 发财 (fācái), getting rich. If you’re getting a used car for business, setting the pickup date and plate number with an eight is a sign of a thriving business.

The Number Nine (九)

Mighty number nine, 九 (jiǔ) sounds like 久 (jiǔ), which stands for longevity and eternity. Get a number nine paired up with another number on your car’s plate and car collection date to symbolize your car’s running reliability and your endeavors running successfully for eternity.

Avoid These

The Number Four (四)

Number four has been associated with the bane of misfortune in Chinese culture. Four in Mandarin, 四 (Sì) sounds like death, 死 (Sǐ). So avoid number four at all costs or substitute it with 3A. In addition, showing the number four in the Chinese community is a sign of disrespect, so avoid these numbers on your car for potentially fatal accidents.

However, number four can be used as a double-edged sword. In Chinese internet slang, the arrangement, 1314 can be interpreted as
 一生一世
(yī sān yī sì) which stands for one life, one world. 1314 is also often paired with romantic phrases in Mandarin. If you’re buying a car for your significant other, what better way to
express your love
 than with the best car plate number for feng shui?

The Number Five (五)

Mambo Number Five here should also be avoided on your pickup date and your plate number. The number, 五 (wǔ) sounds like 呜 (wū) which buzzes like someone whining and grumbling in Mandarin. Who wants a whiner in life?

Getting a specific plate number is arguably the hardest and most expensive part of this guide as it’s common for Malaysians to bid absurd amounts of money for them. But if you can afford it, a good plate number can also yield bragging rights and channel in the positive energy that is much needed for 2023. That said, you can still buy from the current running numbers for as low as RM300, which means you can actually get an auspicious plate number for your car at a reasonable price. Happy Lunar New Year everyone!

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Brian Wong


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Find the Right Car for You: Here Are 3 Questions to Consider

By

Devan S

Shopping for a new car can be a stressful process, especially if you’re not sure of what to consider before buying a car. Coupled with the hundreds, or even thousands of car models available on the market, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the options you have to go through. To help you find the right car for your needs, we compiled three simple but essential questions you should ask yourself.

1. What is Your Budget?

The most important factor to consider before buying a car is your budget. Key factors to consider when buying a car include:

 the price of the car;

 the monthly loan repayment amount; and

the ownership cost which includes the fuel, maintenance, insurance, road tax, and even toll costs.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that you spend no more than 15 percent of your monthly income on your monthly loan repayment.

To help you estimate how much you’ll need to spend on your loan repayment, you can use CARSOME’s Financing Tool. You can find this tool on all of our car product pages. Simply select a car on our website that you like and scroll down the page to use the tool.

Example of CARSOME’s financing prediction tool on a car listing

2. Do You Want a National or Imported Car Brand?

When it comes to deciding between car brands, most Malaysian buyers will consider these three options: local car brands, Asian or Japanese brands, and continental brands.

But before deciding on a brand, it’s important to identify your lifestyle, your purpose for owning a car, and how much the car’s brand matters to you. Below is a breakdown of some of the top car brands to help you decide which is right for you.

Malaysian Car Brands

Malaysia’s two national car brands,
Proton
 and
Perodua
, have taken the top spot as best-selling cars in the country for good reason – they are affordable, reliable, and easy to maintain. While local cars have previously been regarded as low quality with limited features, cars such as the
Perodua Myvi
 and
Proton X50
 prove that local carmakers are stepping up their game.

Current models now have exciting designs, high build quality, and even advanced safety features such as Perodua’s Advanced Safety Assist (A.S.A) suite of safety features.

Asian Car Brands

Asian car brands such as Japanese and Korean brands are very common on Malaysian roads as they offer a good balance of affordability and quality. These brands are also known for being market leaders in introducing new vehicle features and technologies to the average consumer.

Vehicles from brands such as Toyota and Honda are also well known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. Popular Asian car brands include
Toyota
,
Honda
,
Nissan
, and
Hyundai
.

Continental Car Brands

These refer to European automotive brands such as
BMW
 and
Volvo
. Some of the best continental car brands come from countries such as Germany, France, and The United Kingdom. While continental car brands are more expensive than others, they also tend to have quality, high-powered engines, luxurious designs, and advanced features.

Due to the larger engines found in many luxury continental cars, they also tend to have higher fuel consumption. Some popular continental car brands include BMW,
Mercedes-Benz
,
Volkswagen
,
Mini
, and
Audi
.

