BAIC X7 Honor

The BAIC X7 Honor is one of the most prominent sports utility vehicles (SUVs) offered by the Chinese automaker BAIC. Since its launch in 2020, this vehicle has gained widespread appreciation due to its modern design and advanced technical specifications.

Exterior Design:

The BAIC X7 Honor features an exterior design that blends elegance and modernity. The vehicle is equipped with LED headlights with daytime running lights, along with new front air vents and hidden door handles that enhance the aesthetic appeal and aerodynamics of the design. The side mirrors are electrically adjustable, providing added convenience for the driver.

Dimensions:

  • Length: 4,710 mm
  • Width: 1,892 mm
  • Height: 1,715 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,800 mm
  • Ground Clearance: 200 mm
  • Curb Weight: 1,665 kg

Engine and Performance:

The BAIC X7 Honor is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 180 horsepower and 275 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT) and features front-wheel drive. The car is notable for its fuel efficiency of 16.6 km/l, making it an economical choice for families.

Interior Design:

The BAIC X7 Honor offers a luxurious interior equipped with Nappa leather seats, with power-adjustable front seats. The front seats also come with heating and cooling functions, while a panoramic sunroof enhances the spacious feel and allows natural light inside.

Technology and Features:

The vehicle is equipped with two smart interactive screens: a 12.3-inch central touchscreen for the infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. It also supports features such as:

  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • Facial recognition system to monitor driver fatigue
  • Auto Park system for self-parking assistance

Safety Systems:

The BAIC X7 Honor prioritizes safety, offering:

  • Six airbags
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Blind Spot Monitoring System
  • Lane Departure Warning System
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Hill Start Assist System

Pricing in Saudi Arabia:

The 2024 BAIC X7 Honor is available in the Saudi Arabian market with a starting price of 86,900 SAR before VAT (99,935 SAR including Value Added Tax (VAT)). The offer includes free maintenance for three years or up to 60,000 km at the authorized dealer, subject to terms and conditions.

Conclusion:

The BAIC X7 Honor is an ideal choice for those seeking an SUV that combines elegant design, strong performance, and advanced technology. With a wide range of features and safety systems, this vehicle provides a premium driving experience, catering to both families and individuals.

For more details, visit the official website of Saleh Cars:
salehcars.com

FAQs

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When to Replace Car Tyres: Tread, Cracks and Warning Signs

When to Replace Car Tyres: Tread, Cracks and Warning Signs

Table Of Contents:

  • When should you replace car tyres? The key signs in brief
  • How do you check tread depth using the TWI wear indicators?
  • What do tyre cracks and sidewall bulges mean?
  • What does the tyre wear pattern reveal?
  • How do Saudi heat and sand affect tyre life?
  • Should you replace tyres in pairs or all four together?
  • What about the spare tyre?
  • How do you choose the right replacement tyre: size, load and speed?
  • What is the tyre energy efficiency label in Saudi Arabia?
  • Frequently asked questions about replacing car tyres

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:

  1. Park the car on level ground and turn the steering wheel to one side so you can see the front tyres clearly.
  2. 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.
  3. Compare the level of the tread surface with the bar; the closer they are to level, the closer the replacement date.
  4. Repeat the check on the inner edge, the centre and the outer edge, and at several points around the tyre's circumference.
  5. For a more precise reading, use a tread depth gauge, available at tyre shops, and record the reading for each tyre.
  6. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Load index and speed symbol: choose values equal to or higher than the car manufacturer's recommendation, never lower.
  3. Manufacture date: ask for recently made tyres with close dates, especially on the same axle.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Driving License Renewal on Absher: Requirements and Steps

Driving License Renewal on Absher: Requirements and Steps

Table of Contents:

  • What Is the Driving License Renewal Service on Absher and Who Can Use It?
  • What Are the Published Driving License Renewal Requirements?
  • What Are the Steps for Driving License Renewal on Absher?
  • Why Can License Renewal Fail to Proceed, and What Should You Check?
  • How Does Driving License Renewal Differ From Istimara Renewal?
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Driving License Renewal
  • Conclusion

Driving license renewal in Saudi Arabia is done electronically through the Absher platform under traffic services, without visiting traffic offices, provided you complete the regulatory requirements such as paying the fees and completing a medical examination. This electronic service covers private driving licenses and motorcycle licenses only, and the remaining validity of the license must be less than 365 days. This guide explains the requirements as shown on the official service page at the time of writing, the renewal and delivery steps, why a request may not proceed, and how it differs from renewing the vehicle registration (Istimara).

What Is the Driving License Renewal Service on Absher and Who Can Use It?

The driving license renewal page on the National Portal describes a service that lets individuals renew their driving license electronically, easily and efficiently, without visiting traffic offices. It lists the service duration as immediate and the delivery channels as the website portal and smartphone apps. The Absher service guide defines the beneficiary as a citizen or resident who is registered and activated on the Absher platform.

So first make sure your Absher account is active and that you can log in, then check your license type. According to the prerequisites tab, the service covers renewing private driving licenses and motorcycle licenses only. If your license is of another type, do not assume this service will accept it; ask the official traffic channels about the right procedure for your case.

 

What Are the Published Driving License Renewal Requirements?

