The most likely cause is that the rear drum brakes have seized due to rust, a common problem in the UAE's coastal humidity and sandy conditions. This frequently affects popular GCC-spec sedans and hatchbacks with rear drum brakes, such as the Nissan Sunny and older Toyota Yaris, especially after periods of inactivity or exposure to dust. According to maintenance data from the RTA Dubai and fleet reports cited by the MOI UAE, brake seizure is a leading cause of non-accident related immobilization for vehicles aged 5+ years. The cost to repair seized drums for a common model like the Nissan Sunny can range from 400 to 800 AED at an independent workshop, depending on the need for new shoes or hardware. For a more comprehensive financial view:
- Part & Labor Cost (Avg.): 600 AED
- Potential Towing Cost (within city): 200-300 AED
- Annual Depreciation Impact (for resale): Minor if repaired properly
The total unexpected cost for a driver could easily approach 1,000 AED. For modern vehicles with electronic parking brakes (EPB), like the latest Toyota Camry Hybrid, a fault in the system or a low battery can prevent disengagement, requiring a scan tool for diagnosis, which underscores the importance of regular electrical system checks in our summer heat.
