Archives Февраль 2024

The air-fuel ratio plays a crucial role in the combustion process of internal combustion engines. An optimal air-fuel ratio ensures efficient fuel combustion, leading to better engine performance and reduced emissions. However, when the air-fuel ratio deviates from its ideal value, it can lead to a host of problems. Let’s delve into the various factors that can cause a bad air-fuel ratio, exploring both mechanical and environmental aspects.

Causes of a Bad Air-Fuel Ratio

Learn about the causes of a bad air-fuel ratio in internal combustion engines. Discover how fuel delivery issues, sensor malfunctions, exhaust system problems, and environmental factors can affect the air-fuel mixture.

Fuel Delivery Issues

One of the primary reasons for a bad air-fuel ratio is fuel delivery problems. Furthermore, these issues can arise from multiple sources, including:

Fuel Injection System

A malfunctioning fuel injection system can disrupt the precise delivery of fuel into the combustion chamber. Common problems include clogged fuel injectors, faulty fuel pressure regulators, or a malfunctioning fuel pump.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters prevent contaminants from entering the engine. However, when engine air filter become clogged with dirt and debris, they restrict the airflow. This ultimately leads to an imbalanced air-fuel mixture. Regular maintenance or replacement of air filters is crucial for optimal engine performance.

Intake Manifold Leaks

Leaks in the intake manifold can allow additional air to enter the combustion chamber without an appropriate increase in fuel supply. Therefore, this can result in a lean air-fuel mixture, causing car’s engine performance issues. Regular inspection of the intake manifold and addressing any leaks is essential.

Fuel Quality

Poor-quality or contaminated fuel can disrupt the air-fuel ratio. Fuel with a low octane rating, excessive ethanol content, or water contamination can lead to combustion issues. Consequently, this can affect the air-fuel mixture.

Sensor Malfunction

Modern engines rely on various sensors to monitor and adjust the air-fuel mixture continually. If these sensors malfunction, they can provide incorrect readings, which leads to a bad air-fuel ratio. Hence, the common sensor-related causes include:

Oxygen (O2) Sensor

The oxygen sensor plays a critical role in measuring the oxygen content in exhaust gases. Its data is vital for the engine control unit (ECU) to make precise adjustments to the air-fuel mixture. However, a faulty oxygen sensor can provide inaccurate readings. However, a faulty engine control model can cause serious issues. Which can lead the ECU to make improper adjustments to the air-fuel ratio. To prevent this issue, it is essential to check the symptoms of faulty oxygen sensors and conduct regular maintenance checks on the oxygen sensor.

By ensuring the oxygen sensor’s accuracy and functionality, you can help maintain an optimal air-fuel mixture, promoting better engine performance and reducing harmful emissions.

Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensor

The Mass Airflow Sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. Malfunctioning MAF sensors can provide inaccurate airflow readings, leading to an incorrect air-fuel mixture. Knowing the symptoms of faulty MAF and replacing the MAF sensor can resolve this problem.

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

The ECT sensor measures the engine’s temperature, providing data for fuel delivery adjustments. However, a faulty ECT sensor can cause the ECU to provide incorrect fuel injection durations, resulting in an imbalanced air-fuel ratio. Regular inspection and replacement of the ECT sensor are necessary.

Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is integral to the engine’s fuel delivery system. It helps in monitoring the position of the throttle valve. This information allows the Engine Control Module to make precise adjustments to the fuel delivery. However, if the TPS malfunctions, it can provide inaccurate readings, resulting in an imbalanced air-fuel ratio. To rectify this issue, it is essential to either clean the bad throttle position sensor or replace it with a new one. This ensures that the engine receives accurate throttle position data and maintains an optimal air-fuel mixture.

Exhaust System Issues

Problems within the exhaust system can also contribute to a bad air-fuel ratio. These issues include:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve serves the vital function of recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the engine’s intake manifold for emission control. However, when the EGR valve becomes clogged or malfunctions, it can disturb the proper air-fuel mixture. To avoid this issue, performing regular maintenance and periodic cleaning of the EGR valve is crucial.

Catalytic Converter

A malfunctioning catalytic converter can restrict exhaust flow, leading to backpressure in the exhaust system. This backpressure can affect the air-fuel ratio by interfering with proper combustion. Ensuring the catalytic converter is in good condition and replacing it, when necessary, can help maintain a proper air-fuel ratio. A bad air-fuel ratio can also be one of the causes of car exhaust backfiring.

