Archives Ноябрь 2023

Accessorise Your Ride: Car Accessories Shops in Ajman

Car Accessories Shops in Ajman

From uplifting a vehicle’s aesthetics to protecting it from wear and tear, car accessories available in the market today are meant for many different purposes. However, while installing auto parts and accessories, make sure they are of good quality and offered by trusted sellers to avoid causing any harm to the vehicle. Since, there are a large number of car accessories shops in Ajman, searching for the most well-known ones among them can be a little overwhelming. 

Therefore, to help narrow down the available options, we have put together a list of the top-rated shops selling auto parts and accessories in Ajman, including their addresses, timings and contact details.

From seat covers to must-have car cleaning tools and car organisers, the below-listed auto accessories stores in Ajman might have the product you need.

Auto Mart Car Accessories LLC

Auto mart accessories store in ajman
Auto Mart Car Accessories LLC offers an extensive range of auto accessories and services

Auto Mart Car Accessories LLC is a company based in Ajman that specialises in providing a wide range of car interior decoration and upholstery services. These include repairing or replacing dashboard materials, changing the door cloth, changing the roof fabric, installing roof star lights, fitting 3D flooring, and installing dashboard covers. 

In addition to upholstery services, they also have expertise in glass tinting. With an extensive range of parts and services available, Auto Mart Car Accessories LLC is a good option for those looking to enhance the look and feel of their cars.

  • Address: Al Rawda 3, Ajman 
  • Contact: +971-55-565-0691
  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Seven days a week

Al Madina Car Accessories Trading

Whether someone’s looking to upgrade their car’s sound system, add some personality to its appearance, or protect it from wear and tear, Al Madina Car Accessories Trading has a wide range of products and services to choose from. If someone is looking to replace a car part, they can visit these popular car spare parts shops in Ajman.

This popular car accessories shop in Ajman offers a variety of car decoration products and services, including floor and dashboard mats, screens, recorders, fancy car monograms, speakers, infotainment systems, car detailing, glass tinting, accessories, car mats and different types of body stickers. 

  • Address: Al Nakhil, Al Rumailah 1, Ajman
  • Contact: +971-50-143-9888
  • Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM | Friday: 3 to 11:30 PM

Alhan Car Accessories

Alhan Car Accessories offers a comprehensive range of car products in Ajman
Alhan Car Accessories is a one-stop accessories shop in Ajman

Considered one of the one-stop car accessories shops in Ajman, Alhan Car Accessories offers a comprehensive range of products and services. From infotainment systems to steering and seat covers and flooring mats, this accessories store in Ajman also offers a wide selection of car interior add-ons. 

On the other hand, car exterior accessories and services, such as fog lights, window tinting, horns, front grille, bumper protector, wipers, stickers, and polish are also available here. Furthermore, someone looking to upgrade their car’s safety features like adding a GPS or a reverse parking camera can also visit Alhan Car Accessories.

  • Address: Main Road, S134, Ajman Industrial Area 2
  • Contact: +971-55-788-5646
  • Timings: Sunday to Friday: 9 AM to 10 PM | Saturday: 4 to 10 PM

Taj Al Rayan Accessories & Trading 

Offering an extensive range of essential car accessories and installation services, Taj Al Rayan is one of the most well-known car accessories stores in Ajman. They provide a variety of options to tune up or accessorise a vehicle. From car roof star lights and LED headlights to GPS speedometers and vinyl stickers, one can choose from a large variety of accessories to improve the aesthetics of their car.

Moreover, Taj Al Rayan Accessories & Trading also deals in sound and infotainment systems, along with different types of car cameras such as mirror, dash, front, and rearview cameras. The accessory shop also has interior lights and seat covers for those looking to add a personalised touch after buying a used car in the UAE. 

  • Address: Al Nakhil, Al Rumailah 1, Ajman
  • Contact: +971-52-669-9918
  • Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 10 AM to 11 PM | Friday: 4 to 11 PM

Super Color Car Accessories

Super Color Car Accessories in Ajman is a popular choice to buy car parts
Super Color Car Accessories also offer a variety of car cleaning products

Super Color Car Accessories & Trading is a well-known destination for buying car accessories in Ajman. From LED headlight systems to seat covers, flooring mats, body wraps, and vinyl stickers, it has an assortment of auto care services and accessories.

Additionally, Super Color Car Accessories & Trading also offer a variety of car cleaning products that aid in maintaining a spotless ride. Moreover, one can also shop for different types of steering and tyre wheel covers from this accessories store in Ajman. 

  • Address: Al Jerf Industrial 1, Ajman
  • Contact: +971-50-899-1682
  • Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 9 AM to 11 PM | Friday: 3 to 11 PM

Grand Cars Accessories and Trading LLC

Looking to buy car accessories in Ajman? Grand Cars Accessories and Trading LLC has a large assortment of products available. For instance, one can shop for new seat covers, dashboard and floor mats, LED light systems, fancy monograms, wiper blades, steering covers and car chargers, among many other products by visiting this accessories shop. 

Moreover, Grand Cars Accessories and Trading LLC also has expertise in applying car body wraps, vinyl stickers and window tinting. 

  • Address: Off Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Rashidiya 1, Ajman
  • Contact: +971-52-525-2419
  • Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 9 AM to 11.30 PM | Friday: 3 to 11.30 PM

Disclaimer: This list of car accessories dealers in Ajman is based on Google ratings and reviews. Therefore, it is advised to do proper research before buying products and services from any one of them.

That’s a wrap of our round-up of some of the most popular car accessories shops in Ajman. Likewise, we have also covered a similar guide on the top-rated auto accessories dealers in Umm Al Quwain that might be helpful for people living in the Emirate.

Also, did you know? You can browse these auto parts and accessories for sale in Ajman and search through tons of affordable options from the comfort of your couch. Take note of these tips for buying car parts online and to ensure you’re making the right choice.

Want to read more informative pieces about auto parts and repairs? Stay connected with the dubizzle car blog.

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Pros and Cons of Panoramic Sunroofs in Cars

all about cars with panoramic sunroofs

Considered as a luxury car feature earlier, panoramic sunroofs are garnering a lot of fame. This is why most modern cars have glass panels. Such cars offer lots of natural light, more sightseeing potential through the roof and the potential to stargaze at night. Let’s go through the details about a panoramic sunroof, its types and its pros and cons in detail. 

What is a Panoramic Sunroof 

Panoramic sunroofs are bigger versions of usual sunroofs
Panoramic sunroofs are panes of glasses spanning over the car roof’s width

Panoramic means a broad view surrounding the observer, whereas a sunroof is a roof panel mostly made of glass that is openable. Simply put, the bigger version of a traditional sunroof is a panoramic sunroof. They have multi-panel sunroofs with panes on top of the front and rear car areas. 

That said, all sunroofs don’t have the same opening and tilting features. Usually, such sunroofs extend wide between the outer structural elements of a car’s roof and span further forward and backward than normal, this makes the impression of an open roof over the car passengers. Some panoramic sunroofs are fixed, while some are sliding. 

