By Omar H. Suliman

(Senior Instructor)

02 May 2025

Essential Vehicle Maintenance

✅ 6. Keep Your Car Clean

Regular cleaning helps prevent rust and damage to your vehicle’s exterior and interior.
Wash your car frequently, especially after driving on gravel roads or during rainy seasons.
Waxing the car every few months protects the paint and maintains its shine.

💡 Tip: A well-maintained car lasts longer, performs better, and keeps you safer on the road.

Proper vehicle maintenance and travel preparation ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable journey—whether you're commuting daily or embarking on a road trip across South Africa.

By following these essential maintenance tips, long-distance travel preparations, and emergency readiness steps, you’ll be ready for any adventure on the open road.

🔧 Essential Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are the most important checks every driver should perform:

✅ 1. Regular Oil Changes

Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear.
Check your owner’s manual for recommended oil change intervals (typically every 5,000 to 15,000 km).
In South Africa’s hot climate, oil can degrade faster—consider changing it more frequently.

✅ 2. Inspect and Maintain Tyres

Tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, making their condition crucial for safety.
Regularly check tyre pressure, tread depth, and alignment.
Rotate tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 km and replace them when tread wears down to 1.6 mm.

✅ 3. Monitor Fluid Levels

Various fluids—coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—play essential roles in performance and safety.
Regularly check and top up fluids as necessary.
In South Africa’s warmer climate, pay special attention to coolant levels to prevent overheating.

✅ 4. Check the Battery

A well-functioning battery is essential for starting your vehicle and powering electrical systems.
Inspect your battery for signs of corrosion and ensure connections are tight.
In high-temperature areas, batteries wear out faster—consider testing it annually.

✅ 5. Inspect Brakes Regularly

Brake safety is paramount for all drivers.
Listen for squeaking or grinding noises when applying brakes.
Check brake pads and rotors for wear and have them serviced if needed.

Keeping Your Car Road-Ready

Whether you're commuting daily or embarking on a long road trip, vehicle maintenance is key to safety and reliability. South Africa’s diverse road conditions—from smooth highways to rugged rural routes—mean that regular upkeep is essential for keeping your car in top shape. In this guide, we’ll cover essential maintenance tips, long-distance travel preparations, and emergency readiness to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

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info@familydrivingschool.co.za

Mitchells Plain, Cape Town, South Africa

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