Read More:

Pre-owned Cars Misconceptions Busted

3. What Car Body Style Would Fit Your Needs?

One important factor to consider before buying a car is the body type of the car that best fits your needs. The ideal car needs to have enough passenger room and cargo space, and also be able to handle

Sedan

A
sedan
 or saloon is the most traditional type of car. It typically has four doors, seating for five people, and a decently sized boot. These characteristics make the sedan a great all-rounder as it’s able to fit almost anyone’s needs. Sedans also have a lower center of gravity which allows them to be stable on the road, especially when taking corners. Further contributing to the versatility of sedans is their wide range of sizes. From the compact Perodua Bezza to the spacious Honda Accord, you can’t go wrong with a sedan.

Hatchback

A typical
hatchback
 has similar passenger space as a sedan but with a squared-off rear roof resulting in smaller boot space. A hatchback is great for city and short-distance driving as it has a compact size making it easy to maneuver in traffic and tight spaces.

Being compact and lightweight, hatchbacks also tend to have good fuel economy, which is why cars like the Perodua Axia and Myvi are so popular in Malaysia. Other hatchbacks worth checking out include the Proton Iriz, Suzuki Swift, and Toyota Yaris.

Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV)

SUVs
 have been all the rage in recent years thanks to their spaciousness and higher ground clearance. Many drivers also like the commanding view of the road that comes with the tall ride height of an SUV. However, since many SUVs are heavy and have a higher center of gravity, they tend to have higher fuel consumption and are less stable when taking corners at speed.

While most modern SUVs are designed for city driving, some, such as the Subaru Forester can handle light off-roading. Popular SUVs include the Honda HR-V, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5.

Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)

MPVs
 are people carriers and are designed to carry six or more passengers without sacrificing comfort. With their large passenger and cargo space, MPVs are perfect for large families or for families who go on frequent road trips and value their luggage space.

You could even fit an extra monitor or two in an MPV so your rear passengers can enjoy their favorite shows while on the road. MPVs range from more budget-friendly options like the Proton Exora to luxury vehicles such as the Toyota Alphard.

Pickup Truck

Pickup trucks
 are the ultimate utility vehicle. They are not only designed to carry large cargo on their open cargo bed but can also handle various terrains including muddy roads and tougher off-road terrains.

Many pickup trucks have all-wheel or four-wheel drive to make off-road driving easier which is why they are popular with people who frequently travel out of the city. Besides the Toyota Hilux, popular pickup trucks in Malaysia include the Mitsubishi Triton and Nissan Navara.

Read More:

Different Car Body Styles Explained

Find Your Ideal Car Easily with CARSOME’s Car Finder Tool

By knowing what to consider before buying a car, we hope you can better narrow down your car choices.

But to make it easier for you, we have launched CARSOME’s Car Finder Tool on our website, which helps recommend the right cars for you based on your answers to three simple questions.

CARSOME’s Car Finder Tool on our website – highlighted in red.

You can find this tool on our website’s homepage. Here’s how it works:

Click on the “Answer 3 Questions Now”
button.

 You’ll be given three simple questions to answer.

Once you’ve selected your answers to the questions, our system will suggest the best cars that suit your requirements. From here, you can easily browse our inventory which has been tailored according to your preference.

Here is an example of recommended cars provided by our Car Finder tool.

The best part is that all the recommended vehicles are
CARSOME Certified
. CARSOME Certified cars have gone through our strict 175-point inspection and professional refurbishment process to ensure they have safety beyond standard, complete comfort, and refurbished aesthetics.

Additionally, for complete peace of mind, all our cars also come with a fixed price and no hidden fees for full transparency, a five-day money-back guarantee, and a one-year warranty.

So what are you waiting for? Check out our
Car Finder tool
 and find your dream car today!

Devan S
Devan believes written content is here to stay despite our depleting attention span and the rise of short videos. He loves four and two-wheeled vehicles, and movies of all makes and models.


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Car Tips
How to Maintain Your Car Engine During MCO

By

Haziq Asyraf

With the increase of Covid variants and transmission rates, the Movement Control Order (
MCO 3.0)
has been put in place until June 28th, 2021. For some of us, this might mean not using our cars as much as most offices are following work-from-home orders, school children are studying online and most non-essential items can be bought online.

Unfortunately, cars left unattended for long periods of time could suffer from a variety of problems. Some common problems include bad starter motors, seized engines, dead batteries, and corroded hoses that are all affected by time and the environment. If you find yourself affected by these common problems, here are some tips that could save you a trip to the workshop!