Exhaust Leak

Moreover, leaks in the exhaust system can allow air to enter or escape, affecting the air-fuel mixture. Exhaust leaks near the oxygen sensor can lead to false readings and improper adjustments by the ECU. Regular inspection and repair of exhaust leaks are essential. To know more, here are the symptoms of exhaust leak.

Environmental Factors

External factors can also impact the air-fuel ratio, including:

Altitude

At higher altitudes, the air density decreases. This reduced air density can affect fuel delivery, leading to a lean air-fuel mixture. Therefore, engines operating at higher altitudes may require adjustments or tuning to maintain the appropriate air-fuel ratio.

Humidity

Humid air contains more water vapour, which displaces oxygen. Consequently, a higher humidity level can result in a rich air-fuel mixture, affecting combustion efficiency. Engine tuning or adjustments may be necessary in areas with high humidity.

Temperature

Extreme temperatures can affect the air-fuel ratio. Cold weather conditions may require adjustments to provide a richer mixture, while hot weather conditions may necessitate a leaner mixture. Engine tuning and temperature-related maintenance can help mitigate these effects.

With this, we end our list of causes of bad air-fuel ratio. Maintaining an optimal air-fuel mixture is crucial for efficient engine performance and reduced emissions. Additionally, we have highlighted various causes of a bad air-fuel ratio, including fuel delivery issues, sensor malfunctions, exhaust system problems and environmental factors.

However, Identifying and addressing these causes and regular vehicle maintenance can help in maximising the engine’s efficiency. If you suspect a bad air-fuel ratio, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. On the contrary, if you want to replace your car with the latest models, browse through the listings of used cars for sale in the UAE here.

Stay tuned to the dubizzle car blogs for more updates.

Having the right air-fuel mixture is crucial for the optimal performance of any combustion engine. However, several factors can disrupt this delicate balance and highlight the indications of a rich air-fuel mixture. Meaning, there is an excess of fuel compared to the available air. This can lead to a range of issues, from decreased fuel efficiency to poor engine performance and potential damage to engine components. 

Understanding these factors is essential for diagnosing and addressing the problem, ensuring that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Following we will explore some common culprits contributing to a rich air-fuel mixture. We will also provide insights into how they affect your vehicle’s performance and what steps can be taken to rectify the situation.

Things That Make Rich Air and Fuel Mixture

The following are the common things that contribute to a rich air-fuel mixture.

Faulty Oxygen Sensor (O2 Sensor)

The oxygen sensor plays a vital role in measuring the oxygen levels in exhaust gases. It provides feedback to the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the air-fuel mixture. If the oxygen sensor malfunctions or becomes contaminated, it can provide incorrect readings to the ECU. Consequently, the ECU may inject more fuel into the combustion chamber than necessary, leading to a rich mixture. Keep an eye on the symptoms of faulty oxygen sensor as replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is essential for maintaining the correct air-fuel ratio.

Clogged or Dirty Fuel Injectors

The next thing that makes air-fuel mixture rich is clogged fuel injectors. Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering a precise amount of fuel into the engine. However, over time, they can become clogged or dirty due to impurities in the fuel. When this happens, the fuel spray pattern may be disrupted, resulting in an uneven distribution of fuel. This can cause some cylinders to receive more fuel than others, leading to a rich mixture. You can use fuel injector cleaners or replacing fuel injectors is crucial for avoiding this issue and ensuring optimal fuel atomisation.

Malfunctioning Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF)

The Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine, enabling the ECU to adjust the fuel delivery accordingly. If the MAF sensor fails or becomes contaminated with dirt or oil, it may provide inaccurate readings. As a result, the ECU might inject more fuel than necessary, leading to a rich air-fuel mixture. Cleaning or replacing a faulty MAF sensor can help restore proper air intake measurements and avoid fuel richness. Here are the symptoms of faulty MAF for more understanding.

Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (ECT)

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor monitors the temperature of the engine coolant and provides information to the ECU. If the sensor malfunctions or provides incorrect readings, the car computer may assume that the engine is colder than it is. Consequently, the ECU will enrich the air and fuel mixture, compensating for a non-existent cold start. This can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potential performance issues. Replacing a faulty ECT sensor is necessary to maintain the correct air-fuel ratio.

