Vehicle Maintenance: practice questions

Correct answer: Grip poorly, especially in the wet, and lengthen braking

Tread channels water away so the tyre grips a wet road. Worn tyres grip poorly, aquaplane more easily and take longer to stop. Replace tyres before the tread wears below the legal minimum.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, tyres (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Overheat, wear unevenly and can fail, especially in heat

Under-inflated tyres flex and heat up, wear at the edges and are more likely to blow out, which is especially risky in UAE heat. Check pressures regularly when the tyres are cold and keep them at the recommended level.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, tyre pressure (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Brakes are critical for safety. A soft pedal, grinding noise, vibration or pulling to one side are warning signs. Have them checked and repaired promptly; do not keep driving with faulty brakes.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, brakes (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Replaced promptly so you can see and be seen

Lights let you see and let others see your intentions. A failed headlight, tail-light, brake light or indicator should be replaced at once; driving with defective lights is unsafe and an offence.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, lights maintenance (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: A serious problem; stop safely and check as soon as possible

Red dashboard lamps signal urgent issues — such as oil pressure, brakes, engine temperature or charging — that can damage the car or be dangerous. Stop somewhere safe and check or get help promptly.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, warning lamps (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Oil lubricates the engine and coolant stops it overheating, both vital in UAE heat. Check levels regularly and top up as needed; running low can cause serious engine damage or a breakdown.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, fluids (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Tyres, lights, mirrors and any leaks or damage

A quick look around the car before driving catches problems early — a soft or damaged tyre, a broken light, fluid leaks under the car, or anything obstructing the mirrors. It takes seconds and prevents breakdowns.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, pre-drive check (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

The driver is responsible for keeping the vehicle roadworthy. Driving with dangerous defects — bald tyres, failed brakes, broken lights — is an offence and risks the safety of everyone on the road.

Reference: UAE Government portal — new traffic laws and fines, unroadworthy vehicle (https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/justice-safety-and-the-law/road-safety/new-traffic-laws-and-fines, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Stop safely, switch off and let it cool before checking

Overheating can wreck the engine. Pull over safely, switch off and let it cool — never open the radiator cap while hot, as escaping steam can scald you. Check coolant once cool, and get help if needed.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, overheating (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

A flat tyre can happen anywhere. Carry a serviceable spare (or repair kit), a jack and the wheel tools, and check the spare's pressure occasionally, so you can deal with a puncture safely instead of being stranded.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, spare and tools (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Wrong pressure or wheel alignment that needs attention

Wear on one side or patchy wear points to incorrect pressure, misalignment or worn suspension. Have it checked, as it shortens tyre life and can reduce grip and stability.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, tyre wear (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Wipers and washer fluid keep the windscreen clear in rain and dust. Replace worn blades and top up the fluid before bad weather, so you can see properly when it matters most.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, wipers (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Keep it safe and reliable and catch faults early

Routine servicing checks brakes, tyres, fluids, belts and lights and replaces worn parts before they fail. It keeps the car safe and reliable and is far cheaper than a breakdown or crash.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, servicing (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

A crack or chip in your line of sight distorts your view and can spread or shatter. Repair or replace the windscreen promptly so your vision is clear and the glass keeps its strength in a crash.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, windscreen (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Driving heats tyres and raises the pressure reading

As you drive, the tyres warm up and the air inside expands, giving a higher reading. The recommended pressures are set for cold tyres, so check and set them before driving or after the car has rested.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, cold tyre pressure (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Working indicators let you signal turns and lane changes so others can predict your moves. A failed indicator should be fixed promptly; signalling is a key part of communicating safely on the road.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, indicators (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Have the car checked soon, even if it still drives

An amber check-engine light flags a fault that needs attention, even if the car seems to run normally. Get it diagnosed soon; ignoring it can let a small problem become an expensive or unsafe one.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, check-engine light (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Clean, well-aimed mirrors give the widest view behind and to the sides and reduce blind spots. Adjust them for your seating position before moving off, and keep them clean for clear vision.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, mirrors (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Reduce braking performance and let the brakes fade or fail

Brake fluid transfers your pedal pressure to the brakes. Low or degraded fluid can cause a soft pedal, brake fade or failure. Keep it topped up and changed at the recommended intervals.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, brake fluid (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

