What’s So Special About The Honda i-VTEC Engine?

i-VTEC stands for Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control, a system created by Honda to improve fuel consumption of Honda vehicles. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and hydraulically selects between the two.

This technology was invented by Ikuo Kakitani, a Honda engineer.

Honda i-VTEC permits the engine to effectively have multiple camshafts. The difference with this technology is that the engine’s computer can activate alternate lobes on the camshaft and change the cam timing as the engine moves into different RPM ranges.

The incredible feature of this technology is that the engine can have the low-speed and high-speed camshafts in the same engine. In fact, the main idea with Honda i-VTEC is to have the maximum engine performance at every RPM range.

How Does Honda i-VTEC Work?

Honda iVTEC engine

To better understand Honda i-VTEC technology, let’s first take a look at how a normal engine works.

The valves let the air into the engine and let exhaust out of the engine. The camshafts control the valves. To open and close the valves, the camshaft uses rotating lobes.

Research shows that there is an important connection between the way the lobes are ground on the camshaft, and the way the engine behaves in different RPM ranges.

Let’s use an example to understand better. Imagine that we are running an engine at just 10 or 15 RPM, to complete a cycle the piston will take seconds to do it. Just keep in mind that it is not possible to run a normal engine this slowly, but let’S just pretend for a second we could.

The camshaft would grind, when the piston begins moving downward in the intake stroke, the intake valve would open. Right as the piston bottoms are out, the intake valve would close.

Then the exhaust valve would open right as the piston bottoms out at the end of the combustion stroke, and would close as the piston completes the exhaust stroke. This is great as long as we can run the engine at a very low speed.
The bad news is that when we increase the RPM, this configuration for the camshaft does not perform well.

Honda IVTEC system valve

If the engine is running at 4,000 RPM, the valves are opening and closing 2,000 times every minute. So when the intake valve opens right at the top of the intake stroke, the piston is not able to get the air moving into the cylinder in a fraction of time available.

The result is that at higher RPM ranges, what you need is the intake valve to open before the intake stroke, this way the piston starts moving down in the intake stroke, and the valve is open, moving the air freely into the cylinder during a complete intake stroke.

If you want maximum engine performance at low and high speeds, you need to open and close the valves differently for each speed.

Without i-VTEC technology, you would have a problem. If you put in a good low-speed camshaft, the engine’s performance at high speed is not good. And if you put in a good high-speed camshaft, the engine’s performance is not good at low-speed. In some cases, it can even make it harder to start the engine.

Now, what the i-VTEC technology does is that Honda engines work effectively by having multiple camshafts. This is the reason why Honda i-VTEC models have high-performance and lower fuel consumption.

Honda Malaysia offers the Honda City, and the Honda Civic with this type of technology.

Takeaway

JM Motor Services area

As you can see, Honda i-VTEC technology provides fuel consumption economy without sacrificing performance.

If you have a Honda, the best way to maintain your vehicle as good as new is to bring your car to Honda Service Centre in Penang. This way you can ensure your car is in good hands.

The i-VTEC technology is exclusively for Honda vehicles, and that’s why you need Honda technicians to have access to accurate Honda measurements using the latest equipment at the facility.

Don’t take risks. Get an accurate diagnosis at your nearest authorized Honda Service Centre. By the way, don’t forget that Body and paint services are also available at Honda Service Centres.

Why All Honda Owners Should Go For Honda Insurance Plus (HiP)?

Did you know that for four consecutive years, Honda Malaysia continues to retain its number 1 position for Non-National segment besides being the number 2 position in overall TIV (Total Industry Volume)?

This made Honda without a doubt one of the most popular car makers in Malaysia.

Honda cars are so appealing to the public because of its innovative features, and relatively low cost for such a reliable vehicle. But owning a Honda car has many other benefits too, such as the ones that come with HiP.

Well, if you are a Honda car owner, it is time for you to know more about Honda Insurance Plus (also known as HiP). Keep reading, you don’t want to miss out the important information.

Honda Insurance Plus (HiP)

Honda Malaysia offers exclusively to Honda car owners the Honda Insurance Plus Package, a car insurance coverage that will give you so much more than just protection for your car.

If you own a Honda, this is the best insurance plan you can get. Why? Because the Honda Team will make sure your car gets back on the road fast and safely.

First, they have a rescue team that is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Rescue Team

With Honda Rescue Team, you can be confident you will get the help that you need, such as:

  • 24-hour Emergency Towing: If you have an accident, breakdown and flood up to 450 kilometres round trip to the nearest Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centre.
  • Roadside Repair Service: Free labor up to RM200 per event, not inclusive of spare parts
    • Jump-start or battery replacement
    • Change of flat tire
    • Fuel refill
  • Hassle-Free Claim Assistance: You will not need to do anything because your Honda Authorised Dealer will follow up with the insurance company and advise on the procedures.

