Toyota Indonesia Announces Recall Raize Today

 Rumors circulated that Toyota Indonesia would carry out a unit repair or recall campaign for its flagship compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), the Raize. Information circulating on social media suspected that this car had a malfunction in the front fender apron component.

"Informing the owner of the Toyota Raize type car for the period November 2020 to October 2021. Sorry, as Toyota's commitment to provide the best product quality at this time, we are conducting a recall program for inspection and repair of the front fender apron on your car as a step preventive measures to ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition, in accordance with the warranty terms," reads the information regarding the Toyota Raize recall.

Furthermore, the news explains that the process of replacing the fender apron components requires a repair time of approximately 7 to 8 hours. The fender apron itself is located on the inside of the hood, in the form of a bowl or cover of the front suspension.

From the photos circulating, the fender apron component, which is suspected to belong to the Toyota Raize, was damaged. The malfunction that occurs is that the top and bottom are not tightly together, causing a large enough gap.

When confirmed regarding this matter, the Marketing Director of PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) Anton Jimmi Suwandy did not deny the news that Raize's recall would be recalled. However, it also indirectly confirmed that Raize had malfunctioned and had to do a recall.

For information, the Toyota Raize and Daihatsu Rocky are twin cars whose production activities are carried out by PT Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM). Until this news was revealed, there has been no official answer from ADM regarding the news of damage and recall for Raize and whether it happened to Rocky as well.

In the Indonesian market, Raize is sold in 6 different variants, Raize 1.0 Turbo GR Sport CVT TSS, 1.0 Turbo GR Sport CVT, 1.0 Turbo G CVT, 1.0 Turbo G M/T, 1.2 G CVT and 1.2 G M/T.

Two engine options are available. First, the 1.0 liter inline 3-cylinder turbocharger capable of producing maximum power of up to 96 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 140 Nm from 2,400 rpm to 4,000 rpm. While other engine options are 1.2 liter naturally aspirated which can produce maximum power of up to 86 horsepower and torque of 112 Nm.

Sophisticated safety features are selling points too, he was injected with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) technology. The TSS on the Raize includes Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, 6 D/P/S/C airbags, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitoring, Front Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, Pedal Missoperation Control, Lane Departure Assist with Steering Control.

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The First Steps to Overcome an Overheated Car Engine, Do These 6 Things

 Have you ever seen a car stop and smoke from the hood? The technical language is that the engine is overheating. Simply put, the car engine is overheating, the engine temperature is too high, far above the optimal engine temperature. Yep, this is one of the most common engine problems. Usually experienced by old year cars, although it does not rule out the possibility of new cars as well.

The main problem lies in the cooling system. Radiators, radiator caps, radiator fans, fan belts, water pumps, thermostats, hoses and the fluids in them are sometimes neglected. If one does not work optimally, overheating is prone to occur. The result can be fatal. In addition to the car definitely breaking down, most likely have to get off the engine. Therefore, it is necessary to be familiar with this problem. Starting from the symptoms, causes and how to deal with them.

No need to panic and be afraid if this happens to your car. For the first step to overcome the overheating car engine, you can do the following 6 initial steps:

1. Stop at the side of the road and turn off the car engine

When the car engine overheats, stop immediately and take it to the side of the road or a safe location. The next step is to turn off the engine. This is done so that your car does not suffer more serious damage. After that, keep an eye on the temperature needle. 

2. Open the hood so the heat dissipates immediately

Do not allow heat to be trapped in the engine compartment. Locate the small hood release lever, then lift it. Be careful because sometimes the lever is near the radiator so there is a risk of you being scalded by the radiator heat.

3. Do not open the radiator cap if the engine is still hot

Never do this. If you open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot, it may cause steam and high pressure water to escape, which can result in serious burns if it comes in contact with the skin.

