Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) chairperson Dewald Ranft has given some tips to help prepare your vehicle for the festive road ahead.

With only a few weeks to go before families start packing for the holidays, Ranft is urging residents to make sure their vehicles are as ready for the trip as they are.

Ranft warned that while drivers often take care to rest, plan their routes and check their phones are charged, none of that will matter if their vehicle lets them down.

“The driver has a huge responsibility behind the wheel; however, no amount of driver preparedness can make up for poor vehicle maintenance. South African roads are often unsafe and poorly maintained, which makes it even more important to ensure your car is mechanically sound before you take off,” he emphasised.

Ranft stressed that a professional vehicle inspection should be part of every road trip plan since many accidents are caused by poor maintenance. To prevent this from happening, a quick workshop visit before the trip could make all the difference.

MIWA advised that the following checks be carried out at an accredited workshop before hitting the road this December:

• Insurance and licence disc: Make sure both are up to date, and review your insurance coverage
• Lights and indicators: Test all lights, including high beams, fog lights, indicators and brake lights
• Brakes: Check for wear, damage or unevenness. Strange noises or vibrations should be inspected immediately by a professional
• Safety equipment: Keep an emergency triangle, tyre repair kit, torch, reflective vest, water and a first-aid kit in the vehicle
• Tyres: Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and ensure tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1mm. Do not forget to ensure you have a spare
• Radiator and cooling systems: Watch for fluid leaks or overheating. Green, orange or yellow fluid under your vehicle may indicate a coolant leak that needs urgent attention
• Fluid levels: Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering and windshield washer levels. Newer vehicles may display this information electronically, so consult your owner’s manual if unsure. Always keep extra water in the car for emergencies
• Wiper blades and windscreen: Replace worn wipers before the rainy season. Check your windscreen for cracks
• Battery: Ensure connections are secure and voltage levels are healthy. Warning signs like dimming lights or clicking on the ignition could indicate a failing battery
• Electronic components: Test air conditioning, radio, GPS and sensors, all of which are critical to vehicle safety

“Your vehicle must be able to handle whatever the road throws at it. Get your car checked by an accredited workshop before you leave,” Ranft said.

Find an accredited MIWA workshop near you at www.miwa.org.za.

He further mentioned that safe driving habits are just as essential as checking your car. This includes obeying the rules of the road while also avoiding drinking and texting. Ranft stated that being safe on the road could also look like avoiding speed and taking regular breaks.