Unexpected Blaze: A New Car Turns into an Unexpected Firework Show
Picture this: a business consultant fresh off a weekend trip strolls into the carpark near Old Airport Road Food Centre only to be greeted by an impressive puff of black smoke right from the front of his newly‑bought second‑hand MPV. By the time the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) extinguished the flames, the car was reduced to a pile of scrap metal.
What Happened?
- Date & Time: Friday, 12 Aug, afternoon (around 3:15 pm)
- Location: The carpark at 51 Old Airport Road
- Vehicle: 5‑year‑old multi‑purpose vehicle (MPV)
- Owner: 52‑year‑old business consultant who purchased the car on 3 Aug
- Event: Sudden fire in the engine compartment; the car caught fire almost instantly
The owner, who had been away overseas since 3 Aug, was shocked to realize that the roaring inferno was his own vehicle. He explained that his wife drove the car while he was gone, reporting no issues until the day the flames erupted.
SCDF Response
The SCDF was alerted promptly and arrived at the scene just moments later. Using a single hoses evergreen, the firefighters doused the blaze, leaving the car a smoldering ruin but fortunately with no injuries reported.
Dealer’s Take
The dealer who sold the MPV confirmed that all vehicles undergo thorough checks before sale. They declined to comment further, citing ongoing investigations by the SCDF.
Two Fires in Two Days
Ironically, this was the second car fire in the run‑up to next week. Just a day earlier, on Thursday, 11 Aug, another stationary vehicle burst into flames at the Bedok Reservoir exit along the Pan‑Island Expressway. As with the first incident, no injuries were reported.
Why It Matters
These incidents underscore the importance of vigilance even with “pre‑owned” cars. While dealers guarantee no hidden defects, unforeseen issues can surface if the vehicle hasn’t been driven for a few days or undergoes an extended storage period.
Whether you’re a first‑time buyer or a seasoned driver, keep a watchful eye. After all, you wouldn’t want your car’s engine to light up the night sky—unless you’re planning a private fireworks show.