The official service page lists the following requirements. Use the table as a checklist before logging in to Absher, while following what the service displays for your case when you apply. Requirements may be updated, and the service page at the time you apply is the reference.

Requirement as Shown on the Service Page What to Check Before Starting
A private or motorcycle driving license The license type recorded in your details
Payment of license renewal fees through government payments via banks That payment was actually made for the correct service, not just that a payment screen was opened
Payment of traffic violations, if any The status of any violations recorded against you before applying
Remaining license validity of less than 365 days Your expiry date, using the driving license information service
A medical examination through a certified medical center That the examination was done at a certified center

The required documents tab repeats payment of any violations, payment of the renewal fees and the medical examination, and does not mention uploading photos or extra papers. Do not rely on circulated lists that add unpublished documents. If you have violations, review how to check and pay traffic violations before starting the renewal.

 

What Are the Steps for Driving License Renewal on Absher?

The following steps are taken from the service page on the National Portal. If the menus look different in your interface, look for the driving license renewal service under traffic services, and do not choose a similarly named service such as vehicle registration renewal.

  1. Log in to the Absher platform.
  2. Select “My Services”.
  3. Choose “Traffic” from the services list.
  4. Select the “Renew Driving License” service.
  5. Read the service description, terms and conditions, then select “Next”.
  6. Review your personal information, specify the renewal period (2 years, 5 years or 10 years), then select “Confirm Renewal”.
  7. Fill in your National Address details for license delivery.
  8. Review the entered data.
  9. Pay the delivery fees using a card (Visa, Mada, Mastercard).
  10. A message confirms that the driving license renewal is completed.

Note that the payment inside these steps is for delivery. For the renewal fees themselves, the prerequisites tab says they are paid through government payments via banks. This guide does not state amounts for any period; follow what the service shows for your case. Before filling in the address, make sure your National Address is correct, because it is used for the license delivery request.

Closing the screen or completing a payment alone does not prove the renewal is complete. Check for the success message, then review your license details before repeating any step if your session was interrupted.

 

Why Can License Renewal Fail to Proceed, and What Should You Check?

The service page does not publish a list of error messages, but the published requirements help you identify which item to review. Always start with the text of the message shown in your account, then compare it with the following possibilities:

  • The remaining validity of the license is not less than 365 days; check the expiry date through the driving license information service.
  • The renewal fees have not been paid or the payment has not appeared yet; review the transaction status and receipt before paying again.
  • There are unpaid traffic violations; do not assume that filing a dispute replaces this requirement before its outcome is clear.
  • There is no medical examination from a certified medical center.
  • The license type is not covered, because the service is limited to private and motorcycle licenses.
  • The account is not registered or activated on Absher, since the service guide defines the beneficiary as a registered and activated user.

If the message is unclear, note its text, the time of the attempt and the stage where you stopped, then contact the official support channels shown on the service page. Never share your password or verification code with anyone, and do not treat a failed attempt as a final rejection without confirmation from the competent authority.

 

How Does Driving License Renewal Differ From Istimara Renewal?

The two documents are often confused because both are called a license. The driving license belongs to the driver, while the Istimara is the vehicle registration and relates to the car itself. Each therefore has its own Absher service and its own requirements, so do not apply the conditions of one to the other.

The medical examination and the remaining license validity are published requirements for driving license renewal and have nothing to do with the condition of your car. If what you need to renew is the vehicle document, follow the guide to vehicle registration renewal on Absher and why it may fail, which explains that service’s requirements and steps.

Likewise, vehicle insurance does not appear among the driving license renewal requirements on the service page. If you are reviewing your car insurance at the same time for other reasons, read about comprehensive versus third-party car insurance to choose a suitable policy.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving License Renewal

Can I renew my driving license without visiting a traffic office?

Yes, according to the official service page: the service is electronic through Absher without the need to visit traffic offices, provided the regulatory requirements are completed. If your case cannot proceed, follow the service message and the competent authority’s guidance.

How early can I renew my license before it expires?

The prerequisites tab requires the remaining validity of the license to be less than 365 days. You can check your license validity electronically through the driving license information service listed among the related services.

Is a medical examination required for driving license renewal?

Yes. The official page lists a medical examination through a certified medical center among both the prerequisites and the required documents. Complete the examination at a certified center before starting the service.

What renewal periods are available?

The service steps mention choosing the renewal period of 2 years, 5 years or 10 years while reviewing your details. Choose from the options shown to you and review what applies to each option as displayed in the service.

How do I receive my license after renewal?

The steps include filling in your National Address details for license delivery and then paying the delivery fees by card. The National Portal also lists a digital driving license display service among the related services, which is separate from renewal.

 

Conclusion

Prepare the driving license renewal requirements first: pay the fees and any violations, complete the medical examination at a certified center, and confirm that the remaining validity meets the published condition. Then follow the steps on Absher and check for the success message. If the request cannot proceed, address the item identified in the message or request clarification through the official channels.

