Every year, usually from around late November into February, the harmattan blows dry, dusty air down from the Sahara across Ghana. The haze, dust and dry conditions are hard on people, and they are hard on cars too. A little preparation now keeps your vehicle running well through the season and protects its value if you plan to sell.
Air filters work overtime
Dust is the main harmattan enemy. A clogged engine air filter reduces performance and can increase fuel use. Have it checked before the season starts and again during it, and replace it if it is dirty. Do not forget the cabin air filter, which keeps dust out of the air you breathe inside the car.
See and be seen
- Headlights: harmattan haze can cut visibility sharply, especially in the mornings. Check that all lights work and clean the lenses. Drive with dipped headlights on in hazy conditions.
- Wipers and washer fluid: fine dust on the windscreen smears badly under dry wipers. Replace worn blades and keep the washer reservoir full.
- Windscreen: small chips can spread with big temperature swings between cool mornings and hot afternoons. Get them repaired early.
Tyres and brakes
Large day-night temperature changes affect tyre pressure. Check pressures in the morning when tyres are cold. Dust and grit also wear brake components faster, so listen for squeals or grinding and have brakes inspected if anything feels different.
Keep the cooling system healthy
Dust can clog the radiator fins. Have the radiator cleaned during a service and check the coolant level. A well-maintained air conditioning system matters too; dusty filters make it work harder and blow musty air.
Protect the paint and interior
Dust scratches paint when wiped off dry. Rinse before wiping, use a soft cloth and park in the shade or under a cover where you can. Inside, a quick vacuum and wipe-down every week stops dust building up in vents and seat fabric.
Driving in the haze
- Slow down and increase your following distance when visibility drops.
- Use dipped headlights, not full beam, which reflects off haze and dazzles other drivers.
- Be especially careful on highways and early in the morning when the haze is often thickest.
Find a garage and plan ahead
The FeelyFeely Cars section helps you find garages and service providers, and the Vehicle Toolbox has free tools for checking a vehicle’s specifications, recalls and reliability. If you are thinking of selling after the season, a well-kept car with service records sells faster; our guide for car sellers explains what buyers look for.
Photo: Matti Blume, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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