Car combusts, now what?

PETALING JAYA: Imagine it’s been a long, stressful day at work. To unwind, you decide to take your car for a spin around the city.

With fewer cars on the road, you keep to your normal speed and let other motorists pass you on the right.

Suddenly, you smell something foul in the cabin, followed by the emergence of smoke.

Shortly after, your car bursts into flames.

ALSO READ: Insurance coverage available for vehicle fires, says PIAM

As dramatic as it may sound, this scenario may exactly describe what some drivers have unfortunately experienced.

According to data from the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department, there is at least one case of vehicle fire in the state each week.A recent incident involved a bus with eight passengers that caught fire in Jalan Tandang here on Oct 1.

Another case had an electric vehicle (EV) parked in Jalan Puchong Jaya burst into flames on Monday.

Thankfully, no one was hurt in both instances.

In the event of a car fire, Automotive Workshop Industry Operators’ Association secretary Anisah Mohammad said it is best to prioritise personal safety by keeping away from the vehicle.

“There is a risk of explosion in EVs, and it is important for firemen to use specialised extinguishers to neutralise the lithium-ion battery fluid as water should not be used.

“Fire and Rescue teams have specific protocols and safety measures in place to extinguish such fires.

“It is advisable for vehicle owners or users to distance themselves from the vehicle, take photos and videos as evidence, and file a report with the relevant authorities for insurance claims,” she said.

Anisah said vehicle fires from cars powered by internal combustion engines could originate from hot components such as the power steering oil, engine oil or gear oil.

“If any of these oils leak when the engine is running and come into contact with the exhaust, it can ignite, leading to a fire.

“This is the primary cause of vehicle fires.

“Another issue that contributes to car fires is the maintenance problem, specifically with oil hoses and petrol leaks.

“Newer cars, especially those from the year 2010 and onwards, are more prone to car fires due to numerous electronic parts,” she said.

“Hybrid cars and EVs are particularly susceptible to fires caused by the battery cooling system.

“The expansion of the battery due to excessive heat can result in sparks, leading to a fire,” she added.

Anisah also noted that performance modifications on vehicles are okay as long as the owner understands its function, and the mechanic has the necessary knowledge and expertise.

“Vehicle owners should only allow mechanics who are recognised with a certificate, diploma or degree in the field of automotive, hybrid cars and EV technology, to handle such modifications,” she said.

She also called on vehicle owners to be aware of safety precautions, such as equipping their vehicles with proper fire extinguishers.