Choosing a Car Battery: Size, Capacity, Type and Installation

Choosing a Car Battery: Size, Capacity, Type and Installation

Table of Contents:

  • When Should You Start Choosing a Car Battery?
  • Which Specifications Should Match the Manual or Label?
  • What Do Capacity (Ah) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) Mean?
  • What Is the Difference Between Flooded, EFB and AGM Batteries?
  • How Do You Read the Manufacture Date and Warranty Terms?
  • How Does Saudi Heat Affect Your Battery Choice?
  • What Should You Consider When Installing the New Battery?
  • How Do You Dispose of the Old Battery Safely?
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Car Battery
  • Conclusion

Choosing a car battery starts with confirming that the battery really is the cause of the problem, then matching what the owner’s manual or the current battery label specifies: size and mounting, terminal orientation, capacity in Ah, cold cranking amps (CCA) and battery technology. After that, check the manufacture date and warranty terms, and make sure installation is done properly, which may include registering the battery in the car’s system. This guide explains each step in general terms; your owner’s manual and a qualified technician remain the reference for your car’s specifications.

When Should You Start Choosing a Car Battery?

Do not buy a battery just because the car failed to start once. Weak starting can be linked to the battery, but also to the starter motor, the connections or the charging system. Ask a specialist to test the battery and charging system with suitable equipment, and review the car battery failure symptoms and how to test them to recognise signs worth checking.

If the engine cranks normally but does not start, the battery may not be the cause; see the guide on an engine that cranks but will not start. If the battery keeps going flat, there may be a hidden electrical drain in the car, and fitting a new battery without fixing the cause may simply pass the problem on to it. Once testing confirms the battery, prepare the following before visiting the seller:

  • A clear photo of the current battery label showing all printed details.
  • The battery specification page in the owner’s manual, if available.
  • Whether the car has an automatic engine stop-start system.
  • Where the battery sits: engine bay, boot or under a seat.

 

Which Specifications Should Match the Manual or Label?

The first reference is the owner’s manual, then the label of the original battery if it is still fitted. The table below summarises what to compare before paying and where to find it.

Item Where to find it Why it matters
Size or group Owner’s manual or current battery label Defines overall dimensions and fit on the tray
Mounting dimensions Battery tray and hold-down clamp A poorly secured battery vibrates and can be damaged
Terminal orientation Position of the positive and negative terminals on the current battery A different layout may stop cables reaching or strain them
Capacity (Ah) Label or owner’s manual Indicates the energy stored in the battery
Cold cranking amps (CCA) Label Indicates the battery’s ability to deliver starting current
Technology type Label and owner’s manual Must suit the charging system and any stop-start system

Two batteries can look alike yet differ in terminal orientation, height or mounting lip. Ask the seller to compare the new battery directly with the old one. If the current label differs from the manual, the previous battery may not have matched in the first place; rely on the manual or ask the dealer or a qualified technician.

 

What Do Capacity (Ah) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) Mean?

Capacity in Ah describes how much energy the battery stores, which matters when the battery powers the car’s systems with the engine off. Cold cranking amps (CCA) describe the battery’s ability to deliver a high current at the moment of starting in cold conditions, according to a specific test standard.

A label may state CCA according to a different standard from another battery, so only compare two figures measured to the same standard, and ask the seller to clarify. The general rule is not to go below the car’s specified capacity or current.

On the other hand, a higher figure is not automatically better; what matters is that the battery keeps the correct size and technology. In cars that record battery data in their system, the actual capacity of the new battery may need to be entered during registration, so tell the technician about any difference from the original.

 

What Is the Difference Between Flooded, EFB and AGM Batteries?

The general idea of each type is as follows, while the manual decides what your car needs:

  • Conventional flooded battery: common in cars without an automatic stop-start system; some serviceable types need the electrolyte level checked.
  • EFB battery: an enhanced flooded battery built to withstand repeated starting and discharge cycles better than a conventional one, used in many cars with stop-start systems.
  • AGM battery: the electrolyte is absorbed in glass fibre mats and the battery is sealed; it copes better with electrical loads and repeated discharge, and is used in cars with higher electrical demands.

In a car with automatic stop-start, the battery handles frequent engine restarts and powers systems while the engine is stopped. Fitting a lower technology than specified, such as a conventional flooded battery instead of EFB or EFB instead of AGM, may weaken system performance, shorten battery life and trigger warning messages. Moving to a higher technology should only happen if the owner’s manual or the dealer allows it.

If the battery sits inside the cabin or boot, the manufacturer may specify a sealed type or a particular vent outlet; do not fit a different battery in that location without confirming that it matches.

 

How Do You Read the Manufacture Date and Warranty Terms?

The manufacture date usually appears as a code printed on the lid or case or on a small sticker, and the code format differs between manufacturers, so ask the seller to explain the code on the battery itself, and prefer the most recently made battery among the matching options.

A battery stored for a long time may lose some charge, so ask whether the seller tested it before sale. For the warranty, read the written terms on the invoice or warranty card rather than relying on a verbal promise, and pay attention to the following:

  • What the warranty covers, how a fault is proven, and whether the battery must be tested by the seller.
  • Whether installation elsewhere, or fitting the battery to a car it does not match, affects the warranty.
  • Which documents are needed for a claim; keep the invoice somewhere easy to find.

 

How Does Saudi Heat Affect Your Battery Choice?

High temperatures speed up the reactions inside a battery and may increase fluid loss and ageing of the internal plates. This does not mean choosing a battery simply because it is marketed for heat; it means sticking to the correct specification and technology and choosing a recently made battery.

