As the National Centre of Meteorology forecasts temperatures in the UAE to exceed 44 oC in the coming weeks, automobile experts are advising residents to prepare their vehicles for the intense heat. Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring safe and efficient driving during the harsh summer conditions.
Preparing Vehicles for the Extreme Summer Heat in the UAE
As the scorching summer approaches in the UAE, with the National Centre of Meteorology predicting temperatures soaring beyond 44 oC, automobile specialists are urging residents to prepare their vehicles for the extreme heat. Ensuring proper maintenance is paramount to guaranteeing safe and efficient driving amidst the harsh summer conditions.
Protecting electronic systems and batteries
According to Sony Rajappan, a specialist at Car Lynx in Al Quoz, servicing the air conditioning system before the onset of summer heat waves is crucial. A well-functioning air conditioner is indispensable for driver comfort during sweltering days. It's imperative to ensure adequate refrigerant levels to optimize air conditioning efficiency. Prompt repair of damaged or leaking compressors and condensers is essential. Additionally, Rajappan recommends replacing the cabin air filter to prevent airflow obstruction and system strain. Efficient air conditioning not only enhances comfort but also plays a vital role in combating driver fatigue.
In extreme heat, tire maintenance becomes even more critical for vehicle performance and safety. Mohammed Shafiq, head of Kari Auto Works' mechanical department, emphasizes the importance of monthly tire pressure checks during the summer. Rising temperatures can lead to tire overinflation, necessitating regular pressure monitoring and adjustment. Shafiq advises inspecting tire tread depth to maintain traction on hot, wet roads, reducing the risk of blowouts, and enhancing handling for safer driving.
The impact of high temperatures on a car's electronic systems cannot be overlooked. Rajappan stresses the need for ensuring these components remain in optimal condition. Heat can accelerate battery fluid evaporation, resulting in diminished performance. Regular battery tests, corrosion checks, and inspection of electrical wiring are essential to prevent sudden failures exacerbated by heat exposure, mitigating potential safety hazards.
The cooling system's integrity is paramount to preventing engine overheating. Experts recommend thorough checks of the radiator and cooling fans, along with topping off all vital fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Maintaining these fluids at optimal levels is crucial for managing extreme heat and ensuring engine performance remains smooth.
Summer storms can drastically reduce visibility, underscoring the importance of functional wiper blades. Shafiq advises ensuring wiper blades are in good condition and replacing them if necessary to maintain clear visibility, which is crucial for safe driving, particularly during sudden weather changes common in UAE summers.
Preparing vehicles for summer entails comprehensive maintenance checks to enhance performance, comfort, and safety. Rajappan stresses the importance of proactive measures, advocating for scheduling maintenance checks with trusted mechanics ahead of the impending heatwave. By adhering to expert advice and prioritizing vehicle readiness, residents can navigate the extreme summer conditions with confidence, minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and ensuring a safer driving experience for all road users.
