With the festive season officially underway and thousands preparing to travel across the country, both the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) are urging motorists to take vehicle safety seriously.

Proper preparation, they warn, is the most effective way to prevent breakdowns, delays, and tragic crashes during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

The AA maintains that a full vehicle inspection is not just advisable, but essential.

Under the hood, and only when the engine is cold, motorists should check their engine oil levels using the dipstick, ensure the coolant sits between the minimum and maximum marks, and inspect brake fluid levels for both quantity and cleanliness.

AA CEO Bobby Ramagwede said low fluids may indicate leaks or internal wear that could escalate into mechanical failures on the road.

Ramagwede mentioned that tyres remain one of the most common causes of festive-season breakdowns.

He said motorists must ensure that all tyre treads meet the minimum legal depth and that tyre pressures, including the spare, match the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

The AA stressed that tyre size must be professionally verified during purchase, as incorrect sizing affects stability and road handling.

Tyre-related faults, such as bursts, also remain one of the major contributors to fatal crashes.

“Vehicle lighting must also be checked: from headlights and brake lights to indicators and hazard lights. Motorists towing trailers must ensure all trailer lights function properly.”

The AA advised that brake pad wear be assessed by a qualified professional, as worn brakes severely compromise stopping distance and vehicle control.

Ramagwede said dashboard warning lights should never be ignored, as they indicate underlying issues that may worsen without attention.

“The three most common mechanical problems we attend to in December are engine overheating, flat batteries, and flat tyres.

“Overheating often results from cooling system failure, while flat batteries are typically linked to cars standing idle for long periods or ageing batteries. Flat tyres commonly stem from underinflation, worn treads, or road hazards.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane reinforces the importance of a complete vehicle check before any long-distance trip.

“This is to identify possible defects which may compromise the vehicle’s roadworthiness and contribute towards crashes,” he said.

Zwane highlighted tyre bursts, faulty brakes, and malfunctioning lights as the leading vehicle-related causes of accidents during the December–January period.

He added that motorists should ensure tyres, brake systems, lights, and windscreen wipers are in proper working condition before departing, especially with rainy weather expected.

For families travelling with young children, Zwane advised securing children in proper child seats with restraints, taking regular breaks to avoid fatigue, and providing children with items such as colouring books to keep them occupied and minimise distractions to the driver.

Emergency equipment is another must-have for festive travel. The AA reminded motorists that a warning triangle is legally required.

A fire extinguisher, flashlight with spare batteries, cellphone charger or power bank, drinking water, and, during winter travel, warm clothing or blankets are recommended.

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