Car Insurance in South Africa

Whether you are an owner of a car or looking to buy a new or used car, it’s in your best interest to consider what type of car insurance will best suit your needs. This article provides some insight on car insurance in South Africa.

What is car insurance?

In broad terms, car insurance can be described as – Financial protection against loss due to theft, traffic accidents, natural disasters and subsequent liabilities.

The insured person will be required to pay a monthly premium as insurance and the insurance company, or insurer, promises to support financial losses involving vehicles for the duration of the insurance policy.

What are the benefits of car insurance?

South African roads are considered to be amongst the most dangerous in the world and insurance is therefore a necessity if you own and drive a car in South Africa. Here are some of the benefits of having insurance for your car:

  • Car insurance offers you peace of mind while you drive your car
  • Car insurance offers financial and legal backing in the event of an accident or theft
  • Car insurance can cover the damages and medical expenses incurred in the event of a car accident
  • Car insurance can protect you financially against theft and associated damages, as well as fire and natural disasters
  • Car insurance can protect you financially from lawsuits associated with accidents

*Tip: The losses covered by a insurance policy will depend on the type and extent of coverage you choose.

 

What are the different types of car insurance available in South Africa?

There are three main types of insurance available in South Africa namely Comprehensive, Third Party Fire and Theft and Third Party only insurance.

Comprehensive Car Insurance

  • Comprehensive insurance generally covers theft, hijacking, damages caused in an accident, fire, explosion and natural disaster
  • Comprehensive insurance generally covers damages incurred to third parties in the event of an accident
  • Comprehensive insurance is the most expensive type of car insurance
  • Comprehensive insurance is a requirement if you are financing the payment on your car
  • Comprehensive insurance is most suitable for new and expensive cars that clock up high mileage

Third Party Fire and Theft (Limited Liability)

  • Third Party Fire and Theft car insurance generally covers damages incurred to third parties and includes vehicle damage, accidental death and injury caused in the event of an accident
  • Third Party Fire and Theft covers losses due to hijacking or theft and may also cover losses caused by fire, lightning or explosion
  • Your car is not insured for damages incurred in the event of an accident
  • Third Party Fire and Theft car insurance is suitable for cars that are almost paid off and clock up average mileage

Third Party Only

  • Third Party only insurance covers damages incurred to third parties in the event of an accident
  • Third Party only insurance does not cover damages to your car, theft, hijacking or natural disasters
  • Third Party only insurance is the cheapest type of car insurance
  • Third Party only insurance is most suitable for old cars that clock up low mileage

*Tip: Different car insurance providers offer different car insurance packages. Be sure to check and compare the benefits stipulated in the car insurance policy before signing the agreement.

What factors will influence your car insurance premium?

Many factors influence the premium you will pay for car insurance. Being aware of the factors that influence car insurance premiums can save you money when shopping for car insurance. Here are some factors that determine car insurance premiums:
  • Insurance Choice – The amount of cover you choose will determine how much you pay as a premium. Comprehensive car insurance is the most expensive with Third Party only car insurance being the cheapest. Costs vary depending on the company you choose.
  • Age – Younger drivers, including teenagers, are considered to be high risk and therefore can expect higher car insurance premiums. Older, mature drivers are considered to be lower risk and therefore obtain a lower car insurance premium.
  • Sex – Male drivers are considered to be high risk when compared to female drivers and therefore can expect higher car insurance premiums. Married individuals also receive lower premiums when compared to single individuals.
  • Location – Your car insurance premium can vary depending on where you live and where you drive your car. If you live in a city, which is considered high risk, you can expect to pay a higher premium when compared to living in a rural area.
  • Security – If your car has sufficient anti-theft security such as a gear lock, alarm system, anti-hijack, satellite tracking and is parked in a garage, you can expect a lower premium when compared to a car parked on the street without any anti-theft security devices.
  • Excess – Excess is the amount of money you pay when claiming from your insurer and the more you are willing to pay in excess, the less your monthly premium will be.
  • Car Model – The make and model of your car can drastically influence your car insurance premium. Some models are considered high risk in terms of theft and hijacking and therefore warrant higher premiums. Expensive cars are generally subjected to higher premiums when compared to cheaper cars due to high repair costs.
  • Driving History – If you have a history of accidents and negligent driving you can expect a higher car insurance premium when compared to someone who has a clean driving record.
  • Mileage – Higher mileage increases the chance of an accident which translates into higher risk. If your annual mileage is high, you can expect to pay a higher car insurance premium when compared to average or low mileage motorists.

*Tip: Take the time to shop around for car insurance that suits your needs and financial situation. Get several car insurance quotes and compare them before making your decision. Obtaining several car insurance quotes is simple with Cars.co.za, there’s no need to go anywhere else.

Summary

Car insurance is an important aspect to owning a car and you should therefore assess your needs and obtain as many car insurance quotes as you possibly can before making your final decision. Can you afford not to have car insurance?

Click here to apply for a Car Insurance quote now

Get the best trade in value for your used car

When you trade in your used car, it’s important to try get the best possible value for your used car. This article provides useful information that will help you get the best value when you trade in your used car. Consider the following before trading in your used car.

Research

  • Knowing the value of your used car is important when you want to trade in your used car. Research the trade in value of your used car before trading-in your car. Search for similar makes and models on Cars.co.za and compare them to your used car. This will give you an estimate value of what your car is worth. Remember, the trade in value is generally considerably less when compared to selling your car privately.
  • The TransUnion Auto Dealers Guide provides values for most makes and models and will help you get an idea of what your car is worth.
  • Getting an online vehicle evaluation in South Africa is made simple and easy with Cars.co.za. Simply click the ‘Trade in’ tab and follow the instructions.