4. Check the radiator water reserve tube

Every car must have a radiator water reserve that is connected to the top of the radiator. This will help you to see if the radiator water is low or not. In addition, there is also a water level indicator. If the water is less then it can be dangerous for the engine. The first step that can be done is to add coolant to the top line position. You can fill the water in the tube even though the engine is hot or you can also wait for the engine to cool down. If your car only has a radiator without a spare tube, you should wait for it to cool before opening it.

5. Look for leaks in the cooling system

If the radiator or cylinder head is damaged, there may be a leak in the cooling system. If you are experienced enough with cars, check the radiator, engine block, or cylinder head near the gaskets for leaks. On the other hand, if you don't understand, you can take your car to the nearest repair shop and ask them to do a pressure test for the cooling system. This check is easy and may be done free of charge.

6. Decide whether to keep going or call for emergency help

If the radiator is just low on fluid and you can fill it up, this is fine. Fill it up and move on. If the water in the radiator looks out of place, don't start the car. If it can run again, it's better to turn off the air conditioner to reduce engine work. Turn on the heater to reduce engine heat. Run the car stably. If help is easy to get, you can ask for a tow truck instead of having to drive it.

What Are the Symptoms of Overheating?

Engine temperature is monitored through indicators on the instrument panel. Usually in the form of analog instructions with the letters C (Cold) and H (Hot). But the majority of new cars now, no longer use that model. The indicator is just a green and red light. Of course various signs must be monitored while driving to find out if there is a problem. For analog models, the engine is hot when the pointer has exceeded the center limit. For lamp models, the letter H glows red. When all that is seen, immediately pull over the car and turn off the engine.

When the indicator shows the engine is hot, there have been no suspicious signs while it is running. But if it continues to be forced, some symptoms can arise. Machines that used to work fine, getting rougher and less powerful. There are even those who knock (knocking) excessively and the engine power drops drastically. Air conditioning (AC) suddenly not cold. Some vehicles apply a safety system to disconnect a number of components that burden the engine.

The more forced, the engine can die and immediately crash. The temperature around the engine is certainly very hot and smoke comes out. Do not immediately open the radiator cap and add water until the temperature drops. The result can be fatal to you. Machines can be seriously damaged. Bent cylinder heads and cracked cylinder blocks are the most common. Dismounting a machine that costs a lot of money is a must.

What Causes Overheating?

There are many things that can cause an engine to overheat. Damage to the components mentioned above is a very big trigger. Most commonly, the radiator water runs out. This fluid rotates in circulation. The hot temperature of course makes it evaporate and needs to be checked periodically. If not enough, add water through the reservoir tank or directly to the radiator. Make sure to use coolant according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

If it runs out more often, check for leaks. It could be from the radiator itself, which is worn out by age, or the pipe that becomes the water flow path. If the clamp is loose or the hose is brittle, replace it immediately. The thermostat also plays an important role. Its function is to open the water circulation when the engine has reached the optimal temperature. If it is damaged and does not work, of course the water cannot rotate.

Likewise with the cooling fan which is located right behind the radiator. Duty to cool by making air flow on the sidelines of the radiator. The damage can be in the form of a dead motor or a broken fan. The fan belt also plays an important role because it connects the compressor, air conditioner, alternator and water pump to the engine speed. If it breaks, the water pump does not work and stops the water circulation process.

Well, before you travel, it's better to check all the components in question. Make sure the radiator water is not quickly reduced and circulates smoothly. Also check the radiator fan whether it is still functioning normally or not. If your car is old with high flying hours, it doesn't hurt to replace the various components first. Prevention is certainly better than cure.

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Get to know more about the Bluelink Features in the Hyundai CRETA

 Hyundai's Bluelink technology is present exclusively in Indonesia through CRETA. Yes, the first product made in Indonesia became a bridge to introduce Bluelink, before it was adopted on other models. Bluelink itself is a service technology that establishes a relationship between vehicles and users. Commonly known as connected car service, users can continue to be connected to the Hyundai CRETA via a smart device or smartphone.

