Essential Car Maintenance Tips for Dubai’s Scorching End-of-Summer Months
As Dubai’s end-of-summer temperatures hover around 45–50°C, your car faces relentless stress. Prolonged exposure to such extreme heat can wreak havoc on engines, tyres, batteries, and air-con systems. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional driver, car maintenance in Dubai’s heat is crucial—especially during the end-of-summer months when temperatures remain extreme.
Here’s a simple guide to help you keep your car running smoothly and safely in the UAE’s hot weather.
1. Check and Top Up Engine Coolant
Maintaining optimal engine temperature is crucial when daytime highs soar.
- Inspect coolant levels every two weeks and top up with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
- Flush and replace old coolant at least once a year to prevent corrosion inside the radiator.
- Check hoses and clamps for cracks or leaks; replace any components showing wear.
A well-tuned cooling system helps prevent engine overheating and keeps your car performing even under the sun.
2. Air-Conditioning Tune-Up
A malfunctioning AC forces the engine to work harder.
- Clean or replace the cabin filter every 5,000 km to maintain airflow.
- Inspect refrigerant levels and refill if cooling performance drops.
Regular AC maintenance ensures crisp, cool air inside the cabin and reduces strain on your engine.
3. Tyre Pressure and Tread Care
Heat expands the air inside your tyres, raising pressure and increasing blowout risk.
- Check tyre pressure weekly and adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Inspect tread depth; replace tyres once they dip below 1.6 mm to maintain grip on hot asphalt.
- Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to promote even wear and extend tyre life.
Proper tyre care enhances fuel efficiency, safety, and comfort on Dubai’s sun-baked roads.
4. Battery Inspection
High temperatures accelerate battery fluid evaporation and internal corrosion.
- Test battery voltage monthly.
- Clean terminals and cables of any corrosion using a baking soda solution and wire brush.
- Secure the battery firmly to prevent vibration damage during starts and stops.
A healthy battery ensures reliable engine starts even after days parked under the scorching sun.
5. Engine Oil and Fluid Checks
Thick, sludgy oil can’t lubricate engine parts effectively in extreme heat.
- Change engine oil every 5,000–10,000 km, using a high-quality, heat-resistant synthetic oil.
- Top up brake fluid and transmission fluid as needed.
Fresh fluids protect your engine, transmission, and braking systems from heat-induced wear.
6. Protective Measures for Exterior and Interior
Shielding your car from direct sun exposure reduces interior temperatures and paint fading.
- Park in shaded areas or use a reflective windshield sunshade whenever possible.
- Invest in UV-blocking window films to keep cabin surfaces cooler and prevent dashboard cracking.
These quick steps preserve both your car’s appearance and resale value in Dubai’s relentless sun.
Conclusion
The heat in Dubai’s late summer can be tough on your vehicle—but with a few simple checks and regular maintenance, you can prevent most heat-related car problems. By staying on top of coolant levels, battery health, tire pressure, and AC performance, you’re not just protecting your car—you’re also ensuring your own safety on the road.
Start implementing these maintenance tips today and give your car the resilience it needs to thrive in the desert heat.