Car Safety Checks Every UAE Driver Should Do Regularly
Road safety in the UAE is taken seriously by the RTA and traffic authorities across all seven emirates. Regular safety checks on your vehicle not only keep you compliant with UAE regulations but protect you, your passengers and other road users from preventable accidents. This guide covers the most important safety checks UAE drivers should perform regularly.
Brakes
Brakes are the single most important safety system on any vehicle. In the UAE, city stop-start driving and highway emergency stops place heavy demands on brake pads and discs. Have brakes inspected at every service and replace pads before they reach the wear indicator. A spongy brake pedal, vibration under braking or a pulling sensation to one side should be investigated immediately. Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years as it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time.
Tyres
Tyre blowouts are a leading cause of single-vehicle accidents on UAE highways. Check tyre pressure at least once per month and before every long journey, using the pressure recommended in the vehicle handbook rather than the maximum printed on the sidewall. Inspect tyres for cracking, bubbles in the sidewall and uneven wear. Replace any tyre showing a sidewall bulge without delay. Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to ensure even wear across all four corners.
Lights
All exterior lights must function correctly under UAE traffic law. Walk around the vehicle monthly and verify that headlights, brake lights, indicators and reversing lights are all operational. In the UAE, headlights should be used in dusty conditions even during daylight hours to improve visibility to other drivers.
Hood Latch and Safety Catches
Test the bonnet latch each time you open the bonnet for a fluid check. The bonnet should close firmly and require only normal hand pressure to latch. A bonnet that opens unexpectedly at highway speed is potentially fatal. If the latch feels loose or the bonnet panel shakes at speed, have the mechanism inspected immediately.
Windscreen and Wipers
A cracked windscreen in the direct driver view line may result in a vehicle failing an RTA inspection. Replace cracked screens promptly and ensure wiper blades clear the screen cleanly. In the UAE, wiper rubber degrades rapidly from UV exposure and the blades may need replacement every 12 months rather than the standard 2-year interval.
Fluids
Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid monthly. Top up any that are below the minimum mark. A low coolant or oil level in UAE summer heat can cause severe engine damage within minutes of the warning light illuminating.