Living in the UAE means that you are to put up with extreme weather which in turn brings out very damaging dust storms. From reduced visibility on the highways to sand which coats your car in a fine layer of sand, these storms silently cause large scale damage to the look and health of your car safely. That’s why it is very important to know how to protect your car during these situations which in turn will help you avoid long term damage and costly repairs.
Dust storms in Dubai and in the neighboring emirates are a bother indeed they present a set of unique issues for car owners. Fine desert sand gets into the engine, air conditioning system, paint work, and also the interior of the car causing performance problems, paint damage and poor air quality. To protect your car you cannot rely only on indoor parking. You also require a proactive maintenance plan and some smart preventive measures.
Why Dust Storms Are So Harmful to Your Vehicle?
In the UAE we see that what enters into our dust storms is not ordinary dust at all; it is abrasive, sticks to everything it touches, and gets into the tiniest gaps of your vehicle. Upon exposure to a dust storm what you may see is a film of grime on the outside of your car but the real issue is what is going on out of sight.
Dust will clog out your AC filter, mar your car’s paint and windshield, reduce engine air flow, and get into sensitive electronic sensors. Also sand can work its way into the braking system which in turn makes your car safer. In short what may at first appear to be a cosmetic issue can in fact turn into a serious mechanical problem if it is not handled right.
Sand Damage Protection Starts with Prevention
The best way to prepare your car for a dust storm is to do it before the storm hits. In the UAE you can use high quality vehicle covers which is an easy and very effective solution if you don’t have access to covered parking. Also these covers are designed to repel fine particles and to reduce the impact of blowing sand.
If you park your car outside, often think about putting on a protective wax layer. This not only will protect the paint from sand abrasion but also makes for easy removal of dirt. Also consider protective film options which are very much a thing today for protecting both headlights and body from micro scratches which are caused by airborne particles.
The Hidden Threat of AC Filter Clogs
In the list of issues related to dust storms is the issue of air conditioning (AC) filter clog. We see filters which are supposed to clean the cabin air which they do very well under normal conditions but in heavy storms they do not do what we expect of them. What happens is the filters fill up with fine dust which in turn causes restriction in air flow, reduction in cooling efficiency and circulation of allergens and contaminants within the car.
If after a storm you notice musty smells or weak air flow that is a sign your AC filter needs to be replaced. At We Fix Car we advise to check and replace cabin air filters regularly especially during peak dust seasons in the UAE.
Paint Damage and What You Can Do About It
After a dust storm your car may look fine from a distance but in reality microscopic scratches appear with each storm if you don’t clean it properly. Also many car owners are not aware they are damaging their paint by using a dry cloth to wipe the dust. What they don’t know is that this action grinds in sand particles which in turn create swirl marks and dull patches.
To protect your car from paint damage, always use the right wash methods. Before you wipe, rinse thoroughly and also try professional car detailing which we have in Dubai that does paint polishing, ceramic or Nano coating. They provide a protective layer over your car’s surface which in turn reduces the long term issue of environmental elements.
Engine Performance and Dust Infiltration
Dust doesn’t just play on the exterior it also gets into your engine which is a different issue. The air intake system is the most affected. When the engine air filter fills up with fine sand it restricts flow, decreases performance of the combustion process and causes your engine to work harder than it should.
Over time this wear may cause the engine to overheat or see reduced life span. That said it is very important to get to the shop and change out your air filters at regular intervals which also includes after you have been in a storm. At We Fix Car we do full engine inspections and we also do what we can to get in there and change out those filters which is critical in the harsh conditions of the UAE.
Read More: The Truth About Engine Misfires – Causes and Fixes in Dubai
Interior Cabin Health During Dust Storms
Apart from mechanical and external damage, dust is a great issue which affects indoor car air quality. Fine sand and allergens accumulate in seats, dashboards, and AC filters which in turn makes the car environment stuffy and uncomfortable. Also if left untreated it may cause health issues which for people with asthma or allergies is a great concern.
Vacuums out the inside fully, we use microfiber cloths to wipe surfaces and we disinfect the AC vents which in turn keeps the cabin clean. We do professional interior detail which also includes hard to reach areas, thus providing you a healthier and more pleasant ride.
Stay Ahead of Dust Storm Damage with We Fix Car
In the UAE dust storms are a given. But they don\’t also have to affect your car. From paint protection to changing out clean air filters and protecting your engine, at We Fix Car we put together a full service to see that your car is secure all year round.
Our trained staff identify the issues that come with a desert environment. We do it all from installing a new cabin filter, to putting on protective coatings, to detailed work post storm. Don’t wait for damage to be visible – protect your investment today by acting proactively & keep your car safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: In the UAE how often should I change my AC filter?
During dust storm seasons we recommend that you check your AC filter every 5,000-7,000 km or monthly if you are in the path of regular storms.
Q2: Can car engines get damaged by dust storms?
Yes, if sand gets into the engine’s air intake, it can cause clogging, reduce efficiency, and even lead to potential overheating — all of which make it harder to keep your car safe and running smoothly.
Q3: What is the best way to care for my car’s paint in a dust storm?
To keep your car safe from harsh weather and dust, use the best car covers and apply a protective wax or ceramic coating for long-lasting protection.
Q4: Is it safe to be on the road in the middle of a dust storm in Dubai?
Severe dust storms are also reported to be a reason to avoid driving, as they can cause low visibility and allow sand to enter the engine or brakes — making it difficult to keep your car safe on the road.
Q5: Do I have to wash my car after each dust storm?
After each storm, it’s a good idea to wash your car. This helps prevent long-term paint and body damage caused by abrasive particles, keeping your car safe and clean..
