Empowering Women in the Automotive World: Spotlight on Jay Gallyot, Your Lady Car Expert

 

Ladies have rarely made a name for themselves in the automotive industry, a field often perceived as male-dominated. However, this narrative is about to change, and Berjaya Sompo Insurance is proud to lead this transformation alongside Jay Gallyot, a rising star in the automotive arena whose name you have likely heard in the news and on the radio.

We are excited to collaborate with Jay Gallyot, featured as Your Lady Car Expert, in a role designed to empower ladies through education on performing basic car care and maintenance.

Jay Gallyot's passion for cars began at a young age. From spending weekends learning the intricacies of engines to becoming a highly respected professional in the automotive field, Jay's journey is an inspiring tale of dedication and expertise.

 

Jay's journey in the automotive field wasn't without its challenges. Facing numerous stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Jay's perseverance and determination led her to overcome these obstacles and establish herself as a professional lady mechanic.



Join Us in Empowering Women


We believe that empowering women in the automotive industry not only promotes gender equality but also enriches the industry with diverse perspectives and talents. By showcasing role models like Jay, we hope to inspire more women to gain confidence in their automotive knowledge and skills.


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Educating and Inspiring Through Practical Knowledge

In line with our CSR initiative, we have created a series of videos that provide valuable insights into car maintenance, what to do during a flood, and other essential automotive knowledge. These videos cover basic yet crucial topics that everyone should know, making car care accessible to all.

Welcome to Ask Jay, your go-to space for expert advice on car care, maintenance, and safety! Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to the road, our Lady Car Expert, Jay, is here to answer all your burning questions about keeping your vehicle in top shape. Browse through the questions below, and gain valuable tips to ensure a smooth and safe ride every time you hit the road.

Change engine oil

Can I change my own engine oil?

Yes, you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and parts. Remember to replace the oil filter with every oil change, and ensure you're using the correct type of engine oil for your car. Most importantly, add only the recommended amount of oil, as overfilling can lead to serious engine problems.

MPV car

My car experiencing low power and high fuel consumption. What would you recommend to improve performance and efficiency?

High fuel consumption can result from various factors. First, excessive idling—be mindful of how long your car remains running while parked. Second, low or worn tires create greater resistance, requiring more engine power. Third, a dirty air filter reduces airflow to the combustion chamber, making the engine work harder to burn fuel for sufficient power. Additionally, worn spark plugs, old engine oil, and a faulty oxygen sensor can all contribute to increased fuel consumption.

Oil consumption

Long-distance travel can lead to increased engine oil consumption. Why does this happen, and what are some recommendations to prevent it?

High engine oil consumption is very common in older cars (more than 5 years). After some time the seals and gaskets start to wear out and oil will leak. Some leaks are visible and some are hidden. Heat & vibration from driving  can cause cracks in hoses or other components after a long time . Replace worn out seals & gaskets. Other issues include worn piston rings, high oil pressure or excessive amount of oil (which can cause oil to flood out of the cylinders). Last but not least is the use of synthetic 

Reverse

Why does my car jerk when I start and reverse?

If your car jerks when starting or reversing, it could be due to low or dirty transmission fluid, a faulty solenoid valve, or even a weak battery, as the transmission requires power to operate smoothly. Jerking that improves as the engine warms up may indicate that your transmission fluid needs attention. To help, try warming up the engine on idle for a minute before shifting into gear.

Car service

What is the difference between a minor and major car service?

A minor car service includes essentials like an engine oil change, vehicle inspection, and diagnostic checks, often referred to as a general service. This is typically done every 10,000 km or annually, depending on the vehicle. In contrast, a major service is more extensive, covering tasks such as changing transmission and differential oils, replacing brake fluid, greasing wheel bearings, and replacing spark plugs and fuel filters. Major service is usually recommended after two minor services, or roughly every three years, based on the vehicle’s requirements.

Sedan

What could cause intermittent engine coughing during startup on a car?

This issue likely points to a misfire. It's important to check the fault codes using an OBD scanner to pinpoint the problem. Common culprits include spark plugs, ignition coils, airflow sensors, or issues with the high- or low-pressure fuel pumps.

Oil

How often should I change my engine oil?

