Did Your Car Unexpectedly Breakdown? Here's What to Do Next

Sometimes unexpected things happen to us. It could be a strange sound or an unusual smell while you are riding your car. Similarly, a car could break down anywhere and anytime during your drive. Such a situation could also be a bit out of the blue while you are on a rushing road or a highway. Does it seem frightening while vehicles zooming by? Of course, it is natural to panic.

However, there are preventive measures in terms of car maintenance. But, even a well-maintained car might have a sudden failure during a ride. Modern-day cars come with complex technology and are always vulnerable to technical failure even though manufacturers take care of every potential failure.

You might be experiencing a panic or stress on the occurrence of a sudden breakdown. Under such circumstances, it is essential to keep yourself calm. However, you should be prepared for a breakdown.

What should be the course of action if you are in the middle of such a situation? The following guidelines should surely help you to tackle an unanticipated breakdown.

You need to take essential steps and avoid any hassle to keep yourself and others safe.

Firstly, try to clear the road

In case of a breakdown, first, you need to focus on getting off the road while your car is still moving, despite the engine being stalled or completely dead.

If you have a flat tyre, always try to reach a safer side of the road. At the same time, it is necessary to use hazard lights to caution other vehicles on the road about the trouble.

Essentially, car drivers hit the brakes if they encounter a sudden obstacle. However, it is not safe in case of a car breakdown. Moreover, it would help if you utilised the car's momentum to target the safer side of the road.

If your car has lost momentum and cannot move further even by a shoulder, do not get out of the vehicle as it is safe to stay in your car while other cars, SUVs or even trucks are cruising by.

 

Use your signals to indicate other drivers about your predicament

Besides, you can take these steps to prioritise your and other drivers' safety by signalling them about the breakdown.

• Turn on your emergency/hazard lights.
  
  
• Try to pop the hood of your car.
  
  
• Place the safety kits tools such as triangles, flags, or reflectors behind your car

In some cases, you can consider seeking help from other drivers. However, they might not get you out of the problem as a car repair needs professional expertise. In case you have to get off the road to a safer side, you can seek assistance for a fix of the issue or tow it to a place to get professional auto repair service.

We, at Service My Car, provide full-fledged roadside assistance for people struggling with any sort of issue on the road.

 

Avoid self-diagnostics and repair

Once a breakdown happens, you are always tempted to make your hands dirty. You might go sort of patience to apply a quick fix for an issue. Unless it is just a tyre replacement, you should consider professional help. You might feel about cracking the code, but most of the time, things are more complicated.

Besides, you can opt for the services of Service My Car. Our proficient mechanics are available for on-demand car repair of all sorts.

Assess the situation

You are cruising on a busy road or a highway before a sudden breakdown. You need to consider some time to assess a situation that always helps in managing things better.

In case of a breakdown, you should avoid the temptation to jump out of your car or interrupt the passing vehicles. Besides, you have safer alternatives to prevent the on-scene repair or exiting your vehicle by opting for a professional roadside assistance service like Service My Car.

At Service My Car, we provide reliable roadside assistance once you call or book the service on the app. Whether your car's tyre is hit by the road or your car's battery is down. We offer a range of services, you can select according to your brand, requirements and location as well, Like: BMW Service, Mini Service, Car wash, Timing Belt Replacement and many more.

We provide seamless replacement of your spare tyre and are always ready to jumpstart or even replace the car battery on the scene.

 

Ask for roadside assistance

Seeking the service of a roadside assistance service provider is always worthy. Just call them on the helpline numbers. In case, you do not have a phone or it has been discharged, use the roadside emergency phone.

However, you need to leave your car if it is safe. Regardless of the technological advancement in the auto industry, it is impossible to avoid faults and failure.

You may have a blown tyre from a nail or debris. Your car may experience an electrical failure, flat battery, engine failure, brakes squeaking or grinding.

Our professionals are always available to service if you encounter a breakdown. If your car's tyre is flat, requires a jump, or just gets locked out, we have the solutions.

