ADAS Driver Assistance Systems: What to Check Before Buying
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Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are a set of sensors, cameras and software that monitor the area around the car, warning you of a potential hazard or intervening in specific conditions by braking, steering or adjusting speed. Before buying, it is not enough to see a system's name in the specification sheet; ask exactly what it does, when it stops working and how to try it safely.
What are ADAS driver assistance systems and how do they work?
These systems usually rely on a camera behind the windscreen near the rear-view mirror, a radar behind the grille or front bumper, radars in the corners of the rear bumper, plus parking sensors and cameras around the body. The car's computer combines their signals to estimate distances, speeds and the car's position between the lane markings.
They differ from the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the traction control system (TCS); those two monitor the wheels themselves, while ADAS monitors the road, vehicles and pedestrians around you, and many of these systems use the same brake system when they intervene.
What is the difference between warning and intervention systems?
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains in its guide to driver assistance technologies that some systems are designed only to warn you, while others take action to avoid a crash, and that manufacturers use different trade names for the same function; so rely on the function described in the owner's manual rather than the name.
| System | What it does |
|---|---|
| Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Warning only when you close in quickly on a vehicle ahead. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | Intervention: supports your braking or brakes automatically if a collision appears imminent. |
| Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Warning only when the car leaves its lane without a signal. |
| Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) | Intervention: gently corrects the steering to bring the car back into its lane. |
| Blind Spot Warning (BSW) | Warning by a signal in the mirror when there is a vehicle you cannot see. |
| Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) | Intervention: adjusts speed to keep a distance from the vehicle ahead. |
| Rear Cross Traffic Warning (RCTW) | Warning while reversing of a vehicle approaching from the side. |
| Surround-view camera | Visibility aid: a combined image of the car's surroundings while parking. |
| Driver attention monitoring | Warning when signs of drowsiness or distraction appear. |
Having a warning system does not mean a matching intervention is fitted; a trim may include blind spot warning without any steering or braking intervention, so ask for the system list for the exact trim and model year you will buy.
How does automatic emergency braking work and what are its limits?
The NHTSA page on active braking technologies explains that these systems use radar, cameras and other sensors to detect vehicles, pedestrians or objects in front of the car, increasing braking force if your braking is insufficient, or braking automatically if you do not respond to the warning, with the aim of avoiding a collision or reducing its severity. This does not mean they prevent every collision in all conditions.
Ask when buying: does the system detect pedestrians and cyclists, or only vehicles? Does it work when reversing? And what speed range does it operate in according to the owner's manual? Never test it by deliberately approaching a car, a person or an obstacle.
What is the difference between lane departure warning and lane keeping assist?
The warning system only gives a sound or a vibration in the steering wheel when the car drifts across the lane markings, while the assist system gently corrects the steering, and in some cars may brake one of the wheels. Lane centring, by contrast, steers the car continuously while it is active, and usually works together with adaptive cruise control.
These systems depend on the camera seeing the road markings, so their performance weakens when the lines are faded or missing, as on some desert roads and in diversion zones, and many cars alert you if you take your hands off the wheel while they are active.
How does adaptive cruise control differ from standard cruise control?
Standard cruise control keeps a fixed speed that you set, whereas the adaptive version slows down if you approach a slower vehicle, then returns to the set speed when the road clears, and in some cars it can stop and move off again in traffic.
Before using it, learn how to choose the following distance and how to cancel it with the brake pedal or the cancel button. Its braking ability is limited, and it may not respond as you expect to a stationary vehicle or a car that cuts in suddenly; so stay ready to brake yourself.
What are the benefits of blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic warning and the surround-view camera?
Blind spot monitoring alerts you with a light in the side mirror, some systems add a sound if you signal towards a lane with a vehicle in it. Rear cross traffic warning is useful when reversing out of a parking space between large vehicles that block your view.
The surround-view camera shows a combined image as if you were seeing the car from above, but it can distort distances at its edges and does not replace the mirrors and turning to look yourself.
How do you check ADAS features during a test drive?
Alongside the general steps in our new car buying guide, set aside part of the test drive for the assistance systems:
- Before moving off, get to know the settings menu and each system's symbols on the instrument cluster: ready, active and unavailable.
- On a highway with clear markings, switch on adaptive cruise control and set the distance, then cancel it with the brakes and with the button.
- Notice the lane departure alert, whether it stays quiet when you use the turn signal, and whether the correction is smooth or intrusive.
- Watch the blind spot signal when a car passes alongside you, without relying on it to change lanes.
- In a car park, reverse slowly and check how clear the camera is and how the rear cross traffic alert works.
- Make sure no persistent fault message appears, and that the windscreen and bumpers around the sensors are undamaged.
What conditions limit how sensors and cameras work?
- Dust, sand, mud and insects covering the camera, the radar or the bumper sensors.
- Sandstorms, fog and heavy rain.
- Low sun at sunrise and sunset, and glare from oncoming headlights.
- Extreme heat after long parking in the sun; some owner's manuals state that the function may stop temporarily until the camera cools down.
- Stickers, tint films and non-original accessories in front of the camera or radar.
If a message says the system is unavailable, continue driving carefully without relying on it, clean the sensors with water and a soft cloth while keeping high-pressure water away from them, and if the message persists, have the car inspected.
When do ADAS sensors need calibration?
The camera and radar are mounted at a precise angle, and even a small change can make the system misjudge distance or lane position. That is why the manufacturer may require the sensors to be checked or calibrated in cases such as:
- Replacing the windscreen that the camera is mounted on.
- Repairing the bumper or the grille, or removing and refitting the radar.
- A minor collision, even if the damage looks superficial.
- A wheel alignment, a change in suspension height, or a change of tyre size.
Before any repair, ask the service centre about the calibration requirements for your car, and ask for proof that it was carried out. With a used car, ask whether the windscreen has been replaced or the bumper repaired, and whether the sensors were calibrated afterwards.