Hyundai Creta

The functions and benefits that Bluelink has are many. Then provide more comfort and safety while using the Hyundai CRETA. How to use it? Quite simple. Owners of the Hyundai CRETA can register themselves through the vehicle head unit. For more in-depth functionality, connect with a smartphone by registering through the app. If you have successfully registered, then you can enjoy the maximum advantages of Bluelink.

Only from a smartphone, users can access various information related to their CRETA. There is a vehicle diagnostic feature, to ensure that it is always in excellent condition. The Manual/Automatic Diagnostic Report feature will diagnose if something goes wrong with the car, either automatically or manually depending on the settings.

Other features for health identification on cars include Driving Information and Vehicle Health Report. Allows for access to information related to driving habits, such as the number of times the engine is running, distance traveled, fuel consumption, average maximum speed. Then there is the Vehicle Status Check/Notification for direct information about conditions. Like the AC is on or not, the tire pressure and the fuel indicator. All can be seen from the Bluelink application.

Not limited to car health information, a number of remote commands are also possible with Bluelink, including:

• Remote Engine Start/Stop
• Remote Climate Control
• Remote Door Lock/Unlock
• Remote Horn & Light Control
• Find My Car
  

There is still more to do with security, Bluelink also has a Geo-Fence Notification feature. In the form of digital perimeter settings or car movement restrictions. If the car goes out of the perimeter, a notification will be sent to the phone. Other similar features are supported, namely Speed Notification, Time Fencing Notification and Valet Mode. 

Bluelink Hyundai CRETA

The most powerful Bluelink has to offer includes a safety guarantee. Starting from the ACN (Auto Collision Notification), which as the name implies, will automatically activate when an accident occurs. The system will send a notification to the Hyundai Bluelink call center. The operator quickly contacted through the mic and speakers in the car to ensure conditions. Then contact the police and medics for help.

Still related to safety on the trip. Also presented is the SOS button on the overhead console in the car. When pressed, it will contact the call center and send the needed assistance to the location. There is also Road Side Assistance (RSA) if the vehicle breaks down on the road, whether it's just running out of fuel or a flat tire, RSA can be assisted directly.

Meanwhile, for car security from theft, Bluelink offers a number of mainstay features. Starting from notifications to smartphones if there is a forced opening of the vehicle to live tracking features. Through the Hyundai Bluelink call center, you can also turn off the car engine remotely in the event of a theft.

With Bluelink, clearly PT. Hyundai Motors Indonesia (HMID) shows its concern for the safety and security of its customers. Meanwhile, the Bluelink connectivity feature is available first and exclusively on the Hyundai CRETA. Later, it will be explored more to be available on other Hyundai models in Indonesia.

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Honda Launches New Motorcycle Again Next Week, All New Honda Vario 125?

 PT Astra Honda Motor (AHM) has confirmed that it will launch another new motorcycle at the beginning of this year. Through the official invitation that we received, they will introduce their new product on Monday, March 14, 2022.

The launch of the new motorcycle from AHM will be held virtually exclusively for the media crew. From the information stated on the invitation, the product launch time starts at 13.30 to 14.30 WIB.

All New Honda Vario 125

From the details of the invitation, the company did not hold a test ride session. This is different from the launch of the all new Vario 160 which was carried out directly at the AHM Safety Riding & Training Center facility in the GICC area, Kota Deltamas, Cikarang, West Java.

As usual, AHM did not inform what products will be released later. Of course this is the manufacturer's strategy to surprise consumers. So what model will be launched later, could it be the all-new Vario 125's sister?

All New Honda Vario 125

Our analysis points to the Vario 125, why? at the launch of the Vario 160 last February the company did not release a version of its 125 engine. In fact, in the last few years, these two motorbikes were launched at the same time. Understandably, these two motorcycles are only different in engine cubication, while the design is identical. You could say Vario 125 and Vario 150 are twin brothers.