After installation, help the battery by parking in the shade where possible, keeping the terminals clean and checking the battery and charging system during routine maintenance. For more on how heat affects the car in general, read the summer car care guide for Saudi heat.

 

What Should You Consider When Installing the New Battery?

If you are not confident about the steps, leave the installation to a qualified technician. If you fit it yourself, wear eye protection and gloves, switch the engine off and keep the key away, disconnect and reconnect the terminals in the order given in the owner’s manual, avoid letting a metal tool touch both terminals, and keep any sparks or flames away from the battery.

  • Battery registration: some cars require the new battery to be registered in the energy management system with a diagnostic tool so that charging is adjusted for a new battery. Ask the technician whether your car needs this.
  • Saving settings: disconnecting the battery may erase settings such as the clock and radio, and some systems may need resetting according to the manual. Some technicians use a memory saver during the swap.
  • Clean terminals: remove corrosion from the terminals and cable ends, and check that the clamps are sound before connecting.
  • Secure mounting: fix the battery with its hold-down clamp so it cannot move, tighten the terminals without excessive force, and refit the protective covers.

After installation, start the car and watch for any warning message. If one appears, return to the technician to check the installation and registration rather than trying to clear the warning yourself.

 

How Do You Dispose of the Old Battery Safely?

A battery contains acid and lead, so do not open it, drain it or put it in household waste. Keep it upright, protect its terminals from contact, and hand it to the seller, a workshop or a party that accepts used batteries for recycling. If it is cracked or leaking, do not touch it with bare hands and ask the workshop to handle it.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Car Battery

How can I tell a battery fault from a starter fault?

Slow cranking with dim lights may point to the battery, while a click with bright lights may point to the starter motor. These are indications, not a diagnosis, so have the battery and charging system tested and review the signs of a failing starter motor before buying.

Can I fit a battery with a higher capacity than the original?

It may be possible in some cases if the size and technology still match, but the decision rests with the owner’s manual and the technician, especially in cars that record battery data in their system.

Can I fit a conventional battery to a car with stop-start?

This is not recommended; use the technology specified in the manual, such as EFB or AGM, because a lower technology may not withstand the frequent restart pattern.

Do all cars need the new battery to be registered?

No, but some cars require it using a diagnostic tool. Ask the technician or check the manual before installation, and do not assume the swap is complete once the terminals are connected.

What should I do with the old battery after replacing it?

Do not open it or throw it away with household waste. Keep it upright and hand it to the seller, a workshop or a party that accepts used batteries for recycling.

 

Conclusion

First confirm that the battery is the problem, then match size, terminals, capacity, CCA and technology to the owner’s manual, and check the manufacture date and warranty terms. Leave installation and registration to a technician if you are unsure, and dispose of the old battery safely.

Accident Damage Assessment in Saudi Arabia: Taqdeer Guide

Accident Damage Assessment in Saudi Arabia: Taqdeer Guide

Table of Contents:

  • What Is Accident Damage Assessment and Who Oversees It?
  • When Do You Need an Assessment After a Najm or Police Report?
  • How Do You Book a Taqdeer Appointment and Track It?
  • What Should You Prepare Before Visiting an Assessment Center?
  • How Do You Read a Damage Assessment Report?
  • How Do You Review the Assessment With Your Workshop and Insurer?
  • What Should You Do If You Disagree With the Assessment?
  • Why Should You Keep the Assessment Report After the Repair?
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Accident Damage Assessment
  • Conclusion

Accident damage assessment is a step you may need after a Najm or traffic police report. According to the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers (TAQEEM), it means determining the cost of repairing the vehicle, including parts, or estimating its market value before or after the damage. These assessments are managed electronically through the Taqdeer system, which operates under the Authority’s supervision and lets you book an appointment and check the status of your assessment. This guide covers the stage after the report: when to seek an assessment, what to prepare, how to read the report and review it with your workshop and insurer, and what to do if you disagree with the result.

What Is Accident Damage Assessment and Who Oversees It?

On its official English website, TAQEEM describes vehicle damage assessment valuation as “the act or process of determining the value of repairing the vehicle including the spare parts, or estimating the market value of the vehicle before and after the accident”; the Arabic version also mentions labour explicitly. The outcome may therefore be a repair cost, or a market value before or after the damage, depending on the case.

TAQEEM describes Taqdeer as “an online integrated system for managing, operating, and organizing vehicle damage assessment processes” and lists “Book an appointment at Taqdeer centers” among its services. The Taqdeer system website (in Arabic) states that it operates under the supervision of the Saudi Authority for Accredited Valuers. An assessment is a technical valuation of the damage; it is neither the accident report nor your insurer’s decision.

 

When Do You Need an Assessment After a Najm or Police Report?

The sequence starts with attending to and documenting the accident. If you have not completed that stage, begin with the guide to Najm reporting steps and when to call the traffic police, then return to this guide.

The official pages we relied on do not state that an assessment is required for every accident, nor do they describe the content of report messages. Follow what the accident report and your insurer require in your case, and ask before any repair starts, because repairing damage before it is assessed may cost you the chance to document it as it was. Useful questions for your insurer:

  • Does my case need a damage assessment, and from which body?
  • Is the electronic report enough, or must it be sent in a particular way?
  • Should I wait for the assessment before taking the car to a workshop?
  • Which documents do you need with the report to progress the claim?