 

Prevention of further breakdowns

If you wish to avoid unexpected stress or undesirable consequences, these proactive steps might help you to be ahead of any breakdown.

• Never delay on the car service, including maintenance of brakes, oil replacement and essential fluid level checks.
  
  
• Opt for car scanning and diagnostics to be aware of potential issues with your car.
  
  
• Checking out the early signals of a potential breakdown, such as strange noises, uncommon odours, or even shaking.

The preventive mechanism diminishes the possibility of breakdowns. And, you can avoid such a stressful situation by making a wise choice.

At Service My Car, we are always available whether you need a fix for your car's issue or entire car recovery. Get started by booking online on our website or by downloading the Service My Car app today. 

Here's 7 Reasons Why You Need to Use a Mobile Car Mechanic

Most car owners tend to drive all the way to a workshop for their car maintenance needs. However, that's the old way of doing things. Now, you can opt for a collection and delivery service from most workshops. 

While that's convenient, it's not exactly touching the pinnacle. What we're talking about is getting your car maintenance carried out at your doorstep. How do you get that? A mobile car mechanic.

That's right. You not only get the convenience of getting it done at your doorstep, but you can also be present during the process. You can get other concerns of yours sorted while physically inspecting the work. 

We're barely scratching the surface. There's plenty more to getting a mobile car service. With that in mind, let's jump right into the 7 reasons why you need to use a mobile car mechanic.

Why are mobile mechanics cheaper than garages?

Mobile car services have seen an uptick, with major car service providers like Service My Car, also adopting it. More often than not, you tend to get a better deal with a mobile car service. 

Affordable mobile car service options entail mobile car mechanics that carry all the vital tools that one might find in traditional garages. What's surprising, however, is that mobile car services end up coming at a lower cost for a variety of reasons. 

Most companies that offer mobile car services save on the expensive costs of having a physical garage and all the heavy-duty equipment it entails. Moreover, without the need for constant supervision, the garages end up hiring experienced mobile car technicians who know what they are doing.

Is a mobile mechanic trustworthy?

We've carried out extensive research by looking at existing mobile car service models, adopted by pioneers of mobile car servicing. The bottom line is that all car owners can trust mobile mechanics with their cars. 

However, there's always a caveat. A lot of companies have been too quick to jump on the mobile servicing trend. As a result, they've overlooked all quality assurance procedures and hired unqualified and inexperienced mobile car technicians. 

As always, you're advised to do your own research if you intend to try a mobile mechanic. At Service My Car, all our mechanics - in the garage and on the road - are constantly vetted and certified. We ensure that the service provided by our mobile mechanic remains to be of the highest standards.

What are the top 7 reasons to opt for mobile car servicing?

1. Utmost convenience 

It should go without saying, but convenience is the most significant advantage of using a mobile mechanic. By using a mobile mechanic, you eliminate the need for driving to a garage or petrol station. Instead, the mobile mechanic comes to your doorstep to carry out whatever service you require. 

2. More value with cheaper pricing

We've covered this already, but it's a common misconception that mobile car services might cost more because of the added convenience. However, that's not always true. In the case of mobile car services from Service My Car, you get competitive pricing that matches, if not beats, the pricing of other local garages.

3. Personalised servicing

Another massive advantage with mobile servicing is that you get to meet and interact with the technician working on your car. At Service My Car, our team of affable and trusty mobile mechanics are not only highly qualified and experienced, but are friendly and personable too. We believe this ensures a sense of trust and security, which are vital characteristics of good service. 

4. Service around your schedule

There's nothing better than getting stuff done around your schedule. Mobile car servicing takes a tedious task like car maintenance and embeds it entirely within your schedule. With Service My Car's mobile car servicing, you get the freedom to choose when you want to get your car serviced. 

5. A lesson in efficiency

Garages tend to work on a lot of cars at a time. As a result, you have to book a slot and wait for your vehicle to be serviced. In the case of mobile servicing with Service My Car, you get immediate work done. All the focus is placed on your car, ensuring efficiency and quality. 

