Can South Africans learn to prepare their vehicles as carefully as they plan their festive breaks? With only eight weeks to go before most families start packing up for their well-earned holidays, now is the time to make sure your vehicle is as ready for the trip as you are, says the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
MIWA chairperson, Dewald Ranft, warns that while drivers often take care to rest, plan their routes, and check their phones are charged, none of that will matter if their vehicle lets them down.
“The driver has a huge responsibility behind the wheel - but no amount of driver preparedness can make up for poor vehicle maintenance,” he says. “South African roads are often unsafe and poorly maintained, making it even more important to ensure your car is mechanically sound before you set off.”
Ranft stresses that a professional vehicle inspection should be part of every road trip plan. “Many accidents are caused by poor maintenance. A quick workshop visit before you travel can make all the difference.”
MIWA recommends that the following checks be carried out at an accredited workshop before hitting the road this December:
1. Insurance and licence disc – Make sure both are up to date and take a moment to review your insurance coverage.
2. Lights and indicators - Test all lights, including high beams, fog lights, indicators and brake lights.
3. Brakes - Check for wear, damage or unevenness. Strange noises or vibrations should be inspected immediately by a professional.
4. Safety equipment - Keep an emergency triangle, tyre repair kit, torch, reflective vest, water and a first-aid kit in the vehicle.
5. Tyres - Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and ensure tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1mm. Don’t forget to check your spare.
6. Radiator and cooling systems - Watch for fluid leaks or overheating. Green, orange or yellow fluid under your vehicle may indicate a coolant leak that needs urgent attention.
7. Fluid levels - Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering and windshield washer levels. Newer vehicles may display this information electronically, so consult your owner’s manual if unsure. Always keep extra water in the car for emergencies.
8. Wiper blades and windscreen - Replace worn wipers before the rainy season. Check your windscreen for cracks that could worsen while travelling.
9. Battery - Ensure connections are secure and voltage levels are healthy. Warning signs like dimming lights or clicking on ignition could indicate a failing battery.
10. Electronic components - Test air conditioning, radio, GPS and sensors, all of which are critical to vehicle safety and comfort.
“Your vehicle must be able to handle whatever the road throws at it, just as you need to be alert and rested,” says Ranft. “Get your car checked by an accredited workshop well before you leave.”
He adds that safe driving habits are equally essential. “Obey the rules of the road, avoid drinking and driving or texting, don’t speed, and take regular breaks,” he urges. “We wish everyone a safe, stress-free and happy holiday season.”
MIWA chairperson, Dewald Ranft, warns that while drivers often take care to rest, plan their routes, and check their phones are charged, none of that will matter if their vehicle lets them down.
“The driver has a huge responsibility behind the wheel - but no amount of driver preparedness can make up for poor vehicle maintenance,” he says. “South African roads are often unsafe and poorly maintained, making it even more important to ensure your car is mechanically sound before you set off.”
Ranft stresses that a professional vehicle inspection should be part of every road trip plan. “Many accidents are caused by poor maintenance. A quick workshop visit before you travel can make all the difference.”
MIWA recommends that the following checks be carried out at an accredited workshop before hitting the road this December:
1. Insurance and licence disc – Make sure both are up to date and take a moment to review your insurance coverage.
2. Lights and indicators - Test all lights, including high beams, fog lights, indicators and brake lights.
3. Brakes - Check for wear, damage or unevenness. Strange noises or vibrations should be inspected immediately by a professional.
4. Safety equipment - Keep an emergency triangle, tyre repair kit, torch, reflective vest, water and a first-aid kit in the vehicle.
5. Tyres - Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and ensure tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1mm. Don’t forget to check your spare.
6. Radiator and cooling systems - Watch for fluid leaks or overheating. Green, orange or yellow fluid under your vehicle may indicate a coolant leak that needs urgent attention.
7. Fluid levels - Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering and windshield washer levels. Newer vehicles may display this information electronically, so consult your owner’s manual if unsure. Always keep extra water in the car for emergencies.
8. Wiper blades and windscreen - Replace worn wipers before the rainy season. Check your windscreen for cracks that could worsen while travelling.
9. Battery - Ensure connections are secure and voltage levels are healthy. Warning signs like dimming lights or clicking on ignition could indicate a failing battery.
10. Electronic components - Test air conditioning, radio, GPS and sensors, all of which are critical to vehicle safety and comfort.
“Your vehicle must be able to handle whatever the road throws at it, just as you need to be alert and rested,” says Ranft. “Get your car checked by an accredited workshop well before you leave.”
He adds that safe driving habits are equally essential. “Obey the rules of the road, avoid drinking and driving or texting, don’t speed, and take regular breaks,” he urges. “We wish everyone a safe, stress-free and happy holiday season.”