A regular sunroof is in the centre of a car’s roof surrounded by roof sheeting. On the other hand, a panoramic sunroof usually spans across the entire roof’s width and in many cases, butts up against the top of the windshield and reaches behind the front-seat passengers at the very least. 

Cars with a dual- or triple-pane sunroof can be considered a panoramic sunroof. This is because the see-through roof is split in two enabling a portion of the top to be opened, while the closed portion of the roof allows as much natural light as possible into the cabin.

Types of Panoramic Sunroofs 

There are different types of panoramic sunroofs
Some panoramic sunroofs have one glass pane while others have two or three

There are many types of panoramic roofs. Moreover, the term panoramic moonroof is interchangeable with panoramic sunroofs. Let’s go through the different types of panoramic sunroofs:

  • Panoramic Windshield/Windscreen – this is where the windshield glass extends either part way (with a second glass panel) or all the way, over the passengers without interruption. 
  • Dual-Pane or Triple-Pane Panoramic Sunroof – cars with this type of panoramic sunroof have a full glass roof that is split into two or three panels. One of the panels can slide open while the other panels remain fixed. 
  • Fixed Panoramic Glass Roof – much like the types of panoramic sunroof of the Tesla Model S, the fixed panoramic glass roof is a single fixed transparent panel that spans across the entire passenger area. Such cars don’t have any traditional roof panels.
  • Sky Roof – this is a term used by some car brands for a glass roof or panoramic sunroof. For instance, Bugatti had the option of a ‘Sky View’ roof for Chiron with two glass panels on either side of the central roof spine. 
  • Electrochromic Roof – this is smart glass roofs controls intensity of light from transparent to shaded, to completely opaque. For now, the electrochromic roof option is available in Mercedes and Mc Laren but it will be available for other models in the future.

Pros and Cons of Cars with Panoramic Sunroofs 

Being able to experience the natural sunlight and stargaze is among the many pros of panoramic sunroofs
Cars with panoramic sunroofs have many benefits

Now that we’ve gone through the details and types of panoramic sunroofs, let’s go through their pros and cons in detail. 

Pros of Panoramic Sunroofs

There are many benefits of panoramic sunroofs. Such roofs let the natural light in your cabin during the day and at night passengers can stargaze through them! Other pros of panoramic sunroofs include:

Style: Panoramic sunroofs especially those that extend from the windshield to the back look really stylish. The reflective shine and dark tint usually make the car look leaner and more athletic. However, know the laws before you plan to do car window tinting in Dubai.

Passenger Health: Humans usually don’t get a lot of sunlight and most of the workspaces and entertainment spaces are indoors. Panoramic sunroofs in cars enable sunlight to enter the cabin, this allows the body to make Vitamin D which is good for health. 

Better Mood: In addition to health benefits, a cabin that is lighter and brighter enhances the mood of car passengers. It also helps make the car’s interior feel more livelier and less claustrophobic. 

Better Cooling: If the car is parked in the heat, tilting the sunroof allows heat to escape upwards. Simply put, whenever passengers get in a heated car, they can tilt the sunroof for ventilation. 

Better Resale Value: Panoramic sunroofs are considered a luxury feature. Having one in your car improves its resale value. 

Cons of Panoramic Sunroofs

Panoramic sunroofs also have some disadvantages
Panoramic sunroofs are expensive to maintain and can cause condensation in the car’s cabin in colder temperatures

Though there are many benefits of panoramic sunroofs, they do have some cons. These include:

Raised Centre of Gravity: Additional weight is added to the upper portion of the car because of the glass panels and the mechanisms in place to open panoramic sunroofs. This increases the centre of gravity in cars, which can harm vehicle handling. 

Less Headroom: In cars where the panoramic sunroof does not open over the passengers, the panel slides into a cavity in the roof. Automakers usually lower the height of the roof’s interior to accommodate this. This can lessen the headroom by some inches.

Moisture in Cold Climates: Because glass doesn’t have the insulation of traditional roof panels and their multi-layer construction, parking cars with a panoramic glass roof outside in colder temperatures can result in condensation inside the cabin. 

Reduced Efficiency: Panoramic sunroofs help evacuate heat, but they also reduce the efficiency of climate control systems. This is because direct sunlight warms up the cabin. However, newer sunroofs with better insulation don’t face much of this problem. 

More Maintenance: More moving parts in vehicles means more maintenance. The motors to control the roof and its shades, naturally, require more maintenance. Over time, the rubber seals can also perish resulting in leaks into the car’s cabin. Here is how to fix a leaking car sunroof.

Potential Breakages: Glass can break easily even if it’s tempered and reinforced when compared with a solid metal roof panel. If it leaks, you can learn the steps to fix a leaking car sunroof.

That is all about panoramic sunroofs. If you prefer cars with sunroofs after going through the pros and cons, here is a list of used cars for sale in the UAE including vehicles with panoramic sunroofs. 

Popular cars with Panoramic sunroofs include McLaren GT, Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe, Bentley Bentayga, Kia Sportage and BMW i7, among others. To buy these cars, you can browse through the following listings:

  • Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe for sale in the UAE
  • Used Bentley Bentayga for sale in the UAE 
  • Used KIA Sportage for sale in the UAE

Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more on different car parts, their advantages and disadvantages, car DIYs and much more. 

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Why Does a Car Gear Get Stuck in Neutral

all about when a car gear gets stuck in neutral

Sometimes a car gear gets stuck in neutral, naturally, the vehicle doesn’t move when this happens. This can be a problem if you’re on the main road. It can also be problematic because you may not be able to reach your destination in time. Let’s go through the reasons why a car gets stuck in the neutral gear shift and how to solve the issue. 

How Do Manual and Automatic Cars Work

Before we discuss the reasons why the car gear shift gets stuck in neutral, let’s consider the different car transmission systems and the working of automatic and manual car transmissions. 

Automatic Car Transmissions 

Automatic and manual car gears get stuck in neutral because of transmission problems
In automatic car transmissions, the gear shift automatically

A series of gears gives power to the wheels of an automatic car. Simply put, a torque converter connects the transmission to the engine and helps to convert the engine’s power into motion.

Then, power is sent to the wheels via the transmission through a series of gears that enables the car to move forward or backwards. 

A computer controls the automatic type of car transmission system. It determines when the gears are to be shifted based on the vehicle’s speed and engine load. The computer also determines the fluid level amount and sends it to the transmission. This helps keep the transmission cool for a smooth operation. 

Usually, there are four or more gears in automatic transmissions. These gears enable quick vehicle acceleration and maintain high speeds. Most modern cars are equipped with an automatic transmission. Here are the detailed pros, cons and types of automatic transmission systems.

Manual Car Transmissions

Transmission control module problems are among common symptoms of car gear shift stuck in neutral
Manual car drivers have to change gears themselves

In a manual car transmission, the driver has to use the clutch and accelerator pedal and has to shift gears manually, based on the vehicle’s speed. The main difference between automatic and manual transmissions is how the gears are changed. The transmission changes gears by itself in an automatic transmission. However, in a manual transmission, the driver changes the gear themselves physically.

