UAE summers regularly push past 45°C, and heat is the single biggest cause of roadside breakdowns here. A quick pre-summer check covers the parts most likely to fail.

The pre-summer checklist

  • Battery load test (replace if 2 to 3 years old)
  • AC performance and cabin filter
  • Coolant level, strength, and leak check
  • Radiator and cooling fans
  • Tyre age, pressure, and tread
  • Engine oil and all fluid levels
  • Wipers and washer fluid for sudden dust/rain

Why heat causes breakdowns

High temperatures accelerate battery failure, thin engine oil, stress the cooling system, and raise tyre pressures. Most summer breakdowns are preventable with a 30-minute check by a garage.

If you do break down in the heat

  • Move safely off the road and switch on hazards
  • Do not open a hot radiator cap
  • Keep water for yourself and passengers
  • Call recovery rather than risk further engine damage