Do driver assistance systems replace the driver's attention?
No. NHTSA's classification in the guide mentioned above makes clear that the driver remains responsible for driving and attentive at all times, even with systems that combine speed control and steering. Even driver attention monitoring is a reminder to stop and rest, not a substitute for rest; if you feel drowsy on a long journey between cities, stop in a safe place.
Frequently asked questions about driver assistance systems
- Can ADAS be added to a car that does not have it? Add-on warning devices and cameras are available, but they are not equivalent to factory systems linked to the brakes and steering.
- Can these systems be switched off? Many cars let you turn off some alerts or change their sensitivity, and some switch back on every time you start the car. It is best to keep them on.
- Does windscreen tint affect the camera? Any film or sticker covering the camera area may affect its view, so leave that area clear.
- Do assistance systems differ between trims of the same model? Usually yes; a higher trim may include systems that the base trim lacks.
- Do these systems work just as well at night? Camera performance may suffer on dark roads, while radar does not depend on light.
Driver assistance systems add a useful layer of protection when you understand what each system does and its limits, and keep the sensors clean and calibrated after any repair. When browsing the cars listed by Saleh Cars Group, compare the assistance systems in each trim and ask how they work before you decide, because the final decision on the road always remains yours.
What to Do After a Car Accident: Najm Reporting Steps
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If you are involved in a traffic accident, God forbid, start with safety: stop in a safe place, turn off the engine and switch on the hazard lights, place the reflective triangle at a safe distance, then photograph the accident from all directions and have your ID, driving licence and vehicle registration (istimara) ready. Then report to Najm on the toll-free number 199033 if there are no injuries and at least one party to the accident holds a valid insurance policy. If there are injuries, or an insurance policy is not available for every party to the accident, call the traffic police on 993, and call the ambulance on 997 when there are injuries. Below are the Najm reporting steps as the company publishes them, the cases it does not handle, and what to check on your car after the accident.
What should you do in the first minutes after a traffic accident?
Your safety and the safety of those with you come before anything else. Najm's car accident advice page (in Arabic) summarises the first steps as follows:
- Before getting out of the vehicle, make sure that leaving it will not put you in danger, and keep away from the lane of passing cars.
- Turn off the vehicle's engine and switch on the hazard lights to warn other drivers.
- If you have a reflective triangle, place it at a safe distance from the vehicle.
- Check on the people with you and those in the other car; if there are injuries, call the traffic police on 993 and the ambulance (Red Crescent) on 997.
- Stay at the accident scene and wait for the response teams to arrive, and avoid acting on any personal opinions or assessments from bystanders.
Najm's guidance explains that staying at the scene protects your rights and the rights of others, and that leaving it may expose you to additional violations and fines. If a fire breaks out, God forbid, it advises using the fire extinguisher safely, not using water to put the fire out, and turning off the engine and getting out of the vehicle.
What are the Najm reporting steps after an accident?
Najm's accident reporting procedures page (in Arabic) sets out what is needed to report after stopping in a safe place:
- Making sure there is valid insurance from a licensed insurance company.
- If the accident results from natural disasters or fire, you must have comprehensive insurance on the vehicle to report it to Najm.
- Preparing the official documents: ID, driving licence and vehicle registration (istimara).
- All parties involved in the accident must be present.
- Reporting the accident through one of Najm's channels, including the toll-free number 199033.
The company states that the Najm investigator uses a body camera to document the facts of the accident to protect the rights of all parties, and that it handles accidents without charging the parties to the accident. It also offers the Najm smartphone app for faster electronic procedures.
These procedures may be updated from time to time, so confirm the latest steps on Najm's website or official app before relying on them.
When should you call the traffic police instead of Najm?
Najm does not handle every accident; according to its official page, it does not take on the following cases:
- No valid insurance for all parties to the accident.
- An accident caused by natural disasters or fire when the vehicle has third-party insurance rather than comprehensive cover.
- Injuries or a death, God forbid.
- Criminal accidents.
- One of the parties is absent or has fled the accident scene.
- Accidents that happen outside the cities or geographic areas Najm covers.
These accidents can be reported to the authorities Najm lists. These are the contact numbers on its pages:
| Authority | Number | What Najm's guidance says |
| Najm (toll-free number) | 199033 | Reporting the accidents Najm handles |
| Traffic Accidents | 993 | When there are injuries, or an insurance policy is not available for every party to the accident |
| Ambulance (Red Crescent) | 997 | When there are injuries |
| Unified Operations | 911 | Listed for accidents Najm does not handle |
| Civil Defense | 998 | Listed for accidents Najm does not handle |
| Road Security | 996 | Listed for accidents Najm does not handle |
How do you document the accident and the damage with photos?
Najm advises photographing the accident from all directions so you can refer to it when needed. To make the photos genuinely useful, take them in this order, without standing in the traffic lane:
- A wide shot from a distance showing where the cars are on the road, the lanes and nearby signals.
- Photos of each car from the front, rear and both sides, then close-ups of every damaged area however small, such as the bumper, lights, wheels and mirrors.
- A photo of the number plates of the vehicles involved, and of any parts scattered on the ground.
- A photo of the ground under your car if you notice a fluid leak.
- A photo of the dashboard if warning lights come on after the accident.
- Keep the photos unedited, note the time and place of the accident, and photograph the damage again when the car enters the workshop.
What should you check on your car after a minor accident before driving on?
Once the procedures are finished, do not assume the car is sound just because the visible damage is small; a light impact can affect parts behind the bumper or the tyres. Check the following with the car parked in a safe place:
- Lights and indicators: switch on the headlights, rear lights, indicators and brake lights, and make sure they work and their lenses are not broken.
- Tyres and wheels: look for a cut or bulge in the tyre sidewall, a bent wheel, or a tyre rubbing against the wheel arch when you turn the steering.