It’s recommended to change your engine oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, depending on your car’s make and model. Some newer cars can go longer, but it’s always good to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Raining

How can I protect my car during the rainy season?

During the rainy season, it’s important to keep your wipers in good condition and check your tires for proper tread depth to avoid hydroplaning. Ensure your brakes are functioning well, and if possible, park your car under shelter to protect it from water damage or fallen debris. For added protection, consider getting Special Perils Coverage as part of your car insurance!

Car Battery

When should I replace my car battery?

Most car batteries last between 2 to 3 years, but if you notice dim headlights, trouble starting the engine, or unusual clicking sounds when turning the key, it’s time to check the battery.

Car Paint

What’s the best way to maintain my car’s paint?

To keep your car’s paint in great condition, wash it regularly to remove dirt, debris, and pollutants that can damage the surface. Be sure to use proper equipments that won't scratch the surface of your car paint. If you are unsure, ask a professional. Apply wax every few months to add a protective layer. Parking in shaded areas or using a car cover can also help prevent sun damage and fading.

Car Aircond

Why does my car’s air conditioning blow warm air?

If your air conditioning is blowing warm air, it could be due to low refrigerant levels, a leak in the system, or a malfunctioning compressor. It’s best to have a professional inspect the system and fix any issues. Regular air conditioning maintenance can prevent problems, especially during hot weather.

Car Brake

How do I know if my brakes need replacing?

Inspect your brake pads and brake discs, usually it is visible. Replace brake pads if it's worn out. Worn out disc can be seen and felt when you run your fingers on the surface. Other signs that your brakes may need replacement include squeaking or grinding noises, a spongy brake pedal, and longer stopping distances.

Special Perils

What are the benefits of Special Perils Coverage in car insurance?

Special Perils Coverage protects your car against natural disasters such as floods, landslides, storms, and falling trees. In Malaysia, where flash floods and unpredictable weather are common, having this coverage ensures that you won’t be left with expensive repair bills due to unforeseen events.

Front axle

My car makes a lot of noise when I turn left or right. What should I check?

Depending on your car model, you may need to check the lower arm and trailing link. Noise can also come from the track rods on your steering rack, often caused by issues with components on your front axle.

Radiator fan

My car's fan makes noise even after I turn off the engine. What could be the problem?

Was it a long or intense drive? The radiator fan may continue running for a while after a stressful drive. It's recommended to let your car idle briefly before turning it off to help regulate the temperature. The noise could also be due to air trapped in the coolant system; make sure the coolant is properly bled to avoid leaks. If the noise persists, it may be an issue with the fan itself, such as an imbalance in its rotation. It's best to have it checked.

Genuine fully synthetic oil

How can I tell if the fully synthetic engine oil is genuine?

I recommend purchasing from trusted retailers. If you've bought from a suspicious seller, inspect the packaging for any misspellings or unusual ingredients. Semi-synthetic oil is typically golden brown and has a sticky texture, while fully synthetic oil is usually brighter in color, feels slippery, and has a thinner consistency.

Screeching noise

When I reverse my car, there is a screeching noise. What could be the cause?

A screeching noise when reversing is often caused by worn brake pads. It's a good idea to check the condition of your brake pads and brake discs.

Change oil filter

How often should I change my oil filter?

The frequency depends on your car's age and the manufacturer's recommendations. Older cars may require more frequent changes. Typically, oil filters should be replaced every 30,000 to 100,000 km. Be mindful of signs of a clogged oil filter, such as rough idling, misfires, or difficulty starting the engine.

N or P?

When I stop my car, is it correct to press the brake, shift to N, then shift to P?

It's generally recommended to shift to N first, as it's not necessary to go straight to P. If you're worried about your car moving on an uphill or downhill slope, shift to N and engage the handbrake. If your car only has a parking brake button, there's no harm in shifting to P, but it's not strictly necessary, N is usually sufficient

Old van with noise

Why is my van so noisy when I start it?

The noise could be due to a damaged exhaust pipe or worn belts. Worn belts often create noise during cranking and may continue even after the engine starts. The sound could also come from the starter's rotor, but there are various other potential causes or damages that can contribute to the noise.