Rental Car Breakdown in Saudi Arabia: Flat Tyre, Battery or Warning Light, What to Do

Modern rental cars are reliable, but a puncture or a warning light can happen to anyone, often far from town. Knowing the first steps keeps you safe and avoids extra costs.

First: make yourself safe

1. Signal and move to the right shoulder, as far from traffic as possible.
2. Switch on the hazard lights.
3. Put the warning triangle well behind the car if it is safe to walk there; on fast highways place it further back.
4. Get passengers out on the side away from traffic and stand behind the barrier if there is one.
5. At night, stay visible and away from the road.

Then: call Sajil

Call 920019913 or your branch and explain where you are. Share your live location from your phone if you can. The team will tell you the next step. Do not take the car to an outside workshop or pay for repairs yourself without speaking to the branch first.

A flat tyre

• Check the car's spare and jack at pickup so you know they are there.
• If you can change the tyre safely, do it on firm, level ground away from traffic. If not, wait for help.
• A spare wheel is often for limited speed and distance; drive carefully to the branch or tyre shop the team tells you.

A battery that will not start

In summer heat, batteries work hard. If the engine does not crank, turn off all lights and accessories and call the branch. Do not let strangers connect cables to the car without guidance.

Warning lights

• Red light (temperature, oil, brakes): stop as soon as it is safe and switch off the engine. Do not continue.
• Orange light (engine check, tyre pressure): slow down, drive carefully and call the branch for advice.
• Overheating: do not open the radiator cap while hot. Let the engine cool.

Running out of fuel

Most highways have regular stations, but some stretches are long. Fill up at half a tank on long trips. See highway driving in Saudi Arabia.

If there is an accident

Different steps apply: read accident or traffic fine in a rental car. In an emergency call 911, or 997 for an ambulance.

Prevent most problems at pickup

Check tyres, the spare, lights and the air conditioning before you drive away; our pickup and return checklist covers everything.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays for a breakdown in a rental car?

Normal mechanical faults are the rental company's responsibility. Damage caused by misuse, such as driving with a red warning light on, may be charged. Call the branch first.

Can I repair the car at any garage?

No. Contact Sajil first; the branch will tell you where to go.

What number do I call?

Sajil on 920019913, and 911 in an emergency.