As summer temperatures soar across the United Arab Emirates, automotive experts are warning drivers about the increased risk of vehicle breakdowns linked to extreme heat conditions. The intense climate places significant strain on critical vehicle components—including engines, batteries, tires, air conditioning, and braking systems—raising the likelihood of mechanical failures and costly repairs.

Amit Kumar, General Manager at Thrifty Car Rental, noted that between 45 and 60 percent of vehicle issues during the summer months relate to overheating, battery failures, air conditioning problems, and tire-related concerns. Such challenges are particularly acute in the UAE, where road surface temperatures can reach exceptionally high levels.

One of the primary concerns highlighted by industry professionals is engine overheating. Syeda Aisha Atif, a Workshop Technical Trainer and the UAE’s first certified female automotive technician, explained that malfunctions in cooling systems or coolant leaks can cause engines to overheat, potentially resulting in complete vehicle shutdowns or, in severe cases, fires. Proper maintenance of the cooling system is therefore critical to avoid such dangerous outcomes.

Air conditioning systems are also vulnerable in the heat. Over time, system components may degrade or develop leaks, reducing refrigerant levels and diminishing cooling efficiency. This not only impacts passenger comfort but can also increase stress on the vehicle's AC system, leading to further damage.

Batteries are another frequently affected component. While batteries often fail in cold climates, the UAE’s high temperatures can accelerate fluid evaporation and internal corrosion, shortening battery life. Kumar indicated that battery-related service requests rise by 25 to 35 percent in the summer, a trend that is especially relevant for owners of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Tire maintenance takes on added importance during the hot months. Heat causes air inside tires to expand, increasing pressure and risking overinflation. According to Atif, overinflated tires reduce road contact and traction, increasing the chances of blowouts, while underinflated tires suffer from excessive flexing and sidewall damage, which can also cause failures. Regular pressure checks and proper inflation are essential for safety.

Experts caution that many breakdowns could be prevented if drivers responded promptly to early warning signs such as rising temperature gauges, unusual noises, dashboard alerts, or weakening air conditioning performance. Kumar estimated that 20 to 25 percent of summer breakdowns might be avoided through earlier maintenance and intervention.

Parking habits also affect vehicle condition. Vehicles left exposed to direct sunlight require 15 to 30 percent more maintenance than those parked in shaded or covered areas. Excessive heat inside parked cars places additional strain on batteries, tires, and interior components.

Another common mistake involves running vehicles on low fuel. Modern fuel pumps rely on surrounding fuel for cooling, and operating near empty can lead to pump overheating and premature failure, an issue exacerbated by high ambient temperatures.

To mitigate summer breakdown risks, Kumar recommends adherence to scheduled maintenance cycles, noting that properly maintained vehicles experience 15 to 25 percent fewer service interruptions. Atif provides a helpful pre-trip checklist, summarized by the acronym B.L.O.W.B.A.G.E.T.S., covering brakes, lights, oils, water (coolant and windshield fluids), battery, air pressure, fuel, engine condition, tires, and driver readiness.

Simple preventive measures such as parking in shade, using sunshades, monitoring fluid levels, and carrying an emergency kit can help drivers maintain vehicle safety and reliability throughout the UAE’s challenging summer months.