Tuesday, 2 January 2024

First Aid for a Car Submerged in Flooding, Follow These 10 Steps

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The rainy season often brings the risk of flooding, and a flooded car can be a big problem.

Not only engine and electronic problems, the durability of the car body and frame is also affected by this.

To help you deal with this situation, here is the first aid that needs to be done so that damage to the car can be minimized, summarized from various sources.

1. Don’t start the engine

When the car is submerged in floodwater, the first step you must remember is not to start the engine straight away. Water entering the machine can cause serious damage.

Along with that, immediately turn off the power supply and disconnect the battery to avoid the risk of short circuit.

2. Check the Water Depth

Before taking further action, check the water depth around the car. If the water reaches the bottom of the door or higher, you should avoid evacuating the car yourself. Call professional help or a towing service to secure your car.

3. Contact Insurance

Immediately contact your insurance company to report this incident. Be sure to take photos and necessary documentation as proof of damage. Some insurances provide evacuation and first aid services in emergency conditions such as floods.

4. Don’t Try to Start the Engine Yourself

Although you may be frustrated with the situation, resist the urge to try starting the engine manually. Let a qualified mechanic thoroughly evaluate the condition of the engine and electrical system.

5. Perform an External Inspection

Once the car is safe from the depths of water, carry out an external inspection. Check the condition of the body, lights, glass and other external systems. Be sure to note any damage or changes to your vehicle.

6. Check the Electrical System

After the car has been evacuated from the flood, check the electrical system carefully. Water can damage various electrical components. Be sure to check the lights, horn, and other electronic systems. If there is a problem, immediately contact a trusted repair shop or mechanic.

7. Check the Brake System

Flooding can affect the performance of the brake system. Make sure to check the condition of the brake linings, brake discs and other brake components. A good brake system is very important for driving safety.

8. Dry the Interior

If water gets into the cabin, dry it as quickly as possible. Use an air dryer or take the car to a repair shop that has special drying equipment. Any remaining moisture can cause problems with unpleasant odors and mold growth.

9. Clean and Replace Important Fluids

Floods can mix clean water with engine, transmission and other fluids. Be sure to clean and replace all contaminated fluids. This includes engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.

10. Test Drive the Car Carefully

After the repair and maintenance process is complete, test drive the car carefully. Note any changes in vehicle performance or response. If you feel something is wrong, immediately consult a mechanic.

In dealing with a flooded car, a quick response and appropriate first aid measures can make a big difference in minimizing damage.

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The hilarious story of Max Verstappen being rejected when he wanted to rent a car, age was the reason, duh!

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The title of Formula 1 world champion that Max Verstappen achieved apparently does not mean he has the privilege of driving.

This intriguing story was exposed through The Drive, which reported that this F1 racer from the Netherlands was rejected to rent an AMG GT car in Portugal.

This ban was due to the car having a top speed of 195 mph, and he was only 26 years old.

Verstappen is on holiday in Portugal with his family and friends and has several cars on order from Sixt.

However, Verstappen was reportedly unable to get an AMG GT upon its arrival as Sixt’s insurance requires drivers to be over 30 years old for those cars. There is no age exception for the three-time F1 world champion.

The Green Mercedes AMG GT-R was introduced in Paris, France in October 2016 (Shutterstock). Verstappen obeyed the rules and chose a BMW 5 Series instead.

A Sixt spokesperson told The Sun that employees of their franchise partners in Portugal were following the rules for insurance reasons.

To find a customer-friendly solution on site, they provided Verstappen with another premium vehicle.

However, Sixt then made an exception for Verstappen, and he is now allowed to rent an AMG GT.

Even though this incident was unexpected, Verstappen’s attitude in following the rules deserves a thumbs up regardless of his status as a champion F1 racer.

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5 Cheap Used Car Options for New Year 2024: Prices Under 100 Million, Less Than 10 Years Old

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Finding a used car with the criteria of an affordable price and under 10 years old may sound like a challenge. However, you can consider various interesting options.