Another major difference between the two types of transmissions is fuel economy. Usually, manual transmissions are considered more fuel efficient than automatic transmissions because less energy is lost in the process of shifting gears manually.

Reasons Why the Car Gear Shift Gets Stuck in Neutral 

low fluid transmission is among the causes of gear stuck in neutral.
Low fluid transmission levels and damaged shifter cables are among the common reasons a car gear shifter gets stuck in neutral

Now that we’ve discussed the difference between automatic and manual car transmissions, let’s go through the reasons why a car gear gets stuck in neutral. Common reasons include: 

  • Low levels of fluid transmission 
  • A damaged or worn gear shifter cable
  • Transmission control module problems
  • Damaged transmission gears

Low Levels of Fluid Transmission

A common reason why a car won’t go into gear or get stuck in neutral is low levels of transmission fluid. Check the fluid level with an oil dipstick. The gears usually slope and get stuck on neutral when the transmission fluid levels are below the “full line.” Add more transmission fluid till it reaches the required level.   

Damages or worn gear shifter cable

Another reason why a car gear gets stuck in neutral is a problem with the shifter cable. The shifter cable connects the shifter handle to the transmission with a shifter cable. If the cable is worn or damaged, it can cause the car gear to get stuck in neutral. To check for this problem:

  • Park the automatic car on a level surface and put it in the “Park” gear. Turn off the engine and open the hood.
  • Locate the shifter cable and follow it till you find the adjuster nut (the cable will be running from the transmission to the shifter).
  • Loosen the adjuster nut with a wrench, and pull the cable tight. Tighten the nut back down and check if the shifter moves smoothly. Repeat the step till it does not
  • Finally, check the cable routing to ensure it isn’t rubbing against anything that could cause it damage. If everything looks good, close the hood and take your car for a test drive.
  • If the shifter cable breaks, the car won’t shift gears or it may jerk when shifting. If that happens, take your car for repairs at a professional automotive centre.

The transmission control module problems and Damaged Transmission Gears

The car gear can also get stuck in neutral if there is a transmission control module problem or in case of damaged transmission gears. Take the car to a professional auto mechanic if these are the reasons. They require the professional tools and expertise of professionals. 

Those were some common reasons why a car’s gear gets stuck in neutral and their fixes. That said, car transmission problems can be avoided easily with a regular car maintenance checklist. 

Besides, if your car’s gearbox is not repairable or if your vehicle doesn’t fuel economy and needs a lot of maintenance, you can consider buying another vehicle. Here is a list of used cars for sale in the UAE. 

Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more on car problems, solutions, DIYs and more. 

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Auto Diagnosis: Why Tyres Squeal When Turning

Causes of Squealing Tyres and Their Solutions

When on the road, the driver needs to stay highly attentive and focused to ensure safety. Besides navigating traffic, the person behind the wheel is responsible for closely monitoring the performance of the vehicle and taking note of any unusual, distracting noises. 

One common example in this regard is tyre squealing. It is a high-pitch screeching sound caused by friction between the tyre surface and the road pavement. It is normal for a car to encounter squealing tyres when driven and manoeuvred at high speeds. However, if the noise still occurs when driving at a normal speed, it may indicate an underlying problem.

Common Causes of Squealing Tyres

If a proper car maintenance checklist isn’t followed, any of the following issues may surface and cause tyres to lose traction and squeal. Let’s find out more about these common reasons for tyre squealing and how to fix them. 

Under-inflated Tyres

Improper air pressure leads to tyre squealing
Tyres with improper air pressure may slide or skid on the road, causing a squealing noise

Under-inflated tyres can cause a variety of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, uneven tread wear and reduced handling ability. They can also lead to tyres squealing when turning, as the low pressure can cause the tyre to distort and lose its grip on the road surface. When this happens, the tyre may slide or skid on the pavement, which causes squealing noise from a car. 

How to Fix It

To prevent tyre squealing and other vehicle handling issues, try to maintain the recommended air pressure levels in tyres. This also protects the tyres from wear and tear, increasing their lifespan.

Uneven Tyre Wear

Uneven wear is among the most common car tyre problems that can be caused for a variety of reasons, such as bad wheel alignment, worn suspension components, or driving with under-inflated tyres. When the tread on a tyre wears unevenly, it can make its surface lumpy or deformed. Driving with misshapen tyres may lead to a squealing noise when turning. 

How to Fix It

Since uneven tread wear occurs due to the stripping away of the rubber from the tyre surface, there’s no way it can be fixed. As a result, the only way to rid of the problem of tyre squealing in such a case is to replace the deformed tyre with a new one.

Bad Wheel Alignment

bad wheel alignment can be a cause of tyre squealing
Bad alignment can lead to reduced handling due to which tyres squeal when turning corners

Bad wheel alignment is one of the most common reasons behind squeaky noises from tyres. The problem of misalignment occurs when the angles of car wheel assemblies are not set, according to recommended specifications. Bad alignment can lead to reduced handling due to which tyres squeal when turning corners. 

How to Fix It

Performing wheel alignments on a car can solve its tyre squealing issue. Correctly aligned tyres make it easier for drivers to handle a vehicle properly, enhancing its safety and driving comfort.

Problems with Suspension 

suspension problems cause squealing tyres
A car with bad suspension can lose grip on the road surface and encounter squealing tyres

The suspension system of a car is responsible for absorbing shocks and vibrations while driving. However, when it fails, the car can lose grip on the road surface, leading to tyres. Such a problem can also make the car tyres bounce or slide on the pavement, causing difficulty in steering.

How to Fix It

Getting a car maintained by a certified auto technician will be crucial in this regard. It will help fix different types of suspension problems, including the ones that are causing tyre squealing.

Low Power Steering Fluids

While determining the causes of tyre squealing, one should also check the level of power steering fluids. The power steering system uses hydraulic pressure to assist the driver in turning the wheels. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the power steering pump to work harder to maintain proper pressure. 

This can put a strain on the power steering system and cause the tyre to squeal when turning. Moreover, low-power steering fluid can cause difficulty in turning the steering wheel, impacting the vehicle’s overall handling. It can also be one of the reasons behind sounds coming from the steering wheel.

How to Fix It

It’s important to regularly check the power steering fluid level and top it off if needed to fix vehicle handling problems leading to tyre squealing. However, as the power steering system evolves, some cars now have fully-electric power steering. Since electric power steering systems don’t rely on fluids, they won’t encounter such fluid level issues causing poor handling. Besides low fluids, a bad power steering pump can also cause squealing noise from tyres.

Reckless Driving

Abrupt actions during aggressive driving cause tyres to lose road grip due to excessive forces. When drivers accelerate or brake suddenly or take turns at high speeds, it is what causes tyre squealing. 

Since reckless driving can cause a host of safety and mechanical issues, it is always better to avoid it and drive responsibly. Moreover, make sure to strictly adhere to driving rules in the UAE to prevent accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road.