Most likely AHM's strategy was to launch the all new Vario 160 without the all new Vario 125 at that time because they wanted consumers to focus on the Vario 160 first. As a result, after some time from its debut, the Vario 160 was well received by the market. 

After the Honda Vario 160 reaped a positive response from consumers, now it's the turn of the Vario 125 that the company might offer. In our opinion, the design that will be carried is more or less the same as the Vario 160 but usually differs in color options and the addition of stripping.

About the engine that will be carried is likely to use a new kitchen runway. The orientation is to improve performance but still fuel efficient. Although there is no more specific information, we can look at the latest 125 cc cubication engine from Honda PCX in Europe which has also been injected with the latest eSP + (enhanced Smart Power +) technology.

Honda PCX 125 is equipped with a 124.9 cc engine, liquid cooling, and has injection misting. On paper it has a maximum power of 12.5 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and a peak torque of 11.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

Not to forget, the latest eSAF (enhanced Smart Architecture Frame) chassis will be used. This reflects on the frame construction used in the Vario 160. The manufacturer claims the use of this chassis offers 4 advantages, namely, lighter weight, stronger construction, fuel efficiency, and minimal deformation.

New Moge?

Honda PCX 125

Another possibility is a product in the big motorcycle segment which also takes advantage of the presence of Honda MotoGP racer, Marc Marquez. It is known that Marquez and several other MotoGP riders will be welcomed by President Joko Widodo at the State Palace on March 16, 2022.

The reason is that on several occasions with new product launches with Marquez, AHM emphasizes its motorcycle products. Let's take an example on February 4, 2020, the company released 2 motorcycles at once, namely the CRF1100L Africa Twin and Rebel. So we'll just have to wait and see what surprises AHM will present on March 14, 2020.

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Mitsubishi Showcases New Xpander and Xpander Cross in 22 Cities

 Mitsubishi is back to be closer to people who want to know about their various products. Through the Mitsubishi Motors Supermarket Exhibition, it will be held in 22 cities from March 1 to 31, 2022. This initiative of PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Sales Indonesia (MMKSI) also featured the main stars of the New Xpander and New Xpander Cross.

Tetsuhiro Tsuchida, Director of Sales & Marketing Division of PT MMKSI revealed, the New Xpander and New Xpander Cross models will be the main highlight at exhibitions in various cities. "We invite the public to have a closer experience with Mitsubishi vehicles in this special exhibition with the hope that you can find a vehicle that suits your wishes and needs in starting a new adventure," said Tsuchida in an official statement, Wednesday (9/3/2022). 

Mitsubishi Xpander

Mitsubishi Motors Supermarket Exhibition is a Mitsubishi Motors exhibition event held at shopping centers in major cities in Indonesia. In addition to the latest product exhibitions, Mitsubishi also provides unit test drives to accommodate the wishes of the public who want to experience a direct impression of Mitsubishi products.

The exhibition from 7 to 13 March 2022 will take place at Karawang Central Plaza Karawang, Botani Square Bogor, TSM Cibubur Depok, Paris Van Java Bandung, and Ciputra Mall Semarang. The exhibition on March 14 to 20, 2022 will take place at Mall of Serang, Hartono Mall Yogyakarta, Ratu Indah Mall Makassar, and Malang Town Square in Malang.

For 21 to 27 March 2022, it will take place at Q Mall Banjarmasin, Transmart Padang, Jambi Town Square, Pentacity Balikpapan and Palembang Trade Center. The same agenda also took place at Center Point Medan, Living World Pekanbaru, Summarecon Mall Bekasi, Boemi Mall Kedaton Lampung, Kediri Town Square, Plaza Surabaya, and Plaza Asia Tasikmalaya. The last exhibition will take place from March 28 to April 3, 2022 at Mega Mall Manado.

The New Xpander and New Xpander Cross come with various updates from the exterior, interior and technical aspects. The latest is the presence of a CVT transmission for a more comfortable driving experience replacing the conventional AT transmission in the previous model. Regarding the engine, the New Xpander and New Xpander Cross use a 1.5L MIVEC DOHC 16 Valve engine with a maximum power of 105 ps and 141 Nm of torque.