How to Jump Start a Car

The easiest step to start a car that has been sitting for some time is to
jump-start
 it as it is common for your car battery to lose all its charge if left unattended for a while. This will leave you no juice to power up your car.

Here is how you can jump start your car:

Replace your car’s fluids; oil, coolant, and trans fluid.

Using the jumper cable, connect the red clamp to the positive terminal on your dead car’s battery and the other red clamp on the live car’s battery. The positive terminal has either a red cover or a “+” symbol on it.

Connect the black clamp to the negative terminal of the live car’s battery. The negative terminal has either a black cover or a “-” symbol on it. Connect the black clamp of your car to a grounded-metal part or surface of the car.

Start the live-battery car and let it run for a few minutes as this will start to recharge the dead battery.

Start the dead-battery car. If the engine does not start, keep the other car running for a few more minutes and try again.

Once the car starts, remove the clamps in reverse order, black clamp from the grounded surface, black clamp from the good battery’s negative post, red clamp from the dead battery, red clamp from the good battery.

Car Battery Replacement

A dead car battery is the next most common reason why your car won’t start. You can easily solve this problem by replacing your car battery with a new one.

Here are the steps:

Remove the
old car battery
 by removing the negative cable from the negative terminal (the one with the “-” sign and remove the positive one from the positive terminal (the one with the “+”). If you are using a metal tool, make sure it does not get in contact with the terminal as that can cause a spark.

Loosen the battery hold-down, connectors, and/or fasteners that secure the battery in place.
Lift the battery out and in a safe spot.

Using a skinny wire brush and some water or baking soda, clean the clamps before you add the new battery. Try to remove any corrosion, dirt, or debris from the clamps. You can also clean the battery terminals to clear it of build-up.

Put the new battery into the holder and secure the battery.

Reconnect the positive terminal and the negative terminal.

Test your car by cranking up the engine or turning on the electronics.

Replace Your Petrol

Just like milk, your petrol can also turn bad if it is left for too long. Petrol has a shelf-life of about six months, so do take note of the last time you filled up your tank. If you need to replace the petrol in your tank, here is how you can do it:

Using a fuel transfer pump, slide the pump’s hose into the gas tank’s input opening behind the filler cap and pump a small amount of petrol into a clear container.

Let the petrol sit for approximately five minutes so it can settle.

If you see the petrol separating into discernible layers or contains particulates, that means it has gone bad.

Remove as much as possible using the pump and replace it with new petrol.

You will likely have to crank up your engine a few times to flush out the remaining petrol through the system.

Read also:
Latest Petrol Price in Malaysia

Change Your Starter Motor

If your car still does not start after your have jump started it or replaced its battery, you might need to change the starter motor. As placements differ according to car model, you’ll have to do a little investigative homework to determine the starter motor location and what you need to do to replace it.

Disconnect the battery terminals and locate the engine’s starter motor using your car’s manual or by looking for official guides online.

Remove any parts necessary to access the starter motor. Take a picture of the parts in their original location before disconnecting so that you remember where to put them back after.

Disconnect any connections running to the starter motor.

Remove the starter motor and replace it with a new one.

Reconnect any connections to the new starter that you removed from the old starter and replace any parts you removed to access the starter.

Reconnect the battery terminals and crank up the engine. It might not fire right away, so you might want to give it a few tries until it starts.

As the old adage goes,
prevention is better than cure
. In this case, the best thing for you to do is to maintain your car even though you are not driving it as often.

How to Maintain a Non-Moving Car

1. Start Your Car Once A Week

If you have not driven your car all week, you are advised to start the engine and leave it running for 10 minutes. This is to keep your car’s battery charged and ensure that the car’s alternators and other components function properly. Do not turn on the air conditioner or car infotainment system during this period to maximize the battery charging process.

2. Clean the Interior of Your Car

Make sure no trash or food waste is left inside your car especially if you leave your car for a long period of time. This not only invites pests such as cockroaches and ants, it also causes an unpleasant foul odor that could linger on in your car. In warm and humid climates such as we have here in Malaysia, car interiors could be susceptible to molding. Having a dehumidifier in your car could help to keep your car mold-free.

3. Increase Air Pressure of Tires

Leaving your car for long periods of time can cause flat-spotting of the tires. Flat-spotting causes the tires to lose its shape and this will cause your steering wheel to vibrate when you drive. To prevent this from happening, increase the air pressure by 3 PSI if you are not planning to drive your car for a long time. You can also drive your car forward and backward once every few days to rotate the tires to avoid the risk of flat-spotting.

