Ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy is not just a legal obligation but also crucial for your safety and others on the road in South Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a novice, understanding the minimum criteria for roadworthiness can help you maintain your vehicle in top condition. Let’s delve into the fundamental aspects to look out for to keep your car roadworthy.
1. Brakes
The effectiveness of your brakes is paramount for safe driving. Regularly check your brake pads, discs, and brake fluid levels. Any signs of wear, such as squeaking or reduced responsiveness, should prompt immediate inspection and replacement if necessary. Remember, faulty brakes can significantly increase stopping distances and pose a serious risk on the road. ¹
2. Tyres
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road surface. Thus, they play a critical role in maintaining traction and stability. Inspect tyre tread depth regularly, ensuring it meets the legal minimum requirement. Additionally, look for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or uneven wear, which could compromise tyre integrity. Proper tyre inflation is also essential for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. ¹
3. Lights
Proper illumination is vital for visibility, especially during low-light conditions or adverse weather. Check all exterior lights, including headlights, indicators, brake, and fog lights, to ensure they function correctly. Replace any blown bulbs promptly and periodically clean light covers to maintain brightness. Additionally, ensure your headlights are correctly aligned to prevent glare for other road users. ¹
4. Steering and Suspension
A well-maintained steering and suspension system is essential for precise handling and stability. South African motorists should regularly check for excessive play in the steering wheel, unusual noises, or vibrations, which could indicate potential issues. Drivers should investigate anything unusual as potential issues to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving. ¹
5. Windscreen and Wipers
A clear and unobstructed view of the road is essential for safe driving. Inspect your windscreen for any chips, cracks, or other damage impairing visibility. Even minor damage can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of shattering in an accident. Additionally, check your wiper blades for wear and tear, ensuring they effectively clear debris and water from the windscreen. ¹
6. Exhaust System
The exhaust system is crucial in reducing harmful emissions and maintaining engine performance. Regularly inspect for any signs of damage, such as rust, holes, or loose components, which could result in excessive noise or emissions. Quickly dealing with exhaust system issues prevents harmful gases from entering the vehicle cabin and other potential issues. ¹
7. Seatbelts
Seatbelts are the primary safety restraint in the event of a collision, significantly reducing the risk of severe injury or death. Inspect seatbelts regularly for signs of fraying, wear, or damage to the buckles and retractors. Ensure all seatbelts are functioning correctly and securely anchored to the vehicle structure. Remember, seatbelt integrity is non-negotiable when it comes to passenger safety. ¹
8. Fluid Levels
Proper fluid levels are essential for the efficient operation of various vehicle systems. Regularly check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels, topping up as necessary. Motorists should fix leaks to prevent component damage and ensure reliable vehicle performance. ¹
Maintaining your vehicle in roadworthy condition is not just a legal requirement but also a responsibility that directly impacts your safety and that of others on the road. By adhering to the minimum criteria outlined above and conducting regular inspections and maintenance, you can ensure your car remains in optimal condition for safe and enjoyable driving experiences. Remember, proactive care and attention to detail can make all the difference in preventing accidents and breakdowns on the road.
Disclaimer:
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information on ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy.
Remember, comprehensive car insurance will be necessary, so get a quote for affordable Comprehensive car insurance with PMD, with fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and top-tier service. T’s and C’s apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
Sources:
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
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