Restricted Air Intake or Clogged Air Filter

A restricted air intake or a clogged engine air filter can limit the amount of air entering the combustion chamber. The fuel may not burn completely with less air available for combustion, resulting in a rich air-fuel mixture. It is crucial to regularly inspect and replace air filters to ensure proper airflow. Additionally, checking for any obstructions in the air intake system, such as blocked intake ducts or debris, is important to prevent fuel richness.

Incorrectly Sized or Malfunctioning Fuel Pressure Regulator

The fuel pressure regulator regulates the pressure of the fuel supplied to the injectors. The regulator can cause excessive fuel pressure if faulty or incorrectly sized, leading to a rich mixture. This can happen when the regulator fails to reduce the pressure or gets stuck in the open position. It is essential to ensure that the fuel pressure regulator functions correctly and calibrates appropriately to maintain the proper air-fuel ratio. Here are the symptoms of a bad fuel pressure regulator for further guidance.

Worn-out Spark Plugs

spark plugs play a crucial role in the combustion process and can contribute to a rich air-fuel mixture if they are not functioning optimally. As the name suggests, spark plugs create the spark that ignites the air and fuel mixture within the engine cylinders. If the spark plugs are worn out or misfiring, they may fail to ignite the mixture effectively. This can result in incomplete combustion, leaving unburned fuel in the cylinders. 

The unburned fuel adds to the overall fuel mixture, leading to a rich condition. Regular inspection and maintenance of spark plugs, including cleaning or replacement as needed, are vital to ensure proper ignition and prevent fuel richness.

Exhaust System Issues

Problems with the exhaust system, such as a restricted or damaged catalytic converter, can impact the airflow through the car’s engine. The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing emissions and converting harmful gases into less harmful ones. If it becomes clogged, it can restrict exhaust flow, leading to reduced air intake and a rich air-fuel mixture. Regular maintenance and inspection of the exhaust system can help identify and resolve such issues promptly.

Maintaining the correct air and fuel mixture is crucial for your combustion engine’s smooth operation and longevity. A rich air-fuel mixture can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, reduced performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage. 

By understanding the common factors that contribute to making air-fuel mixture rich, you can take appropriate measures to diagnose and rectify the issue. If you are planning to buy a used car in the UAE , make sure you keep a check on its maintenance. Regular maintenance goes a long way in ensuring a proper air and fuel mixture and optimising your engine’s performance. Remember to consult a qualified mechanic or technician if you encounter persistent issues with your air and fuel mixture.

Stay in touch with the dubizzle’s leading cars blog for more automotive updates. 

A car’s sun visor is an essential accessory. It reduces the direct impact of sunlight’s glare. A car’s sun visor also enhances driver visibility while reducing eye strain. Most car sun visors also have a built-in vanity mirror on the underside. That said, like any other car equipment, a sun visor gets dirty with time and hinders visibility with increased eye strain. We have aligned simple steps to clean a car’s sun visor to cater to this. 

First, we will go through the factors that make a sun visor and why it is important to keep it clean. 

Importance of a Sun Visor in Cars

A sun visor is a practical and essential car accessory that improves visibility and helps to drive with sun glare. It creates a barrier between direct sunlight and the eyes and prevents discomfort. It blocks any excessive UV rays and sunlight. As a result, the cabin is cooled and provides a comfortable ride experience for both driver and passengers. All in all, a sun visor is an essential piece of equipment for all cars. It is among the sun-protection accessories to make a used car more comfortable. 

Let us now go through the reasons why a sun visor gets dirty and how to clean it. 

Common Causes of a Dirty Car’s sun visor 

A car visor gets dirty with time for several reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of a dirty car sun visor. These include: 

Dust and Pollen

The visor is exposed to the external environment, and dust and pollen particles can settle on its surface over time, especially if the car’s windows are frequently left open.

Moisture and Condensation

Among the causes of a dirty car sun visor, moisture is another factor. Moisture in the air, such as from rain or high humidity, contributes to the accumulation of dirt on the visor. When it evaporates, it leaves behind residue and can attract dirt particles.

Interior Contaminants

If the interior of the car is not regularly cleaned, particles such as lint, hair, or skin flakes accumulate on the sun visor, leading to a dirty appearance.

Smoking

In addition to being injurious to health, smoking is bad for cars. It leaves a film of residue on surfaces, including the sun visor. This residue combines with other airborne particles and creates a layer of dirt over time.