What To Do If You Have A Car Accident or Breakdown

If you have HiP, you can be sure you have complete protection you can trust, so you don’t have to worry if you have a car accident or breakdown. Honda accident repair ensures you a total peace of mind. Simply follow these simple steps:

Car Accidents

  1. The first thing you need to do is switch on the Hazard Light and place a warning triangle on the road.
  2. Check that everyone is safe. Observe for any danger.
  3. If it is possible, stay away from the road and move to a safe spot.
  4. Call 999.
  5. Call for Emergency Assistance, remember they are available day and night, 7 days a week.
  6. The rescue team will go to the place of the accident and tow your car to an authorized Honda Body and Paint Services Centre.
  7. Lodge a police report. You have to do this within 24 hours of the accident.
  8. Now all you have to do is wait for your dealer to contact you about the claim and repairs.

Car Breakdowns

  1. The first thing you need to do is tell other drivers you are having a problem. So switch on your Honda hazard lights and place a warning triangle.
  2. If it is possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot to stay away from the road.
  3. Now it is time to call the Emergency Assistance. Remember they are available every day, 24 hours a day.
  4. Once the rescue team arrives, they will inspect your Honda on the spot to see if there is anything they can do to get you back on the road again fast and safe.
  5. If your car is not responding, they will tow it to a Honda Authorised Service Centre.
  6. In the Honda Service Centre, they will check your vehicle and your dealer will contact you about the claim and repairs.

You Honda Car is a great investment and you need to take good care of it, so it’s important that if a breakdown or accident happens, make sure that only HiP authorized tow truck transport your car to a Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centre.

Why Choose JM Motor Services for Your Honda Vehicles, Services, Repair and HiP?

  • We’re an authorized Honda dealer, service and repair centre in northern Malaysia
  • We’re fully equipped with advanced equipment and tools, genuine parts and qualified technicians
  • JM Motor Services is run by a group of highly skilled Honda service experts
  • We offer HiP with all the following benefits.

Benefits You Enjoy with HiP

When you repair your vehicle in a Honda Authorised Service, Body, and Paint Centre, it is inspected by specialists that comply to Honda standards. Believe me, you can be confident that your car is in good hands.

  • Trusted Honda Accident Repair: Your car will be just as good as new with the quality workmanship on the body and paint repairs. They use state-of-the-art equipment to keep your car in excellent condition to keep your Honda’s value.
  • 100% Genuine Body and Part Replacements: You also have a 6-month warranty or 10,000-kilometre service warranty.
  • Speedy Claim Approval: If you have HiP, you would get your car faster with pre-approved claims below RM20,000 repaired at Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centres.

With minimal fees, you enjoy total peace of mind, knowing that you will receive all the assistance you and your loved ones need:

  • Personal Assistance:
    • Return of children travelling with a member
    • Home assist services
    • Legal matters
    • Translator
    • Visa, passport, and vaccination requirements
    • Location of lost items
    • Alternative travel assistance
    • Arrangement of flights
  • Medical Assistance:
    • Medical referral and arrangement of appointments
    • Dispatch of medication which is not available locally
    • Medical evacuation or repatriation

Finally, HiP now comes with extended coverage terms and better savings. If you love your Honda, there is no better insurance for your vehicle than Honda Insurance Plus Package.

More benefits:

  • 100% Payout for Theft or Total Loss on the sum insured for the first 10 years.
  • 100% Coverage on Accidental Repairs. No excess clause for up to 10 years.
  • 100% Coverage for Cars up to 10 years old. No hidden cost when you repair your car at any Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centres.
  • 24-hour Emergency Accident Towing Service.

*To know more, visit our service centre in Penang or contact us.

How To Choose The Right Tires For Your Cars?

If you own a car, you know that swapping tires is a regular point of your Honda service maintenance, but choosing the right type of tires can be confusing, because there is such a wide selection of sizes and prices.

It’s a good idea to check your Honda maintenance schedule to know when to replace your tires and why. Wish to learn how to choose the right tires for your car? Keep reading.

 

Choose The Right Tires

A good place to start when it comes to purchasing tires, is to consider buying the same ones that came on your Honda.

The easiest option, if you like the way the car rides and handles, is to buy the original equipment; this means the tires your car came with from the manufacturer.

You know they will be a good fit because the tires were designed for your car. To find out which tires came with your Honda, all you have to do is look into your car’s owners manual or ask your Honda Service Centre.

Now if you want to change the ride characteristics of your car, you will need to do a more detailed research.

 

1. Tires Size

To know the size of tires that fits your car, you need to locate a placard on the driver’s side door, in there you will read something like, P215/65R15. These numbers and letters tell the tire width, the height and the diameter. Usually, your new tires should match this size.

It’s easy to find your tire size, just enter the year, make and model of your car, and you will find a list of tires that match the size and will work for your Honda. Then you can compare tire reviews and prices.

