Essential Car Fluids to Check Before the Heat Wave Hits Dubai

In Dubai, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 45°C, keeping your car well-maintained is crucial to ensure it performs reliably under such intense conditions. One of summer car care’s most overlooked but critical parts is checking essential car fluids. This guide’ll cover the essential car fluids to check before the heat wave hits Dubai, why each fluid matters, and how Dubai’s extreme weather affects them.

1. Engine Oil 

Why It’s Important

Engine oil lubricates moving parts inside your engine, reducing friction and preventing overheating. In Dubai’s summer, engines work much harder, so oil breaks down faster. 

Signs You Need to Check or Change

• Oil light on the dashboard
• Ticking or knocking noises from the engine
• Dark, dirty oil when checked with the dipstick

How to Check

• Park on a flat surface.
• Let the engine cool down..
• Check the oil level and color.

Ideal Oil for Dubai Heat

In high temperatures, thicker oils (like 5W-40 or 10W-40) are often recommended for luxury cars in Dubai.For professional assistance, visit our Engine Oil Change Service in Dubai.

Tip

Luxury cars like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi should always use manufacturer-recommended synthetic oils, which withstand high heat better.

2. Coolant/Antifreeze 

Why It’s Important

Coolant regulates your engine temperature. In Dubai, where heat waves are brutal, overheating is one of the top causes of engine breakdowns.

Signs You Need to Check

• Engine temperature gauge rising
• Sweet smell from the engine bay
• Coolant leaks under the car (usually green or orange fluid)

How to Check

• Only check when the engine is cold.
• Open the coolant reservoir and check the level.
• Top up with the correct coolant mix if necessary.

Tip

Always use heat-resistant, high-quality coolant, especially for European and luxury cars.. Learn more about our comprehensive Car Maintenance Services in Dubai.

3. Transmission Fluid 

Why It’s Important

Transmission fluid lubricates your gearbox and keeps gear shifts smooth. In extreme heat, transmission fluid can overheat and break down faster, leading to gear slipping or rough shifts.

Signs You Need to Check

• Difficulty shifting gears
• Burning smell
• Leaks under the car (red fluid)

How to Check

• Some vehicles have a transmission dipstick (like engine oil).
• Many modern cars require a professional check at a workshop.

Dubai Tip

For luxury vehicles in Dubai (BMW, Range Rover, Porsche), always check with specialized car repair workshops that use the correct transmission fluid type.

4. Brake Fluid 

Why It’s Important

Brake fluid helps transfer force from your foot to the brakes. High heat causes moisture build-up in the system, reducing braking performance.

Signs You Need to Check

• Soft brake pedal
• Brake warning light
• Leaks under the car (yellowish fluid)

How to Check

• Locate the brake fluid reservoir.
• Check the fluid level and color (clean fluid is clear or light yellow).
• Top up if necessary.

Dubai Tip

During every pre-summer car service in Dubai, request a brake fluid flush, especially if you drive fast on highways.

5. Power Steering Fluid 

Why It’s Important

Power steering fluid ensures smooth steering. Heat can cause fluid degradation, making steering harder.

Signs You Need to Check

• Difficulty turning the wheel
• Whining noise when steering
• Leaks under the car (pink or red fluid)

How to Check

• Check the reservoir (usually marked).
• Fluid should be clear or slightly red.

 Tip

European cars like BMW and Mercedes use special power steering fluids. Always check with a trusted car workshop in Dubai.

6. Windshield Washer Fluid 

Why It’s Important

Desert dust and sandstorms in Dubai can quickly reduce visibility. A clean windshield is essential for safe driving.

Signs You Need to Check

• Washer jets not spraying properly
• Empty washer fluid warning light

How to Check

• Open the washer fluid reservoir.
• Top up with washer fluid mixed with water.

Tip

Add a summer-specific washer fluid that helps break down insect residue and desert grime.

7. Air Conditioning Refrigerant 

Why It’s Important

A functioning AC isn’t just for comfort – in Dubai, it’s necessary. Low refrigerant leads to poor cooling or AC failure.

Signs You Need to Check

• AC not cooling well
• Hissing noise from vents
• Strange smells from the AC

How to Check

• This requires a professional AC diagnostic at a workshop.

Tip

Before summer, get a complete AC check-up, including refrigerant top-up, filter change, and vent cleaning at a reliable Dubai car repair workshop.

8. Differential Fluid 

Importance

Differential fluid lubricates the differential gears, which manage how your wheels turn at different speeds — critical for smooth cornering and off-road driving.

Why It Matters in Dubai

High temperatures can break down differential fluid, especially in 4x4s used for desert driving.

Signs of Trouble

• Whining noise from rear axle
• Difficulty turning
• Visible leaks (thick oil)

How to Check

• Proper differential fluid levels are crucial for vehicle performance. Our Car Maintenance Services in Dubai cover all essential checks.

Dubai Tip

If you own a Land Rover, or any other vehicle, ensure your differential fluid is checked before any desert adventures.

Benefits of Regular Fluid Checks in Dubai 

• Prevent overheating and breakdowns
• Extend engine and transmission life
• Improve fuel efficiency
• Ensure safer braking and steering
• Avoid costly repairs

What Set Us Apart

Our Dubai car repair workshop specialises in seasonal maintenance, fluid checks, and expert diagnostics for all car makes and models. Checking your engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid, and AC refrigerant can save you from expensive repairs and breakdowns. Whether you drive a luxury BMW or a daily driver, visit our car repair workshop in Dubai for a comprehensive fluid check and summer car service package. 

FAQs – Essential Car Fluids in Dubai Heat

1. How often should I check car fluids in Dubai?

For daily drivers, check fluids every month, and always before summer or a long trip.

2. What happens if my coolant level is low?

Your engine could overheat, causing severe damage, especially in Dubai’s heat.

3. Can I mix different types of coolant or brake fluid?

No, mixing fluids can cause corrosion or system failure. Always use recommended fluids.

4. Do European luxury cars need special fluids?

Brands like BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Porsche require manufacturer-approved fluids to ensure optimal performance and avoid warranty issues.