Why Dubai Summers Kill Car Batteries
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Why Dubai Summers Kill Car Batteries

By Glenn
Oct 12, 2023
5 min read

If you've lived in Dubai for any length of time, you've probably experienced that dreaded moment: you turn your key (or press your start button), and nothing happens. Your battery is dead—and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time.

Here's the thing most people don't realise: heat kills batteries faster than cold. While everyone talks about cold weather and batteries, the reality is that extreme heat—like we experience 8 months of the year in Dubai—is far more damaging.

Why Heat Destroys Batteries

Car batteries work through a chemical reaction. When temperatures soar above 35°C (which is basically our daily reality from May to October), several things happen:

  • Accelerated corrosion: The internal plates corrode much faster in heat, reducing the battery's ability to hold a charge
  • Fluid evaporation: The electrolyte solution evaporates faster, leaving the plates exposed and damaged
  • Increased self-discharge: Batteries discharge faster when hot, even when your car is parked

A battery that would last 4-5 years in the UK might only last 2-3 years in Dubai. I've seen batteries fail after just 18 months here.

Warning Signs Your Battery is Dying

Don't wait until you're stranded. Watch for these warning signs:

  1. Slow cranking: If your engine turns over slowly when starting, that's a red flag
  2. Dimming lights: Headlights or interior lights that seem dimmer than usual
  3. Electrical issues: Windows moving slowly, or your infotainment system acting strange
  4. The battery warning light: If it comes on while driving, get it checked immediately
  5. Age: If your battery is over 2 years old in Dubai, have it tested every 6 months
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How to Extend Your Battery Life in Dubai

You can't fight the heat, but you can minimise its impact:

  • Park in shade whenever possible: Underground parking isn't just for keeping cool—it protects your battery
  • Don't leave electronics running: Even when parked, devices plugged into USB ports drain your battery
  • Drive regularly: If your car sits for weeks, the battery will drain faster in heat
  • Keep terminals clean: Corrosion builds up faster in humid conditions

When to Replace

At Powerworks, we test batteries as part of every service. If yours is showing signs of weakness, we'll tell you—but we won't pressure you to replace it before it's necessary. We use quality brands that are designed for hot climates, and we'll properly dispose of your old battery.

If you're experiencing any of the warning signs above, or your battery is approaching 2 years old, message me on WhatsApp and I'll give you an honest assessment. No pressure, just straight talk.

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What Our Customers Say

Real feedback about their electrical system service

"I highly recommend Glenn, Justin & the Powerworks team having always provided excellent support for my car service and repairs. Most recently help began via a breakdown recovery! Swift diagnosis, detailed explanation of both necessary and recommended work."

Mark Reed

"If I could give these guys 6 stars, I would. I came to Powerworks after terrible service at other local garages and realised, as many other people say on their reviews, I should have just picked the guys with the best reviews, first. Communication, service, knowledge, personality, everything about the garage and the space is completely on point. Diagnosed and repaired my Range Rover in 3 days, as where other local garages had her for 3 weeks and were nowhere near close to fixing her. From the biggest to the smallest jobs, I get constant updates and videos on the cars progress, I never need to wonder what's going on. They find parts that are either the best they recommend or budget friendly that can help the wallet."

Gus Napper

Range Rover owner

"Before taking my car here, I took it to countless other garages which took them weeks of diagnosis, some to come back not even finding the issue. When a friend recommended that I take the car to Glen and the team, by the end of the day they had diagnosed and fixed the problem. Excellent service!"

Ali T.

Glenn Power - Owner of Powerworks Garage

Glenn Power

Owner & Master Technician

With over 25 years of experience in automotive repair, Glenn founded Powerworks Garage to bring British standards of quality and honesty to Dubai. He personally oversees every job and is always happy to chat about your car.

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