Road Grime

When driving, your car is exposed to various pollutants and debris on the road. These particles can become airborne and settle on the sun visor, contributing to its dirtiness.

Now that we are aware of the potential causes, here are some practical ways to clean a car’s sun visor. 

Easy Steps to Clean a Car Sun Visor

Keeping the sun visor is crucial to upkeep visibility. Apart from the above-mentioned benefits, it serves as a useful method to childproof a car. Here are easy steps to clean a car’s sun visor and maintain its condition. 

Step 1: Gather all the essential car cleaning products. These include a cleaning solution, microfibre cloths, mild soap, an all-purpose cleaner and a bucket of water. 

Step 2: Unscrew the visor from the car’s roof for easy cleaning. 

Step 3: Before applying any cleaning solution, gently dust the sun visor using a soft cloth or microfiber towel. This helps remove loose dirt, dust, or debris from the surface.

Step 4: Prepare a mild soap solution or use an automotive interior cleaner diluted with water according to the product instructions. Dampen a cloth or sponge in the solution, ensuring it’s not overly saturated.

Step 5: Gently wipe the sun visor using the dampened cloth or sponge. Start from one end and work it to the other, using light pressure. Pay attention to any stubborn stains or dirt spots and give them extra attention.

Step 6: After cleaning the visor, wipe it with a sponge to remove excessive droplets. 

Step 7: Reinstall the sun visor in its original position. 

Apart from the aforementioned car’s sun visor cleaning tips, you can also opt for other methods. These include steam cleaning, vinegar solution, upholstery or a glass cleaner. Using basic car interior cleaning products, such as a cleaning solution and microfibre cloths, one can easily keep this accessory pristine. 

All in all, these were the basic steps to clean a car’s sun visor. Whether you drive a new model or are interested in buying a used car in the UAE, make sure to keep the sun visor spot-free for a safe and comfortable ride experience.

For more on car cleaning tips and tricks, keep reading dubizzle’s autos blog.

When it comes to maintaining the performance and efficiency of your vehicle, one crucial aspect is the fuel system. Fuel injectors, a major part of the fuel system,  can become clogged or dirty with time, leading to poor engine performance, decreased fuel economy and potential damage to your vehicle. This is where a fuel injector cleaner comes into play. Following we will discuss what a fuel injector cleaner is, how it works and the benefits it provides for your vehicle.

Understanding Fuel Injectors and Their Importance 

To comprehend the significance of fuel injector cleaners, it is essential to understand the role of fuel injectors. Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering adequate amounts of fuel into the combustion chamber of an engine. They ensure that the fuel is atomised and dispersed in a fine mist, enabling efficient combustion. Over time, however, deposits, varnish and carbon build-up can accumulate on the fuel injectors, hindering their optimal performance.

What is Fuel Injector Cleaner

A fuel injector cleaner is a fuel additive used to clean the fuel injectors in an internal combustion engine. Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering fuel into the combustion chamber of an engine in a precise and controlled manner. Over time, fuel injectors can become clogged or dirty due to the accumulation of deposits from the fuel, such as varnish or carbon.

Fuel injector cleaners are designed to remove these deposits and restore the proper functioning of the fuel injectors. They typically contain detergents and solvents that help dissolve and break down the deposits, allowing them to be burned off during combustion. The cleaner is added to the fuel tank, where it mixes with the fuel.

When the engine is running, the fuel injector cleaner is carried through the lines and into the fuel injectors. The detergents in the cleaner help dissolve and dislodge the deposits, while the solvents act as carriers, aiding in removing the loosened deposits from the injectors. As the engine continues to run, the deposits burn off and are goes out through the exhaust system.

How Fuel Injector Cleaner Works

When a fuel injector cleaner is added to your vehicle’s fuel system, it mixes with the fuel in the tank. As the fuel circulates through the system, the cleaner’s active ingredients begin their work. Here’s a breakdown of the cleaning process:

Dissolving Deposits 

The detergents in the fuel injector cleaner dislodge and dissolve carbon deposits, varnish and other things for fuel contamination. That debris is present on the fuel injectors, intake valves and other fuel system components. However, here are some tips to fix fuel contamination.

Lubrication

Fuel injector cleaners often contain lubricating agents that help reduce friction between moving parts in the fuel system. This lubrication aids in maintaining smooth operation and protects against wear and tear.

