Welcome to road safety class…
Sweltering summers are nothing new in the UAE. We’ve experienced this weather pattern for as long as we can remember, and yet, each year’s peak temperatures still manage to surprise us. Maybe it’s because the mercury keeps hitting new highs (nervous sweat—thanks, global warming). During these times, not only are we feeling the heat, but so are our vehicles.
Exposure to extreme heat while your engine is running and working hard to keep the AC blasting can damage it over time. Here are some tips to keep your car in top shape this summer.
Keep a keen eye out
Regularly monitor your car’s performance to catch any issues early. Routine inspections are a great way to check the overall condition of your vehicle. This summer, Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police are offering free car inspections to drivers. Simply visit one of the AutoPro centers to take advantage of this service.
The risk of accidents increases during the summer due to the extreme temperatures across the UAE. Common summer-related accidents include tyre blowouts and car fires, which can have serious, even fatal, consequences.
Given these risks, it’s crucial for drivers to have their cars serviced regularly. Dubai Police is providing free inspections until the end of August. Private car owners can take advantage of this service by visiting AutoPro centers throughout the UAE.
Park in the shade and use windshield covers to keep your car cooler and protect it from the sun.
View this post on Instagram
Parking in a shaded area not only keeps you cool but also helps maintain your car’s temperature and extends its lifespan. Sunlight can damage your car’s exterior and paint, leading to expensive repairs. Extreme heat can also make the interior, including the steering wheel and leather seats, unbearably hot and uncomfortable to drive.
Using window shades in your car is a smart move if you can’t park in the shade. They block UV rays, help keep the interior cooler, and protect against other sun-related damage.
Check on your tyres
You can easily check your tyre pressure at any petrol station, with assistance from the staff if required. Keeping a check on your tyres is important because some of the most common accidents during the summer occur due to tyres bursting. This is incredibly dangerous during driving and can prove to be fatal. Most passenger cars have a recommended tire pressure between 30 and 35 PSI (pounds per square inch). When in doubt reference your car owner’s manual to learn the specifics on what your tire pressure range should be.
