How well do you know your car? Key maintenance tips you might be overlooking in UAE

Dubai: In today’s fast-paced world, most people rely on their cars to get them where they need to go, but how well do they really know their vehicles.

Gulf News spoke to cross-section of UAE residents to find out if they have essential knowledge about their vehicles but most of them were even ignorant about basic car care necessary for safety.

While most people say that they are comfortable with starting the engine, fuelling up, and driving to their destination, many admit they overlook essential car maintenance tasks that can help prevent major issues down the road.

The under-the-bonnet blind spot

Experts stress that understanding the basics of car care can save both time and money while ensuring a safer driving experience.

They noted that most drivers even struggle to identify key components under the bonnet, such as the engine, battery, and oil dipstick. They even don’t know how to top up the coolant and windscreen washers.

Changing a flat tyre is out of questions for most drivers and many even don’t know how to inflate their car tyres. These are the very parts that require regular attention to keep a car running smoothly.

Sarah H, 30-year old banker in Dubai, said: “I’ve been driving for years, but if you asked me to point out where the engine oil cap is, I’d be lost.

“I know when something sounds off or when the check engine light comes on, but I don’t know how to handle it myself.”

Car owners also often overlook the importance of proper tyre maintenance. A quick tyre pressure check, which only takes a few minutes, can significantly improve safety and fuel efficiency. Many even don’t know who to inflate tyres.

“I usually just wait for the tyre pressure light to come on,” said Majid Malik, a 25-year-old college student.

Malik admitted that he had never opened his car bonnet and he has no idea what lies beneath it. “I simply call the company to pick up my car when the service is due to get the work done,” he added.

Most modern cars have a dashboard full of warning lights that signal various issues, ranging from low fuel to braking problems. However, many drivers fail to understand what these lights actually mean.

“I know the check engine light and the oil light, but when the tyre pressure warning came on, I had no clue what it was until I asked a friend,” said Krishma Kutty, 28-year-old marketing consultant in Sharjah. “It feels like a lot of information that I just don’t know how to decode,” she laughed.

A shift in mindset

Experts agree that even basic knowledge can go a long way in maintaining your car. Understanding essential tasks not only saves money on repairs but also boosts safety and peace of mind when driving.

“I think people rely too much on mechanics for everything,” Mohammed Hassan, a mechanic in Sharjah with over 20 years of experience. “If drivers spend just a few minutes learning the basics, they would feel much more confident when problems arise.”

Car maintenance doesn’t need to be overwhelming, he said, adding that knowing how to check your oil, monitor tyre pressure, and understand your dashboard lights can make a significant difference in keeping your car running smoothly.

In addition to car maintenance, driver education plays a crucial role in ensuring road safety.

P.M. Abdul Razak, Training and Development Manager at Emirates Driving Institute (EDI) in Dubai, asserted on the importance of comprehensive driver training that blends theory with practical learning. EDI’s curriculum, in line with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), provides students with essential technical knowledge through lectures on Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).

EDI’s commitment to safety extends beyond theoretical learning. All students have practical lessons on vehicle maintenance, including the ‘FLOWER’ check (Fuel, Lights, Oil/s, Water, Electric, and Rubber).

“We also teach tyre-changing techniques, and proper installation of child and booster seats. Trainees also gain hands-on experience with safety mechanisms like seat belt functionality and rollover simulators, enabling them to understand how such features save lives during collisions,” said Abdul Razak.

“At EDI, our mission is to ensure that every trainee not only masters the art of driving but also learns to maintain and operate a vehicle responsibly and safely,” he added.

Singh also offers these essential tips for car care:

• Regular Maintenance: Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule for oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations.

• Warning Lights: Understand the meaning of dashboard warning lights to address issues early.

• Tire Care: Regularly check tire pressure and tread depth for better safety and efficiency.

• Fluid Levels: Keep an eye on oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels.

• Battery Health: Have your battery tested periodically and replace it when necessary.

Common mistakes drivers make

• Ignoring warning lights: Delaying action on warning lights can lead to costly repairs.

• Skipping oil changes: Neglecting oil changes can cause significant engine damage.

• Neglecting tyres: Underinflated or worn-out tires impact safety and fuel efficiency.

• Overlooking brake inspections: Worn brakes reduce stopping power and increase the risk of accidents.

• Using incorrect fluids: Using the wrong fluids can damage engine components.

• Unexpected oversights: Driving with low oil or coolant, forgetting to replace air filters, or leaving the parking brake engaged while driving can lead to engine failure, reduced efficiency, or long-term damage.