 

How Do You Book a Taqdeer Appointment and Track It?

The Taqdeer website presents the service in three consecutive stages, which can be summarised as follows:

  1. Book an appointment and go to the assessment center, using the booking service, which the site describes as booking a new appointment to assess your vehicle’s damage.
  2. Have the vehicle damage assessed at the assessment center.
  3. Receive the report electronically, with the option to follow it through the report status service, which lets you check the status of your assessment.

If your plans change before the appointment, the manage bookings service allows you, according to the site, to modify or cancel the booking, and the assessment centers page helps you find the nearest centers in your city. We do not mention numbers of centers, timings or fees here; follow what the service shows for your case when you book.

 

What Should You Prepare Before Visiting an Assessment Center?

The pages we reviewed do not publish a document list, so the list below is practical rather than an official requirement; what the booking screen and center ask for takes precedence:

  • Your booking details as shown once the booking is complete.
  • The accident report reference from Najm or the traffic police.
  • Your ID and the vehicle registration; ask what is needed if you are not the vehicle owner.
  • Unedited photos of the damage taken at the time of the accident.
  • Your insurance policy details and the party handling the claim.

Do not repair the damage being assessed before the appointment unless the relevant authority tells you to, and do not drive an unsafe car; arrange transport if you notice a leak, a red warning light or a steering fault.

 

How Do You Read a Damage Assessment Report?

The report format may vary from case to case, but the Authority’s definition shows what it centres on: labour, spare parts, or market value before or after the damage. Use the table to review it item by item:

Item What to Check What to Ask
Vehicle and accident details The car and the accident reference match Do these details relate to my car and this accident?
Spare parts The listed parts compared with the documented damage What type of part does the assessment assume?
Labour Listed work such as bodywork and paint Does the work cover all the damage I documented?
Market value Whether a value before or after the damage is stated On what basis was this value reached?

To understand how the type of part affects a repair, see genuine vs aftermarket vs used car parts. Do not assume the report specifies the type of part unless it says so explicitly; ask about it.

 

How Do You Review the Assessment With Your Workshop and Insurer?

The assessment sets a value, while the compensation and repair path is governed by your policy and your insurer. Check your policy type and what it covers in the guide to comprehensive versus third-party car insurance, and do not assume that the assessed amount is what you will receive in every case.

  • Show the report to the workshop before work starts and ask them to compare its items with what they will actually do.
  • If hidden damage appears after disassembly, ask your insurer how it will be handled before the repair continues.
  • Ask the workshop for an itemised invoice and photos before and after the repair.
  • Record every contact with your insurer: the date, the person and what you were asked for.

If the car needs sensor or camera calibration after the repair, ask whether it is included in the assessment or in the workshop’s quote.

 

What Should You Do If You Disagree With the Assessment?

We did not find a published objection mechanism for assessment results on the official pages we reviewed, so we do not describe a specific procedure. The right step is to ask the source about the official procedure:

  1. Identify exactly which item you disagree with: a part, a piece of work or a market value.
  2. Gather supporting evidence: accident photos, the workshop’s notes after disassembly and any invoice.
  3. Contact Taqdeer through the support and help channels shown on its website and ask what procedure is available for your case.
  4. Also ask your insurer about its review procedure and what it needs from you in writing.

Do not accept a settlement you disagree with before you understand its consequences, and ask for written replies where possible.

 

Why Should You Keep the Assessment Report After the Repair?

The report and invoice help you later when you sell the car or when a buyer asks about the accident. The guide to reading a Mojaz report and its limits explains how accident records in a vehicle history should be understood and what cannot be concluded from them.

If you are a buyer looking at a car with signs of repair, ask for the assessment report and invoice if they exist, and use the guide on how to tell whether a car has been repaired alongside an independent technical inspection.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Accident Damage Assessment

Is an accident damage assessment the same as a Najm report?

No. The report documents the accident, while the assessment estimates the repair cost or the market value of the vehicle before or after the damage.

Do I need an assessment for every accident?

Do not rely on a general rule; follow what the accident report and your insurer require in your case, and ask them before repairing the car.

How can I check the status of my assessment report?

The Taqdeer website offers an assessment status inquiry service and lists receiving the report electronically as one of the service stages.

Can I change or cancel my assessment appointment?

The website offers a manage bookings service for changes and cancellations; follow what the service shows for your booking.

Is the assessed amount the final compensation?

Not necessarily. Compensation depends on your policy and your insurer’s procedures, so ask your insurer how it is calculated in your case.

 

Conclusion

After the report, ask your insurer what your case needs, book the assessment through the official system and read the report item by item before any repair. If you disagree, ask Taqdeer and your insurer about the official procedure, and keep your documents for the future.