 Combustion Improvement

By removing deposits on the fuel injectors, the cleaner ensures that fuel is atomised and distributed evenly during combustion. This promotes a more efficient burn, optimizing engine performance and fuel economy.

Fuel Injector Cleaner Benefits

There are different types of fuel injectors available in the market and direct fuel injection system is one of them. No matter what type of fuel injector your car has, it is important to clean it frequently. Using a fuel injector cleaner offers several advantages for your vehicle:

• Improved Performance: By cleaning the fuel injectors, the cleaner restores their proper function, leading to improved engine performance, smoother idling and better acceleration.
• Increased Fuel Efficiency: Fuel injectors that are clean and free from deposits deliver fuel more precisely and efficiently. This can result in improved fuel economy and savings at the pump.
• Emission Reduction: Cleaner fuel injectors contribute to a cleaner burn and reduced emissions, helping you meet environmental standards and regulations.
• Prevention of Costly Repairs: Regularly cleaning the fuel injectors with a fuel injector cleaner can prevent potential issues caused by clogs or deposits. This can save you from expensive repairs down the line.

Moreover, here are the signs of a bad fuel injector that can help you in identifying when it’s time to clean it.

Usage Recommendations 

To achieve the best results, it is important to follow the usage recommendations provided by the injector cleaner manufacturer. Typically, it involves adding the cleaner to a full tank of fuel and allowing it to circulate through the system as you drive. Some cleaners may require multiple applications for heavily clogged injectors.

Regular use of a fuel injector cleaner can help maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of the injectors. This can lead to improved fuel economy, smoother engine performance and reduced emissions. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when using a fuel injector cleaner, as different products may have specific usage guidelines. Besides, you can also get fuel induction service to get your fuel injector clean by professionals.

This is all about fuel injector cleaners and how they work to enhance the performance of your vehicle. Effectively removing deposits, varnish and carbon build-up from the fuel injectors, ensures proper fuel distribution and increased fuel efficiency. 

If you are planning to buy a used car for sale in the UAE, make sure you include a fuel injector cleaner as part of your regular vehicle maintenance checklist. This can help you enjoy a smoother-running engine and potentially extend the lifespan of your fuel system components.

Stay updated with the dubizzle leading car blog and follow the car maintenance tips.

Besides factors like aerodynamics and acceleration, a car’s on-road performance is affected by its ground clearance which depends on its type. There are many different types of vehicles, some are meant for off-roading, while others are either more sporty or city-driving focused. Consequently, the correct level of ground clearance ensures handling and stability when driving in different terrains.

Here we’ll delve deeper into vehicle ground clearance. We will also find out how it is measured and its impacts on a car’s drivability.

What is Vehicle Ground Clearance?

Ground clearance refers to the vertical distance between the lowest point of a vehicle’s undercarriage (usually the lowest part of the chassis) and the ground. In layman’s terms, it is the height from the ground to the car’s bottom.

The lowest point of a car’s undercarriage may also vary depending on its design. It can either be the axle, the differential, the rocker panel, the exhaust or the suspension arms.

How to Measure Vehicle Ground Clearance

The ground clearance level of a car is usually measured in inches or millimetres. That said, in the GCC countries, the use of millimetres is more common. The process of measuring a vehicle’s ground clearance is pretty simple and doesn’t require any special tools. Let’s quickly go through the process.

• First, identify the lowest points on the vehicle’s undercarriage, as discussed above. 
• Second, park the vehicle on a level surface to ensure an accurate measurement. 
• Make sure the tyres are correctly inflated and that the load on each wheel assembly is evenly distributed.
• Use a tape measure or a similar measuring tool for the measurement of ground clearance. 
• Measure the height of the vehicle’s undercarriage from multiple points to confirm consistency.

What Are the Standards of Ground Clearance for Vehicles?

There is no particular standard ground clearance for vehicles as it varies greatly depending on the type and purpose of the vehicle. Here are the average ranges of ground clearance for different body types of vehicles.

Sedans and Hatchbacks

The ground clearance for sedans and hatchbacks usually ranges from 120 mm to 180 mm. This enhances their manoeuvrability on paved roads, making them a good choice for city driving.

SUVs

SUVs have higher ground clearance to handle rough terrain and provide better off-road capabilities. The average ground clearance for SUVs falls in the range of 200 mm to 250 mm.

