When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, many drivers unknowingly engage in habits that can significantly shorten their car’s lifespan and lead to costly repairs. Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), part of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), offers invaluable insight into how simple driving and maintenance adjustments can make a remarkable difference in your vehicle’s longevity.
“Your car is one of your biggest investments,” says Ranft. “How you care for it directly impacts its performance, reliability, and overall durability. Neglecting routine servicing, revving a cold engine, or even something as seemingly harmless as riding the brakes can accelerate wear and tear, ultimately leading to expensive repairs.”
With this in mind, Ranft highlights some of the most common everyday habits that could be damaging your vehicle without you even realising it:
1. Skipping Scheduled Services and Repairs
Routine maintenance is vital for keeping your vehicle in peak condition. Skipping services or repairs may seem like a way to save time or money, but it can lead to far more significant issues down the road. Minor faults, if left unchecked, can escalate into major problems, often resulting in expensive repairs. Ranft recommends booking your vehicle in for servicing at an MIWA-accredited workshop, where trained professionals can spot potential issues before they become serious.
2. Ignoring Tyre Maintenance
Tyre care is often overlooked, yet it’s crucial for both safety and fuel efficiency. Poor wheel alignment, incorrect tyre pressure, and worn-out treads can compromise your vehicle’s handling, braking, and fuel economy. Regularly checking your tyre pressure and ensuring that the tread depth meets safety standards can prevent accidents and costly repairs.
3. Riding the Brakes
While it may seem like a small habit, keeping your foot on the brake while driving downhill or constantly braking hard can cause undue stress on the brake system. This generates excessive heat, leading to faster wear of brake pads and rotors. Instead, use engine braking when descending hills and apply brakes gently and steadily to preserve their lifespan.
4. Revving a Cold Engine
Cold weather and morning starts can tempt drivers to accelerate aggressively to warm up the engine, but this is a habit that can do more harm than good. Revving a cold engine increases internal friction and puts unnecessary stress on essential components. Always allow your engine to warm up gently before driving off, especially in colder months, to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature engine wear.
5. Driving with Low Fuel
Although running your vehicle with a near-empty tank might seem inconsequential, it can cause serious damage over time. Low fuel levels can strain the fuel pump, leading to decreased efficiency and, in some cases, a clogged fuel injector. Keeping your fuel tank at least a quarter full helps avoid unnecessary strain on the fuel system and ensures optimal performance.
6. Neglecting Oil Changes
Engine oil is essential for proper lubrication, helping to reduce friction between engine parts. Over time, however, oil can degrade and lose its effectiveness. If neglected, old or dirty engine oil will fail to lubricate properly, which can lead to increased wear and tear on critical engine components. Regular oil changes at the manufacturer-recommended intervals are vital for maintaining engine performance and longevity.
7. Speeding Through Potholes
Potholes are an unavoidable hazard on the road, but how you handle them can make a big difference. Speeding through potholes or driving over them too quickly can damage your tyres, rims, and suspension components. These issues often go unnoticed until they result in more serious damage that requires expensive repairs. Slow down when approaching rough roads or potholes to protect your car’s undercarriage and suspension.
8. Using Poor-Quality Parts and Fluids
It might be tempting to save a few rands by using low-cost, non-brand parts or fluids, but this can severely compromise your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Substandard components and fluids can increase the risk of breakdowns, fuel inefficiency, and mechanical failures. Always opt for high-quality, vehicle-specific parts and fluids to ensure long-term performance.
Proactive Maintenance Is Key
“Taking care of your vehicle doesn’t just save you money in the long run—it also enhances safety and reliability,” says Ranft. Regular servicing at an MIWA-accredited workshop can help prevent minor issues from escalating, ensuring that your vehicle remains in top condition for years to come. By incorporating simple, everyday habits into your driving routine, you can protect your investment and avoid unnecessary repair costs.
Remember, a little attention today can go a long way toward keeping your car running smoothly tomorrow.