Car Recalls in Saudi Arabia: VIN Checks and Next Steps

Car Recalls in Saudi Arabia: VIN Checks and Next Steps

Table of Contents:

  • What are car recalls in Saudi Arabia?
  • What should you prepare before a VIN recall check?
  • How do you search the recall platform?
  • How should you interpret the search result?
  • What should you do if your car is included?
  • How do you follow up and keep proof of repair?
  • What should you check before buying a used car?
  • Frequently asked questions about car recalls

To check car recalls in Saudi Arabia, enter the VIN on the official recall platform, then read the campaign details and follow the instructions for your vehicle. A matching model name or model year alone does not establish inclusion, and no result does not mean the car is defect-free. If a campaign applies, contact the responsible party named in it, ask about driving instructions and an appointment, and retain confirmation of the completed repair.

What are car recalls in Saudi Arabia?

A recall is an action to address an announced defect, not a general description of every problem a car develops. The Ministry of Commerce explains that its enquiry service checks whether products or vehicles are included in campaigns announced in cooperation with manufacturers and local agents. Start with the official source rather than a shared image or a message of unknown origin.

Refer to the Ministry of Commerce defective products enquiry service (in Arabic) for the service sequence: access the platform, enter the VIN or search for the product, then follow the campaign details and required actions. Do not assume a recall means replacing the car; the relevant action is the one specified for the campaign once its applicability to your vehicle is confirmed.

 

What should you prepare before a VIN recall check?

Have the vehicle identification number, or VIN, ready. Read it from a reliable document for the car or from the location identified in the owner’s manual. Do not substitute the registration plate number or another identifier simply because its name sounds similar. For help identifying it, see the guide to your vehicle identification number, then match the details to the actual car.

  • Copy the complete number exactly and check the letters and digits before searching, especially when copying from an image or message.
  • Keep the basic vehicle details and any recall notice you received so you can explain your enquiry clearly when making contact.
  • If the number on a document differs from the one on the car, have a qualified party clarify the discrepancy before relying on the search result.

Do not send full images of your documents to untrusted accounts to make an enquiry. Start through the official channel and provide what the responsible party requests through its authorised contact method, without posting your details in public comments.

 

How do you search the recall platform?

  1. Open the official defective products recall platform and find the vehicle or product checking field rather than only browsing the latest announcements.
  2. Enter the VIN you checked and run the search. If the field rejects the entry, review the number and field instructions rather than guessing a replacement character.
  3. Read the full result and open the details of any associated campaign. Note its reference if shown, the defect description and the required action.
  4. Review the instructions, then contact the specified party to confirm VIN inclusion and arrange the next step, rather than choosing a contact from an unofficial advertisement.

Searching by product or brand name helps you find announcements, but it does not replace matching the individual car. Keep the date of your enquiry and a copy of the details for reference. Do not treat an old screenshot as a permanent answer about recalls, particularly when a new notice arrives.

 

How should you interpret the search result?

Distinguish finding an announcement from confirming that your vehicle is included, and distinguish inclusion from actual completion of the required action. This table helps you choose the next step; it does not represent fixed status labels used by the platform:

What did you find? What should you do?
An announcement naming your car model Match the VIN and check the campaign scope before assuming it applies to your car.
A result indicating that the vehicle is included Read the campaign instructions and contact the party responsible for carrying out the action.
No result, or a search that could not be completed Check the entry; if you have a notice or a specific concern, seek confirmation from the relevant party.
The seller says the repair was completed Request the completion document and match it to the VIN and the relevant campaign.

The absence of a recall result does not guarantee safety or replace an inspection when there are unusual symptoms. Likewise, do not attribute a noise or vibration to a campaign simply because its description seems similar. Diagnosing a fault requires a professional, while the enquiry answers a different question: whether the car is included in the campaign.

 

What should you do if your car is included?

Read the full defect description, risk and instructions before planning a trip to a service centre. There is no single driving recommendation for every campaign. If the announcement specifies instructions about use or stopping, follow them. If anything remains unclear, ask the responsible party how to handle and transport the car before moving it.

  • Provide the VIN and campaign reference, and ask for confirmation that the discussion concerns this specific car and action.
  • Ask where the work takes place, how to book and what to bring, and confirm the instructions to follow until the appointment.
  • Keep the contact and appointment details, and ask how to obtain written confirmation when the work is finished.

Do not deliberately try to reproduce the defect, dismantle a suspected component or cancel a warning to continue driving. If the action requires a part or technical work, do not assume that buying a replacement yourself closes the campaign. To understand parts choices outside this process, read the guide to genuine, aftermarket and used car parts; follow up recall work with the party responsible for it.

 

How do you follow up and keep proof of repair?

When collecting the car, request a document showing the work performed and its date, linked to the VIN and campaign. Check that the details concern your car, and ask whether the action is complete or another step remains. An appointment confirmation or service-centre visit alone does not necessarily show that the recall work is finished.

Keep the document with the vehicle records, a copy of the announcement and important correspondence. If a later search seems inconsistent with the completion document, show both to the responsible party and request clarification instead of assuming one overrides the other. If symptoms remain or a concern appears after the work, report it and request a technical assessment. Proof of campaign repair is not a certificate that the car has no other faults.

 

What should you check before buying a used car?

Add a check for open recalls, meaning those whose required action is not yet complete, to your pre-purchase checklist. Request the VIN, match it to the car and search for yourself rather than relying on a verbal assurance or an image for a similar vehicle. If the seller mentions a completed earlier campaign, request its document and review the VIN and work details.