Bad Bearings

bad wheel bearing create a squealing type noise
Bad wheel bearings cause a grinding or humming noise, which is often heard as squealing

A squealing sound in a car may not always be caused due to tyre-related issues. For instance, when wheel bearings begin to wear down, they can cause a grinding or humming noise, which is often heard as squealing. This is because worn or damaged wheel bearings can cause the wheels to wobble or vibrate, which can cause the tyres to make a high-pitched squealing noise as they roll along the road.

How to Fix It

To fix the wheel bearing squealing problem, the damaged bearings should be replaced with new ones. However, this should be done by a certified auto technician to ensure proper installation of the worn parts.

Now that we’ve discussed the most common squealing tyres fixes and the problems that cause them in the first place, let’s wrap up here. Note that the aforementioned issues may occur due to a lack of inspection, a common car maintenance mistake which should be avoided to increase a vehicle’s life.

When picking a used car for sale in the UAE, take it for a test drive to make sure it doesn’t have squealing tyre problems before closing the deal.

For more informative posts regarding common vehicle problems and the latest auto trends, stay tuned to the dubizzle car blog.

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Spotting the Difference: Wheel Alignment Vs Wheel Balancing

Understanding the Difference Between Wheel Alignment vs Wheel Balancing

Keeping a car’s tyres in good shape is essential to ensure their performance and longevity. It is recommended to check tyre treads regularly, especially before and after long trips. Excessive or uneven tyre wear can be a sign of imbalanced or misaligned wheel assemblies. 

To promptly address this issue, tyres should be adjusted with wheel alignment and wheel balancing. Since these two processes sound quite similar, people often mistake them for one. Therefore, it is necessary to understand their difference to avoid any confusion. 

Here’s a comparative analysis of wheel alignment vs wheel balancing, which will highlight the major differences between these two important tyre maintenance processes. 

Wheel Alignment Vs Wheel Balancing: What’s the Difference? 

We’ll start explaining the difference between wheel balancing and wheel alignment by describing their respective technical aspects and purposes. 

What is Wheel Alignment? 

wheel alignment ensures that wheels are properly positioned
Wheel alignment ensures that the wheels are positioned properly

Wheel alignment is a process that involves adjusting the angles of a vehicle’s wheels to the recommended levels. The main purpose of wheel alignment is to ensure that the wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. 

During a wheel alignment, three types of angles are adjusted to ensure proper wheel positioning: camber, caster, and toe. 

Camber

Camber refers to the inward or outward angle of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle. If the top of the wheel leans inwards, it is called negative camber, while if it leans outwards, it is positive camber.

Caster

The caster angle or castor angle is the deviation angle between the steering axis and the vertical axis of a wheel in a car. It helps with steering wheel returnability, making maintaining a straight line while driving easier.

Toe

Toe refers to the direction in which the tyres are pointed when viewed from above. If the wheels point inward towards the centre of the vehicle, it is called toe-in, while if they point outward, it is called toe-out. 

What is Wheel Balancing? 

wheel balancing keeps the weight on tyres evenly distributed
Wheel balancing fixes any weight imbalances in tyres and wheels

Wheel balancing fixes any weight imbalances in tyres and wheels

The purpose of wheel balancing, on the other hand, is to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed throughout each tyre and wheel of the car. 

Even the slightest imbalance can create enough momentum to cause uncomfortable vibrations during the ride. If the problem isn’t fixed in a timely manner, it can lead to excessive tyre wear and leave you with no option but to replace the tyre.

During a wheel balancing process, the tyres and wheels are removed from the vehicle and placed on a specialised balancing machine. The machine then spins them at a high speed to spot the imbalances. Small wheel weights are mounted to the tyre and wheel assembly to fix the imbalances. 

Types of Imbalance Issues

There are three types of imbalances that can occur in a vehicle wheel assembly: static imbalance, couple imbalance, and dynamic imbalance. Static imbalance arises from an uneven distribution of weight, causing a tyre to have uneven heavy or light spots. This results in an up-and-down motion that creates a hop or vertical vibration.

Couple imbalance, on the other hand, is when the mass axis intersects the running axis. Lastly, dynamic imbalance occurs when there is unequal weight on one or both sides of the lateral centreline of the wheel assembly. This results in a side-to-side wobble.

Common Causes of Bad Wheel Alignment and Wheel Balancing

Some common causes of misaligned wheels
Common reasons behind misaligned and imbalanced wheel assemblies 

Let’s list some of the most common causes behind bad wheel balancing and wheel alignment. 

  • Tyre wear
  • Reckless driving
  • Driving with heavy loads
  • Sudden impact (hitting a speed bump, pothole or curb)
  • Problematic car suspension system
  • Mismatched tyre size

Symptoms of Bad Wheel Balancing vs Wheel Alignment

To diagnose if a car has misaligned or imbalanced tyres, you can look for the following symptoms to identify the issue. 

Vehicle Veering to One Side

When a vehicle drifts or pulls to one side while driving on a straight, level road with little to no wind, it may indicate an alignment or wheel balancing issue.

Vibrations When Driving

Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or the vehicle’s body while driving can be an indication of problems with both bad wheel alignment and wheel balancing. If the wheels are not correctly positioned and balanced, it causes uneven tyre wear, resulting in an uncomfortably shaky car. 

Off-Centre Steering Wheel

If a steering wheel is not centred, it is often a symptom of bad wheel alignment or wheel balancing. Wheel alignment issues can cause the steering system to pull in one direction, leading to an off-centre steering wheel. On the other hand, unbalanced wheels can result in vibrations that cause the steering wheel to move off-centre.

How Often to Perform Wheel Balancing and Wheel Alignment on a Vehicle

How Often You Should Perform Wheel Balancing and Wheel Alignment on a Vehicle
Check the vehicle’s user manual for recommended frequency of wheel alignment and balancing

There is no definitive answer on how often one should perform an alignment or tyre balance on their vehicle. The frequency of servicing may depend on the following factors.

  • Frequency of driving
  • Condition of the roads on which the vehicle is driven
  • Quality of the tires

One can also check the vehicle’s user manual to determine the manufacturer’s recommended frequency for wheel alignment and balancing. However, it is generally observed that wheel balancing requires more frequent attention as compared to wheel alignment.

There you have it — a detailed comparative analysis of wheel alignment vs wheel balancing. To understand more about car maintenance, take a look at our comparative analysis of tyre rotation vs wheel alignment.

Besides these tyre maintenance processes, lubricating a car’s steering and suspension parts also enhances its drivability. 

After buying a used car in the UAE, make sure to get it inspected for wheel alignment and balancing issues before taking it for a spin.

Stay connected with the dubizzle car blog if you are looking for more informative guides on auto parts and repairs.

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Removing Mould From Car Interior: Step-by-step Process

car mould removal

When you enter the car and the interior smells like a rotten egg or dirt sock, you may have mould in the vehicle. That said, ensuring a clean and healthy environment in a car is essential. Mould is a fungus that may become detrimental for the ones with lung disease or weak immune systems.

Even for people with no health issues, mould can react and cause nasal congestion, wheezing, shortness of breath, a fever, eye irritation or a skin rash. That’s why car mould removal is necessary to ensure a clean and healthy interior. 