We hope that this guide has helped you become more informed on how to maintain your car during this lockdown period. The most important thing to do is to keep your car “alive” by starting it every week and if you were unable to, we hope that the tips to re-start your car have helped. If you are not using your car as much and would like to consider
selling your used car
, make sure to check out Carsome to get a free valuation of your car!

This article was originally published on 10 February 2021. This revision includes new information and tips.

Haziq Asyraf
A self-proclaimed foodie and gamer whose passion for food and games has recently extended to cars.


Is Your ABS Light On? Here’s What’s Causing It

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Automotive
Is Your ABS Light On? Here's What's Causing It

By

Devan S

ABS (anti-lock braking system) is one of the most important and ubiquitous
safety features
 in modern vehicles. Almost all modern cars have it save for the most budget of models, making it almost as important as seatbelts. ABS typically kicks in during emergencies to ensure that the tires don’t lock up while braking, preventing the car from skidding and getting into an accident. While most car owners would have no problems with their ABS, there’s still a chance it can malfunction. And that is when the ABS warning light comes on.

So what could cause the ABS light to come on, and is it dangerous to keep driving with it on? Let’s find out.

What is ABS?

The anti-lock braking system or ABS is the system that prevents the driver from locking the car’s brakes and wheels, especially in emergency situations. If you apply excessive pressure on the brakes, such as in an emergency, it can cause the wheels and axles to stop rotating completely. With the wheels locked up and the car still moving at high speed, your vehicle could lose control and skid off the road or into oncoming traffic.

When the driver presses the car’s brakes, ABS monitors the wheels’ rotation to detect if they’re going to slip. If it detects a slip, the system will pump the brakes at certain intervals to prevent the wheels from locking up, thus reducing the risk of the car skidding or sliding off the road.

Generally, ABS doesn’t stop the car faster or display improved braking performance. Rather, it’s an automatic system that helps us better control the braking in emergencies so we can still maneuver the car and avoid a collision.

Read More:
Malfunctions in Car Safety Features and How to Check Them Before It’s Too Late!

Why is Your ABS Warning Light On?

The ABS warning light on the car dashboard usually indicates a problem with the ABS. However, other issues unrelated to the ABS can also cause the light to come on such as problems with related components or sensors.

1. Non-functional ABS Module

Problems with the ABS module are among the most common things that cause the ABS light to come on. A corroded ABS module prevents the system from receiving information from the speed sensors on the car’s tires, ultimately causing the
warning light
 to come on. Additionally, the ABS shares several important components with the vehicle’s traction control system (TCS) which functions to ensure all four wheels of the car rotate smoothly.

If the TCS detects a problem, such as irregular wheel rotation, it will cut off power from the engine until the traction returns to normal. Because both systems use the same control module and diagnostic system, damage to the TCS can affect the ABS as well. This means that any problem with the TCS can cause the ABS light to come on. Therefore, it’s a good idea to also check the TCS in your car if the ABS light is on.

Read More:
A Guide to Car Warning Lights Part 2

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning ABS Module:

The brake pedal becomes less responsive over time, whereby you need to press the brake pedal harder to stop the car.

The check engine light can come on since a fault in the ABS can be stored in the engine control module, triggering the check engine light.

A clicking or cracking sound, especially when pressing the brakes.

The brakes lock up during regular driving.

2. Low Brake Fluid

The brake fluid plays a crucial role in the vehicle’s braking system, especially in controlling the brake pressure in the anti-lock brake system. A hydraulic brake system, for example, transfers force through the brake fluid to the brake pads, causing the brake pads to grip the brake rotors, thus stopping the car.

Therefore, you need adequate brake fluid to ensure the brakes function properly. Brake fluid leaks are a common issue that can trigger the ABS light, and while the light might be annoying, having low brake fluid is dangerous as it may reduce your car’s stopping power or cause your
brakes to fail
 altogether.

Symptoms of Low Brake Fluid

The brakes become less responsive, causing the car to take longer to stop.

A scraping or grinding sound, similar to the sound produced by worn brake pads.

3. Malfunctioning Vehicle Speed Sensor

Modern car wheels are equipped with a speed sensor that monitors the wheels’ rotation and sends information about each wheel’s rotational speed to the ABS. If the speed sensor detects one of the tires moving at an abnormal speed, the system will increase the brake pressure on that tire, allowing the tire to move at a normal speed, just like the other tires. In other words, it will maintain the speed of all tires.