- Leaks: look under the car, as radiator coolant, oil or a smell of petrol is a sign not to drive.
- Dashboard warning lights: start the car and notice whether a warning light stays on, such as the temperature, airbag or brake light, and learn its meaning in the guide to dashboard warning lights and their meanings.
- Body and doors: make sure the bonnet, boot and doors close properly, the mirrors are secure, and no part is hanging loose that could fall off while driving.
- The first short distance: drive slowly in a safe place, and notice whether the steering pulls to one side, or unusual vibrations or rubbing noises appear.
If the airbags deployed, you notice a leak or a smell of fuel, a red light stays on, or the steering feels abnormal, do not keep driving, and ask for a tow truck to take the car to the workshop.
Why might sensors and cameras need calibration after a repair?
Many modern cars place radar and parking sensors in the bumper or behind the front grille, and the driver assistance camera behind the windscreen. So repairing or replacing the bumper, replacing the windscreen, or adjusting the wheel alignment after an accident can change the angle of these sensors even slightly, and they then need calibration according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Ask the workshop before the repair: does the work include calibrating the sensors and camera after fitting?
- After collecting the car, notice whether an error message appears for the assistance systems, warnings appear where they should not, or the parking sensor alerts disappear.
- Do not rely on the assistance systems after the repair until you are sure they work normally.
You will find an explanation of these systems, the limits of their sensors and when they need calibration in our article on ADAS driver assistance systems.
What should you follow up with Najm and the repair workshop after an accident?
Najm's website offers services to follow up an accident after it has been handled, including:
- Viewing your accidents and their details.
- Issuing reports and documents.
- Amending the accident data.
- Objecting to the accident liability ratio, or adding damage or a party.
- Browsing your insurance record and the information it provides about your claims, accidents and vehicles.
When the car is repaired, keep a copy of the report and photos of the damage before and after the repair, and review the quality of the bodywork and paint when you collect it; our article on what it means when a car has been repaired helps you notice colour differences and uneven gaps between panels.
What are the common mistakes after a traffic accident?
- Getting out of the car into the traffic lane, or standing behind it without switching on the hazard lights and placing the reflective triangle.
- Leaving the scene before the response teams arrive or before all parties are present.
- Taking only a close-up of the damage without wide shots showing where the accident happened.
- Driving on despite a leak or a red warning light.
- Not having a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit in the car, both of which Najm advises keeping.
Frequently asked questions about traffic accidents and Najm reporting
- Do the parties to the accident pay for Najm to handle it? No, the company states that it handles accidents without charging the parties to the accident.
- Which documents are needed for the report? Your ID, driving licence and vehicle registration (istimara), and all parties to the accident must be present.
- Does Najm handle an accident caused by fire or a natural disaster? This requires comprehensive insurance on the vehicle; if it only has third-party cover, this is one of the cases Najm does not handle.
- What do I do if the other party flees the accident scene? A party being absent or fleeing is one of the cases Najm does not handle, and you can report through the authorities it lists, such as Unified Operations on 911 or Traffic Accidents on 993.
- How can I make sure a used car I plan to buy has not had a serious accident? Ask the seller about the car's history, have it inspected by a trusted inspection centre, look for signs of bodywork and paint repairs, and follow our vehicle inspection tips before buying a used car.
In short: your safety first, then the hazard lights and the reflective triangle, then the photos and documents, then reporting through Najm on 199033, or calling the traffic police on 993 when there are injuries or an insurance policy is not available for every party. Do not keep driving before checking the lights, tyres, leaks and dashboard warning lights, and make sure the sensors are calibrated after a bumper or windscreen repair.
Car Trim Levels Explained: How to Choose the Right Trim
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The difference between car trim levels is the difference in the equipment a manufacturer fits to the same model: the engine, transmission and drivetrain, safety and driver assistance systems, comfort and air conditioning, wheel and tyre size, and the screen and infotainment. Labels such as “standard” and “fully loaded” are not consistent between manufacturers, so a fair comparison depends on the official trim name, the model year and the written specification sheet. Here we explain where trims differ and how to compare them with a table, without paying for features you will not use.
What are car trim levels and why do their names vary?
A trim is a version of the same model with an equipment package set by the manufacturer; a model usually starts with a base trim, each higher trim adds a group of features, and trims may also differ in the engine or exterior styling.
- Standard, mid-spec and fully loaded are rough sales descriptions, and each manufacturer has official names for its trims.
- A fully loaded version of one model may lack a feature found on the mid-range trim of another, so never compare by the label alone.
- A trim's contents can change from one model year to the next and may differ by market, so a brochure from another country does not prove the car offered to you has the feature.
If you are at the start of the buying process, begin with our new car buying guide to set your budget and choose the type of car, then return to this article to compare trims in detail.
Do trims differ in engine, transmission and drivetrain?
On many models every trim shares the same engine, but some offer a larger, turbocharged or hybrid engine on higher trims. When the mechanical components differ, they matter more than any cosmetic extra, because they affect performance, fuel consumption and maintenance for as long as you own the car.
- Engine: record its size and type, and do not assume the larger engine suits you best if most of your trips are in the city.
- Transmission: the type may differ between trims, so read how a car transmission works and its main types before you compare.
- Drivetrain: two-wheel drive is usually enough in the city, while four-wheel drive helps if you head into the desert and sandy roads, but it adds weight and parts that need maintenance.
- Fuel consumption: it may differ between trims of the same model, so ask to see the fuel economy label for the version you are considering; the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization explains that this label is a guide for consumers before purchase, to raise their awareness of energy efficiency.
How do safety and driver assistance systems differ between trims?
A phrase such as “comprehensive safety features” is not enough; ask for the names of the systems fitted to each trim and understand what each one does: does it only warn the driver, or does it intervene with braking or steering?
