You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep your car in safe driving condition. A few simple checks can help you avoid breakdowns, accidents, and costly repairs. Proper maintenance keeps your vehicle running smoothly, which can extend its operational life. Additionally, a well-maintained car retains a higher resale value, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
Common Car Issues That Cause Accidents
- Worn-out tyres – Bald tyres mean less grip, which is especially dangerous in wet conditions.
- Faulty brakes – If your brakes aren’t working properly, stopping in time could be impossible.
- Blown headlights or brake lights – If other drivers can’t see you, they can’t react in time.
How to Keep Your Car Safe
- Check your tyres monthly – Make sure they have enough tread (at least 1mm) and the right air pressure. Maintaining correct tyre pressure can boost your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by up to 10%. This not only saves money on fuel but also reduces your carbon footprint.
- Test your brakes – If they feel weak or make a strange noise, get them checked.
- Keep your lights working – Walk around your car and check that all your lights work before driving at night.
- Get a service when it’s due – Regular services catch problems before they become serious.
Commonly Overlooked Maintenance Tasks
- Air Filter Replacement: A dirty air filter can lead to decreased engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency. Regular checks and replacements are essential for optimal vehicle operation.
- Power Steering Fluid Levels: Maintaining the proper level of power steering fluid is crucial for vehicle control. Low levels can lead to steering difficulties, posing safety risks.
- Checking and Replacing Windshield Wipers: Windshield wipers may seem minor, but they are essential for visibility during rain, mist, and dust storms. Worn wipers leave streaks and hinder clear vision, complicating safe driving. Since 90% of driving decisions rely on vision, clear visibility is crucial for safety. Replace wipers every 6-12 months to maintain effectiveness.
- Tire Rotation and Alignment: Uneven tire wear decreases traction, shortens tire life, and impacts fuel efficiency. If your car pulls to one side or the steering seems off-centre, a wheel alignment may be necessary. Misalignment can diminish fuel efficiency by up to 10% and reduce tyre life by thousands of kilometres. Rotate your tyres every 8,000-12,000 km and align them annually for even wear and improved handling.
- Replacing Spark Plugs: Spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture in your engine and wear out over time, causing misfires, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel efficiency. A faulty spark plug can cut fuel efficiency by up to 30%, increasing fuel costs. Regular replacement every 50,000-100,000 km keeps your engine running smoothly.
- Checking the Emergency Spare tyre: Drivers often overlook their spare tyre until needed, and a flat spare is useless in emergencies. Approximately 60% are underinflated. Check air pressure every few months to ensure it’s ready when needed.
Looking after your car is looking after yourself. A well-maintained car doesn’t just run better—it keeps you safer on the road. Addressing wear and tear ensures that your car operates safely and reliably, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Drive with Confidence, Protect What Matters
Just as the Isipho Sami initiative is committed to making South Africa’s roads safer, ensuring you have the right car insurance cover is essential for your own peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for affordable car insurance, a car insurance quote online, or need to insure your car with comprehensive car insurance, Old Mutual Insure provides trusted solutions that keep you protected on every journey. Because road safety starts with responsible driving, and the right vehicle cover ensures you’re always prepared.