In Pakistan, where weather, road conditions, and budget realities differ drastically from Western countries, car maintenance becomes less of a luxury and more of a survival strategy. From blistering heat to dusty roads and fuel quality concerns, here are the top maintenance mistakes that cost car owners dearly—and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping Regular AC Service (Until It Dies)
Why It Hurts: AC units in Pakistan work overtime, especially in cities like Lahore or Karachi where summer temperatures can top 45°C. But most car owners forget to service the compressor, clean the evaporator, or top off refrigerant—until it stops cooling.
What It Costs You: Full AC overhauls or compressor replacements can run between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 60,000.
Pro Tip: Get your AC checked every March/April. Clean filters, check refrigerant levels, and make sure no leaks exist before peak heat strikes.
2. Ignoring Dust Buildup on Filters & Sensors
Why It Hurts: Pakistan’s roads are dusty by default, and this grime clogs engine and cabin air filters faster than in other climates. Left unchecked, it reduces fuel efficiency, engine power, and even causes sensor failures.
What It Costs You: Rs. 3,000–15,000 in engine inefficiencies or sensor damage. If the MAF sensor goes, your car might stall or guzzle fuel.
Pro Tip: Change your air filters every 8,000–10,000 km and clean MAF sensors at least once a year. Use high-quality filters where possible.
3. Overlooking Battery Health (Especially Post-Summer)
Why It Hurts: Heat is a battery killer. During hot months, fluid evaporates quickly, terminals corrode, and alternators get overworked. But many people only check the battery once the car fails to start.
What It Costs You: Rs. 8,000–20,000 for a new battery, and possibly a ruined morning.
Pro Tip: Every oil change, ask your mechanic to check voltage levels, battery fluid, and terminal corrosion. Clean and grease terminals to extend life.
4. Using Tap Water Instead of Coolant
Why It Hurts: We get it—coolant is pricier than tap water. But this mistake causes long-term rust, scaling, and gasket failure. Tap water can clog the radiator and kill the thermostat.
What It Costs You: Radiator replacement: Rs. 10,000–30,000. Head gasket job? Rs. 50,000+.
Pro Tip: Use a 50/50 coolant mix even in local cars. Brands like Guard, ZIC, and Caltex have budget-friendly options.
5. Not Checking Alignment After Every Suspension Hit
Why It Hurts: From potholes in Karachi to speed breakers in Islamabad, poor roads damage wheel alignment fast. But alignment is only checked when the steering pulls hard—or tires go bald.
What It Costs You: Uneven tire wear, reduced control, and Rs. 20,000+ in suspension repairs.
Pro Tip: Check alignment after every major bump or hit. Even a Rs. 1,500 check can prevent long-term suspension issues.
6. Neglecting Oil Changes or Using Substandard Brands
Why It Hurts: Engine oil quality directly affects engine health. In local workshops, cheap unbranded oils are common—and dangerous. Skipping oil changes leads to sludge, overheating, and damage.
What It Costs You: Engine overhauls cost anywhere from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 200,000 depending on the car.
Pro Tip: Change oil every 5,000–6,000 km. Stick to brands like Shell, Caltex, Total, or ZIC. Always change the oil filter too.
7. Driving with Worn Brake Pads or Leaky Cylinders
Why It Hurts: Brake pads are often ignored in Pakistan until they squeal—or fail. Same goes for leaking brake fluid, which is extremely dangerous in traffic-heavy cities.
What It Costs You: Rs. 10,000+ for pad + rotor replacement. Accidents? Far more.
Pro Tip: Have your brakes inspected at every oil change. If there’s squealing, vibration, or delayed braking—get them checked immediately.
Final Thoughts: Local Roads, Local Wisdom
Pakistani roads and weather demand a proactive car care routine. Waiting for problems to appear is a luxury most drivers can’t afford.
Use this list as your preventive toolkit. A few small habits—filter swaps, fluid checks, brake inspections—can save you not just thousands of rupees, but your peace of mind too.
Happy motoring, Pakistan!
