Summer in the UAE isn’t just hot it’s relentless. The blazing sun, high humidity, dusty roads, and endless stop-and-go traffic can really wear down your vehicle. Whether you’re navigating Dubai’s urban sprawl or taking a weekend drive to Fujairah, summer puts your car to the test.
Here’s a complete, expert-approved checklist to make sure your car stays cool, safe, and road-trip ready this season.
1. Test Your A/C Before It’s Too Late
There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in summer traffic with a failing air conditioner. If your A/C isn’t blowing cold or starts making strange noises, have it checked. Also, don’t forget the cabin air filter it should be clean to allow fresh, dust-free air inside the car.
2. Check Your Coolant System (It’s Critical!)
Overheating is one of the leading causes of summer breakdowns in the UAE. Your car’s coolant (antifreeze) helps regulate engine temperature, and it needs to be topped up and clean.
Check:
- Coolant levels
- Coolant color (shouldn’t be rusty or dirty)
- Hoses for cracks or leaks
If it’s been over 2 years or 40,000 km, it might be time for a coolant flush.
3. Keep Up with Oil Changes
Engine oil lubricates, cools, and cleans your engine and it takes a beating in extreme heat. If you drive in the city, sit in traffic, or do short trips (common in UAE life), change your oil more frequently
Check oil level and color every couple of weeks during summer.
4. Don’t Ignore Battery Health
High heat can evaporate battery fluid, damage internal components, and shorten battery life. UAE summers are tough on batteries, especially if your car is parked outdoors.
Have a technician test:
- Battery voltage
- Charging system
- Cable connections (look out for corrosion)
Most car batteries in the UAE last 2–3 years if yours is older, get it checked before it fails.
5. Replace Wiper Blades & Refill Washer Fluid
You might not expect rain in summer, but sudden sandstorms or dusty winds can make your windshield a mess. Old wiper blades can smear instead of clean, reducing visibility.
Replace wipers once a year and keep washer fluid topped up.
6. Inspect Your Tyres All 5 of Them
Hot tarmac + under-inflated tyres = blowouts.
Here’s what to do:
- Check tyre pressure weekly (when tyres are cool)
- Look for uneven wear, cracks, or sidewall bulges
- Rotate your tyres every 8,000–10,000 km
- Don’t forget your spare tyre and jack
7. Check Brake Performance
Summer driving often means more braking whether it’s traffic or long drives. If you hear squeaks, feel vibrations, or notice longer stopping distances, get your brakes checked.
Brakes in the UAE also wear faster due to sand, salt, and heat. Early maintenance saves you from expensive repairs later.
8. Don’t Overlook Engine Filters
Air filters, fuel filters, and PCV valves work hard to keep your engine running smoothly. In dusty UAE conditions, these clog up faster.
Replace air filters more often if you drive near construction zones, desert roads, or highways.
9. Get the Lights and Electronics Checked
The longer daylight hours can make lights feel less important until you drive at night or through a sandstorm.
Check:
- Headlights and brake lights
- Indicator and fog lights
- Interior electronics and dashboard warnings
10. Full Pre-Summer Inspection
Before the real heat kicks in, get a full multi-point inspection. Many workshops offer summer-ready checkups that include:
- Fluid top-ups
- Belt and hose inspection
- Battery & A/C diagnostics
- Tyre and brake checks
This is especially useful if you’re planning a summer road trip across the Emirates.
Final Word: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Your car can handle the UAE summer if you give it the care it needs. Don’t wait until you’re stranded on a scorching roadside. Be proactive and schedule a summer readiness check today.
Book Your Summer Car Service with MotorHub
Whether it’s a quick A/C recharge or a full inspection, MotorHub connects you to trusted, verified garages and mobile mechanics across the UAE.
- Doorstep service available
- Competitive quotes
- Easy online booking
- Quality workmanship guaranteed