Crossovers

Crossovers are a blend of SUVs and traditional sedans and their ground clearance typically ranges from 160 mm to around 200 mm. To find out more about the difference between a crossover and an SUV, read here. 

Utility and Larger Trucks

Pickup trucks and larger trucks are vehicles with high ground clearance. They are designed for utility purposes and tend to have a higher height. On average, their ground clearance ranges from 200 mm to 300 mm or more. Ground clearance is a crucial factor to consider when buying a pickup truck in Dubai or any other Emirate.

Off-road Vehicles

Vehicles designed that are specially built for off-road adventures often have the highest ground clearance. It can range from 250 mm to over 400 mm, to tackle challenging terrains. There isn’t any ground clearance comparison between different types of vehicles. Meanwhile, here are some off-road vehicle maintenance tips to improve your ride’s performance.

Factors Impacting a Vehicle’s Ground Clearance

Several factors can impact a vehicle’s ground clearance over time. As a vehicle is driven on different terrains, components of the suspension and undercarriage may experience wear and tear. 

Continuous contact with rough roads, speed bumps, potholes and other obstacles causes different parts of car suspension to degrade. In the long run, this wear and tear can lead to a slight reduction in ground clearance.

Importance of Ground Clearance in Cars

Here are a couple of key reasons why a higher ground clearance is of crucial importance. 

Off-road driving

Higher ground clearance is essential for off-road driving, as it allows the vehicle to clear obstacles such as rocks, bumps and mud. Vehicles with low ground clearance are more likely to bottom out on these obstacles, making it impossible to drive. Meanwhile, if you want to learn more about off-roading, read our detailed guide on this adventure-filled motorsport.

Better Visibility 

A vehicle with higher ground clearance will sit higher off the ground, which gives the driver a better vantage point. For instance, if you are driving off-road, a vehicle with higher ground clearance will give you a better view of the terrain ahead. This can help you to avoid obstacles and ensure that you are driving safely.

Protection Against Flood Water

In general, a vehicle with greater ground clearance has a higher chance of surviving a flood compared to a car with lower ground clearance. The increased clearance allows the vehicle more space to navigate through the water, preventing it from reaching the engine or the car cabin.

However, if the water is deep enough, moisture damage to a vehicle becomes unavoidable. Moreover, estimating the depth of water on the road can be difficult sometimes. In such a situation, it is better not to take any risk and avoid driving through flooded areas altogether. If there is no other option, try to drive slowly or pull over to the side until help arrives. In the worst-case scenario, follow these steps to fix a flooded vehicle.

Alterations to Vehicle Ground Clearance 

Alterations to ground clearance in cars refer to modifications made to a vehicle’s suspension system or other components to change its height from the ground. There are two common types of alterations that can be made to vehicle ground clearance:

Lift Kits

Either for suspension or body, lift kits are used to increase the ground clearance of a vehicle. People install them, particularly to enhance the function of ground clearance in vehicles. Such modifications are particularly done to utility trucks, SUVs and off-road vehicles. They involve adding spacers or blocks between the vehicle’s body and the suspension components, evenly raising the entire vehicle.

Lift kits are popular among off-road enthusiasts who want to improve their vehicle’s capability to handle rough terrains and obstacles. Follow these maintenance tips for the car suspension system and ensure it is functioning properly. It is a crucial step before installing lift kits for optimal and safe results.

Lowering Kits

Lowering kits, on the other hand, are used to reduce the ground clearance of a vehicle, mostly in sports cars or performance-oriented vehicles. Lowering springs or coil overs are installed to lower the vehicle’s ride height, resulting in a lower centre of gravity. 

This modification is often sought after by those who want improved handling and to give their cars a more sporty appearance. However, it is often difficult to drive a lowered car, especially on roads with uneven pavement or potholes. The potential undercarriage damage is why you should avoid potholes while driving a lowered car.

This was all the important information about vehicle ground clearance. The aforementioned factors hint at the importance of ground clearance in terms of a car’s drivability. Therefore, it should be on your checklist whether you are buying a new or a used car for sale in the UAE. 

Keep reading dubizzle’s car blog for more informative guides on auto specs and spare parts.

A car hood plays a crucial role in ensuring the occupants’ safety. It also acts as a shield that protects the engine parts from external elements such as rain, dirt or debris. However, one might notice that the car hood sometimes won’t close properly. It can occur due to several reasons. This leads to many driving hazards and compromises car safety. 