- Airbags: how many there are and where, plus child-seat anchor points if you travel with children.
- Forward collision warning only alerts you, while automatic emergency braking may apply the brakes if you do not react.
- Lane departure warning only warns, while lane keeping assist makes a limited steering correction.
- Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are useful on highways and when reversing out of busy parking spaces.
- Adaptive cruise control keeps a set distance from the car ahead and is comfortable on long trips between cities.
- A reversing camera and parking sensors, or a surround-view camera on some higher trims.
These systems assist the driver and do not replace attention, and dust on the sensors can affect how they work.
Which comfort and air conditioning features change from trim to trim?
Some comfort features help you every day in the Saudi climate, while others you may rarely use even though they raise the trim's price.
- Air conditioning: manual or automatic, single-zone or dual-zone, with or without vents for rear passengers.
- Seats: fabric or leather, manual or power adjustment, and ventilated seats that ease the summer heat.
- Keyless entry and push-button start, and a powered tailgate.
- A sunroof is appealing, but many drivers do not use it in summer, so weigh its value to you.
How do wheels and tyres affect comfort and running costs?
Higher trims often come with larger wheels and tyres with a lower sidewall, which gives a sportier look but does not necessarily mean more comfort.
- A lower sidewall usually absorbs bumps less, so the ride feels firmer on uneven roads.
- Check the spare: full-size, temporary, or a repair kit instead of a spare.
- Large or less common sizes may cost more to replace, so ask about the availability of the size on the trim you will buy.
Is the screen and infotainment worth paying for a higher trim?
A large screen is one of the most visible differences between trims, but its real value lies in how easy it is to use while driving.
- Test how quickly the screen responds and how clear it is in sunlight, and how easily you can reach the air conditioning settings without taking your eyes off the road.
- A digital instrument cluster, an upgraded sound system and wireless charging are pleasant extras, but not essential for every driver.
- Physical buttons for air conditioning and audio can be easier than touch control alone, so try both.
Does a higher trim hold its value at resale?
There is no fixed rule; resale value depends on market demand for the model and trim, and on the car's condition and service history.
- Expensive extras rarely recover their full cost, so do not buy a higher trim hoping to recoup the difference when you sell.
- Equipment that many buyers look for, such as a camera, sensors and safety systems, may make the car easier to sell.
- Browse used listings for the same model in different trims to gauge demand.
How do you compare car trims using a table?
Put the trims you are considering in one table and write against each item what is confirmed on the specification sheet, not what you heard or saw in an advert. Here is a template you can copy:
| Item | What to record for each trim | Question to check |
|---|---|---|
| Identification | Official trim name and model year | Does the car on offer match the written quotation? |
| Mechanical | Engine, transmission and drivetrain | Does fuel consumption differ? |
| Safety | System names and what each one does | Is the feature standard or part of an optional package? |
| Comfort | Air conditioning, seats and keyless entry | Will you use it every day? |
| Wheels and tyres | Tyre size and spare | Is the size easy to find? |
| Infotainment | Screen and phone connection | Have you tried it yourself? |
| Offer | Price difference between trims | Which confirmed features do you get for that difference? |
- Classify each feature: essential and non-negotiable, desirable, or unimportant to you.
- Rule out any trim that lacks even one essential feature.
- Start with the lowest trim that covers all your essential needs.
- Compare the price difference to the next trim only with the desirable features it adds.
How do you avoid paying for features you will not use?
The money you save on luxuries may be more useful for maintenance, insurance or a smaller finance amount.
- Do not be swayed by the display car: the car on show or the advertising photos may be of a higher trim, so ask to see and drive the trim that fits your budget.
- Watch out for packages: a feature you want may be bundled with features you do not need, so ask whether it is available on a lower trim or in a smaller package.
- Distinguish factory equipment from accessories fitted later, such as window tint, and ask who provides their warranty and what it covers.
- When buying with financing, the price difference between two trims becomes part of the finance amount and you carry its cost for the whole contract; read our comparison of buying a car with financing or cash before you decide.
- Ask about each feature: how often will I actually use it? If the answer is rarely, it is not reason enough to upgrade.
Frequently asked questions about car trim levels
Does fully loaded mean the same equipment on every car?
No. It is a sales description that varies from model to model and from year to year; ask for the official trim name and its detailed equipment list, and check every feature that matters to you.
Is the top trim of a smaller model better than the base trim of a larger model?
If space and seating are the priority, the larger model suits you better; if equipment matters more and the space is enough, the top trim of the smaller model may suit you.
Can higher-trim features be added after purchase?
Some accessories can be fitted later, but many driver assistance systems depend on factory sensors and software and are not easy to add, so ask how any modification affects the warranty.
Are videos and brochures enough for a comparison?
They help you understand the general idea and prepare your questions, but verify the specifications of the car offered to you, because the model year, market or trim may differ.
The right trim is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive; it is the lowest trim that covers your essential needs with written, confirmed specifications. Put the mechanical components and safety first, then the comfort you will use every day, and leave luxuries at the bottom of the list. When your table is ready, you can browse the cars available at Saleh Cars Group and compare their trims in the same way.
When to Replace Car Tyres: Tread, Cracks and Warning Signs
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If you are asking when to replace car tyres, the short answer is: replace a tyre when the surface of the tread reaches the level of the raised wear indicators inside the grooves, when a bulge, a deep cut or clear cracks appear in its sidewall, or when the rubber has aged to the point at which the tyre or car manufacturer recommends replacement, even if the tread looks good. In this guide we explain how to check your tyres, what the wear pattern reveals, and how to choose the right replacement.
When should you replace car tyres? The key signs in brief
Replacement is not tied to a single distance for every car, but to the tyre's condition and its maker's recommendations. The main signs are:
- The tread surface has reached the level of the wear indicators in any part of the tyre, not just on average.