6. Quality assurance

At Service My Car, our team of affable and trusty mobile mechanics are highly qualified and experienced. Moreover, the nature of mobile servicing allows car owners to be present on site. You can monitor, and interact with, your mobile mechanic, ensuring your satisfaction with the service. 

7. It's car service at your doorstep

Car service would typically entail driving to the garage, or having a recovery truck take your car to one. Mobile servicing completely eliminates the need for either of those actions. By choosing a mobile car service at Service My Car, you get a car service done by a professional mobile mechanic at highly competitive prices, at your doorstep. 

Choose the best mobile car service this region has to offer

Don't let car maintenance get in the way of a good day. Choose Service My Car's mobile car service and get your car serviced around your schedule. Whether it's a mobile oil change or a routine filter replacement, you can get it all done with our mobile mechanic. We provide more services as well, like: Car AC Repair, Car Oil Change, Flat Tyre, Car Wash and many more. You can get all services according to your location and brand as well.

Book your mobile car service today on our website or on the Service My Car app. 

10 Critical Tips for Driving in the Rain

After nearly a year of no rains, the clouds have rolled in for a heavy downpour. While the weather at present is most certainly Instagram-worthy, driving in such conditions is a different story.

Driving in the rain is easily one of the most challenging driving situations to face in this region. Whether it's just a sprinkle or an unexpected shower burst, you can never be too careful.

It should go without saying, but rainy driving conditions are directly proportional to higher accident rates. Regardless of what part of the country you're in, you will have adverse rainy driving conditions at some point. Knowing what to do in such circumstances can provide a world of difference.

We've heard of a litany of tales about facing accidents and mishaps on wet roads. Keeping that in mind, your trusty auto service experts at Service My Car have come up with the ultimate guide to driving in the rain.

Read on to know more about what to do on the road. We also prescribe some of the most common rain-related damages to look out for. This should guide you on what to do after you've been through the treacherous drive. 

Is driving in the rain hard? 

Driving in the rain can be one of the most challenging driving conditions to experience. The grease and oil from your vehicle produce an inconspicuous film on the road, which becomes slippery when it rains.

As a result, you're advised to follow defensive driving techniques. By reducing your speed and driving defensively, you largely mitigate the risks of hydroplaning.

How slow should you drive in rain?

You're advised to slow down at the first sight of rain, especially when it happens after a dry spell. As we covered above, the oil and dust have just started to set in at this point, making the roads slippier than usual.

Slow down gradually, and drive at least 6 to 10 kph slower than you usually would. If your car starts to hydroplane, slow down gradually and avoid applying the brakes suddenly, to prevent skidding.

What are the 10 critical tips for driving in the rain?

1 - Wait out the rain if possible

This is especially important if you're a new driver or you're just uncomfortable driving in the rain. Try to postpone your trip and wait until the weather improves before committing to the road.

You're advised to avoid putting yourself in danger if the conditions are too hazardous. Moreover, you mitigate other risks and damages by putting your trip off until the weather improves. 

2 - Ensure your car's equipment is good to go

If you've got the time, ensure your car's equipment is good to go before you set out in the rain. Check if all your lights, especially the headlights, the indicators, and the taillights, are in working order.

Check if your windshield wipers are working correctly as well. Another nifty tip is to check if your car's tyre treads are fine. If they seem too worn out, then you're advised to skip the trip and get your tyres replaced.

Such adverse driving conditions can drastically affect various components of your vehicle. A lot of cars need to get their windshield replaced after a storm. If you happen to face such a situation, look no further than Service My Car for your next car windshield replacement. 

3 - Slow down as much as you can 

If you're already on the road and it's raining, then there's probably no turning back. As we covered before, the first thing you ought to do is to slow down, keeping nearby traffic in mind.

It's vital to remember that your vehicle's reaction time becomes a lot slower during the rain. As a result, you must slow down when driving in the rain.

