How to protect your car from the KSA summer heat
Summer has officially started in Saudi Arabia
Spending the summer in Saudi Arabia? Staying cool yourself is important, and it’s just as important for you to make sure your car is ready for the high temperatures. From battery problems and overheated engines to tyre blowouts, the extreme heat can put extra strain on your vehicle if it’s not properly maintained. Here are some easy ways to protect your car during the KSA summer.
Whether you’re driving every day or leaving your car parked while you jet off on holiday, a few simple checks can help prevent expensive repairs and keep you safe on the road. Read on for more ways to protect your car during the KSA summer.
Prevent engine overheating
Car engines work much harder in hot weather, making engine oil and coolant essential. Engine oil reduces friction between moving parts, while radiator coolant helps regulate engine temperature and prevents overheating. Low levels of either fluid can lead to costly engine damage, especially during long drives.
It’s also worth checking other important fluids, including:
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windscreen washer fluid
Make sure your battery is okay
High temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions inside the battery, meaning that extreme heat can cause battery fluid to evaporate more quickly, reducing its lifespan and increasing the risk of sudden failure.
If your battery is already a few years old, have it tested before the hottest part of summer arrives. And if you’re travelling for more than a month, consider disconnecting it to help prevent it from going flat while you’re away.
Keep a close eye on your tyres
Tyres naturally expand as temperatures rise, making correct tyre pressure even more important during summer. Underinflated or damaged tyres are more likely to fail in extreme heat, so check the pressure regularly at your nearest petrol station.
Most passenger vehicles recommend between 30 and 35 PSI, but always check your owner’s manual for the correct specification. Don’t forget to inspect the tread and look for any cracks or signs of wear.
Air conditioning isn’t just about keeping yourself cool
A working air-conditioning system isn’t just about comfort during the summer; it also helps keep the cabin and parts of your vehicle from overheating.
If you’ve noticed weaker airflow, unusual smells or your AC isn’t cooling as quickly as it should, it’s worth booking a service before temperatures climb even higher.
Make sure you’re parking in shaded areas
Whenever you can, choose shaded or covered parking. Keeping your car out of direct sunlight helps protect the battery, dashboard, seats and steering wheel from extreme heat. It can also reduce damage to your paintwork caused by prolonged UV exposure. If shaded parking isn’t available, using a windscreen sunshade or a full car cover can make a noticeable difference.
Protect the paint
Extended exposure to sunlight causes the exterior paint to fade, causing a gradual loss of shine and the appearance of fine cracks over time.
Regular washing removes dust and sand that can scratch the surface, while applying wax adds an extra layer of protection against UV rays and helps keep your car looking newer for longer.
Travelling outside of the country?
Try to leave your car with a full fuel tank to help reduce moisture build-up inside the tank, park it in a covered area if possible, and if you’ll be away for several weeks, consider disconnecting the battery.