Here is a step-by-step car interior mould removal process that will help you clean up the car, but before that, let’s learn what causes mould growth.

Causes of Mould Growing in Car Interior

Mould growth in car interiors is due to several factors, but the primary contributors are excessive moisture and poor ventilation. Here are some common reasons for mould growth in car interiors:

  • Any leaks in the car’s roof, windows, doors, or even the trunk create a damp environment ideal for mould growth. 
  • Leaving damp items, such as wet clothes, towels, or umbrellas, can introduce moisture into the car interior, promoting mould growth.
  • When warm, humid air comes into contact with cool surfaces in the car, such as windows or air conditioning vents, it can cause condensation. That said, moisture can contribute to mould growth.
  • Any spills, such as drinks or food, may linger moisture from spills, creating a breeding ground for mould.
  • If you live in an area with high humidity, the moisture in the air can penetrate the car’s interior and create conditions favourable for mould growth.

However, the car mould removal process will help clean the interior and prevent mould growth. Let’s go through the complete procedure.

Car Mould Removal Process

One can remove mould from the car interior using the ways to disinfect a car:

Step-1: Safety Precautions

safety measures for car mould removal
Take safety precautions while removing the mould from the car interior

When removing mould from a car, prioritise safety. 

  • Wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and goggles to shield yourself from mould spores. 
  • Work in a well-ventilated area by opening windows and doors to minimise exposure. 
  • You can also buy essential things for the car’s interior cleaning, such as solutions, spray bottles and microfibre clothes.

Before cleaning, dampen the mouldy surfaces with water to minimise the release of spores. Choose an appropriate mould cleaner for automotive surfaces and thoroughly clean upholstery, carpets, and ventilation. Ensure the car is completely dry to prevent mould regrowth.

Step-2: Remove Affected Items

Take out any items from the car’s interior that have visible mould growth or are prone to mould infestation, such as carpets, seat covers, and floor mats. Place them in a well-ventilated area to clean separately.

Step-3: Vacuuming

vacuum cleaner to clean the mould from car
A vacuum cleaner helps clean the seats, carpets and corner areas of the car’s interior

Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to thoroughly vacuum the car’s interior, including the seats, floorboards, and any hard-to-reach areas. It will help in mould removal from car seats and carpets. 

Step-4: Cleaning Solution

Depending on the severity of the mould and the type of cleaner you choose, you can dilute bleach or hydrogen peroxide with water. Here are two options:

  • Bleach solution: Mix 1 part bleach with ten parts water. For example, use 1 cup of bleach with 10 cups of water.
  • Hydrogen peroxide solution: Use a 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide and mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio. For example, combine 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup of water.

Additionally, you can mix vinegar with water since this solution can also help in car mould removal. After that, dip a clean cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. Wipe down all surfaces inside the car, such as the dashboard, door panels, and seats, to remove any visible mould.

Step-5: Scrubbing

car interior mould removal using a brush
Check all the areas, and use a soft brush and cleaning solution to remove mould from the car’s interior

For stubborn mould stains, use a soft brush or toothbrush dipped in the cleaning solution to scrub the affected areas gently. Be cautious not to damage the upholstery or any sensitive surfaces.

Step-6: Drying

After cleaning, open the car’s doors and windows or use a fan to facilitate airflow and aid in drying out the interior. Mould thrives in damp conditions. Therefore, ensuring proper drying is essential to prevent regrowth.

Step-7: Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

If the carpets or seat covers have mould growth, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning or consider professional cleaning services. You can also use a specialised automotive upholstery cleaner or consult a professional for mould removal in car carpets.

Step-8: Prevention

Keep the car’s interior clean and dry. Avoid leaving damp items in the vehicle, especially in humid environments. You can follow tips to clean your car seats without leaving the water spots because humidity allows mould growth. Regularly clean and disinfect the car, and consider using moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or dehumidifiers to avoid mould growth. 

You can also follow tips for car interior detailing to take hygiene measures and keep your vehicle clean.

Step-9: Monitor for Regrowth

keep checking for mould regrowth in the car interior
You must check the car regularly to look for signs of mould to take measures beforehand

Keep an eye on your car’s interior for any signs of mould regrowth. If you notice mould returning or have persistent mould issues, follow the tips for the car’s interior protection.

Mould growth can pose severe health issues. However, you can use the above process for car mould removal. Furthermore, ensure preventative maintenance and measures to avoid mould growth. 

If you are looking for a used car for sale in the UAE, check the vehicle’s interior and exterior carefully. Moreover, you can follow the tips to remove water stains from the car’s upholstery and dry your car completely to avoid mould regrowth.

Stay tuned to the dubizzle autos blog and learn more about various preventive measures and car maintenance tips.

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Common Car Issues Due to Excessive Heat

Car issues due to excessive heat

Weather changes can cause many issues in cars. Since UAE witnesses extreme temperatures in summer, a vehicle may become subject to several problems, such as low fluid levels, engine heating or some systems malfunctioning. That said, learning about these vehicle issues can help determine the car problems at the earliest and fix them sooner.

Here are all the common car issues due to excessive heat and ways to fix them to avoid roadside emergencies.

Common Car Problems and Signs During Extreme Heat

Extreme summer temperatures can become a reason behind many common car problems. From car battery problems to tyre pressure changes, drivers may come across many car issues due to excessive heat. Moreover, a car engine may come under extra strain due to the car AC. That said, it causes the car to overheat and break down while driving.

You may look out for the following summer car problems and make necessary fixes to avoid such issues arising. 

Car Overheating Issues in Summer

What car problems happen due to excessive heat
Due to the use of air conditioners in summer, the workload of an engine causes a car to heat up

Cars can experience overheating issues more frequently during the summer due to the following factors:

  • Using a car’s air conditioning more frequently adds to the workload of the cooling system.
  • Frequent stopping and idling in traffic can restrict airflow to the radiator, reducing its cooling efficiency and leading to overheating.
  • Driving with a low coolant level or incorrect mixture can hinder the cooling system’s effectiveness, causing several car issues due to excessive heat. That said, it becomes one of the reasons behind overheating car engines.
  • Any existing problems with the cooling system, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a faulty car radiator, a worn-out water pump, or a blocked coolant passage, can become more evident during the summer months due to the increased heat and workload.
  • Not scheduling routine maintenance, such as failing to flush and replace the coolant at recommended intervals, can leave dust or rust deposits. It impedes coolant flow and results in overheating, particularly in hotter conditions.

Here’s how you can minimise the car overheating issue due to summer heat:

  • Check coolant levels regularly and ensure the coolant mixture is correct.
  • Inspect the cooling system for leaks, damaged hoses, or any visible issues.
  • Keep the radiator and grille clean from debris to maintain proper airflow.
  • Avoid heavy traffic or stop-and-go situations whenever possible.
  • Consider using sunshades or parking in shaded areas to reduce heat buildup inside the car.

If you notice signs of fluctuating temperature gauge or steam coming from the engine bay, pull over to a safe location. Turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down before determining the issue. After that, seek professional help or roadside assistance.