However, if there’s any issue with the speed sensor, such as dirt or damage, it may not function well, affecting its ability to transmit such critical information to the ABS, causing the ABS light to come on.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Speed Sensor

The traction control light illuminates.

The car takes a long time to stop, even though the ABS warning light is not on.

The car loses control or traction, especially when braking hard.

4. Unresponsive Hydraulic Pump or Valve

The ABS controls the wheel speed via the hydraulic brake system. If one of the car tires moves at a different speed than the others, the speed sensor will detect it and alert the ABS. It will then activate the hydraulic brake pump to increase the brake fluid pressure to balance the tires’ speed allowing the tires to maintain traction on the road surface.

However, if the hydraulic pump or valve is damaged and not functioning properly, the ABS can’t do its job, causing the ABS warning light to illuminate. Both of these components are usually worn or damaged due to dirt or metal shavings in the brake fluid. That’s why you should always check the brake
fluid level
 and condition every time you service your car’s brakes.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Hydraulic Pump/Valve

Reduced brake performance that can worsen over time.

Inconsistent brake performance – sometimes good and sometimes weak.

Brake fluid leakage from the master cylinder or firewall in the engine bay.

If there’s a leak, air will enter the brake system causing the brakes to feel spongy.

5. Blown Fuse

The ABS light comes on if there’s a malfunction in the system. This includes blown fuses and damaged wires connecting the speed sensor and controller. Like any other electrical component in a car, the ABS is equipped with its own fuse – and fuses are prone to blowing up. If the fuse blows, the system will send a warning signal that usually activates both the ABS light and the engine warning light. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check your fuse first if you notice both warning lights are illuminated.

Make sure the fuse is not blown or burnt before spending time inspecting other parts of your car or replacing unrelated components. On most modern cars, you’ll find the fuse box in the engine bay.

Read More:
Stop Driving On An Almost-empty Fuel Tank Or Risk Damaging Your Fuel Pump

Is It Safe to Drive When the ABS Warning Light Is On?

In general, you can still continue driving even if your car’s ABS light is on. This is because your car’s brakes still function as usual and can still slow your vehicle down. However, your car’s tires are at risk of getting locked under heavy braking and that limits your maneuverability in emergencies. Therefore, you should always try to fix the issue as soon as possible if your ABS light comes on.

What to Do When the ABS Light Comes On?

The ABS light indicates an issue with the ABS and in some instances, the braking system. Therefore, if you notice the light illuminating while driving, you should drive more carefully and avoid aggressive braking. Find a safe place to park your car and turn off the engine for a moment. Then, restart your engine.

Just like any other electrical equipment (your computer or phone), restarting the system allows it to recheck all the sensors giving it a chance to detect any damage or abnormalities with the ABS. This method can usually help fix the ABS light issue. However, in some cases, it may not work. If the light is still on after you restart your car, Drive to a nearby workshop so a mechanic can inspect your car and give you a solution on how to fix the ABS light problem. Remember to drive slowly and avoid heavy braking to be safe.

While an illuminated ABS light is rarely a good thing, there are times when it routinely lights up. Here’s when the ABS light should and shouldn’t light up.

Normal: ABS Light Comes On and Off After Switching on the Car Battery

The ABS system will perform a self-check every time you start your car. After you turn on the engine, the ABS light will illuminate for a few seconds before turning off. However, if the ABS light is on longer than usual, it’s highly likely that your car’s ABS is experiencing a problem that requires immediate attention.

Abnormal: ABS Light Suddenly Comes On While Driving

As mentioned above, an ABS light that illuminates while you’re driving often signifies an issue with the ABS or braking system. That said, you can still carefully drive your car to get it checked at a nearby workshop.

If, however, the ABS light comes on along with the brake warning light, it’s a sure sign that you have an issue with your brakes. When this happens, you shouldn’t continue driving but instead, park at a safe spot and get a tow truck to tow your car to the nearest workshop to get it checked. Driving with the brake warning light on is very risky and could lead to an accident as your brakes could fail at any time.

Trade-In Your Car at CARSOME for a RM1,500 Rebate

The warning lights on your dashboard are there to alert you of any issues in your car. Ignoring them could not only be dangerous and lead to expensive repairs but also affect the resale or trade-in value of your car. If you’re considering selling your car, Why not
trade it in at CARSOME
? We’ll thoroughly inspect your car with our 175-point inspection process so you know the exact condition of your car.

Not only will we handle everything for you from the car inspection to the paperwork but you’ll be able to enjoy up to RM1,500 off the next car you buy from us!