- A bulge or bubble in the sidewall, a deep cut, or exposed cords or internal fabric.
- Clear cracks in the sidewall or between the tread blocks, showing that the rubber has aged and hardened.
- Uneven wear that has left part of the tyre smooth even though the rest of its surface is sound.
- A persistent vibration that does not go away after balancing, or repeated pressure loss in the same tyre with no visible cause.
How do you check tread depth using the TWI wear indicators?
Inside the grooves are small raised bars called wear indicators, whose location is marked by the letters TWI or a small triangle on the tyre's shoulder, and when the tread surface is level with them, the tyre has reached the end of its usable life. To check:
- Park the car on level ground and turn the steering wheel to one side so you can see the front tyres clearly.
- Look for the TWI mark or triangle on the tyre's shoulder, then look into the groove next to it to find the raised bar.
- Compare the level of the tread surface with the bar; the closer they are to level, the closer the replacement date.
- Repeat the check on the inner edge, the centre and the outer edge, and at several points around the tyre's circumference.
- For a more precise reading, use a tread depth gauge, available at tyre shops, and record the reading for each tyre.
- Some drivers use a coin as a rough gauge, but it is no substitute for a proper gauge or a look by a qualified technician.
Do not wait until they are exactly level if you travel often or drive in the rain, as water clearance and grip weaken gradually as the tread gets shallower.
What do tyre cracks and sidewall bulges mean?
The sidewall flexes with every turn of the wheel and carries the car's weight, so any damage to it is more dangerous than tread wear:
- Fine surface cracks: an early sign of rubber ageing caused by heat and sun, which calls for the tyre to be inspected by a specialist and monitored.
- Deep cracks: if they widen or reach the tyre's inner layers, it is time to replace it.
- A bulge or bubble: damage to the tyre's internal structure, usually after hitting a pothole or kerb, which requires immediate replacement and no travelling on it.
- Cuts and gashes: a deep cut in the sidewall weakens the tyre even if no air is leaking from it yet.
What does the tyre wear pattern reveal?
The wear pattern reveals the cause of the problem, and if you do not fix it, new tyres will wear the same way:
| Wear pattern | Likely cause | What to do |
| Both edges more than the centre | Pressure lower than recommended | Set the pressure according to the driver's door sticker and check it regularly |
| Centre more than the edges | Pressure higher than recommended | Set the recommended pressure, not the maximum pressure printed on the tyre |
| One inner or outer edge | Wheel alignment or suspension fault | Check the alignment and suspension parts |
| Diagonal, feather-like wear | Incorrect toe between the two wheels | Have the alignment set at an equipped workshop |
| Repeated patches or scallops | Unbalanced wheels or worn shock absorbers | Balance the wheels and check the shock absorbers |
| A single flat spot | Hard braking with a locked wheel, or standing a long time without moving | Have a specialist assess the tyre |
If you see wear on both edges, start by reviewing the causes, signs and solutions for low tyre pressure, and if the wear is on one edge or comes with the car pulling to one side, read about the difference between wheel balancing and alignment.
How do Saudi heat and sand affect tyre life?
Rubber ages over time even if the car is used little, and you will find how to tell a tyre's age from the DOT code in our article on how to read tyre size and manufacture date. There is no single lifespan for all tyres, so refer to the tyre and car makers' recommendations. In the Kingdom's climate, some factors speed up deterioration:
- Direct sun and high heat speed up the hardening and cracking of rubber, especially for cars standing for long periods in open car parks, so park in the shade whenever possible.
- Hot asphalt raises tyre temperature, and the effect grows with low pressure or overloading on long trips.
- Sandy, gravel and desert tracks expose the tread and sidewall to cuts from sharp stones, so inspect the tyres after every desert trip.
- If you lower tyre pressure (deflating) to drive on sand, restore it to the recommended value before returning to asphalt, because highway driving at low pressure raises tyre temperature.
Should you replace tyres in pairs or all four together?
Ideally all four tyres match, but replacing them all together is not always necessary:
- Replace both tyres on the same axle together at least, so grip does not differ between the two sides when braking or cornering.
- When replacing only one pair, many tyre makers recommend fitting the newer pair on the rear axle for better stability, unless the owner's manual says otherwise.
- In four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive cars, the owner's manual may require the four tyres to be close in size and degree of wear to protect the drive system, so check it before replacing only two.
What about the spare tyre?
The spare forgotten in the boot ages just like the other tyres, even if it is never used:
- Check its pressure regularly and before every trip, because a flat spare will not help you when you get a puncture.
- Read its manufacture date and inspect its sidewall, as it may be older than the tyres on the car.
- A small temporary spare is designed for a limited distance and speed stated in the owner's manual or on the tyre's side, so use it only to reach the nearest tyre shop.
- If your car comes with a repair kit instead of a spare, check its expiry and how to use it.
How do you choose the right replacement tyre: size, load and speed?
Choose what your car was designed for, not just what the shop has in stock, and check the following:
- Size: copy it from the sticker on the driver's door frame or from the owner's manual, not from the tyre currently fitted, which may be different.
- Load index and speed symbol: choose values equal to or higher than the car manufacturer's recommendation, never lower.
- Manufacture date: ask for recently made tyres with close dates, especially on the same axle.
- Type of use: a driver who often travels on highways has different needs from one who drives in the desert or carries heavy loads, so ask about the tyre designed for your use.
- Changing the size: do not change the size of your tyres or rims without consulting a specialist; to learn the effect, read our article on whether the wrong rims make your car use more fuel.
- After fitting: balance the wheels, set the pressure according to the driver's door sticker, and check the alignment if the old tyres were worn unevenly.
What is the tyre energy efficiency label in Saudi Arabia?
The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization offers the Energy Efficiency Label for Tires service, and explains that the label serves as a guide for consumers before purchasing the product to increase their awareness of its energy efficiency before buying it.