If a campaign applies and completion is unclear, ask the responsible party what remains before deciding to buy or use the vehicle. Do not make a recall result a substitute for a technical inspection or a review of the car’s condition; combine it with these used car inspection tips before purchase. The aim is to establish what has been verified and what needs follow-up, not to obtain a comprehensive guarantee from one search result.

 

Frequently asked questions about car recalls

  1. Is the car name enough to establish inclusion? Do not rely on it alone. Identify the vehicle using its VIN, then confirm campaign applicability with the responsible party if the result remains unclear.
  2. Does no result mean the car is completely safe? No. The enquiry is not a comprehensive technical inspection and does not justify ignoring symptoms or warnings that need professional assessment.
  3. Should I wait for a fault before making contact? Once inclusion is confirmed, follow the campaign instructions and contact the responsible party about the action without waiting for a noticeable symptom or trying to produce one.
  4. Can I book any workshop to close the recall? Start with the party identified in the announcement and ask it to direct you to the place of service and explain completion confirmation, rather than assuming any independent repair is enough.
  5. What should I keep after the action is completed? Retain confirmation linked to the VIN and campaign, the work date and important correspondence to make follow-up or explaining the car’s history when selling it easier.

 

Start with the correct VIN, read the full announcement and follow up with the responsible party until completion and documentation are clear. Make the enquiry part of caring for a car and checking it before purchase, not a replacement for a technical inspection or its specific safety instructions.

Car Brand Logos and Names: A Guide to Badges in Saudi Arabia

Car Brand Logos and Names: A Guide to Badges in Saudi Arabia

Table Of Contents:

  • What are car brand logos and where do you find them on a car?
  • What are the best-known Japanese car brand logos?
  • What are the Korean car brand logos?
  • Which Chinese car brand logos are common in Saudi Arabia?
  • How do you recognise the new Chinese car brands?
  • What are the German and European car brand logos?
  • What are the American car brand logos?
  • Car brand logos table: brand, country of origin and badge description
  • Frequently asked questions about car brand logos

Car brand logos are the badges and names each manufacturer places on the front grille, the boot lid and the centre of the steering wheel, and the easiest way to learn them is to group them by country of origin: Japanese badges such as Toyota's three ovals, Korean ones such as Hyundai's slanted H, and Chinese brands, many of which spell out their full name in Latin letters, alongside German, European and American badges. In this guide you will find each brand's name as it is written and said, a short description of its badge, its meaning where it is documented, and a table for quick comparison.

What are car brand logos and where do you find them on a car?

A car badge (the logo or emblem) is the trademark that identifies the manufacturer, and it usually appears in several places:

  • The centre of the front grille or the bonnet, the most visible spot for the logo.
  • The boot lid, where the model name and sometimes the trim are usually written next to it.
  • The centre of the steering wheel, the wheel caps and the car key.

Badges fall into two types: a standalone symbol such as a star, rings or a lion, or a name spelled out in letters, as with many American and new Chinese brands, and knowing this difference helps you recognise a car from a distance.

 

What are the best-known Japanese car brand logos?

Japanese badges are very familiar on the Kingdom's roads, and most are simple symbols that are easy to remember:

  • Toyota: three ovals that form the letter T; the company says the two overlapping ovals represent mutual trust between the customer and the company, and the outer oval represents the global expansion of its technology.
  • Lexus: a curved letter L inside an oval; it is Toyota's luxury vehicle division.
  • Nissan: the name NISSAN across a thin circle; the name began as an abbreviation of the Japanese holding company Nihon Sangyo.
  • Honda: a wide, upright letter H inside a frame with rounded corners.
  • Mitsubishi: three red diamonds meeting at the centre, chosen by founder Iwasaki Yataro because they recalled the emblem of the Tosa clan that employed him and his own family crest.
  • Mazda: a stretched letter M shaped like wings inside a circle; according to the company's website, the name is also linked to its founder, Jujiro Matsuda.
  • Suzuki: a red letter S with sharp lines.
  • Isuzu: the name ISUZU in bold letters; the name comes from the Isuzu River and means fifty bells.

 

What are the Korean car brand logos?

  • Hyundai: a slanted letter H inside an oval; the Korean word means modernity.
  • Kia: the word KIA in a sharp, angular script; according to the company, the name means rising from Asia.
  • Genesis: two spread wings with a shield in the middle; it is the luxury brand of Hyundai Motor Group.

 

Which Chinese car brand logos are common in Saudi Arabia?

Chinese cars have become familiar in the Saudi market, and their best-known badges include:

  • Changan: a shape like the letter V inside a circle; the name comes from the Chongqing Changan Arsenal and literally means long-lasting peace.
  • Chery: an oval with a symbol resembling the letter A in the middle.
  • Geely: the name GEELY is written in Latin letters on the rear of many of its models.
  • Haval: the name HAVAL in large letters; it is a brand specialising in SUVs, owned by Great Wall Motor, which is named after the Great Wall of China.
  • MG: the letters MG inside an octagon; it is a British marque founded in Oxford and owned today by the Chinese company SAIC Motor.
  • BYD: the letters BYD in a bold typeface; the name had no particular meaning, and the company later adopted Build Your Dreams as a slogan matching its letters.
  • Hongqi: a vertical red strip running from the bonnet to the grille on many of its models; the name means red banner, and it is the oldest Chinese passenger car brand, owned by FAW Group.

