How to make sure your car is ready for the festive season

As the festive season approaches many of us are preparing to hit the road to travel to our loved ones, or simply get away for a well-deserved break, therefore it is imperative to ensure that your vehicle is safe for the journey.

Here are a few handy tips and vehicle checks to bring you peace of mind and make sure you arrive at your destination safely and securely:

Check your tyres. The Automobile Association of South Africa says that tyre safety is non-negotiable. They urge you to check all your tyres every time you fill up your tank and to replace your tyres as soon as signs of wear begin. Also, ensure that your tyres are balanced and that your vehicle’s wheel alignment is correct.

“It is also important to note that if you are involved in a crash and it is established that your tyres were the result of the incident, your insurance claim may be refuted,” cautions the AA.

Service your vehicle. Make sure that all components of your vehicle function as they are supposed to without any issues. Pay attention to your coolant system, wiper blades, brakes, tyres, as well as oil, transmission and brake fluids. Do not wait too long to book your service appointment because if you leave it too late you may not be able to secure a spot in time.

Pack an emergency kit. Besides, the usual first-aid supplies, the ideal kit is well stocked with other essential provisions such as jumper cables, rope, water and a power bank to charge mobile devices.

Other important things to pay attention to are your battery – have it checked before your trip and also make sure that your spare wheel is fit for purpose.

Planning your route

The AA recommends that you have an alternative route in mind when you travel and keep abreast of the ever-changing road conditions and traffic obstructions on your chosen route.

They have created a useful ‘Road Conditions Report‘, which is updated on weekly basis, to provide you with fresh information about roads nationwide.

The tool also allows you to calculate the distance of your trip.

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