test 1: (only for cars with mechanical clutch fan): cold engine (morning): Give a hand spin to the clutch fan. if it turns an entire rotation or more, it's faulty. Should spin half rotation.

test 2: (only for cars with mechanical clutch fan): hot engine running. have a buddy look at the clutch fan. turn off the engine. if the fan spins more than 2 seconds, it's faulty. Should stop relatively quick.

test 3: cold engine (morning). turn on the engine, grab the hose going to the radiator. if the hose starts to get warm straight away you have a stuck open thermostat. should start getting hot with coolant above 86C (check at what temperature your thermostat is designed to open)

test 4: inspect the radiator stack for dirt and debris. wash it with a water hose (no pressure nor aggressive detergent or you damage the fins).

test 5: you need a radiator funnel for this... attach the funnel to the radiator, partially fill it with coolant or distilled water. turn on the engine and after some idling accelerate. if you get no bubbles you are OK, if you get bubbles and after some time they stop you effectively removed air, if you keep getting bubbles you may have a damaged head gasket

test 6: check AC gas pressure. if the gas is too low or too high the AC compressor may cause unnecessary load and heat

Other potential causes:

• tap water in the radiator reduce heat exchange, cause rust, and clogs the radiator
• leakage in the coolant reservoir cap (also called overflow tank) can prevent optimal coolant pressure and cause cavitation and micro-boiling. check if your car is designed to have a pressure valve on the cap of the tank or of the radiator.
• inverting the caps (radiator and coolant tank, see above) can cause issues like air not exiting the radiator, cooling system not being pressurized of building excessive pressure, dirt getting in, etc..
• damaged water pump can prevent effective circulation of water and cause micro-boiling
• cracks/leaks can cause air in the system
• mixed coolant types (i.e. red Toyota with green Nissan) can cause gunk/deposits and clog the radiator
• if the radiator fluid is too old it can turn acidic and damage the head gasket or other components
• if the PCV valve is stuck open it can cause gunk in the intake plenum and get you hotter air sucked in from the crankcase
• a thermostat that doesn't fully open (because of damage or deposits) restricts the flow of coolant circulation.

Tire Deflation for Sand Driving

Deflation values can vary across off-road vehicles, but from my own experience behind the wheel of a Ford Everest, I’ve found these settings work best for soft sand:

• 14 psi on the front tires
• 13 psi on the rear tires

This setup gives just the right balance of traction and floatation without compromising control. Always adjust based on terrain and load—but this is my go-to for desert runs.

Visibility is survival in the dunes

Mounting a flagpole and flag onto a vehicle is a safety compliance. In undulating terrain, vehicles can be completely hidden behind sand dunes. A tall flag mounted on a pole allows others to spot you before your vehicle becomes visible, reducing the risk of head-on collisions.

Drive Mode Set-Up

1. Use the rotary dial on the centre console to select Sand Mode.
2. Once engaged, the digital instrument cluster will display the selected mode.
3. Activating Sand Mode automatically engages the 4x4 High (4H) setting, ensuring optimal traction and control across soft terrain.
4. Heads-up: Sand Mode automatically engages the rear differential lock.
5. The differential lock needs to be switched off, using the switch as shown. it’s best reserved for recovery situations.
6. De-activate the differential lock from touch screen of the centre console.
7. To fully disable ESC (Electronic Stability Control), press and hold the switch for around 8 seconds. Until the dashboard indicator confirms it’s off.
8. Switch to Manual mode by pressing the ‘M’ button located on the side of the gear shifter. This gives full control over gear selection for precision driving in the dunes.
9. Gear changes in Manual mode are simple, using the +/- buttons on the side of the gear shifter.
10. The current gear selection is clearly displayed on the driver’s front console, giving you real-time control and awareness while navigating the dunes.

With these essential steps, your Ford Everest is primed for safe and confident desert driving. Always respect the terrain, drive responsibly, and enjoy the adventure ahead.

1. Approach Angle

Choose the right angle for your climb.

Know whether you’re tackling the ridge from the soft side or the hard side — each demands a different level of momentum and control.

2. Wheel Lock & Stabilization

Always lock both front and rear wheels on the ridge before attempting to cross.

Stabilise your vehicle on top before moving forward or along the ridge.

Balance is key — shift more weight toward the hard side. Staying exactly centred can cause the vehicle to wedge or get stuck.

3. Use the Ridge as a Viewing Point

Stabilising on the ridge gives you a clear view of both sides and what lies ahead before committing to a move.

4. Avoid the One-Wheel Mistake

If only one front wheel crosses and you apply power, the car can:

Jump to the other side unexpectedly (without knowing if there’s a drop),

Get stuck, or

In the worst case, roll over.

5. Respect Gravity

Never fight it. If the approach isn’t right, loop back and try again.

This isn’t a race — patience keeps you and your vehicle safe.

Some areas are strictly off-limits, such as:

• Fenced zones (always assume they’re private or restricted)
• Wildlife conservation areas, often marked with signs or boundary posts
• Oil & gas infrastructure, e.g. ADNOC drilling zones in Liwa, which are clearly marked. Similarly DUSUP (Dubai Supply Authority which supplies Natural gas), which is marked and fenced.
• Gas pipeline routes, usually identified with yellow or red markers
• Government or military installations, including solar farms, communication towers, border zones, etc.
• Border areas especially need caution — stay at least 5 km away from any international border fences to avoid trouble.

If you’re unsure, don’t enter. Always off-road with a group, ideally one that knows the area well. Respect all signs, markers, and barriers — they’re there for safety and legal reasons. Use off-road apps and maps that highlight restricted zones when possible.

Exploring the UAE’s deserts is an incredible experience — just make sure to do it responsibly and legally.

One is with handle and one without choose your preference and space availability in car.