New vibrations, knocks or noises often mean something is wearing or loose — a tyre, brake, wheel bearing or suspension part. Have unusual symptoms checked early before they turn into a failure on the road.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, unusual symptoms (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Break and stop the alternator, cooling or steering assist working

The drive (or serpentine) belt powers vital systems like the alternator, water pump and power steering. If it snaps you can suddenly lose charging, cooling or steering assistance, so replace a worn belt before it fails.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, drive belt (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Dirty glass and lights cut visibility and can dazzle, and an unreadable number plate is an offence. Keeping them clean is a simple but important part of keeping your vehicle safe and legal.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, cleanliness and visibility (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: It powers lights, signals, brakes assist and safety systems

Electrical power runs your lights, indicators, brake-light, wipers and many safety systems while you drive. A failing battery or charging system can leave you without these, so look after it as part of safety, not just starting.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, electrical system (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Rubber degrades with age and UAE sun, developing cracks that weaken the tyre regardless of tread depth. Old or perished tyres can fail at speed, so replace them based on age and condition, not tread alone.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, tyre age (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Holds the car securely on a slope

A working parking brake keeps the car still when parked, especially on a slope, and is a backup if the main brakes fail. Check it holds firmly; have it adjusted if it feels weak.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, parking brake (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

The horn lets you warn others of danger when needed. A non-working horn removes that safety tool, so have it fixed — while remembering the horn is for warning, not for venting impatience.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, horn (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Do not block your view or the controls

Loads and loose items must not obstruct your view through the windows and mirrors or interfere with the pedals, gear lever or steering. Stow them securely so they do not move or block anything while you drive.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, load and visibility (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

Running out of fuel or charge can leave you stopped in a live lane or far from help. Keep a sensible reserve, especially before long or desert drives, so you can always reach a safe place to refuel or recharge.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, fuel reserve (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Stop safely as soon as you can and investigate

Smoke or steam can mean overheating, a leak or even a fire risk. Pull over safely as soon as you can, switch off and check from a safe distance; if you suspect fire, get everyone away and call for help.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, smoke from engine (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

A warning triangle lets you alert other drivers if you break down, and a first-aid kit helps if someone is hurt. Keeping these, plus water, jumper leads and a torch, prepares you for common roadside problems.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, emergency kit (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: It overheats and can suddenly blow out at speed

A very low tyre flexes excessively, builds up heat and can fail suddenly — a blowout at speed is dangerous and hard to control. Stop and fix or change the tyre rather than driving on it.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, low tyre danger (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

In extreme heat, a hot cabin makes a driver tired and less alert. A working air-conditioning system is not just comfort; keeping cool helps you concentrate and react, so maintain it as part of safe driving.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, air conditioning (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Follow the maker's service schedule and fix faults promptly

Preventive maintenance — following the recommended service intervals and dealing with warning signs early — keeps the car reliable and safe. Waiting for parts to fail is more dangerous and usually more expensive.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, preventive maintenance (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: True

A serious fault like failing brakes or steering makes the car unsafe to drive. Stop in a safe place and arrange repair or recovery; continuing to drive endangers you and everyone around you.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, critical faults (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: Is safer, more reliable and less likely to break down or crash

Looking after tyres, brakes, lights, fluids and warning signs keeps your car safe to drive and far less likely to fail at a dangerous moment. Maintenance is part of being a responsible, safe driver.

Reference: RTA — Driving Safely in Dubai handbook, maintenance and safety (https://licensing.rta.ae/handbook/DrivingSafelyInDubaiEN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: 1.5 mm

For a light vehicle the tread must be at least 1.5 mm deep across the tyre. Below that the tyre cannot grip or clear water properly, so it fails inspection and is unsafe. Replace tyres before they reach the limit.

Reference: RTA vehicle testing parameters — light-vehicle tyre tread depth (1.5 mm) (https://rta.ae/wpsv5/links/HEAVY_VEHICLE_TESTING_PARAMETERS_EN.pdf, verified 2026-06)

Correct answer: 3.2 mm

Heavy vehicles must keep a deeper tread of at least 3.2 mm, more than the 1.5 mm required for light vehicles, because of their much greater weight and stopping distances. Worn heavy-vehicle tyres are especially dangerous.

Reference: RTA vehicle testing parameters — heavy-vehicle tyre tread depth (3.2 mm) (https://rta.ae/wpsv5/links/HEAVY_VEHICLE_TESTING_PARAMETERS_EN.pdf, verified 2026-06)