4 - Turn on your headlights 

Since heavy downpour results in reduced visibility, you're advised to turn on your headlights. As a result, it not only improves your visibility, but makes you more visible to other drivers on the road.

However, there's a caveat. Driving in heavy rains often results in electrical failure after a while. Many car owners have reported facing issues with headlights and cabin lights after driving in the rain. More often than not, this points towards a problem with the battery or the electrical unit.

Service My Car can solve any car trouble that you may have. If you're facing such electrical issues after being out in the rains recently, you can get a car battery replacement from us. 

5 - Don't forget to use your windshield wipers

Now, this might seem like common sense, but many drivers forget to turn on their windshield wipers. Most modern cars also have speed adjustment settings to face anything from a gentle drizzle to a heavy downpour.

If you think your windshield wipers aren't as effective as they used to be, it's best to get them replaced. If you hear any scraping noise while they're operating, or if they leave streaks behind on your windshield, it's time to replace your windshield wipers.

6 - Keep a safe distance between the cars around you

While this is a great tip in general, it's a lot more vital to maintain safety in the rain. As we mentioned earlier, your vehicle has a slower reaction time in the rain.

As a result, by keeping a greater distance between the vehicles around you, you also accommodate the difference in reaction times. The rule of thumb is to maintain the length of at least multiple cars in front of, and around you. 

7 - Avoid heavy braking at all costs 

You must avoid hard braking in such conditions to prevent hydroplaning. If you want to slow down your vehicle, it's best to take your foot off the accelerator earlier than you typically would. Another tip here is to avoid using cruise control, so you're totally aware and in control of your vehicle.

8 - Watch out for large puddles of still water

The first reason to avoid large puddles is to reduce the risks of hydroplaning. Another critical factor to consider is water seeping into vital components of your vehicle.

Regardless of how high your vehicle's suspension is, if your car isn't designed to go on shallow waters, it's best to avoid puddles entirely. If water seeps into vital components like your engine, it can cause major failures down the line.

Many motorists have reported extensive engine damage after driving through large puddles. If you happen to find yourself in such a situation, it's best to get a car engine repair from Service My Car. You can get experts help in your nearest location as well, Like Car Engine Repair in Manchester and more.

9 - Let your foot off the accelerator when hydroplaning

If you've followed all the aforementioned steps, but still find yourself hydroplaning, it's best to be proactive. We've talked a lot about hydroplaning thus far. It only makes sense to explain the phenomenon.

Hydroplaning, or aquaplaning, occurs when the tyres of your vehicle can't come in contact with the surface of the road because of the water that's lodged in between.

Hydroplaning is one of the most common risks to drive into in the rain. If you're in such a situation, it's best to stay calm and gently let go of the accelerator. Use the preserved momentum of your car to slowly steer towards the part of the road where your tyres can come in contact with the surface.

10 - Ventilate the cabin thoroughly

Rain can cause humidity levels to increase outside. This invariably has an effect on your cabin. During such conditions, your windows may become foggy as you continue driving.

Ensure you use your vehicle's ventilation system to reduce the fog on your windows, especially your front and rear windshield. You can also lower the cabin temperature by cracking a window open if the ventilation system isn't working correctly.

All in all, driving in the rain comes with severe consequences. If you feel like your car needs some care and attention after a harsh (and wet) drive, look no further than Service My Car.

Our vast service network ensures your car gets taken to the best car garages the region has to offer. At our partner garage, you can enlist the services of the region's best car technicians to get your car back to speed.

Whether you need a full inspection, or serious repair work done, we can do it all. Get a repair quote, or book a service package today on our website, or on the Service My Car app. 

Here’s What to Do If Your Car Keeps Pulling Towards One Side of the Road

Do you find yourself wresting the steering wheel to keep your car in between the lane lines? Does it often feel like your vehicle keeps veering towards one side? It's evident that there's some issue with your car. Moreover, such conditions can make the drive rather unsafe.  

However, it's not exactly easy to identify the cause immediately. The reasons could be anything from improper tyre air pressure, to wheel misalignment, to a worn out suspension. The only way to correctly identify such issues would be to go to a reputed car service centre like Service My Car.  