The organization lists tyres among the products subject to the efficiency label regulations, and the aims of these labels include reducing energy consumption for the consumer, enabling the consumer to know a product's efficiency before buying, and protecting consumer safety and health and the environment. In practice:
- When comparing tyres of the same size, ask to see the energy efficiency label for each one and read its details.
- Do not make the label your only criterion; size, load index, speed symbol, manufacture date and the tyre's suitability for your use come first.
- Requirements and procedures may be updated from time to time, so check the latest information on the organization's website.
Frequently asked questions about replacing car tyres
- Should I replace a tyre that is old even if its tread is good? Tread depth alone is not enough, as rubber hardens over time; have it checked by a specialist and follow the tyre maker's recommendation.
- Can a puncture in the side of the tyre be repaired? Repairing holes in the sidewall or shoulder is not usually recommended, while for a hole in the tread area the technician decides whether it can be repaired based on its size and position.
- Can I fit two tyres of different types? This is not recommended on the same axle, and it is best for all four tyres to match in type and tread pattern, especially in four-wheel-drive cars.
- Are small cracks between the tread blocks dangerous? They are a sign of ageing that may not require immediate replacement, but have a specialist monitor them, and if they deepen, replace the tyre.
- How often should I check my tyres? Check their pressure and appearance regularly, for example when refuelling, before every trip, and after hitting a pothole or kerb or after a desert trip.
Checking your tyres takes only minutes: look at the wear indicators, inspect the sidewall, notice the wear pattern and read the manufacture date. If a danger sign appears, do not postpone the change; choose a replacement with the recommended size, load and speed ratings, then fix the cause of any uneven wear.
Comprehensive vs Third-Party Car Insurance: How to Choose
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The difference between the two types of car insurance in Saudi Arabia is that third-party insurance, which is the compulsory insurance, compensates the third party for the physical and material damage your vehicle causes and does not cover your own car, while comprehensive insurance compensates you for damage or loss to your car, including fire, theft, floods and hail, and also includes liability towards third parties. Here we explain what each type covers and excludes as stated in the official documents, what the deductible means, and how to choose the right policy.
What is the difference between comprehensive and third-party insurance in brief?
These are the main differences as stated in the Saudi Central Bank documents; the details follow in the next sections:
| Item | Third-party | Comprehensive |
| Status | Compulsory | Not compulsory; includes third-party liability cover |
| Physical and material damage to third parties | Covered within the policy limits | Covered as per the unified policy |
| Damage to your car in an accident you cause | Excluded | Covered after deducting the deductible |
| Fire, theft, floods and hail | Not covered for your car | Included |
| Towing your damaged car and storing it | Not provided for | Included up to the amount stated in the schedule |
| Death or injury of the driver | Excluded | An optional cover offered before the policy is issued |
What does third-party (compulsory) insurance cover?
The Unified Compulsory Motor Insurance Policy sets the minimum limit of civil liability cover towards third parties. If an accident occurs within the borders of the Kingdom and causes damage that is not excluded, the insurer compensates the third party for what the insured, the driver or the person responsible for the accident is liable to pay for:
- Physical damage to the third party inside or outside the vehicle: death or physical injuries, including total or partial disability, whether permanent or temporary.
- Material damage to property belonging to the third party.
- Expenses borne by the third party due to damage not excluded in the policy.
A third party is anyone who suffers damage that is not excluded, other than the insured or the driver responsible for the accident; so this insurance protects others from your mistakes and does not repair your car. Subject to the exceptions, the insurer may not refuse to compensate the injured party because of a violation committed by the driver, but it keeps the right to recover from them in cases set out in the policy, such as driving against traffic, running a red light, and driving without a licence suitable for the type of vehicle.
What does third-party insurance not cover?
Cases the unified policy excludes from compensation include:
- Loss of or damage to the insured vehicle, property of the insured or the driver, and goods carried in it.
- Death or physical injury of the insured or the driver.
- Using the vehicle in races or to test its speed or power, and car drifting.
- A deliberate accident, or giving inaccurate information or concealing material facts in the insurance proposal form.
- Fines and financial penalties, and the driver fleeing the accident scene without an acceptable reason.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and floods.
What does comprehensive motor insurance cover?
According to the Comprehensive Motor Insurance Rules, the company compensates the insured for any risk causing damage or loss to the vehicle, including fire, theft, lightning and natural disasters such as floods and hail, in addition to third-party civil liability as per the unified policy. Compensation works as follows:
- Partial loss: the company bears the cost of repair at the repairing party stated in the schedule (the agency or an approved repair shop), and the cost is determined by the competent entity in charge of motor accident damage appraisal.
- Technical total loss (a car that cannot be repaired to a state legally fit for driving) or economic total loss (repair is costly according to the percentage agreed in the schedule): compensation is the sum insured without deducting the company's expenses.
- The company does not deduct any amount from the compensation for the use or wear of the vehicle before the accident.
- Towing the damaged vehicle and storing it after a covered accident, up to the amount stated in the schedule.
- If another party caused the damage, your insurer compensates you first and then claims against that party or its insurer.
Before issuing the policy, the company must offer you optional covers: renting a replacement vehicle, roadside assistance, death, injuries and medical expenses of the driver or named driver, and accidents outside the Kingdom; any you decline become excluded.
What does comprehensive insurance not cover?
The main exclusions in the rules include:
- Driving without a licence suitable for the type of vehicle, or with a licence that was withdrawn or has expired unless it is renewed within the set period.
- Compensation that is less than or equal to the deductible stated in the schedule.
- An accident while the vehicle is driven by someone other than the driver or the named driver.
- Manufacturing defects, and damage resulting from use or from mechanical or electrical malfunctions.
- Damage to or theft of tyres, rims, wheel covers or exterior mirrors, unless it happened at the time of a covered accident.