We have penned the common causes of a car hood that won’t close. We have provided solutions to assist you in the matter. 

COMMON CAUSES OF A CAR HOOD THAT WON’T CLOSE

Apart from maintaining the car’s aerodynamic stability, a hood acts as a barrier between the engine and passengers. It reduces the transmission of engine noise and vibrations into the cabin. A car hood provides easy access for car engine problems such as repairs and maintenance. However, if the car hood won’t close properly, it poses a major risk to both the driver and other motorists. 

A hood latch assembly is responsible for the hood’s opening and closing. It consists of the following parts: release cable, bumpers and adjustment screws, cable stop, retainer, springs and a latch. 

Here are the potential causes of a car hood that won’t close. Let’s go through them.  

BROKEN OR MISALIGNED HOOD LATCH

A latch keeps the car door, hood or rear gate closed when the handle is locked. If it is misaligned, a car door won’t shut properly. Similar is the case for a car hood. If the latch is broken or rusted, the car hood won’t close. Also, the latch mechanism that secures the hood may be misaligned, preventing it from properly engaging with the striker plate.

IMPROPER CABLE TENSION

The hood release mechanism in most cars relies on a cable connected to the hood latch, allowing the driver to open and close the hood from inside the car. If the cable tension is incorrect, it prevents the hood from closing properly. 

RUSTED SPRINGS

A penetrating car body rust also hinders the functioning of car parts. The springs play a crucial role in providing tension and support to the hood, allowing it to open and close smoothly. If they are damaged or corroded, they may not provide the necessary tension, resulting in a hood that won’t close properly. 

IMPROPER LUBRICATION

The metal components in the hood latch assembly may become dry or corroded over time. This hinders their movement and function.  For instance, if the spring is not lubricated properly, it will not return to its original position. As a result, the car hood won’t close properly. 

DAMAGE FROM AN ACCIDENT

A hood may also get misaligned if the car’s front end faces damage in an accident. If a component of the hood latch assembly gets disoriented or broken during the accident, it won’t close. Here’s how to avoid road accidents through these defensive driving techniques.

DEBRIS ACCUMULATION

One might open their car’s hood to check for a problem such as a car engine misfiring. However, the hood may not go close all the way due to the debris collected in the latch. It may also be found on the striker plate and prevent it from completely engaging with the latch.  

WAYS TO FIX A CAR HOOD THAT WON’T CLOSE

Here are different ways to fix a car hood that won’t close properly. They are as follows. 

FIX THE HOOD LATCH

If a car hood won’t close, a broken or damaged hood latch is usually the main cause. Here’s how it can be fixed:

• Remove the hood latch trim.
• Unscrew the bolts that attach the hood to the car.
• Inspect the hood latch. Check the metal rod’s movement. It must not have any debris on it. 
• If the metal rod is moving freely, check the hood cables. If they are damaged or broken, replace them. 
• In case the hood won’t close properly again, inspect and adjust the cable tension with a wrench. 

CLEAR OBSTRUCTIONS

Inspect the latch and striker plate for any debris, such as dirt or leaves, and remove them if present. Ensure that no foreign objects are obstructing the proper closure of the hood. Also, make sure that all the components of the latch assembly are well-lubricated. Use silicone grease or a penetrating oil such as WD-40. 

ADJUST HOOD ALIGNMENT 

If the hood itself is misaligned, it may not close properly. Look for any signs of misalignment, such as uneven gaps between the hood and the body of the car. Adjustments to the hood hinges or latch mounting points are necessary to correct the alignment. Also, if the latch or striker plate is damaged, it must be replaced. 

TURN TO A PROFESSIONAL 

If the above-mentioned ways to fix a car hood that won’t close, it is suggested to seek professional advice. Take the car to a professional mechanic for a prompt inspection. One can also opt for dubizzle car inspection services for autos diagnosis. 

This is all on the causes and fixes when a car hood won’t close properly. A car hood is an integral part of a vehicle’s design, ensuring the efficient and safe operation of the vehicle. If it ceases to function properly, it must be inspected and repaired at the earliest. If you’re facing such car issues frequently, it is time to replace your ride. Sift through these used cars for sale in the UAE that have a host of budget-friendly options. 

Keep reading dubizzle’s car blog for different car problems, their fixes and more