How road-ready is your ‘mom’s taxi’?

The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) warns motorists that even vehicles that only do short trips need regular servicing and maintenance.

Moms have a lot on their plates from the start of the year with school and extramural calendars buzzing with tasks and commitments for every day of the week (often weekends too).

You’re transporting precious cargo so at least you have a dependable car, right? Turn the key and you’re off, from A to B and back again with no hassles. ‘Mom’s taxi’ won’t let you down, as you always tell the kids.

However, neglecting servicing and maintenance could make you find yourself let down by your ‘old faithful’ sooner than you think.

Dewald Ranft, chairperson of MIWA, which is a proud affiliate of the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) Organisation, urges moms to start the year on a safe note by checking some basics on their vehicle – including the condition of seatbelts and car seats.

According to child safety experts Precious Cargo (www.preciouscargo.co.za), car seats sold in South Africa adhere to European standards and don’t have an expiry date, but rather a recommended lifespan. Each manufacturer has its own guidelines regarding the “safe use period”.

The materials used in the manufacture (plastics, polystyrene, fabric, metals) degrade over time from use and exposure to the elements.

“Car seats have a limited lifespan for a reason. Using an ‘expired’ car seat can expose your child to unnecessary risk if you are involved in an accident,’ Ranft said.

“The same goes for your car. If any critical components, like your brakes or lights, are compromised it increases the risk for you, your passengers and others on the road.”

He added there are other hazards that may not be that obvious, like clutter and mess.

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Keep your car clear of empty bottles (these could get under your pedals), papers, plastic and other materials.

Clutter can also be distracting to the driver. A clean and organised interior minimises distractions, allowing for better focus on the road.

“Most car owners understand the value of a shiny, well-maintained exterior, but the importance of keeping the inside of your car clean is often overlooked,” said Ranft.

“It’s more than just aesthetics; taking care of the inside of your car plays a crucial role in maintaining the vehicle’s value and health.

“Regular vacuuming and cleaning of the interior can significantly reduce dust, pollen, and other allergens, thus promoting a healthier driving environment, which is especially important when you are transporting children.”

MIWA’s top seven ‘mom’s taxi’ checks to be done and why:

1. Wipers: Your safety behind the wheel depends to a great extent on having a clear and unrestricted view of the road ahead. A dirty windscreen compromises this. Checking the condition of your wiper blades should be part of your regular routine tasks, to ensure that your car is roadworthy.

2. Coolant: Your vehicle needs anti-freeze throughout the year, not only in winter. The same chemical characteristic that lowers the freezing point also raises the boiling point of the liquid, preventing your vehicle from overheating.

3. Brakes: A brake check involves making sure all the components that allow you to stop your vehicle safely and immediately are functioning properly. This is a must for ensuring safe driving, especially when something unexpected happens in front of you and you have to brake within seconds to avoid an accident.

4. Battery: A car battery inspection ensures that your battery can hold the charge and start your car. It is simply not worth neglecting to check this because you could end up stranded on the side of the road with a flat battery.

5. Oil check: Fresh oil provides better lubrication and heat protection, reducing friction between engine parts and preventing potential damage.

6. Tyre tread: Check the tread and ensure tyres are properly inflated. Good tyre tread helps in channelling water away from the tyres, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

7. Wheel alignment: Making sure your wheels and tyres are aligned correctly allows for a balanced ride – tyre wear and no pulling towards the left or right. Also, a properly aligned car gets better mileage and has a longer lifespan.

“In closing, moms transporting children should have an emergency tyre puncture repair kit in the car, check all kiddie locks are functioning properly and replenish the medical aid kit,” Ranft says.

“While the state of our roads and reckless driver behaviour will continue to let you down this year, be a super responsible mom who knows her car won’t let her down by ensuring regular servicing and maintenance is done at a reputable workshop.”

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