Many UAE residents travel for several weeks in summer, and the car stays behind in 45°C heat. A parked car still ages: the battery drains, tyres lose pressure and rubber parts dry out. A little preparation means it starts first time when you land.
Before you travel
1. Battery: the most likely failure
Modern cars draw a small current even when locked, and heat speeds up self-discharge. For trips of more than two or three weeks:
- Best: connect a battery maintainer (smart trickle charger) if you have a socket in your parking space.
- Otherwise: ask someone to drive the car for 20–30 minutes every week or two.
- Disconnecting the negative terminal is an option on older cars, but on many modern cars it resets systems and some need re-coding afterwards. Check your handbook first.
- If the battery is two years old or more, have it tested before you go.
2. Tyres
Set pressures to the handbook figure (some owners add a little extra for long storage). Long standing in heat can cause flat spots, which usually go after a few kilometres of driving.
3. Fuel
Leave the tank fairly full, so there is less air space for moisture to condense.
4. Park smart
- A covered or underground space is best. If outside, use a breathable car cover and a windscreen sun shade.
- Check your building's rules and the area's parking rules; cars left on public roads for long periods can be fined or removed.
- Release the parking brake if the car is on level ground and in Park, so pads don't stick to discs (only if it is safe and level).
5. Inside the car
- Remove anything that can leak, melt or explode in heat: drinks, sprays, lighters, power banks and electronics.
- Remove food and rubbish to avoid pests.
- Clean the interior; dirt and moisture encourage smells.
6. Paperwork
Check that registration and insurance won't expire while you are away.
7. Service first if it is due
If an oil change is due, do it before you go; old oil contains acids that are better out of the engine during long storage.
When you get back
- Walk around: tyres, leaks under the car, signs of pests.
- Check tyre pressures before driving.
- Start the car and let it idle for a minute; watch for warning lights.
- Test the brakes gently at low speed; light surface rust on discs clears after a few stops.
- Run the AC and check it cools properly.
- If it won't start, see car won't start.
We can help
Before you travel, we can test the battery, check tyres and fluids and do any service that is due. If your car won't start when you return, pickup and recovery are free on invoices of AED 1,500 or more. Battery service · UAE summer car checklist.
Need a hand?
WhatsApp 052 296 5483 or call 058 821 2219. We are in Dubai Investment Park 2, open Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 10 PM.