Car Battery Failure

car battery issues during high temperature
Extreme temperatures can cause reactions inside a battery and lead to its damage

High temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions within the battery. It leads to increased corrosion, fluid evaporation, and accelerated degradation of the battery’s internal components. Furthermore, it shortens the car battery life.

The car battery issue due to excessive heat can have the following impacts:

  • High temperatures can cause the electrolyte inside the battery to evaporate and diminish the battery’s ability to hold a charge.
  • When the battery becomes subject to high temperatures, it will not deliver the required power to start the engine. As a result, your vehicle won’t crank, or the car dies immediately after starting.

The reason behind your car battery draining can be extreme temperatures. However, the following ways will help avoid this car issue due to excessive heat:

  • If electrolyte levels are low, carefully add distilled water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain proper electrolyte balance.
  • Clean the battery terminals and connections since corroded terminals can increase resistance and contribute to heat buildup.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for battery maintenance, including periodic inspections and maintenance checks.

Tyre Pressure Problems

Tyres worn out due to excessive heat
Tyres may wear out when exposed to extremely hot pavements and roads

Hot pavement and prolonged exposure to high temperatures can increase tyre pressure, leading to a higher risk of tyre blowouts. Heat-related tire failures are common when your car has worn out or improperly inflated tyres.

Drivers may face the following car tyre issues due to heat:

  • The air inside your car tyres expands when the temperature rises. It causes higher pressure in tyres, resulting in different types of tyre tread wears and uneven ride.
  • The increased pressure causes an uneven tyre’s structure, making it more susceptible to failure. It eventually results in a tyre blowout.

You can follow the tips to maintain the car tyres during summer. Moreover, when choosing from different types of car tyres, you can opt for summer tyres since they have better efficiency in hot temperatures.

Air Conditioning Issues

car AC problems in excessive heat
Car AC may malfunction and have a weak airflow during summer

A car’s air conditioning system may struggle to cool the cabin in extreme heat due to various factors, including low refrigerant levels, a malfunctioning car AC compressor, or a faulty cooling fan. 

Here are a few issues that become cause of weak car AC that may occur due to excessive heat:

  • Higher temperatures can cause the AC refrigerant to overheat and become less effective at absorbing heat. If the refrigerant levels are low or there is a leak in the system, it may compromise the cooling capacity.
  • Hot air from outside can infiltrate the poorly insulated space, making it harder for the air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.

It is necessary to maintain an air conditioning system for the convenience of travllers and to avoid child heat stroke in cars during summer. Besides regular maintenance, check HVAC problems and insulate the cabin properly to ensure an effective and efficient air conditioning system.

Fluid Leaks

Car fluids leak during summer
Changing essential fluids on time is also important since extreme heat may dry these fluids or make them thin affecting their working

Several fluids in a car’s system expand and leak under high temperatures. You can identify the fluid leak from colours. A few essential car fluids that can leak due to extreme temperatures are: 

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant
  • Power steering fluid
  • Transmission fluid
  • Brake fluid

When the fluids start leaking, you can check the hoses, gaskets and coolant systems. Moreover, regular car maintenance schedules and inspections can help mitigate the risk of car fluids leakage.

Fuel Vaporisation

fuel vaporisation during summer
Your car may break down during the day since the vehicle may be overheated

The fuel can vaporise, causing drivability issues or even stalling. This problem is more prevalent in older cars or those with poorly insulated fuel lines. You will require a professional mechanic to diagnose your car’s fuel system properly.

That concludes the most common car issues due to excessive heat. Your car can catch fire when the temperature is too high. That said, you can take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for inspection before the peak summer arrives.

Ensure checking all the common car problems when buying a used car for sale in the UAE. You can take advantage of dubizzle’s inspection services and learn about vehicle problems beforehand. Moreover, you can prepare your car for summer and avoid breakdown or vehicle system failure due to excessive heat.

Stay tuned to the dubizzle autos blog to learn more about problems in a car and how to fix them.

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How to Fix The Cigarette Lighter in Your Car

car cigarette lighter fixes

Automobiles continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Car manufacturers ensure the vehicles have something for everyone – thus increasing their sales and providing a better driving experience to their customers. A cigarette lighter in vehicles is a great example of automakers adhering to the needs of all customers. Although a serious threat to health, several people hang on to the smoking habit. As the cigarette lighter serves more functions than one, any malfunction can cause inconvenience for drivers.

We have compiled a list of some car cigarette lighter fixes to help drivers conveniently overcome all related issues.

Working of Cigarette Lighter in Cars

smoking in car can be injurious for your health and your car's health
Smoking is injurious to your health and it is also bad for your car

Cigarette lighters and ashtrays were commonly available in older models and to date, many manufacturers continue to add them. However, cigarette smoking is bad for the car and a person’s health and should be avoided at all times.

A cigarette lighter contains a nichrome coil which is heated with 12 volts of current. The heated end is then used to light up a cigarette or cigar. Additionally, a cigarette lighter’s use isn’t limited to lighting smoking stuff. Drivers also use it to ignite a fire if need be. It is a useful car gadget since one can replace it with phone chargers.

Increased environmental and health awareness has prompted several manufacturers to omit this feature from their vehicles but it is still seen in some vehicles. The modern-day lighters have evolved greatly and now come equipped with USB charging ports among other options.

Causes of Car Cigarette Lighter Not Working

A malfunctioning cigarette lighter may not be among the common car problems, but it can cause troubles nevertheless. It is important to know the car cigarette lighter fixes to eliminate the problem promptly.

That said, let’s first take a look at some of the common causes of a faulty cigarette lighter in the car.

BAD WIRING OR FAULTY FUSE

A faulty fuse or bad wiring is also a common reason for a car cigarette lighter not working. This can be a result of extra amperage which makes it difficult for the socket to handle.

Additionally, plugging in inappropriate devices can also cause wiring problems or may lead to a blown fuse. Either way, the cigarette lighter will fail to function properly or may stop working as a whole.

BLOWN SOCKET

A blown or fused socket can be the reason for a cigarette lighter in car not working
A blown socket can be the reason for a cigarette lighter in car not working

Much like the car charger port not working, a blown socket may cause problems in the cigarette lighter. In this case, the socket does not receive electricity at all.

OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER

This is a common issue, particularly for vertically installed lighters. Small particles, food crumbs or objects can find a way inside the socket and disrupt the electrical supply. This can cause problems not just for lighting stuff but if you want to charge your phone through the socket.

BAD QUALITY CHARGER

cigarette lighter fixes: buy car cigarette lighter from authorised sources as it is one way  car
Buying components from unauthorised sources can cause problems in your vehicle

A low or bad-quality charger may be the culprit behind all the mess. If you have brought a charger from an unauthorised brand, the components may not be as effective and may wear off rather quickly.

Car Cigarette Lighter Fixes

The aforementioned information sheds light on the causes of a faulty cigarette lighter in cars. Lighter problems can also become a problem for cars without a charging port as drivers usually use the lighter socket to charge the devices. These chargers remain among the essential car accessories for all trips.

