Important Automobile Mid-Summer Inspections (8 Key Points)
Maintaining Your Car in UAE's Harsh Summer: A Comprehensive Guide
As the mercury rises in the United Arab Emirates, it's crucial to take extra care of your vehicle to ensure it withstands the harsh summer conditions. Here are some essential tips to help you maintain your car during the hot summer months.
Cooling System Regularly check your coolant levels and ensure your radiator and hoses are in good condition to prevent overheating in extreme heat.
Air-Conditioning Replace cabin air filters more frequently to maintain air quality and ensure the AC system is functioning optimally to keep the interior cool, especially given the high temperatures and dust.
Tyres Monitor and maintain correct tyre pressure; heat increases tyre pressure, so adjust accordingly. For desert driving, reduce tyre pressure to increase grip on sand. Regularly check tyre tread and condition to prevent blowouts due to heat stress.
Battery Heat shortens battery life. Clean terminals and check for corrosion frequently. If the battery is over 3 years old, have it professionally tested and consider replacement before summer peaks.
Brakes Regularly inspect brake pads and discs as dust and heat can accelerate wear. Clean brakes to remove iron and dust deposits, using specialized cleaners like alloy wheel cleaners that inhibit corrosion.
Belts and Bushings Heat accelerates wear of belts and bushings. Have them inspected periodically for cracks, brittleness, or loosening to avoid breakdowns under stress.
Fluids Regularly check engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Heat and dust degrade fluid quality faster, so regular change and top-up are essential for reliability.
Paint and Plastics Use high-quality car covers and sunshades to protect paint and plastics from UV damage and fading. Parking facing away from the sun and using windshield shades can significantly reduce interior and exterior heat exposure.
Emergency Kit Pack an emergency kit tailored for desert conditions, including extra water, coolant, a spare tyre with tools, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, flashlight, sun protection gear, reflective vest, torch, basic tools, first-aid supplies, a spare phone power bank, bottled water, and an umbrella for shade.
Additional practical tips include washing the car regularly to remove abrasive dust, avoiding parking in direct sun whenever possible, and investing in heat-resistant modifications to prolong vehicle longevity in the UAE climate. Regular professional servicing considering UAE's extreme conditions is strongly recommended to catch issues early and maintain optimal performance.
Remember, breakdowns in 50°C heat can be dangerous, so a well-stocked emergency kit is essential, especially in mid-summer. Specialised leather and plastic conditioners help rejuvenate tired car interiors, while UV-protective wax application and a good ceramic coating can shield a car's paintwork and revive it to some extent.
As a senior automotive journalist, Sony Thomas emphasizes the importance of these measures, stating that the UAE's environment demands more from vehicles than we often realize, and a thoughtful mid-summer check can help ensure a car's longevity. Be mindful of these tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly this summer.
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