 

How do you recognise the new Chinese car brands?

Many Chinese brands have appeared in recent years, some cannot be recognised from the badge alone, and here are practical ways to tell them apart:

  1. Read the written name: many new brands spell out their full name on the grille or the boot instead of a standalone symbol, such as Jetour, Omoda, Jaecoo and Deepal.
  2. Know the parent company: Jetour, Omoda and Jaecoo belong to Chery, Deepal to Changan, Haval to Great Wall and Lynk & Co to Geely, and brands within one group may share some models or platforms.
  3. Learn what the name means: Jetour combines the words jet and tour, signifying a convenient journey according to the brand; the O in Omoda comes from oxygen and moda means modern, according to Chery; Jaecoo comes from the German word Jäger, meaning hunter, and the English word cool; and Deepal's Chinese name means deep blue.
  4. Do not rely on the badge alone: some brands have changed their logo more than once, and its look may differ from one model year to another, so confirm the manufacturer and model on the car's registration card.
  5. Check the VIN: its first characters identify the manufacturer, and it is recorded on the registration card and stamped on the car's body.

 

What are the German and European car brand logos?

European badges often rely on old symbols with well-known stories:

  • Mercedes-Benz: a three-pointed star inside a circle, which for the original Daimler company symbolised Gottlieb Daimler's aim of motorisation on land, water and in the air.
  • BMW: a circle divided into blue and white quarters inside a black ring bearing the company name; its colours recall the flag of Bavaria, while the idea that it is an aircraft propeller is a myth.
  • Audi: four interlinked rings, each representing one of the four companies that joined to form Auto Union, Audi's predecessor.
  • Volkswagen: the letters V and W inside a circle; the German name means people's car.
  • Skoda: a winged arrow inside a circle; the arrow represents speed, the wings progress and freedom, and the eye precision; it is a Czech brand.
  • Peugeot: a lion; the original logo was a lion walking on an arrow, symbolising the speed, strength and flexibility of Peugeot's saw blades; it is a French brand.
  • Renault: a diamond-shaped lozenge that the French company has placed on the front of its cars since the nineteen-twenties.
  • Land Rover: a green oval carrying the name of the British brand.
  • Rolls-Royce: two interlocking letters R and the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot on the bonnet; the British company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW group.
  • Lamborghini: a raging bull, chosen by founder Ferruccio Lamborghini after he admired the fighting bulls at the Miura ranch in Spain; it is an Italian brand.

 

What are the American car brand logos?

American badges tend towards written names and simple shapes:

  • Ford: a blue oval with the name Ford in white script.
  • Chevrolet: the gold bowtie, whose origin is unsettled; the company's account says William Durant took it from a wallpaper pattern in a French hotel.
  • GMC: the letters GMC, usually in red; it is a General Motors brand.
  • Jeep: the word JEEP in plain letters, and many people know it by its grille with vertical slots.
  • Dodge: the name DODGE in large letters on the grille or the rear.
  • Lincoln: a four-point star inside a frame; it is a luxury brand owned by Ford and named after US President Abraham Lincoln.

 

Car brand logos table: brand, country of origin and badge description

A quick summary of each brand's badge:

Brand Country of origin Badge description
Toyota Japan Three ovals
Nissan Japan Name inside a thin circle
Honda Japan Upright letter H
Mitsubishi Japan Three red diamonds
Hyundai Korea Slanted H in an oval
Kia Korea The word KIA in a sharp script
Changan China V shape inside a circle
Chery China A-like symbol in an oval
Jetour China Name in Latin letters
Haval China HAVAL in large letters
MG Britain (Chinese owner) MG inside an octagon
BYD China The letters BYD
Mercedes-Benz Germany Three-pointed star in a circle
BMW Germany Circle with blue and white quarters
Audi Germany Four interlinked rings
Volkswagen Germany VW letters in a circle
Peugeot France Lion
Ford USA Blue oval
Chevrolet USA Gold bowtie
GMC USA Red GMC letters

 

Frequently asked questions about car brand logos

  1. How do I tell the Hyundai logo from the Honda logo? The Hyundai logo is a slanted letter H inside an oval, while the Honda logo is a wide, upright letter H inside a frame with rounded corners.
  2. Which car has a horse, bull or lion logo? The black prancing horse on a yellow background is the logo of Italy's Ferrari, the horse inside a coloured shield belongs to Germany's Porsche, the raging bull to Lamborghini and the lion to Peugeot.
  3. Is a brand's country of origin the country where the car is made? Not always; the country of origin is the brand's home, and its models may be built in other countries, so check the manufacturing details in the VIN and the registration card.
  4. Why do companies change their logos? Usually when they renew their identity, as Nissan, Kia and BYD have done in recent years, so you may see two logos for the same brand on cars from different years.
  5. How can I confirm a car's brand if its badge has been replaced? Some owners fit modified badges or the badge of another model, so rely on the registration card and the VIN rather than the badge, especially when buying a used car.

 

Car brand logos become easier to remember when you link each badge to its country and parent company, read the name written on the boot when in doubt, and check the registration card and the VIN before any purchase decision. You can browse the cars available at Saleh Cars Group to get to know the different brands and models.