Why Car Fires Are Rising in Pakistan — Causes, Safety Tips, and Prevention

Recent incidents of cars suddenly catching fire in cities such as Karachi, including spots near the Lyari Expressway and Baloch Colony, have raised serious safety alarms among motorists.

In Lahore, multiple moving vehicles have also caught fire, including a Honda Civic on the Ring Road and other cars ablaze on the motorway and near the Sherpao Bridge, showing that spontaneous combustion isn’t confined to one city’s traffic woes. 

Meanwhile in Islamabad, a car was fully engulfed in flames near G-10 U- turn on Kashmir Highway, highlighting that this hazard spans regionally and isn’t merely a function of seasonal heat.

These events, which have occurred even during cooler winter months, highlight an ongoing road-safety issue that extends beyond seasonal heat. 

Car Fire and Road Safety — What the Data Shows

Nationwide, emergency services respond to thousands of road-related emergencies every year. In Punjab alone, Rescue 1122 reported 482,870 road traffic collisions in 2025, resulting in nearly 4,800 fatalities, a 19% increase compared to 2024 and hundreds of thousands of injuries. While only a fraction of these are car fires, the overall trend shows increasing road risks, especially for vehicles with poor upkeep. 

In 2022, a massive fire at a Karachi impoundment lot destroyed over 400 motorbikes and dozens of cars, underscoring the devastating impact of fire incidents on vehicles and property. 

Additionally, two fire-related statistics from other countries illustrate how common vehicle fires can be in general: studies have found that petrol and diesel vehicles are far more likely to catch fire than EVs, with combustion engine vehicles showing up to 20 times greater fire risk in some datasets, although this comparison is based on global figures where vehicle mixes differ widely. 

Why Vehicles Catch Fire: The Main Causes in Pakistan

According to automobile expert Suneel Sarfraz Munj, vehicle fires generally fall into three categories: Electrical, Mechanical, and Accidental.

In Pakistan, most vehicle fires are driven by human error, poor maintenance and unsafe modifications rather than weather conditions, a pattern being seen across Pakistan’s major urban centres.

Unsafe Electrical Modifications

Common aftermarket upgrades, such as extra lights, high-wattage bulbs, powerful horns, or audio systems, are often installed with cheap wiring and performed by unskilled mechanics. These non-standard installations can overload the vehicle’s electrical system, leading to short circuits and ignition.

High-Voltage Hazards

When non-OEM electrical parts are connected without proper fuses or insulation, even a minor spark can escalate into a fire inside the engine bay or dashboard.

Mechanical Neglect

A blocked or choked catalytic converter can rapidly accumulate heat. Meanwhile, worn-out fuel lines, common in cars older than 8 to 10 years, can crack and leak petrol onto hot engine parts, creating a high-risk fire scenario.

What to Do If Your Car Catches Fire

If you smell smoke or see flames while driving, every second counts. Follow these steps instantly:

• Stop and Exit Immediately: Turn off the engine, pull over safely and exit the vehicle with all occupants.
• Avoid Water: Never pour water on a car fire; it can spread the fire and cause electrical fires.
• Use Sand or Fire Extinguisher: If available, use sand or a Class B/C dry chemical fire extinguisher.
• Escape Hacks:
  • If electronic locks fail, remove the headrest and use the metal rods to break a window.
  • The metal end of a seatbelt buckle can also help break tempered glass in emergencies.

Your priority should always be escaping the vehicle safely, not saving the car.

Prevention: The Most Effective Strategy

Many motorists try to save money by skipping routine checks, but neglecting basic upkeep increases fire risk significantly.

Check Fuel Lines and Wiring

Rubber fuel lines and electrical wiring degrade over time and should be inspected regularly by trained technicians. Replacing old or brittle hoses can prevent petrol leaks that may ignite.

Avoid “Ustad” Culture

Untrained apprentices often attempt repairs without understanding electrical systems. Always use authorized workshops or certified professionals, especially for electrical or fuel system work.

Full Maintenance Over Patchwork

Instead of piecemeal repairs, perform a comprehensive “zero to 100” checkup to ensure friction, heat, and fuel systems are all in safe condition.

Vintage and Older Cars Need Extra Care

Classic and older vehicles often retain original wiring and parts that may be worn, increasing fire risk. Replace outdated components to meet modern safety standards.

Final Word

Car fires in Pakistan are largely preventable, but they require a proactive approach to safety and maintenance. Prioritizing professional servicing, avoiding unauthorized modifications, and understanding fire escape techniques can make the difference between a minor scare and a life-threatening incident.

For more car safety tips, detailed reviews, comparisons and the latest automotive updates, stay tuned to the PakWheels blog — your trusted source for everything on wheels.