 

2. Comfort

Remember to choose tires that are not only the right size, but that also optimize the car’s handling and braking ability. Each year, Honda Accident Repair Centres are full of cars with tire-related crashes.

Make sure to look for tires that reduce road noise and provide a comfortable ride. However, only a few brands of tires are developed specifically for your car. These brands were chosen to fit the personality of your car.

 

When to Buy Tires

Don’t begin shopping for your tires until they are dangerously worn. Remember through either age, use or the decomposition of the tires rubber, the tread will become less effective at gripping the road over time.

Experts suggest that tires of five years or older should receive yearly inspection from your Honda qualified mechanics. Tire rubber decomposes over time, especially if left in the heat or extreme weather.

If you tires are 5 years or older, you should replace them immediately.

You too can check out your car’s tires, if you find hairline fractures, this indicates the tire is older. If these fractures are present along the sidewall of a tire, you should replace them as soon as possible.

Remember pop, tear, or deflate, tires put you at risk of an accident or injury.

 

Types of Tires

Yes, it’s important to go for the correct tire size. However, you should also consider other factors, such as weather, road conditions and typical mileage. There are mainly four types of tires:

  • All-season tires: This type of tires is the most common, because they are a middle-of-the-road tire between grip, speed, and mileage.
  • Winter tires: This type of tires are not for Malaysia, because they are recommended for snow-laden countries.
  • Summer tires: These type of tires provide enhanced braking, and they are mainly used for high-performance vehicles.
  • All-terrain tires: This type of tires is a simple choice for four-wheel drive vehicles.

 

Where To Buy Your Tires

The best place to buy your tires is at Honda’s Body and Paint Services, they have a full service mechanical shop and their tires inventory features options from all major brands.

Now you know how to choose your Honda’s tires, all you need to do is decide the type of tires for your driving needs and have them installed.

How Often Should You Change Your Engine Oil

In general, changing your engine oil is quick and easy. But things get confusing when it comes to how often you should schedule an engine oil change.

When to Change Oil?

I am guessing you’ve heard this old advice many times: “You should change your oil every 5,000 kilometers”.

But according to experts, this statement is outdated, and that most cars can travel longer before the engine oil is replaced.

A simple solution to know exactly when you need to change your engine oil is just to bring your car in for assessment, in one of the many Penang Honda Services Centres available, where qualified technicians will answer all of your oil change concerns in a matter of minutes, and provide you with a professional opinion you can trust.

So go ahead and give a call to your Honda car service right now.

But if you don’t have time to do this, keep reading, this blog post will answer all your questions.

 

Indeed, the 5,000 kilometre oil change interval was necessary in the past because oil normally lost its viscosity within that time, so it made perfect sense to have an oil change done.

Lubricant technology has made great advancement since then.

Besides, today’s combustion engines run more efficiently than ever, and when paired with modern lubricants, the engine can work smoother and longer.

A good rule could be if your Honda is using synthetic oil, change the oil every 10,000 kilometres or every six months, whichever comes first.

If your Honda is using conventional oil/mineral oil, you should change the oil every 5,000 kilometres or every three months, whichever comes first.

 

Even though it is a good rule to follow, it’s important to understand these are just general guidelines.

A good idea to know the exact time intervals your car needs an oil change, is to check its maintenance schedule.

Other things that play an important part in determining how often you need to get your engine oil changed, are your specific driving patterns.

You may need to schedule an oil change sooner than the recommended stated in your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, depending on the road conditions you travel through, and how long and often you drive.

 

Oil Change Warning Signs

As mentioned before, it is a good idea to follow a routine oil change schedule for your Honda.

But be aware of the following warning signs that indicate your oil needs to be changed:

  • The engine noise is louder
  • You can smell oil outside and in the cabin
  • The oil change warning light stays on
  • The check engine light stays on
  • The engine oil is dark or dirty

If your Honda shows any of these signs, you should immediately bring your car to one of Penang Honda Service Centres.

 

These are the ones situated in Penang/northern region:

Remember these warning signs can occur at any time.

Do not ignore these indicators because it can lead to severe engine damage, decreased fuel economy and reduced overall performance.

 

Why Change Your Engine Oil?

Changing your engine oil is a vital maintenance task. Routine oil changes provide many benefits to your Honda and can even extend the longevity of your vehicle.

Engine oil keeps internal engine parts lubricated and clean, keeping your engine running smoothly for as long as possible.

Without changing the oil, sludge could build up in the engine, causing an expensive and sometimes irreparable damage.

Remember clean oil improves overall performance, enhances efficiency and helps your vehicle produce a smooth and quiet ride.

 

Schedule Your Oil Change Today

Routine oil changes could make your engine last longer and have a smooth performance, so it is a good idea to schedule your oil change on time.

Just call your Honda car service in Penang now, especially if your car is overdue.

Don’t wait.

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