That said, let’s now take a look at some effective ways on how to repair car cigarette lighter.

LOOK FOR A BAD FUSE OR BAD WIRING

replacing the fuse is one way if your want to learn how to repair car cigarette lighter
A bad fuse can also cause the cigarette lighter to malfunction

If you come across a faulty cigarette lighter, check the device for a bad fuse. Different manufacturers use different names for charging devices or accessory outlets. Most car manufacturers label this fuse as LTR and it can be found in the fuse box under the hood.

If you are unable to locate the right fuse, check the vehicle’s manual to avoid causing damage to any other part. In the manual look for terms like cigar lighter, cigarette lighter, AUX power point 12 V outlet or 12 V power point.

Once located, pull out the fuse using the fuse gripper or you may use your fingers. Burnt or broken metal indicates a bad fuse. Replace the faulty fuse with a new one and try turning on the lighter again and it should work fine.

CHECK AND REPLACE THE SOCKET

To diagnose a problem with the socket, you would need a multimeter. It is a viable option to have a multimeter along with the DIY car fix mechanical tools to diagnose and overcome several vehicle problems. Turn the car engine on before the test as many lighters do not function if the ignition is not on.

Connect the red wired lead to circuit ‘V’ and the black wire to the circuit ‘COM’. Check the voltage on the multimeter. For any reading below 12 volts, the problem lies in the circuit and it needs to be replaced.

When replacing the circuit, be sure to turn the vehicle off and remove the fuse to ensure safety. It is among the rather easy car cigarette lighter fixes. However, if you are unaware of the process, take your vehicle to a professional to fix the issue.

CLEAN THE CAR LIGHTER

always clean the entire dashboard, plugs and socket as it is among the effective car cigarette lighter fixes
Debris can find its way into the socket, therefore, make it a habit to clean all the sockets and plugs

One of the ways to fix a car cigarette lighter is to clean the entire charger or plug. For debris or particles obstructing the current flow, cleaning should do the job just fine. Deep clean the charger and plug and remove any object that may seem out of place.

Moreover, it is a viable option to clean the area frequently to avoid any inconvenience in the first place. When cleaning the car dashboard, make it a habit of cleansing the cigarette lighter with it.

BUY FROM AUTHORISED DEALERS

One effective way to eliminate any chances of cigarette lighter failure, be sure to buy it and the parts from a reliable source. Some parties may offer the products at a lower rate but don’t compromise on quality. Poor quality parts can often lead to major car problems. Therefore, only buy from authorised and authentic services.

Note: dubizzle does not promote smoking of any type. The aforementioned tips are to ensure that there is no damage caused to a vehicle because of these issues.

bid farewell to smoking and enjoy a hassle free and happy ride
Say no to smoking, keep your, your family’s and car’s health in check and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience

This is everything about car cigarette lighter fixes and some common causes of these issues. A car lighter serves several functions such as charging a phone among others. Ensure timely maintenance and enjoy a hassle-free ride at all times.

Moreover, abstain from smoking in the car or elsewhere as it poses a serious threat to you, the car and the passengers’ health. If your vehicle is contaminated with smoke smell, there are some effective ways to get the cigarette smell out of cars that can come in handy.

Modern vehicles come equipped with a whole lot of extra features like multiple charging ports for drivers and passengers. This somewhat eliminates the need for cigarette lighters as a whole. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and have your pick from a wide variety of vehicles listed.

Stay safe, say no to smoking and keep following dubizzle’s auto blog for solutions to car problems and more.

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Common Reasons Behind Excessive Oil Consumption

Reasons for excessive oil consumption

Engine oil, also called motor oil, plays an integral role in maintaining a car’s performance. Its purpose is to keep all the moving engine parts adequately lubricated, preventing damaging friction. Normally, a vehicle can be driven for around 5,000 to 15,000 km without the need for an engine oil change. However, if an engine starts running low on motor oil more frequently, it should ring a bell.

There can be various reasons for excessive oil consumption, which can have damaging effects. Therefore, it is important to identify them to promptly address the issue. Let’s learn more about the most common symptoms and reasons for excessive engine oil loss.

Signs of Excessive Oil Consumption

If you don’t know how to diagnose excessive engine oil consumption, check for the following signs:

Exhaust Smoke Colour

coloured exhaust smoke is a common sign of oil consumption
Coloured smoke from the exhaust is a prominent sign of oil consumption issues

Blue or grey smoke is one of the common excessive oil consumption symptoms. It indicates that engine oil has made its way into the combustion chamber and is burning away. This can be caused by issues such as leaking or worn piston rings, or damaged cylinder walls.

Low Engine Compression 

Excessive oil consumption is one of the symptoms of low engine compression or low cylinder compression is another symptom of excessive oil consumption. It occurs when the cylinders fail to compress enough air, resulting in misfiring or other engine performance issues. 

A compression test can help diagnose this issue by inspecting the condition of components, such as valves, cylinders and piston rings. Optimal compression is over 100 psi per cylinder, with a variation between the highest and lowest readings not exceeding 10%.

Burning Oil Smell

Quality degradation or low levels of motor oil is also among the potential causes of a burning smell in a car. If there is a pungent burning oil smell, it can be due to oil leaks. When oil drips onto hot engine parts, it burns and causes an unpleasant odour.

Check Engine Light

check engine light is a sign of excessive oil consumption
The check engine oil may be an indication of insufficient oil levels

The check engine oil may be an indication of insufficient oil levels

The degrading engine performance due to contaminated oil or insufficient oil flow throughout the car engine can also be a potential reason for the check engine light. If the check engine light is on, get the car immediately inspected by a certified auto technician to identify the problem. The causes of the check engine light turning on shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Carbon Building Up in the Engine

High carbon formation is another sign of excessive oil consumption. It occurs when the residues of oil start building up on the spark plugs or the bottom of the engine valves. One of the most common reasons for carbon buildup is the oil which rapidly burns away instead of flowing properly through the system.

Common Reasons for Excessive Oil Consumption

After discussing the symptoms, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of excessive oil consumption.

Deteriorating Quality of Engine Oil

The motor oil should be according to the specification and viscosity indicated in a car’s manual. Not using the right type of car engine oil is one of the most common causes of high oil consumption. 

Moreover, if the oil isn’t changed after the recommended period, it begins to degrade gradually. It may lose its viscosity and accumulate dirt and debris as it ages. This not only impacts its quality but also causes it to burn more rapidly. 

Since poor-quality oil can no longer keep the components adequately lubricated, the engine will start consuming more oil. 

Worn Piston Rings

worn piston rings are among common reasons for excessive oil consumption
Worn or damaged piston rings result in higher engine oil consumption

Worn or damaged piston rings result in higher engine oil consumption

Piston rings play a vital role in sealing the gap between the piston and cylinder wall. However, when worn or damaged, they can cause higher oil consumption in engines. This occurs as engine oil slowly passes through the damaged rings to enter the internal combustion chamber. The result is the burning of the oil and carbon deposits accumulate on the piston rings.

