5 Costly Mistakes of Car Drivers in UAE

Throughout different articles, we have highlighted common issues plaguing car owners. Similarly, this article discusses a few common mistakes committed by car owners in the UAE and around the world. The mistakes are quite common and can end up costing you hundreds & thousands of dirhams in repairs. Without taking any further time, let us take a look at those common mistakes.

Driving Off Immediately

We are all guilty of jetting off as soon as we start the car in the morning. Usually, we are getting late for office, or the kids are getting late for school. No matter how urgent it is, avoid putting the car in 'D' or the first gear right after starting the vehicle. Give your car some time to warm up. There is no time limit for this. Usually, 15 seconds is enough for new cars and a little longer for older cars. You can use this time to adjust the seats and put on the seat belt. Also, it gives your engine ample time to circulate oil to other vital components.

Not Checking the Tire Pressure

PitStopArabia has repeatedly advised car owners about checking the air pressure of their tyres. Yet, people do not do so. The result is that the durability of their tires is reduced, while the fuel consumption is also negatively impacted. In some cases, the tires may suffer a blowout leading to accidents. Therefore, keep checking your tire pressure regularly. You can install a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in case your vehicle is not equipped with one. It will allow you to keep a constant check on the tire pressure.

Not Inspecting the Hood/Bonnet

The most vital components of your vehicle are located under the bonnet. However, people seem to forget that there is something under the bonnet. Only after suffering costly damages, do they decide to look at what is under there. Therefore, be smart & avoid such expensive mistakes. Make it a habit to check the engine oil, washer fluid, gear oil, brake fluid, and the power steering fluid. It does not take unique expertise to check these fluids. Make sure that they are at an optimal level.  The best advice is to keep small amounts of these fluids in the back of the car. You can refill the fluids in case they are below the optimal level.

Ignoring the Lights on your Dashboard

There are various indicators on your dashboard. All of them are there for a purpose. However, many people ignore them. DO NOT be like those people. Keep an eye on the dashboard for any warning lights. In case a warning light comes on, check out the problem. If you are unable to check yourself, drive to the nearest car mechanic and get it professionally inspected. Usually, the dashboard lights come on for problems related to the brakes, airbags, steering or the engine as well. Therefore, pay attention, or you might end up paying hundreds or thousands of dirhams for repairs.

Ignoring the Strange Sounds

Is your car making strange sounds? Are the sounds not going away? Well, the reason can be anything. But getting it checked is the right thing to do. Please do not ignore the sounds as they can be a sign of severe damage. Therefore, take your car to a mechanic if the sound is not going away. Better safe than sorry.

Wrapping Up

This concludes our article today. Our job is to bring such issues to your attention so that you can enjoy a safer & comfortable driving experience. Make sure to remember what we have discussed in this article & others to avoid paying for repairs which are preventable through extra care.