This latest Mitsubishi product also gets an increase in stability. Improvements in the quality of the suspension and shock absorber were carried out with the latest tuning, resulting in more comfortable handling and stability. In addition, this Mitsubishi product comes with safety features of dual srs airbags, Rise body structure, seatbelt with 3-point ELR and ISOFIX. There are still automatic door locks, electric parking brakes with auto hold, ASC, ABS EBD and BA, ESS, Hill start Assist which are present in all variants.

Mitsubishi provides easy maintenance and a free warranty on service and spare parts for up to 50,000 kilometers or four years. Service innovations from MMKSI are also available for the convenience of consumers such as the Mitsubishi Virtual Assistant Chatbot (MIRA) and the My Mitsubishi Motors ID application which contains various conveniences of Mitsubishi vehicle ownership.

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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has been discontinued, the second-hand unit is worth considering

 Mitsubishi lost another model marketed in Indonesia. Eclipse Cross is officially discontinued as of March 2022. His name has also disappeared from the sales list on the company's official website. Even though the Eclipse Cross is an attractive SUV figure. Cool design using the latest Dynamic Shield language. Many advanced features in it and use a powerful turbo engine.

If you're still interested in Eclipse Cross, try the lyrics to a used unit. Age is still relatively young, the earliest release was in 2019. Three years generally in good condition and low mileage. Moreover, this SUV is not a working horse. But remember, the search will not be easy because the sales are not selling well. It could be that not many users want to take it off because they really enjoy the various advantages they have.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

The set of prices listed on the marketplace for buying and selling used cars has fallen quite dramatically. Initial models released in 2019 ranged from Rp. 385 - Rp. 400 million. Quite large depreciated. Compared to when it was launched three years ago, it was priced at IDR 478 million. The latest price last year reached Rp.493.75 million. Of course second hand units are very attractive. Especially if you get it in a very fit condition and a friendly price.

Eclipse Cross has a lot of charm. Starting from the design, which is distinctive and unique. The outer design is the main attraction, although this is objective. His posture at a glance looks like the Outlander Sport but wears the Dynamic Shield face typical of Xpander. The stern can be said to be its own characteristic, some like it and some don't. Designed in a unique style through unusual taillamp placement. The dimensions are also right for the segment.

The interior feels classy and full of modern values. For example, there is a Touchpad Controller on the center console. Functions like a laptop touchpad for managing various infotainment functions. Then driving information can be easily monitored via the Head-Up Display (HUD). Reflects panel meter data on the windshield, so the driver can focus more on the road without having to glance at the indicator cluster.

Other advanced features are also available, characterizing SUVs of IDR 500 million and above. The lighting is an LED projector that has Automatic High Beam (AHB) technology. It can automatically change the high beam to the near light when it detects another vehicle from the opposite direction. Then there is a panoramic sunroof. Can create the impression of spacious and luxurious.

The Eclipse Cross carries a 4B40 4-cylinder 1.5-liter turbo engine. The power output is 163 PS at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 1,800-4,500 rpm. Engine output is sent to the front wheels via a virtual 8-speed CVT transmission. The power record on paper is not as big as its main competitor, namely the Honda HR-V turbo. But that does not mean inferior.

One that is also superior, the driving character. This is a Mitsubishi product that has a very thick sport DNA. If you like driving yourself, it's definitely the right choice. It can be considered as one of the SUVs with the most exciting driving in its segment.

Safety guarantee is very adequate. As standard, there are 7 airbags, ABS + EBD + BA, Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC). Both maintain the stability of the car in various conditions. If that's not enough, the Eclipse Cross has an active Forward Collision Mitigation System (FCM), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Adaptive Cruise Control. . It is natural to be rewarded with five stars in the ASEAN NCAP crash test.

