Maintaining your car is essential, especially in Saudi Arabia, where extreme heat and sandy conditions can push vehicles to their limits. In this blog, let’s learn some practical tips to help maintain your car to run smoothly and stay dependable on KSA’s roads.
Tips to Maintain Your Car
Here are some important tips to help you maintain your car throughout the year.
1. Regular Oil Changes
The extreme heat in Saudi Arabia can take a toll on your car’s engine oil. It’s essential to change your oil more frequently than you might in cooler climates, as high temperatures can break down oil faster, reducing its ability to protect engine components. Make it a habit to check your oil levels and change the oil every 5,000-8,000 km (or according to your car’s manual), especially during the peak summer months.
2. Protect Your Battery
Heat can be brutal on car batteries, and in Saudi Arabia, the combination of high temperatures and long drives can significantly reduce battery life. As a precaution, test your battery every few months and replace it every 2-3 years. Many service stations offer free battery checks; take advantage of these to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
3. Check Tire Health
Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, and under-inflated tires are not only dangerous but also wear out more quickly. Check your tire pressure monthly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations. Rotate your tires every 10,000 km to ensure even wear, and inspect the tread regularly since worn-out tires can become a hazard, especially on slippery roads after a rare rainfall.
4. Interior Protection
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause your car’s interior, especially leather or synthetic surfaces, to crack, fade, or warp. Invest in sunshades for your windshield and windows, and consider window tinting. It not only keeps the cabin cooler but also protects your dashboard, seats, and electronics from sun damage.
5. Check the Fluids
Maintaining fluid levels is critical to keeping your car running smoothly in Saudi Arabia’s harsh climate. Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid regularly. Coolant prevents overheating, while brake and transmission fluids ensure safe braking and smooth shifting. Keeping these fluids at optimal levels enhances performance, prevents costly repairs, and prolongs your vehicle’s life.
6. Check Your Brakes
Brakes are crucial for safety, especially on long drives through mountainous or high-speed areas. Dust and sand can increase wear on brake pads, so it’s essential to inspect them at least every six months. Listen for any unusual sounds or feel for any vibrations when braking; these can be early warning signs that your brakes need attention.
7. Check Air Filters
Air filters help the engine compartment stay clean from dirt and debris. Therefore, checking air filters frequently is also necessary to ensure clean airflow in the vehicle. If you encounter a weird smell from the AC vents when turning the AC on, it is a sign that your air filters need cleaning.
Conclusion
Even if your car seems to be running fine, routine checkups can prevent minor issues from turning into major, costly problems. By following these tips, you’ll not only keep your car running smoothly in the Kingdom’s harsh climate but also extend its lifespan and enhance its resale value. Remember, a little maintenance today can save you from more significant problems and expenses down the road.
For more guides and tips like this, keep following Arabwheels.sa.