With a bit of troubleshooting, you can start to identify potential causes by yourself. Read through our guide to narrow down possible causes of why your car might be misbehaving.  

Step 1: Try to correctly identify the issue  

So, the issue is that your car's pulling to one side of the road. ­A good starting point here would be to identify the nature of the pull. Ask your questions like; what side of the road is your car pulling towards?  

Another question you could ask is if the car pulls to the side when accelerating or braking. You can start by pinpointing such details and providing all relevant information to your car technician. This, in turn, helps you narrow down the causes in a more effective manner.  

As a result, any top-quality car repair centre, such as Service My Car, can diagnose the issue quicker. 

Step 2: Check your tyre air pressure  

We've covered this before, but it's always important to stress this. Especially in a region like the Middle East, your tyre air pressure is absolutely vital to influencing your driving experience.  

Having overinflated or underinflated tyres is one of the most common causes of steering misbehaviour. Since your tyres aren't properly inflated, they won't make contact with the road in an ideal manner. As a result, your car veers towards one side or the other, depending on the condition of the road.  

Moreover, having overinflated or underinflated tyres can pose more severe tyre issues down the road. You're advised to get it fixed as soon as it's identified. Sometimes, a simple inflation, or deflation, of air to the recommended amount can solve the problem.  

However, there are other instances where professional guidance is required. Get a complimentary tyre air pressure check with any service at Service My Car. If there are more severe issues, a comprehensive tyre check can be carried out to correctly identify the problem. 

Step 3: Check if your wheels are aligned properly 

If you've ensured that your tyres have the right amount of pressure, it's probably got something to do with the alignment of your wheels. If it's been a while since you last carried out a wheel alignment service, it's best to get an opinion from a trusted mechanic. 

If you're looking to get a wheel alignment service, then look no further than Service My Car. Our wheel alignment experts will make all necessary adjustments to your steering and suspension units during the wheel alignment.  

As a result, this will ensure that all adjustable angles adhere to your car manufacturer's specifications. You get to drive a car that's smooth, steady, and one that doesn't unnecessarily veer to one side of the road. 

Step 4: Get a comprehensive brake check performed 

If you've covered all the previously listed steps and still find yourself facing an issue, it's best to get a thorough brake inspection performed. Sometimes, there might be an issue with your brake callipers, or you might be dealing with a restricted brake line.  

Whether it's a serious or a relatively minor issue, anything to do with your brakes can be considered to be a severe safety hazard. If you think you might be facing such issues, get an instant quote for a car repair at Service My Car. 

Service My Car can take care of all your car-related issues 

Whether you require a wheel alignment, or a regular car service, we can do it all. If you face any issues with your car and can't identify the source of the problem, simply get in touch with us. At Service My Car, you can get all your car needs sorted at the tap of a button. Like you need Mazda Service in Sharjah then you can easily book a service or repair online, get service progress updates sent to your phone, and even get free vehicle collection and delivery with all the services.

We'll pick your car up and carry out a thorough inspection to determine what's causing issues to your vehicle. You'll also have a personal service advisor who'll take you through the entire repair process, with service updates sent to your phone.  

Moreover, you can get the whole experience on your phone with the Service My Car app. Download the app and get started by booking a service or requesting an instant repair quote today. 

The 7 Most Essential Winter Car Care Tips

As residents of the UAE, we're fortunate enough to experience warm weather for the better part of the year. However, the winter chill can sneak up on us if we're not cautious enough. Relax, relax. This isn't us telling you to stock up on heavy down jackets and winter coats. You don't need all that. What we're getting at is winter car care. 

While we don't deal with adverse conditions such as frost and snow, that doesn't necessarily mean we can be complacent. With a cool head, and a hint of proactivity, we can make it through the winter with just about no car troubles. Lest we forget, the winter's when we have most of our road trips planned. 