As discussed, damaged piston rings also cause blue or white-coloured exhaust smoke. It is an indication of a critical issue that decreases engine performance and leads to poor acceleration. Therefore, repairing or changing worn piston rings is how to fix excessive oil consumption immediately and effectively to prevent further engine damage.

Damaged Engine Seals or Gaskets

Seals and gaskets can experience wear and tear due to exposure to high temperatures and hot fluids. This can cause oil leakages, leading to a frequent loss of oil while driving. To prevent potential damage, engine oil has to be refilled again and again. 

Since broken gaskets and cracked seals are among the most common reasons for engine oil leaks, it is usually advised not to delay fixing such issues. Keeping the gaskets and seals in optimal condition prevents recurring oil change costs and enhances the lifespan of the engine.

Ageing Car Engine

old engine is prone to high oil consumption
An ageing car engine is more prone to oil leaks

An ageing car engine is more prone to oil leaks

The problem of excessive motor oil consumption is more common in older engines. It is because deteriorating engine parts are more prone to oil leaks. However, routine inspection and maintenance of car engine parts can help reduce the amount of oil lost. Keeping a vehicle maintained is also one of the effective ways to increase its fuel efficiency.

This was everything about common reasons for excessive oil consumption and their solutions. Timely and proper diagnosis of such engine problems is also crucial to determine whether to replace or repair the car engine.

When buying a used car in the UAE, have its engine carefully inspected to ensure it doesn’t have any major mechanical issues before closing the deal.

To keep learning more about important auto parts and repairs, stay connected with the dubizzle car blog.

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All You Need to Know about Self-Service Car Wash

all about self-service car wash

Regular car washes aren’t just good for the vehicle’s overall aesthetic but also prevent it from rusting. There are different ways to wash vehicles, from washing cars at home to washing them at self-service car wash centres. Though a full-service car wash is ideal for people with busy schedules, not everyone can afford it. This is where self-service car wash comes into play. Let’s go through the details of self-service car wash centres, how to use them and their pros and cons. 

What is a self-service car wash

Self-service car wash can be done in different ways
Car owners can wash cars at self-service car washes according to their vehicles cleaning need and their own preference

Self-car wash stations allow car owners to wash their cars themselves. These stations are different from automatic car wash stations. The drivers of vehicles decide on the equipment they want to use for washing cars themselves. They also decide on the part of the vehicle that needs more concentration. This way, the car owners get the car wash of their choice at affordable rates.

Steps to Use Self-service Car Wash

Let’s go through some useful tips on how to use self-service car wash.

Step 1: Park the car in a nice spot

Garages of different car wash stations have a marked spot indicating where to park each car. Choose the spot of your preference and park your vehicle. On the other hand, if there are no marked spots, position your car in the centre of the garage. This gives more space to move around and wash the car thoroughly. 

Step 2: Remove car floor carpets

After parking the car, open the doors and remove the floor mats. Hang them on the wall and clean them later.

Step 3: Find an appropriate sprayer

self-service car wash machine includes a sprayer
Use a sprayer wand to wash the dirt and grime of the car and tyres

There are sprayer wands in self-service car wash centres, find the one that is easily accessible and can get to your vehicle easily. If the wand is far from the vehicle, repark at a closer space. If you haven’t ever used a sprayer wand to wash cars previously practice first. Hold the wand’s handle and point it on your wheels to spray water.

Step 4: Learn the spray wand settings

Sprayers usually have different settings. They vary from self-service car wash stations to another. Usually, sprayer wands have three to five settings. 

Basic options include: wash, soap, rinse. Advanced settings include pre-wash and wax – but they might not be available on all sprayers. The pre-wash is used to wash vehicles before the main wash. Moreover, the wax option is used to wax the vehicle to complete the cleaning processes.

Learn all the settings to know where to allocate more time. The wash setting is where the car loses grime, dirt and other contaminants. Usually, basic wands have just one or two options of spraying water steam with pressure.

Then, choose the soap set. This is where the cleaning solutions start releasing. This setting helps remove persistent grime, dirt and debris. Next, select the rinse option. Selecting this option cleans off all the soap from the car. On basic settings, after the car gets a rinse, it is ready to hit the road.

Step 5: Check the payment option

The various payment options are usually mentioned on a banner in self-service car wash centres. Find out the acceptable payment option and make your payment the right way. Some self-service car wash in Dubai takes payments in cash while some accept credit/debit cards. 

Step 6: Start washing

Hold the spray wand and point the nozzle on the vehicle. Hold the handle or trigger and release the water pressure on the car. Make sure to stay 3-5 feet away from the vehicle to prevent damaging the car paint from pressurized steam. Here are the other things to keep in check to avoid car paint damage.

First, spray the water on the roof and then on the tyres. This helps loosen dirt, grime, and other contaminants. Next, spray the floor mats.

Step 7: Set the soap option

self-service car wash machine includes the soap spray option
The soap option sprays soap water on the car

Select the soap option and repeat step number six. The wand starts to spray soap water. Start from the roof rack down to the tyres. Focus on all the dirty areas, especially the area underneath the wheel. 

Step 8: Rinse the car

Carefully spray fresh water on the car to rinse the soap water. Then, switch on the spray wand, grab a sponge or a foam brush and clean off the stubborn dirt. Wash the foam brush and sponge before using them. This is done to clean the leftover dirt on these items from customers who used them before. Therefore, washing them is necessary to prevent scratching your car’s clear coating. Even if you have your own foam brush or sponge, wash it properly before cleaning the car.

Rinsing the body is an important part of the car cleaning process.

Step 9: Scrub the Car

Scrub the vehicle in circular motions to remove all the stubborn dirt and toxins. Try reaching every nook and cranny of the vehicle.

Step10: Rinse and dry 

Steps to use Self-service car wash include drying the car after rinsing it
Rinse the car after scrubbing and let it dry

Then rinse the car and dry it. Not rinsing properly makes the car look dirty even after a wash. Select the rinse option on the machine to clean all the soapy water on the car. For a clean wash, spray water on your car three to five times. 

Pros and Cons of Using Self-Service Car Wash Stations 

Washing cars are self-service car wash stations that come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. 

Pros of self-service car wash 

  • Cars can be cleaned and washed according to the car owner’s preference at self-service car wash stations 
  • The waiting time isn’t much 
  • Car owners can select the self-service car wash equipment according to their vehicle cleaning needs
  • It is economical when compared with using a full-service car wash
  • It helps bring the car’s magnificent appearance to life
  • Washing cars at self-service car washes is a form of exercise

Cons of self-service car wash 

  • It may be less convenient for some people to use the self-service car wash machine
  • It may take an hour or more to bring the car’s stunning look
  • Drivers may end up paying more if the allocated time is exhausted 
  • Not washing cars carefully at self-service car washes may scratch the car paints 

That is all about self-service car washes. Remember, car cleaning is important for its maintenance. Here is an extensive car maintenance checklist. 

Stay tuned to dubizzle’s top auto blog for more on car DIY solutions, washing, and repair tips. 

 

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