10 Most Common Car Problems in the UAE, Sharjah
Driving in the UAE or even in a very busy city like Sharjah is always enjoyable, but the experience ceases when your car starts acting up. The hot climate, combined with busy roads and lengthy daily drives, puts a lot of stress on your car. If you’ve ever felt your car “talking back” to you in rattles or warning lights, or weird smells, trust us—you’re not alone. Hundreds of drivers, every week, visit car garages in Sharjah to have their cars checked. Most of these visits, however, could have been avoided with early checks.
More than 35% of roadside breakdowns, as per UAE traffic data, are because of mechanical failure that could have been prevented. So let’s go through the top 10 most common car problems drivers face in Sharjah—and how to stay ahead of them.
1. Overheating Engines
In Sharjah, during summer, the engines have to work harder. Some temperatures are known to go above 45°C, making this a heated summer, one of the top problems.
Why does it happen:
- Low levels of coolant
- Faulty radiator
- Worn-out hoses
- Blocked cooling system
Signs of overheating in your vehicle:
- Temperature gauge rising
- Steam from under the hood
- Strange smell of burning
Engine failure is probably one of the most expensive repairs; it can easily be avoided by checking with some trusted car garages in Sharjah.
2. Air Conditioning Failure
Let’s face it, driving without AC in the UAE seems impossible. It runs for nearly the whole year, so it is quite expected that it usually breaks down.
Common AC problems include:
- Refrigerant below required levels
- Faulty compressor
- Clogged cabin filter
- The AC is blowing warm air
Statistics indicate that more than 60% of UAE car service requests during summer involve air conditioner problems.
3. Dead or Weak Battery
Car batteries do not like extreme heat. It causes the battery fluid to evaporate more quickly, which decreases its lifetime.
What causes battery trouble?
- Heat damage
- Leaving lights on
- Old battery (2–3 years is the general lifespan)
If your car hesitates to start, clicks, or shows dim lights, it may be time for a checkup.
4. Tyre Damage or Burst Tyres
On any of those blisteringly hot days, temperatures on the roads in Sharjah can get up to more than 70°C, and that’s just the beginning when it comes to burst tyres.
Most common tyre problems:
- Low air pressure
- Worn-out tread
- Overinflation
- Hitting potholes or curbs
According to reports from UAE roadside assistance, tyres are responsible for 25% of all breakdown cases.
5. Brake Problems
The brake system of a vehicle is the most important safety system in the car. But dust, heat, and constant braking in traffic can easily wear them out during driving.
Signs of brake problem:
- Squeaky or grinding noises.
- The car pulls out to one side.
- Vibrations when braking.
- Soft brake pedal
If you notice any of these, do not wait. A quick visit to professional car garages in Sharjah helps avoid accidents.
6. Engine Oil Leaks
Oil is like the blood of your car, and when it’s low or leaking, things start going downhill fast. In hot countries like the UAE, leaks happen more frequently because of the heat and worn-out seals.
Watch out for:
- Oil spots under the car
- Burning oil smell
- Low oil levels
- Smoke coming from the engine
Running the car with this low oil level might cause permanent damage to the engine.
7. Transmission Problems
Gear shifting problems are very common in older cars and in cars that drive long distances daily.
Some of the common transmission problems are:
- Hard shifting
- Slipping gears
- Leaking transmission fluid
- Delayed response
Transmission repairs are expensive, but with regular servicing, the chances of incurring such a huge bill later are considerably lower.
8. Electrical System Malfunctions
Modern vehicles are highly dependent on electrical systems. Heat, humidity, and dust in Sharjah often affect these parts even faster than one might think.
Problems include:
- Faulty sensors
- Malfunctioning dashboard lights
- Alternator issues
- Blown fuses
When your car suddenly starts showing a number of warning lights, it’s probably an electrical problem.
9. Suspension Wearing Out
Though roads in Sharjah are fairly smooth, speed bumps, construction areas, and at times even off-roading can affect the suspension.
Signs of suspension problems:
- Rough or bumpy rides
- Uneven tyre wear
- Nose-diving upon braking
- The car is leaning on one side
Poor suspension quality detracts from comfort and safety.
10. Poor Fuel Efficiency
If your car suddenly starts to drink fuel like it’s free, something is wrong.
Possible reasons:
- Dirty air filter
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Low tyre pressure
- Poor driving habits
On average, UAE drivers waste up to 20% of their money on fuel because of inefficient vehicles.
How to Avoid These Common Car Problems in Sharjah
Here’s the good news: Most of these problems are avoidable. Your car can remain healthy, even in Sharjah’s extreme weather conditions, with regular care and attention.
Simple Tips to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly
- Have routine servicing every 5,000–10,000 km
- Weekly check of coolant and oil levels
- Monthly check of tires
- Change filters on a regular basis
- Never ignore warning lights
- Select reliable car garages in Sharjah for time repairs
These very small habits can increase the life of your vehicle by years.
Final Thoughts
Cars in Sharjah face extreme heat, heavy traffic, and long drives each day. Problems were, therefore, very much expected—but if caught early, you can save a lot. Learning the most common issues and paying attention to warning signs can actually avoid sudden breakdowns and expensive repairs.
The moment anything feels “off,” don’t wait. Your car is signaling you at all times. And with appropriate maintenance and trusted car care experts in the city, your vehicle remains safe, smooth, and road-ready throughout the year.
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