Workshop Overload: Dubai's Rainy Car Chaos

After December Rains, Car Repair Shops Overflow: Minor Issues, Long Wait Times in Dubai and Sharjah

In the United Arab Emirates, the December rains this time didn't cause severe flooding like the historic rains of April 2024, yet they still placed many drivers in a difficult position. Although roads didn’t become entirely impassable, many cars got stranded in the water, especially those left in open or partially submerged parking spaces for longer durations. Due to this, several car repair shops—particularly in Dubai and Sharjah—became overloaded, and wait times significantly increased.

Awakening Post-Rain: When Cars Won’t Start

Many faced the issue of their vehicles refusing to start when heading to work in the morning. The problem may have initially seemed trivial, but when nothing happened upon turning the ignition key, owners had no choice but to call for a mechanic or tow their vehicle. The most common scenario was water entering sensitive parts of the engine—like the air filter or around the spark plugs—preventing the vehicle from starting.

Owners reported that although their vehicles didn’t suffer severe external damage, a leaked engine compartment and moisture caused electronic malfunctions. A damp air filter, soaked ignition system, or weak battery all contributed to the car not starting or struggling to run.

Mechanics Overloaded, Waiting Lists Weeks in Advance

The December weather changes not only caused difficulties on the roads but also disrupted the daily routine of car service centers. Several garages in Dubai and Sharjah were already fully booked before the storms, yet the demand for new repairs increased to an extreme extent after the rains. Many customers were asked to return in a week, due to no immediate capacity for inspection or repair.

Most service centers are currently trying to complete previously scheduled work while also addressing the fresh rain-induced issues. This has led to congestion, delays, and prolonged waiting times, which many car owners find frustrating—even if the fault isn’t severe.

Typical Issues Encountered Now

According to mechanics, the following problems occur most frequently after the rains:

Water ingress into the air filter housing, causing the engine to stall or start problems.

Spark plugs malfunctioning due to moisture.

Battery drain or short circuits, primarily in older vehicles.

Temporary electrical faults in the starting system.

Most of these issues don’t cause permanent damage if addressed promptly and professionally. However, owners might make a mistake if they try to start the car too soon when it’s still wet, and water is present near the engine or electrical system.

Advice from Experienced Mechanics

Several Dubai mechanics emphasize patience. If the car doesn’t start, the best course of action is not to try repeatedly, but to let the car dry or call a mechanic. In some cases, disconnecting the battery terminal can help prevent a short circuit.

A seasoned mechanic working in an Al Quoz workshop warned that forced starts can do more harm than good. The presence of water on sensitive engine parts can cause more severe damage if the components do not dry sufficiently. In such cases, a simple starting problem could evolve into engine repairs—costly and time-intensive.

Learning from Previous Floods: More Disciplined Drivers

Although the April 2024 floods caused significant damage, many residents seem to have learned from those events. In the current situation, many more choose not to take risks and instead consult professionals, even if it means waiting several days. This reflects a responsible approach and reduces the likelihood of minor issues escalating into more serious malfunctions.

Preparing for the Next Rainy Season

Though rain in Dubai is rare and seasonal, it’s wise to think ahead. Following these steps can spare much trouble:

Avoid parking in underground garages or places often flooded.

Regularly check the condition of the battery and ignition system.

Keep a dry cloth or water-draining tools in the car.

If you wake to rainy weather, check the engine compartment for moisture before starting the vehicle.

Summary

While the December rains didn’t cause a catastrophe, they still posed a significant challenge for drivers. Minor technical faults, overloaded repair services, and increased waiting times all illustrate that even a “minor” rainfall can seriously hamper urban travel in Dubai and surrounding areas. The lesson is clear: patience, precaution, and professional help when needed. Those who recognize the problem early and avoid taking risks fare better in the long run—and spend less on repairs.

(The source of the article is based on reports from car repair workshops.)