Here are several cheap used car options that can be a solution to your vehicle needs, without having to drain your wallet.

1. Kia Picanto 2014 (Hatchback)

Illustration of the Kia Picanto. [Shutterstock] The Kia Picanto, a classy hatchback from Korea, offers compact style at an affordable price. The 2014 version still exudes a contemporary feel and is equipped with various modern features.

With a price range between 60 to 90 million, the 2014 Kia ​​Picanto could be the right choice for those of you who want a compact and efficient vehicle.

2. Mitsubishi Mirage 2014 (Hatchback)

Mitsubishi Mirage 2012. (Favcars) The Mitsubishi Mirage 2014 is another option in the hatchback category that offers great fuel efficiency. With prices starting from 90 million, Mirage offers a modern design and reliable performance. Suitable for those of you who are looking for an economical vehicle with a stylish appearance.

3. Daihatsu Ayla 2015 (Hatchback)

Daihatsu Ayla at IIMS 2014. (/Tengku Sufiyanto) Daihatsu Ayla 2015 is the answer from Japanese manufacturers to the need for economical and reliable vehicles. With prices starting from 80 million, Ayla offers a compact design and easy maintenance. Even though it is several years old, the Ayla remains an attractive choice in the economy hatchback segment.

4. Suzuki Karimun Wagon (Mini MPV)

Suzuki Karimun Wagon R Special Edition. [Suzuki] Suzuki Karimun Wagon, even though it is categorized as a mini MPV, is still an option for cheap used cars. With a price range of around 90 million, the Karimun Wagon offers quite spacious cabin space and good fuel efficiency. Suitable for the needs of families who are looking for a car on a limited budget.

5. Datsun Go/Go+ (Hatchback/MPV)

Datsun Go was exhibited at GIIAS 2019, Friday (26/7/2019). [/Manuel Jeghesta Nainggolan] The Datsun Go or Datsun Go+ offers flexibility as a hatchback or mini MPV, with prices starting from 70 million. Even though Datsun may have left Indonesia, this vehicle promises efficiency and reliability at a very affordable price.

Looking for a used car with certain criteria such as a price under 100 million and an age under 10 years is not difficult. Some of the options above provide an attractive combination of affordable price, reliable performance, and modern design.

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Get to know the types of shockbreakers, what are they?

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As a vehicle owner, success in maintaining car comfort and performance often depends on selecting the right shockbreaker. Getting to know the various types of shockbreakers is an important first step in maintaining your vehicle.

That way, you can make smarter decisions and optimize your driving experience. Let’s learn more about the types of shockbreakers that you can consider, quoted from the official Suzuki website.

1. Conventional Shockbreaker

Conventional shockbreakers are the most common type found in cars. They consist of a tube filled with oil and equipped with a spring.

When a vehicle crosses an obstacle on the road, this shockbreaker works by pushing oil through small channels in the tube to absorb the shock.

Even though they are simple, conventional shockbreakers are able to provide a good balance between comfort and stability.

2. Twin-Tube Shockbreaker

This type of shockbreaker is a common choice on conventional cars. With a two-tube structure, namely an inner and outer tube, a twin-tube shockbreaker utilizes oil in the inner tube and air or gas between the two. This design allows for efficient shock absorption, but it should be noted that these shockbreakers tend to wear out more quickly.

3. Monotube Shockbreaker

Monotube shockbreaker comes as a more modern evolution with only one tube containing oil and gas. The advantage of this design lies in the efficiency of shock absorption and better control, especially when the vehicle is moving at high speed.

4. Gas Shockbreaker

Gas shockbreaker is a variant of the twin-tube type that uses nitrogen as a protective gas. The presence of this gas helps prevent foam from forming in the oil, maintaining the performance of the shockbreaker to remain consistent in absorbing shocks.

5. Hydraulic Shockbreaker

Hydraulic shockbreakers use oil with pressure that can be adjusted according to needs. Ideal for controlling changing weights in a vehicle. With pressure adjustment capabilities, this shockbreaker can provide optimal comfort and performance.