- Theft caused by leaving the vehicle running, leaving the keys in it, or not closing the windows and locking the doors.
- Accessories not fitted by the manufacturer, unless their type and value are explicitly stated in the policy.
- Car drifting, running a red light or driving against traffic, if the competent body's report proves it caused the accident.
- Driving in desert areas and on unpaved roads unless inside the city.
The company and the insured may agree to waive any exclusion unless that conflicts with the law, so ask about the ones that matter to you before signing.
What is the deductible in comprehensive insurance?
The rules define the deductible as the amount borne by the insured for any claim as stated in the policy schedule, and they control how it is applied:
- It is set by the insured in agreement with the company.
- It applies only to damage to the vehicle, not to third-party civil liability claims.
- It is calculated in proportion to the driver's share of liability if they are partly liable, and it is not charged if they are not liable according to the report of the competent body attending the accident.
- It applies once per accident, even if several claims result from it.
- It stays fixed throughout the policy period, whatever the type of accident or the value of the compensation.
In practice, it is what you will pay out of your own pocket in every accident you are liable for, so compare offers by it as well, not by the policy cost alone.
How do you choose car insurance that suits your car and your use?
The decision depends on whether you could bear the cost of repairing or losing your car yourself, so review these factors:
- The car's age and value: losing a new or high-value car is harder, and comprehensive cover compensates at the sum insured in a total loss; so make insurance part of your budget as in the new car buying guide.
- A used car: insurance does not cover manufacturing defects or malfunctions, so inspect it before buying and read our vehicle inspection tips before buying a used car, and make sure the sum insured reflects its fair value.
- Financing: if the car is financed, ask the finance provider which type of insurance the contract requires before signing; to compare the two ways of paying, read buying a car with financing or cash.
- Who drives the car: comprehensive cover applies to the insured and relatives such as parents, spouse, children and siblings, the domestic worker or someone working for the insured under an employment contract, and the named driver in the schedule; so add any other driver.
- How you use it: if you go on desert trips, ask about the exclusion of desert roads, and remember that accidents outside the Kingdom are an optional cover.
What should you check in the policy schedule before you pay?
The policy schedule is an integral part of the policy, so check:
- Insured and vehicle details, and match the chassis number and plate with the vehicle registration card.
- The type of cover, not the marketing name; the rules forbid describing third-party products with additional benefits as comprehensive insurance.
- The coverage period, with its start and end dates and times.
- The sum insured, the deductible, and the percentage at which the vehicle is considered an economic total loss.
- The repairing party (agency or approved repair shop) and the towing and storage cover limit.
- Named drivers, and the use restrictions and purpose of use.
- The optional covers you accepted or declined.
- Additional vehicle details, such as modifications and where it is parked at night, and make sure they are correct; and notify the company of any change in material facts within the set period.
These provisions may be updated, so confirm the latest version on the official website of the Insurance Authority, and the terms of your policy with a licensed insurance company.
Frequently asked questions about comprehensive and third-party car insurance
- If someone else hits me and I only have third-party insurance, who repairs my car? You are the third party under the at-fault driver's policy, so their insurer compensates you for the material damage as per the unified policy. If you are at fault, your policy does not cover your car.
- Do I need two policies with comprehensive insurance? The rules state that comprehensive insurance also covers civil liability towards third parties as per the unified policy, so it combines both protections in one policy.
- Is a third-party policy with additional benefits considered comprehensive? No. The rules forbid naming or describing such products in any way as comprehensive insurance, so read the written covers, not the product name.
- Does third-party insurance cover flood or fire damage to my car? No, it does not cover your car at all, and natural disasters are among its exceptions. Najm requires comprehensive insurance on the vehicle to report an accident caused by natural disasters or fire.
- Can the policy be cancelled when I sell the car? Yes. Transfer of the vehicle's ownership is one of the cancellation cases under both policies, along with cancellation of its registration and the existence of an alternative policy, and the insured is refunded the amount due for the remaining period according to the calculation method set in the policy.
In short: third-party insurance is the compulsory minimum that protects others from damage caused by your vehicle, and comprehensive insurance adds protection for your own car in return for a deductible you agree on. Choose according to your car's value, its financing and how you use it, and read the policy schedule before you pay. If you are looking for your next car, you can browse the cars available at Saleh Cars Group.
Saudi Traffic Violations: How to Check, Pay and Dispute
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To check traffic violations in Saudi Arabia, open the Query Traffic Violations page on the Absher platform and enter your ID number together with the violation number or your date of birth. To pay, sign in to the Efaa platform through the National Single Sign-On, choose the violations you want to pay, then pay through the SADAD system, a mada card or a credit card. To object, use the Dispute Traffic Violations service that the Ministry of Interior provides online. These procedures may be updated from time to time, so confirm the latest steps on the official platform before you act.
What are traffic violations and who issues them?
Traffic violations are violations related to the Traffic Law and its implementing regulations. As the description of the dispute service on the National Platform explains, they are issued by the General Department of Traffic or by any other authority authorised to apply the Traffic Law and its implementing regulations. In practice, you deal with them through three main services:
- Inquiry: to find out which violations are registered against you, through the Query Traffic Violations page on the Absher platform.
- Payment: through the Efaa platform, as part of a Ministry of Finance service for paying government violations registered against individuals.
- Dispute: through the Dispute Traffic Violations service provided by the Ministry of Interior, if you have something showing that the violation is incorrect.
It helps to distinguish traffic violations from other government violations, such as Ministry of Transport violations or municipal violations, because each authority has its own services; you will find a summary in the table below.
How do you check traffic violations on Absher?
The Absher platform provides a dedicated page called Query Traffic Violations, which asks for specific search details. The steps usually go as follows:
- Open the Query Traffic Violations page from the official Absher website.
- Enter your ID number in its field.
- Choose the search type: by violation number or by date of birth.
- Enter the violation number or the date of birth, depending on the type you chose.
