The ultimate holiday road trip checklist

With the festive season just around the corner, many South African families are gearing up for their annual holiday road trips.

However, ensuring your vehicle is road-ready is crucial to a safe and stress-free journey.

According to Dewald Ranft, chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), long drives during December can be demanding on vehicles, leading to mechanical issues if proper precautions are not taken.

“A quick visit to a MIWA-accredited workshop before you hit the road can make all the difference,” notes Ranft.

“Our accredited workshops have experienced technicians who can accurately assess your vehicle’s condition, ensuring you’re road-ready for the December break.”

Ranft highlights some of the most common vehicle failures that are experienced at workshops, including overheating engines, battery failures, tyre blowouts, brake problems, and faulty lights and wipers.

He emphasizes the importance of addressing potential issues early to avoid costly repairs and breakdowns during travels. One of the first signs to take notice of is a flashing dashboard warning light.

“Ignoring warning lights can turn minor issues into major problems,” Ranft explains. “Your car’s dashboard is like a health monitor for your vehicle. Ignoring warning lights could lead to accidents or expensive repairs.”

Ranft urges drivers to familiarise themselves with their car’s owner manual and have roadside assistance in place as additional safeguards.

Most common dashboard warning lights:
• Engine management light: Indicates an issue with the engine. Have it checked promptly.
• Battery warning light signals the battery isn’t charging. Stop driving and call for assistance.
• Oil level warning light: Low oil pressure can damage the engine. Top up immediately and seek professional help if the light persists.
• Brake warning light: Suggests brake system problems. Pull over immediately for safety.
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) light: Indicates a fault in the ABS. Exercise caution and have it checked as soon as possible.