Burning fuel in the heat? How UAE drivers can beat rising costs this summer
Your car's using more fuel this summer, here's how to cut back according to experts
Dubai: As temperatures in the UAE climb above 45°C during the peak summer months, motorists face more than just uncomfortable commutes. Prolonged air conditioning use, congested roads, and extreme heat can all take a toll on a vehicle’s fuel efficiency. However, automotive experts say that with a few simple adjustments and routine maintenance, drivers can reduce fuel consumption and avoid unnecessary expenses during the hottest time of the year.
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How to improve fuel efficiency during the UAE summer
Rob Mortimer, CEO of FuelR4m and STYREX, companies that develop fuel reformers designed to enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, shared practical advice for staying fuel-smart during a UAE summer.
1. Park smart to keep your engine cool
“On hot days, parking in the shade is about more than comfort, it helps protect both your engine and battery,” said Mortimer. Excessive heat can strain these components, and a cooler engine generally runs more efficiently.
Parking in the shade or using sunshades can also reduce the load on your vehicle’s air conditioning system. When the AC has to work less to cool down the cabin, it consumes less fuel, helping drivers save over time.
2. Use fuel reformers to combat high-temperature effects
“When temperatures rise, air becomes thinner, and fuel combustion becomes less effective,” Mortimer explained. “This can lead to incomplete fuel burn and higher fuel consumption.”
To address this, Mortimer recommends using a fuel reformer such as Re4mx Petrol or Diesel. These additives help fuel burn more cleanly and efficiently, improving mileage and reducing the frequency of refuelling, especially useful in extreme climates like the UAE.
When heat rises, the air becomes thinner, making it harder for your fuel to combust efficiently. Adding a fuel reformer like Re4mx Petrol or Diesel can make a significant difference when temperatures increase. It helps your fuel burn more cleanly and completely, improving efficiency and reducing the frequency of refueling.
3. Not all cars handle the heat the same way
David Thorne, service manager at I Service Any Car, a Dubai-based car repair and maintenance service in Al Quoz, warns that some vehicles are more prone to overheating and fuel inefficiency than others.
"Older petrol cars, in particular, often have ageing cooling systems and engine components that don’t cope well with high temperatures. This makes them more vulnerable to breakdowns and increased fuel use," Thorne said.
Turbocharged engines also tend to struggle in extreme heat due to reduced air density, which forces them to burn more fuel to maintain performance levels.
"Even hybrid vehicles, usually seen as fuel-efficient, may experience a dip in efficiency as their batteries overheat and the petrol engine compensates more than usual," he added.
Electric vehicles, on the other hand, avoid fuel issues altogether but can still suffer from reduced range, as more energy is diverted to air conditioning and battery cooling systems.
Not all vehicles handle the Dubai summer equally. Older petrol cars are among the most vulnerable, with aging cooling systems and engine parts often leading to overheating and increased fuel consumption. Turbocharged engines may also suffer in the intense heat due to lower air density, forcing them to burn more fuel to maintain power.
4. Summer car maintenance tips for better fuel economy
Regular maintenance becomes even more important in the summer. Thorne advised that skipping check-ups can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Here are key areas to focus on:
Tire pressure: Ensure tires are properly inflated. Hot weather causes pressure to fluctuate, and underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
Engine coolant: Check coolant levels and inspect the cooling system to prevent overheating.
Air filters: Replace or clean air filters regularly to allow the engine to run efficiently.
Engine oil: Use the manufacturer-recommended oil, especially those formulated for high temperatures.
Air conditioning system: Make sure refrigerant levels are adequate and filters are clean to prevent AC inefficiencies.
Battery health: Heat can reduce battery lifespan and performance, particularly in petrol and hybrid cars.
5. Reduce air conditioning load without sacrificing comfort
Using air conditioning in Dubai’s summer is non-negotiable, but it is one of the biggest drains on your vehicle’s fuel. Thorne suggested the following strategies to cool your car efficiently without overloading the AC:
Keep the cabin air filter clean, a clogged filter can reduce cooling performance.
Use the recirculation mode to keep already-cooled air circulating inside the cabin.
Park in the shade or use sunshades to reduce the cabin’s initial temperature.
Vent hot air by opening windows briefly before switching on the AC.
Set the climate control to a moderate temperature, ideally between 20°C and 22°C.
Consider legal window tinting to block solar heat and reduce the need for high AC output.
Window tinting (within legal limits) is a great way to block solar heat and reduce AC reliance.
“These small adjustments can significantly reduce AC strain and improve overall fuel economy,” Thorne said. “By combining smart habits with seasonal vehicle care, UAE motorists can cut fuel costs even when the heat is at its peak.”
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