If you’re an Arizona native, you’ve likely faced a dust storm more than once. And, if you’ve ever been caught driving in one, you’ll probably agree with our Tempe auto repair customers … that was one time too many! Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve been around for a while, the best advice we have is this: DON’T drive in a dust storm!
Dust Storm Driving Tips
While that IS great advice, there may be times when you simply get caught in a dust storm and you’re not able to avoid it altogether. If that’s the case, here are some helpful dust storm driving tips from the Arizona DOT:
- Slow down as soon as you see a dust storm building around you and check your surroundings for traffic, pedestrians, etc.
- Pull off the roadway as far as you can safely do so. Don’t wait until you can’t see!
- Don’t stop in a travel or emergency lane. Doing so increases your chances of a collision with another driver.
- Turn off your lights. If you leave them on, other motorists may use them as a ‘guiding light’ and end up colliding with your parked car.
- Engage your emergency brake. Then, take your foot off the brakes.
- Wait until the storm has passed before attempting to pull back on the road and continue driving.
Vehicle Damage Caused by Dust Storms
We often have customers come into our Tempe auto repair shop whose vehicles have been through a dust storm or two. Here are some of the problems we find after a thorough vehicle inspection:
- Clogged air filter – If not fixed in a timely manner, a dirty air filter can cause engine problems later on.
- Cracked or scratched windshields – Broken or damaged windshields should be repaired or replaced to ensure proper visibility when driving.
- Radiator blockage – This is an important component of your vehicle’s cooling system and can cause your vehicle to overheat if it is obstructed.
- Cosmetic damage – You may notice things like chipped paint or exterior scratches. While these may not cause immediate problems, they should still be fixed sooner than later to help your vehicle last longer.
When you’re in the habit of bringing your vehicle to your favorite mechanic for regular maintenance, any of these problems can be caught and fixed before they become bigger problems. Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online to see why our customers think we’re the best auto repair shop for preventative maintenance in Tempe, AZ!