In terms of completeness of features, performance and design, Eclipse Cross has a tempting offer. So, the used condition is certainly still very worth hunting down. Do not forget to be careful in terms of conditions and papers. cek returns through inspection services and track records at official workshops.

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Impact of War, Toyota Ceases Activities in Ukraine and Russia

 Russia's invasion of Ukraine recently affected the global automotive world as well as both countries. Several brands have expressed their steps regarding this issue that has caught the attention of various countries.

The latest news, Toyota revealed its steps towards their business in both countries. The Japanese company prioritized handling the temporary crisis to ensure the safety of team members, retail staff and supply chain partners in the two warring countries.

Toyota has 37 dealerships in Ukraine that handle sales and after-sales services. Since February 24, Toyota has stopped all its activities there. While in Russia, Toyota also has a sales and after-sales network with a total of 168 locations.

Toyota also has a factory in St. Petersburg which produces the RAV4 as well as the Camry which is primarily for domestic production. Production at the St Petersburg plant ceased on March 4 and suspended all import activities until further notice. Toyota said the termination was due to disruptions in the spare parts supply chain. It is claimed that sales activities in the Blue Continent are not disturbed by the conflict in Eastern Europe.

Other Automotive Manufacturers

Ford's step is following that taken by General Motors. The Detroit automaker has stopped its activities in Russia, including stopping all exports there. In Russia alone, GM only sells about 3,000 vehicles a year, not a huge market for the American brand.

The latest news is also disclosed Harley-Davidson (HD). The well-known motorcycle brand has stopped their business activities in Russia. HD has 10 outlets in Russia out of about 369 dealers in the European Union. Like other automotive brands from the United States, the motorcycle manufacturer from Milwaukee also revealed that Russia is not a significant market for them.

Several premium car manufacturers were also affected. Aston Martin, BMW and Mini announced the termination of their business activities in Russia. Although Aston Martin only has one percent of the vehicle market in Russia. Meanwhile BMW and Mini stopped their production because many spare parts came from Ukraine. BMW has suspended export and production activities at its Kaliningrad plant, which produces around 12,000 vehicles in 2021.Several manufacturers have already expressed their steps regarding this Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ford recently revealed it would suspend its auto business in Russia. Ford, which has a 50 percent stake in Ford Soller, a Russian auto company. But Ford did not stop their production process at the St. plant. Petersburg, Elabuga and Naberrezhnye Chelny.

Ford has around 4,000 employees working in their factories producing the Ford Focus, Ford EcoSport, Transit, Kuga, Explorer, S-Max and Galaxy models. Ford donated $100,000 to help Ukrainians and families affected by the invasion. 

Toyota logo

Hyundai and Kia are also affected by this Russian-Ukrainian condition. A South Korean brand that has a factory in St. Petersburg, Russia is very dependent on the supply of scarce gas from Ukraine. Materials such as neon, krypton, xenon and others are needed to manufacture their electric vehicle battery cells. Whereas the factory for export of Tucson, Palisade, and Kia Sportage is also used to ship to North America and Europe, in fact it was only inaugurated in 2010 ago.

This South Korean brand managed to sell 373,132 vehicles in the Russian market last year and holds the largest market share there. It is said that the Russia-Ukraine crisis will affect the South Korean economy because this giant company managed to sell 2.5 billion US dollars of vehicles last year. Still added to the amount of 1.45 billion US dollars for spare parts. It is likely that Hyundai and Kia's sales will drop 29 percent this year due to the incipient Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Russia itself is not without influence in the automotive world. The country is the world's third largest supplier of nickel and provides 40 percent of palladium for global needs. This material is used to manufacture catalytic converters used in all vehicle products. Russia also relies on 25 percent of its domestic automotive production. Various global sanctions received by Russia will disrupt the automotive production process in various countries.

These various possibilities have an impact on the forecast for world automotive sales to decline. This coupled with the problem of scarcity of chips that forced some manufacturers to reduce production even though car prices increased to compensate for the shortage.

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