Deciding to learn driving this season then checkout the 6 car vitals before you hit the road and must be aware of. Click here to learn more!

Car Vitals

Having a driving license is not the most important aspect about driving a car. Before you learn to drive your car, you must put in the effort to research about it. There is a lot that goes into the process of investing in a vehicle of your own. As you narrow down your choices and make a decision, you make a long-term commitment. Owning a car in the UAE comes with a lot of responsibility that may seem overwhelming at first, but it can be simplified. The most crucial aspect of this journey involves having adequate knowledge about car safety.

Quick Read Section

 Given below are 6 car vitals that you should be aware of:

1. Brakes

The most important component of your car is the brake. This should not be neglected at any cost. A damaged braking system is the leading cause for accidents today. A warning light usually indicates damage to the brake pads. Other than that, you should keep an eye out in case you feel a vibration in your steering wheel. This usually indicates worn out brake discs. In case there is a loud squealing noise while breaking it means that your brake pads need to be replaced. Any of these signs should be attended to as soon as possible at the workshop. Cars in the UAE have an increased use of brakes in the city which is why they require inspection at least once or twice a year.

2. Engine Oil

The car’s engine oil plays a critical role in the lubrication, cooling, and cleaning of the engine. It must be of appropriate grade and should meet the minimum performance standard. Not having the right grade or quantity of the engine oil can lead to residual deposits in the tank, and cause oxidation as well as compressive heating. Engine oil must be replaced at recommended intervals to achieve optimum mileage. For older cars, oil change is required after around 4,800 km but newer cars can go up till 8,000 km - 12,000 km. Cars in the UAE today are equipped with systems that monitor performance and report when a change is required with an alert.

3. Tyre Pressure

Maintaining car tyres and their pressure is crucial for your car’s safety. Road Safety UAE reports that 5% of deaths in car accidents are caused by tyre related issues. Cars in the UAE go through extra damage due to the extreme climate of this region. The tyre pressure must be checked according to the vehicle’s model at least once or twice a month to prolong the life of the tyres. Inflating the tyres more than necessary can save fuel however it affects the suspension and life of the tyre. Driving with low tyre pressure is equally risky; it leads to wear and tear and increases fuel consumption.

4. Engine Air Filter

The engine air filter is meant to prevent dust and debris from entering your car’s engine. A clogged air filter affects the vehicle’s performance and leads to loss of power. It is important to get it checked and replaced at least once or twice a year.

5. Vehicle Fluids

Your vehicle’s fluids must be checked and replaced regularly. The most important ones include –

• Coolant – stabilizes the engine temperature as per the weather conditions
• Washer fluid – Ensures a clean windshield
• Power steering fluid – Lubricates the link between the steering wheel and the front wheels, it reduces the effort required to take turns.
• Brake fluid – Ensures timely braking of the car. It needs to be changed depending on the driver and the climate.

All of these directly affect the car’s performance and thus they shouldn’t be neglected.

6. Maintenance Schedule

The last thing you should know about your vehicle is its maintenance schedule. At the time of purchase a maintenance schedule is recommended in order to optimize performance and boost the life of the car. This should be followed diligently even if your car is in good condition. Engine oil, vehicle fluids and filters must be changed regularly to ensure smooth functioning.

Conclusion

These are the 6 car vitals you should be aware of. The list extends further to the engine light, spare tyres, headlights and taillights etc. Learning about your car is a continuous process that goes on as you experience different situations. It is important to start somewhere and put in the effort as it would help you become a better driver and prolong the life of your car. Having this knowledge would also enable you to optimize your vehicle’s performance.

While driving in the UAE, Car insurance is vital. Contact us for best car insurance quotes