Understanding the differences between these types of shockbreakers will help you make smarter decisions. Consider your driving needs and adjust to the most suitable type of shock absorber to get the maximum driving experience.

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What is the Difference Between Service and Tune Up?

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When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the question often arises, what exactly is the difference between a tune up and a regular car service? Does routine servicing cover all aspects of a tune up?

Quoted from various sources, let’s break down the key differences between the two so you can make more informed decisions for your vehicle maintenance.

Tune Up: More Than Just a Service

Tune up is actually part of car servicing in general, however, the practice has a much wider scope. In a tune up, the mechanic not only carries out routine checks but also performs several additional jobs that improve the performance and efficiency of the vehicle’s engine.

Higher Tune Up Costs

One of the significant differences between a tune up and regular service is in terms of cost. Tunes generally cost more because they involve additional work and more detailed adjustments.

While a regular car service includes checking several components, a tune-up ensures that every aspect of the vehicle is looked at in depth.

Scope of Work Tune Up

Tune up includes more detailed adjustments and maintenance, especially on the inside of the vehicle’s engine. For cars with a carburetor system, cleaning and adjusting the carburetor is an integral part of the tune up.

Meanwhile, in cars with an injection system, the throttle body will be cleaned using a special fluid.

Checking and adjusting valve clearance is also the main focus in tune ups, especially for engines with conventional valve systems.

This aims to ensure that the valve remains in optimal condition with a gap that meets standards, in the range of 0.2 to 0.3 mm.

Regular Car Service

While a tune up involves in-depth tuning and maintenance, a regular car service is more focused on routine inspections and general maintenance.

This involves checking the air filter, fluid, injection system and engine parts without the need for complete disassembly.

If your vehicle requires extra attention, especially on engine performance, a tune up is the right choice.

However, for routine maintenance and standard checks, regular car servicing can still keep your vehicle in good condition. Don’t hesitate to consult a mechanic or technician regarding your specific vehicle needs.

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Home for Vacation? Here are tips for not getting sleepy when driving long distances

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A fun holiday often ends with a long journey home.

However, driving long distances after a holiday can pose challenges, especially drowsiness which can endanger safety.

To keep your journey home safe and comfortable, here are some tips so you don’t get sleepy when driving long distances.

How to Get a Driving Certificate. (Pexels) 1. Get enough rest before leaving

Make sure you get enough rest before starting your journey home. Lack of sleep can make the body tired and prone to drowsiness.

If possible, sleep at least 7-8 hours before leaving so you can start your trip in top physical condition.

2. Break the Trip into Small Parts

If the return trip involves quite a long distance, break the trip into small parts by taking several breaks in certain places.

Plan a short stop to rest, stretch your legs and refresh your mind. This can help reduce boredom and avoid sudden drowsiness.

3. Take turns with a travel partner

If you are not riding alone, take advantage of the time to take turns with a travel partner. Give each other a chance to take a break.

This can not only maintain alertness, but also provide time to relax and enjoy the journey together.

4. Consume Light Food and Drinks

Choose foods and drinks that are light and easy to digest to avoid feeling sleepy after a heavy meal.

Avoid consuming fatty and heavy foods which can make your stomach feel full and make you more likely to be sleepy.

5. Listen to Refreshing Music

Bring a playlist of energetic and refreshing music to keep your spirits up during the trip. Avoid slow, calming music as it can increase drowsiness. Rhythmic and upbeat music can help maintain alertness levels.

6. Don’t hesitate to take a break

If you feel sleepy, don’t hesitate to take a break. Find a safe place to stop and rest for a while.

Taking a short walk around the rest area can also help relieve drowsiness.

7. Get enough body fluids

Make sure your body stays hydrated by consuming enough water. Dehydration can cause fatigue and make you more susceptible to sleepiness.

However, avoid excessive amounts of caffeinated drinks, especially at night, so as not to disrupt your sleep patterns.

By paying attention to the tips above, traveling home after holiday can be a safe and enjoyable experience. Always prioritize the safety and health of you and your travel companions. Happy driving!

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