Top 10 Car Care Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to keeping your car in top shape, it’s easy to overlook small details that can lead to bigger problems down the road. In Dubai, where extreme heat, long drives, and tough conditions are the norm, proper car care is crucial. 

Failing to address even minor maintenance issues can have a significant impact on your vehicle's performance and longevity. 

By avoiding common car care mistakes, you can save yourself from costly repairs, enhance your car’s performance, and most importantly, stay safe on the road.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 10 car care mistakes to avoid so you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently in Dubai's harsh climate.

1. Neglecting Regular Service Checks

   
   

Skipping scheduled service visits can cost you more in the long run.

• Routine maintenance keeps your car performing at its best and helps prevent sudden breakdowns.

• Mechanics can catch early signs of wear and tear that you might miss.

• Think of service checks like regular health check-ups. They catch small issues before they turn into big ones.

• Follow your car manufacturer's recommended service intervals to avoid expensive repairs later.

  
  

Tip: Never skip your scheduled service if your car seems fine.

2. Ignoring Warning Lights

   
   

That little light on your dashboard is trying to tell you something important.

• Dashboard warning lights alert you to problems like low oil pressure, engine trouble, or faulty brakes.

• Ignoring these signals can lead to bigger, more expensive issues — or even leave you stranded.

• Common lights include the check engine light, oil warning light, and brake warning light.

• A quick scan at a service centre can diagnose the issue early and save you trouble later.

Tip: If a warning light appears, do not delay. Get it checked as soon as possible.

3. Skipping Oil Changes

Oil is essential for keeping your engine healthy.

• Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces heat, and prevents wear.

• Over time, oil breaks down and becomes dirty, making it less effective.

• Not changing your oil can cause engine parts to grind, overheat, and eventually fail.

• In Dubai’s extreme temperatures, oil can degrade faster, so regular oil changes are even more important.

Tip: Change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometres, or sooner if you do a lot of city driving or deal with heavy traffic.

4. Neglecting Regular Car Washes

   
   

Skipping car washes can lead to dirt, dust, and pollutants damaging your car’s paint and metal, causing rust, fading, and stains. Wash your car at least once a month, or more if you drive in harsh conditions, to keep it looking good.

Benefits of Regular Washes:

• Prevents rust and corrosion

• Maintains the paint and shine

• Increases resale value

  
  

Tip: If you want a professional, safe, and clean service, book a service with us at ScrubUp. We use the right products to keep your car looking new.

5. Neglecting Tire Pressure and Maintenance

Your tires are your car’s only contact with the road — they deserve attention.

• Low tire pressure can cause poor fuel economy, reduce grip, and even lead to tire blowouts.

• Overinflated tires can cause uneven wear and make your ride rougher.

• Tire rotation helps ensure even tread wear, making your tires last longer.

• Well-maintained tires give you better handling, braking, and safety, especially at high speeds.

Tip: Check tire pressure at least once a month and rotate your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres.

6. Forgetting Filter Replacements

Filters may be out of sight, but they are crucial for performance.

• A dirty engine air filter makes it harder for your engine to "breathe," reducing power and efficiency.

• A clogged cabin air filter affects the air quality inside your car, making it uncomfortable and unhealthy, especially with all the dust around.

• Replacing filters regularly keeps your car running cleaner and helps protect your health, too.

Tip: Check and replace your air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 kilometres, or as recommended in your car's manual.

7. Ignoring Brake Maintenance

Your safety depends on your brakes, so they must always be in top condition.

• Ignoring squeaky, soft, or grinding brakes can be dangerous.

• Worn-out brake pads can lead to costly damage to brake rotors and other parts.

• Dubai’s heavy traffic puts extra pressure on your brakes, making regular checks even more important.

Tip: Have your brakes inspected during every service visit or at least every 10,000 kilometres.

8. Avoiding Fluid Checks

Your car needs more than just oil to stay healthy.

• Important fluids include engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

• Low or dirty fluids can cause overheating, poor shifting, weak braking, and other serious problems.

• Fluids help cool, lubricate, and protect vital car components.

Tip: Make it a habit to check all fluids during regular service or every few months if you drive frequently.

9. Parking Under Direct Sun for Too Long

Dubai’s harsh sun is no joke when it comes to car damage.

• Long exposure to direct sunlight can fade your car’s paint, crack the dashboard, and damage leather seats.

• Heat buildup inside the car can also affect electronics over time.

• UV rays can cause irreversible damage if you are not careful.

Tip: Park in shaded areas whenever possible. Use a windshield sunshade and consider applying a UV-protective coating to your car.

10. Driving on a Near-Empty Fuel Tank

Many people wait too long before refuelling, but it is bad for the car.

• When fuel runs low, the fuel pump can suck in debris from the bottom of the tank, causing clogs and damage.

• Running low on fuel can also cause your fuel pump to overheat and fail early.

• Constantly driving on empty adds stress to your fuel system and can lead to costly repairs.

Tip: Keep your tank at least one-quarter full to stay safe and protect your engine.

By avoiding these common car care mistakes, you can save money, prevent serious problems, and keep your car running smoothly for longer.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Car Care Services to Beat Dubai’s Heat & Dust

How ScrubUp Can Help You Take Better Care of Your Car

Taking care of your car is easier when you have the right support. At ScrubUp, we offer services that go beyond just cleaning, we help you protect your car's condition for the long run. Here’s how we make car care simple for you:

• Regular Eco Washes: Our eco-friendly cleaning keeps your car’s exterior fresh and protected from Dubai’s dust and heat without damaging the paint.

• Interior Deep Cleaning: We remove dust, allergens, and stains from inside your car to keep the air clean and the interiors looking new.

• Convenient Mobile Service: No need to visit a workshop. We come to you, saving your time and keeping your car in top shape without hassle.

At ScrubUp, we help you keep your car in top condition. You can easily book your service with us via WhatsApp or through our mobile app (available on the Play Store and App Store), and we’ll take care of the rest.

Next Explore: 5 Best Ways to Protect Car Paint from Sun Damage

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I schedule a service check for my car?

You should schedule a service check every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometres, or follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service visits help you catch any small issues before they turn into expensive problems.

2. What should I do if I see a warning light on my dashboard?

If you see a warning light, don’t ignore it! You should get your car checked as soon as possible. Early detection can save you from costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly.

3. How can I keep my tires in good condition?

Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month. You should also rotate your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres. This will help improve your fuel efficiency and ensure your car handles better on the road.

4. Is it okay to use household cleaners on my car?

No, you should avoid using household cleaners on your car. They can damage your paint and finish. Always use car-specific cleaning products to protect your vehicle and keep it looking fresh.

5. Why should I avoid running my car on a nearly empty fuel tank?

Running your car on a nearly empty fuel tank can cause damage to your fuel pump and create clogs. It’s best to keep your tank at least one-quarter full to protect your car’s fuel system and prevent expensive repairs.

6. How can ScrubUp help me take better care of my car?

At ScrubUp, we make car care easier for you by offering regular eco washes, interior deep cleaning, paint protection services, and convenient mobile service. You can easily book a service directly through WhatsApp, and we'll come to you, ensuring your car stays in top shape without any hassle.

7. What are common car care mistakes to avoid?

Skipping regular maintenance, using household cleaners on your car’s paint, and neglecting tire checks are all common car care mistakes. These can lead to expensive repairs. Staying on top of these will keep your car in better condition for longer.