Read More:
How to Trade-In Your Car and Enjoy a RM1,500 Rebate from CARSOME

So what are you waiting for, visit
CARSOME
 today or download our app from the
Google Play Store
 or
Apple App Store
.


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Car Tips
Car Maintenance: How to Protect Your Car from the Sun

By

Haziq Asyraf

Malaysia is no stranger to heatwaves. The meteorological department predicted that we will experience
Southwest monsoon
 until mid-September, resulting in a hot and dry climate. During a heatwave, it is advised that we stay indoors and keep ourselves hydrated.

Table of Contents

How Can the Sun & Heat Affect Your Car Maintenance?

Here’s How You Can Protect Your Car From the Scorching Sun

Protect Yourself & Your Car From the Current Heatwave

Not only does this monsoon affect us, but the heat from the sun can also damage our cars. With temperatures reaching up to 34 degrees Celsius, the scorching weather can take a toll on your car’s exterior and interior, especially if your car is parked out in the open under direct sunlight.

How Can the Sun & Heat Affect Your Car Maintenance?

Making sure your car’s interior and exterior are well-maintained is the key to keeping its worth over time. You may think your car is already in its best condition because of
regular servicing
, but the heat from the sun can severely damage your car. Here are some examples of damage your car may face from the sun.

The paint starts to fade or dries up and begins to flake.

Cracks start to form in the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel.

The interior upholstery and carpets start fading their original color.

Belts, as well as hoses in and around the engine start to break and detach.

Fluid levels in the engine dry up.

Tires start losing air pressure.

Airbags, which are one of the major safety systems in a car, become faulty due to extreme heat.

Faded upholstery or cracked and damaged interior features can affect the resale value of your car later on when you decide to sell it.

On the other hand, faulty airbags, or low-pressure tires due to the heat from the sun can put you and others in the car at risk of injury or death in the event of an accident.

Here’s How You Can Protect Your Car From the Scorching Sun

Cars also need protection from the harmful UV rays that the sun emits. So, here are some practical ways you can protect your car during hot, humid days.

How to Protect the Exterior of Your Car

Park your car under the shade:
  Look for a shaded parking lot as it will definitely help your car cool down and keep the paintwork from fading off or flaking.

Wash, wax, and polish your car:
Washing your car frequently helps get rid of dirt, debris, and even dried dead bugs that might be stuck to the external surface due to the heat. Waxing and polishing are basically similar to giving your car sunscreen to protect it from harmful rays. It not only protects the paintwork but also gives your car added protection from the sun.

Check your tire pressure:
 If your car has been under the sun for a long time, the chances of your tires blowing out is high due to increased heat and temperature. So, before you drive out, get your tires checked if they are inflated or lack air pressure.

Cooling system: C
ar engines are known to perform well under high temperatures but there are chances of it getting overheated. If this happens, your engine and the metal components around it can get damaged, leading to a costly repair. Most cars have an in-built cooling system but this heatwave might override that.. So, do get your car checked occasionally and add in the coolant if needed.

How to Protect the Interior of Your Car

Windshield protectors:
Windshield protectors are one of the best ways to protect your dashboard and the steering wheel from cracking due to the sun. It will act as a protective barrier against the sun and the front interior of your car. The windshield protector can also lower down the temperature in the cabin if the car is parked under the sun.

Get your car windows tinted:
 Tinted windows are known to block thermal rays that sunlight passes heat into your car. Some tints can block up to 70 percent of heat from entering your car’s cabin but do check the Road Transport Department (JPJ)’s regulations for the legal percentage of tinting you are allowed to apply on your car.

Use seat covers:
 Not only do seat covers help keep your seat clean from unwanted stains but these covers also protect your seats from wear and tear while keeping your seat cool under the scorching hot sun.

Leave your windows down a little:
If you have no choice but to leave your car under the sun, you should wind down your windows to circulate air within. This can help reduce the internal temperature of your car and prevent damages to, your upholstery as well as dashboard.

Protect Yourself & Your Car From the Current Heatwave

Cars are not built to be sunproof and neither are you. So,  take care of yourself by keeping hydrated and protect your car from the sun. With this, this heat will not turn into a hefty repair bill for your car. Always remember, prevention is always better than cure!

Read Also
:
How to Maintain Your Car During MCO

For any other used car services and news, do check Carsome out! You can
sell your used car

at Carsome for the best price, fast payment, and no paperwork hassle. Check the website today to know more.