- Complete the verification code shown on the page, then display the result.
If you want to see the violations registered against you by different government entities in one place, the Efaa platform steps start with signing in through the National Single Sign-On (Nafath) and then viewing the registered violations, which we explain in the next section.
How do you pay traffic violations through the Efaa platform?
The service for paying government violations registered against individuals enables citizens, residents and visitors to view and pay all the violations registered against them by government entities, including traffic, smoking, government fines and other violations. The service page on the National Platform lists the payment steps as follows:
- Go to the Efaa platform.
- Choose to sign in through the National Single Sign-On.
- View the violations registered against you.
- Select the violations you want to pay.
- Continue to the electronic payment page.
- Complete the payment through the SADAD system, a mada card or a credit card.
According to the service description, the platform aims to unify and simplify violation procedures through a single digital platform that the relevant entities are linked to, so violations are issued and managed centrally. The National Platform also states that the service itself is free, meaning there is no charge for using it; this does not mean the violation amount is waived.
How do you dispute a traffic violation?
The Dispute Traffic Violations service provided by the Ministry of Interior allows you to dispute traffic violations issued by the General Department of Traffic and any other authority authorised to apply the Traffic Law and its implementing regulations. The service is provided online through the web portal and the mobile apps, and its path as shown on the service page is:
- Go to My Services.
- Choose Traffic.
- Choose Dispute Traffic Violations, then follow the instructions shown to complete the request.
We have not listed deadlines or detailed conditions for disputes here because they do not appear in the service description on the National Platform; read the conditions and instructions shown to you inside the service before submitting, and do not delay your dispute if you believe the violation is incorrect. Before you start, the following helps:
- Make sure the violation really concerns your vehicle or your licence, and that its details match what happened.
- Write the reason for your dispute clearly and briefly, stating facts rather than impressions.
- If you have documents that support your position, prepare them in advance, and provide the details the service asks for.
- Keep proof that you submitted the request until you receive the decision.
What is the difference between violation services on the official platforms?
Several entities register violations, and each service has a specific purpose. The table below summarises the services listed in the official sources we relied on:
| Service | Entity or platform | What it lets you do |
| Query Traffic Violations | Absher platform | Search by ID number with the violation number or date of birth |
| Payment of government violations registered against individuals | Ministry of Finance through the Efaa platform | View violations registered by government entities and choose which to pay |
| Dispute Traffic Violations | Ministry of Interior | Dispute violations from the traffic department and authorities authorised to apply the Traffic Law |
| Violations inquiry at the Ministry of Transport | Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services | Display violation details by searching with the violation number or the identification number |
| Municipal violations inquiry | Qassim Region Municipality as an example | View registered violations and the details of each one after signing in through the National Single Sign-On |
If a violation is registered with an entity other than the traffic department, look for that entity's inquiry service on the National Platform; for example, the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services offers an inquiry through its web portal via the Ministry Services link and then the Violations Inquiry service in the list of inquiry services.
What are the most common causes of traffic violations you can avoid?
The best way to deal with violations is not to commit them in the first place, and most of their common causes can be avoided with simple habits that protect you and others on the road:
- Exceeding the speed limit: watch the road signs, because the limit changes between highways, inner streets and school areas, and cruise control helps you hold a steady speed on long roads.
- Not wearing a seat belt: make it a habit before moving off, for you and all passengers, however short the trip.
- Using the phone while driving: set navigation and calls before moving off, and leave messages until you stop in a safe, permitted place.
- Expired documents: track the expiry dates of your driving licence, the vehicle registration (istimara) and the insurance policy, and renew them before they are due.
- An expired periodic inspection: note its date in your phone calendar, and prepare the car beforehand with this checklist for preparing your car for the periodic inspection.
- Running a red light or stopping in prohibited places: slow down when approaching a signal, be ready to stop when it changes, and park only in permitted spaces.
- Neglecting the car's condition: make sure the lights and indicators work, and do not ignore warning lights; read about dashboard warning light meanings to know when to stop immediately.
Remember that driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control help you, but they do not replace your attention, and they do not take over your responsibility to follow the rules.
What practical tips should you follow before paying or disputing?
- Check your violations regularly so they do not pile up without your knowledge.
- Read the details of each violation before deciding, then choose whether to pay it or dispute it.
- Reach the official platforms by typing their address yourself or through their official apps, and do not pay through links sent to you in messages from unknown sources.
- Do not share your verification code, login details or card details with anyone.
- Keep proof of payment until you are sure the violation status has been updated.
- If you face a technical problem, contact the entity that provides the service through its official channels.
Frequently asked questions about traffic violations
- Do I need to visit a government office to settle a violation? Usually not; the inquiry, payment and dispute services mentioned are provided online through the official portals and apps, and the dispute service page shows a branches link for anyone who needs it.
- Can I pay more than one violation at the same time? The Efaa platform steps include viewing the registered violations and then selecting the violations you want to pay before continuing to payment, so you decide what to pay.
- Does the Efaa platform include non-traffic violations? Yes. The service description states that it covers traffic, smoking, government fines and other violations registered by government entities.
- Can I dispute a traffic violation registered by an entity other than the traffic department? According to the service description, disputes cover traffic violations issued by the General Department of Traffic and any other authority authorised to apply the Traffic Law and its implementing regulations.
- Who do I call if I face a problem? The service pages on the National Platform list the Ministry of Finance number 19990 for the payment service and the Ministry of Interior number 966114011111 for the dispute service, as well as each entity's official email address.
Dealing with traffic violations is easier than it looks: check them on Absher, pay them on the Efaa platform, dispute them through the Ministry of Interior service if you have a clear reason, and always review the updated steps on the official platforms. Most importantly, avoid their common causes from the start: keep to the speed limit, fasten your seat belt, keep your phone out of your hand, and renew your documents before they expire.