Buying a used car in the UAE is a smart financial move, but keeping it reliable? That takes a bit of work. Not a lot. Just enough to prevent the nasty surprises we’ve all heard about: breakdowns on the way to work, warning lights that won’t turn off, or worse—costly repairs you didn’t see coming.

The good news? 

With a little consistency and the right habits, your pre-owned car can last just as long—and run just as well—as a brand-new one. Whether you buy used cars in Dubai, trade in a car in Sharjah, or want to sell your car in Abu Dhabi, these used car maintenance tips will help you keep it in top shape, without spending a fortune.

1. Stick to a Regular Oil Change Schedule

This one’s non-negotiable. Engine oil keeps your car’s most critical parts lubricated and cool.
Miss a few changes, and you risk long-term engine damage.

  • How often? Every 5,000 to 8,000 km for most certified pre-owned cars in the UAE.

  • Use synthetic oil if your engine runs hotter or if the car has higher mileage.

  • Don’t rely only on mileage—check the oil every month. If it’s dark, thick, or smells burnt, it’s time to change.

2. Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels

Your car runs on more than just fuel. These fluids are like lifelines, and they degrade over time:

  • Coolant/antifreeze: Prevents your engine from overheating.

     

  • Brake fluid: Critical for safe stopping. Low levels can indicate leaks.

     

  • Transmission fluid: Keeps your gear shifts smooth.

     

  • Power steering fluid: Affects how your car steers.

     

  • Windshield washer fluid: For safety and visibility.

Tip: Checking these takes less than 10 minutes a month. Some car inspection centers in Sharjah offer free fluid checks—use them to your advantage.

3. Replace Filters Before They Cause Bigger Issues

Filters are like the lungs of your car. 

Clogged filters force systems to work harder and wear out faster.

  • Air filter: Dirty air filters reduce fuel economy and slow acceleration.

     

  • Cabin air filter: Affects airflow and AC performance.

     

  • Fuel filter: Crucial in older models. Prevents dirt from damaging the fuel system.

     

If you bought your used Toyota in the UAE or a pre-owned Nissan in Dubai, it’s wise to change all filters once, just to reset the clock.

4. Rotate and Align Your Tires

Your tires are the only thing connecting your car to the road. Uneven wear leads to poor handling, lower fuel efficiency, and sudden blowouts.

  • Rotate every 8,000 to 10,000 km

  • Check alignment yearly, or if the car pulls to one side

  • Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s specs

Bonus: If you’re shopping for used SUVs in the UAE or affordable used cars in Ajman, inspect the tires before purchase. Many top-rated pre-owned car sellers in Dubai already do this for you.

5. Pay Attention to Brake Performance

Brake wear faster in second-hand cars with warranty in Ras Al Khaimah and other regions due to varied driving styles.

  • Inspect pads and rotors at least every 6 months.

  • Top up brake fluid if needed.

  • If braking feels off, get it checked. Your safety depends on it.

6. Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Smells

Your car talks—it just doesn’t use words. Rattles, clunks, whines, or burning smells are all signs that something’s off.

  • A burning rubber smell could mean a loose belt.

  • Grinding brakes? Your pads might be done.

  • Whining while turning? It could be power steering.

Whether you drive a used Toyota Corolla 2020 in Dubai or a pre-owned Nissan Patrol 2020 in Abu Dhabi, early action is key to avoiding expensive repairs.

7. Use a Diagnostic Tool to Stay Ahead

Even if there’s no warning light, something could be brewing. 

A simple OBD-II scanner (available for under AED 100) can plug into your car and give you diagnostic codes.

  • Monitor issues in used Toyota RAV4s (2018 Dubai) or similar SUVs

  • Spot early signs of transmission wear or misfiring

  • Use it before a service to be better informed

8. Wash and Protect Your Car (Yes, It Matters)

It’s not just about looks.

  • Dirt and sand, especially in the UAE, corrode paint and undercarriage parts.
  • Rust forms faster with trapped moisture from rain or humidity.

UV protection helps preserve resale value, especially for older pre-owned sedans in Dubai. Wash every 2–3 weeks, especially if you’re near the coast. 

9. Build a Simple Maintenance Log

Even if your car doesn’t have a digital record, you should.

  • Track oil changes, brake checks, warranty claims, etc.

  • List services from car maintenance providers in Dubai or warranty centers in Ajman

  • Boosts resale trust if you plan to sell your car in Abu Dhabi or list it with a reliable used car platform

Conclusion: Take the Stress Out of Used Car Ownership

Used cars—whether they’re Toyota Land Cruisers, Nissan Patrols, or just budget-friendly sedans—can run smoothly for years with the right care. Most problems don’t happen overnight. They build up quietly when you skip the basics.

So whether you’re in Dubai, Sharjah, or Fujairah, stay one step ahead. Make regular maintenance your new normal.

Verified Cars Has Your Back!

At Verified Cars, we’re not just about helping you buy or sell used cars in the UAE. We help you keep them running right too. From trusted car inspection centers to extended warranty support, everything we do is built around peace of mind.

Visit Verified Cars today—your next smooth drive starts here.