Whether it's unexpected rains, expected morning dew, or a sudden burst of fog, proper vehicle maintenance is imperative in the winter. Cold weather tends to take a toll on cars, and the difficult driving conditions might catch you off-guard. With a bit of long sight, and proper planning, you can ensure your vehicle stays road ready for the winter. 

Let's look at what some of the most essential winter car care tips are for the season, straight from your resident auto service experts at Service My Car. 

Keep a check on your oil and fuel levels

Ensure your oil level is well within the minimum and the maximum mark on your car's dipstick. Running low on oil can cause hazardous situations on the road. 

You're advised to check your oil levels only after the car has fully warmed up. If you find yourself running low on oil, it's best to get a car oil change. 

With doorstep services becoming more popular than ever, you can get your oil changed at your doorstep with a mobile oil change service, such as the one provided by Service My Car.

While you're at it, it doesn't hurt to fill up on petrol too. Ensure you have the right amount of petrol in your tank before you plan long trips. You're especially advised not to stretch out the last few kilometres with low fuel as you might just end up being stranded on the road.

Ensure your headlights are clean

With unexpected rains and dust storms, it goes without saying that cars tend to get dirty during the winter. While a simple car wash might fix most problems, it's especially important to ensure your headlights are clean. 

It's estimated that your headlights lose around 40% of luminosity in 35km when driving on a wet winter's day. If possible, get someone to stand outside the car and ensure all your lights are working correctly.

If you happen to have any issues with any of your lights, it signals towards battery issues.

Get a thorough battery test done

Speaking of battery issues, did you know that the number one cause of vehicle breakdowns is a flat battery? It turns out, the risk of battery failure grows exponentially in cold and wet climates.

While you should endeavour to change your car's battery every three years, you might have to do it sooner if the cold climate is affecting it. Some signs to look out for include the engine turning over slower than usual, the battery light flickering in the dashboard, and any faults in the electrical unit.

Whether your headlights aren't working, or you run into any other battery troubles, it needs to be fixed. You can avail a hassle-free battery replacement from the auto repair experts at Service My Car. 

Thoroughly assess your tyres

We've covered this before, but it doesn't hurt to be repeated. Tyres that are worn out are always dangerous, but the danger is enhanced when you drive in wet conditions. 

We're aware that the UAE is prone to sudden rainfall in the winter, and driving in such conditions can be hazardous if your tyres aren't in a good condition. 

It's also vital to ensure you have a roadworthy spare tyre too. If you happen to face the misfortune of dealing with a flat tyre, Service My Car provides flat tyre services as part of their roadside assistance services. 

Check your windshield wipers and ensure you have washer fluid

Ensure your windshield wipers are in proper condition. They should not have any holes or tears. Moreover, they should be able to clean your windshield accurately without posing the risk of damaging it. 

You can wipe the wipers clean every now and then. On top of that, you'll need adequate windshield washer fluid too. A mix of rain and dust can make your windshield dirty in no time, and washer fluid is the best way to get it back to its original state. 

Winter's also when you're most likely to face some form of windshield damage. If your windshield's worse for wear, then it's probably time to get it replaced. Get the best windshield replacement from Service My Car. At Service My Car, You can get all services according to your location and brand as well. You just need to visit our website or app and select service according to your requirements and brand, like Kia Repair, Volvo Repair, Toyota Repair and many more.

Inspect your brakes thoroughly

Your brakes need to be working at its best, especially during the winter. If your brakes are squealing or grating, it's best to get them checked immediately. 

Moreover, if you're taking the car out after a while, start off slowly to allow the discs, callipers and the handbrake to warm up gradually.

Check if it's time for a service

Like several of the tips above, this one's essential all year round. However, the adverse wintry conditions make this one just the more necessary.

You're typically advised to get a major service every 20,000km. You can always consult the vehicle manufacturer's guide if you're unsure. Alternatively, you could just ask one of the resident auto service experts at Service My Car. 

With hassle-free service packages, they can guide you to choose precisely what's required for your car. Get prepared for the winter by booking a service package at Service My Car today.