*Tip: Negotiating with used car dealerships is easier when you have done your research and know what your used car is worth.

Maintenance

  • A used car that has been well maintained will fetch a higher price when you decide to trade in,
  • It’s important to keep service records of all major services and any other maintenance done to the car. Present these records to the used car dealership you decide to deal with,
  • It may also be in your best interest to fix any problems before trading-in your used car as this could translate into a higher trade-in value.

*Tip: If your used car is well maintained, used car dealerships will have less reason to decrease the trade in value.

Cleanliness

  • Before you trade in your used car, ensure that the car is cleaned thoroughly.
  • Wash the exterior and get rid of any stains or blemishes on the paintwork and if it’s necessary, repair any scratches with a paint pen.
  • Apply a coat of wax onto the bodywork. Remove grease from the rims and apply tyre polish on all the tyres.
  • Vacuum the interior, including the boot and remove all your personal belongings from the car.
  • Take your used car to a valet service and have the upholstery cleaned. Apply air freshener and clean all the surfaces on the dashboard, including the gear lever and steering wheel.

*Tip: A clean, well maintained used car with a comprehensive service history is more likely to yield a higher trade in value when compared to an untidy, poorly serviced used car.

Shop Around

Take the time to shop around for the best possible trade in price. Make contact with as many used car dealerships as you possibly can and compare what they are prepared to offer for your used car. Shopping around for the best trade in price will increase your chances of getting a fair amount of money for your used car.

Summary

Finding the best trade in price for your used car may require some patience and perseverance but if you do your research and maintain your used car properly, you can expect to get a better trade in value when you decide to trade in your used car.

Search for a New car on Cars.co.za

Cars.co.za now has a ‘New Car’ section where you can search for a new car. Searching for a new car is simple, here’s what you need to know.

How do I search for a new car on Cars.co.za?

The ‘New Cars’ tab is located on the menu bar, here’s what you need to do,

  • Click on the New Cars’ tab on the menu bar and select New Cars’ in the drop-down box,
  • Select the car brand you are interested in,
  • Select the model you are interested in.

Each new car model is accompanied with a detailed specification sheet. Use the specification sheet to assess whether the model has all the features you are looking for. If you are interested in a new car and would like to make contact with the dealer, simply fill out the Dealer Contact Form and click Contact now’. Your details will be sent to the relevant dealer who will make contact with you. The dealer’s details will also be made available to you via e-mail.

Click here to browse New Cars

How can I make use of New Car Specials’?

Cars.co.za offers a New Car Specials section that features new car specials that are updated on a monthly basis in conjunction with our dealer partners. ‘New Car Specials’ is a great tool to take advantage of when looking for a new car, here’s what you need to do,

  • Click on the ‘New Cars’ tab in the menu bar and select New Car Specials’ in the drop-down box,
  • Browse new car specials. Remember, new car specials expire at the end of every month.
  • Click ‘Enquire’ for the car special you are interested in,
  • Fill out the Dealer Contact Form and click ‘Contact now’.

Your details will be sent to the relevant dealer who will make contact with you and you will receive the dealer’s contact details via e-mail.

Click here to browse New Car Specials

Summary

Searching for a car is simple with Cars.co.za. Use the ‘New Cars’ tab to browse new cars available to you and make use of the New Car Specials’ tab to find the best bargain on your next car. Cars.co.za, the simple way to buy and sell cars.

Drivers license requirements in South Africa

By law, every motorist operating a vehicle in South Africa must have a valid Drivers License. Learner drivers are required to have a valid Learners License and be accompanied with a person with a valid Drivers License. This article offers advice on how to obtain a valid Drivers License in South Africa.

How do I obtain a Learner’s License?

Before you can obtain a valid Drivers License, you need to obtain a Learners License. Here’s what you need to do to obtain a Learner’s License,

  • Learner’s Licenses are issued by provincial Driving License Testing Centres (DLTC) across South Africa. To obtain a Learner’s License, visit your nearest DLTC with the following,
  • Proof of Identity, preferably a South African Identity Document (ID),
  • Two black and white ID photographs,
  • Booking fee,
  • Completed form LL1 available from DLTC,
  • You will be required to complete an eye test,
  • You will also be required to pass a multiple choice theory examination. The test focuses on vehicle controls, rules of the road and traffic signs.
  • If you pass both the eye test and the theory examination, you will be issued with a Learner’s License,
  • A Learner’s License is valid for 24 months.

*Tip: Take your ID and booking receipt with you to the Learner’s License examination.

What types of Learners Licenses are there?

There are three types of Learner’s Licenses, they are as follows,

Code 1 – For Motorcycles,

Code 2 – For vehicles (except motorcycles), including minibuses, buses and goods vehicles, weighing less than 3,500 kg,

Code 3 – For all vehicles (except motorcycles) weighing more than 3,500 kg.

*Tip: Code 2 and Code 3 learner drivers must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times while driving.

How do I obtain a Drivers License?

Once you have obtained your Learner’s License, you can apply for your Driving License at your nearest DLTC. Here’s what you need to do to obtain a Driver’s License,

  • Provide your Identity Document (ID),
  • Provide a valid Learners License,
  • Complete form DL1 available from DLTC,
  • Provide two black and white ID photographs,
  • Provide the prescribed fee,
  • Using the K53 method, you will be required to pass a driving test that incorporates a yard test (parking manoeuvres) and a road test,
  • If you pass the driving test, you will be issued with a temporary Drivers License which is replaced with a permanent Drivers License within 6 months.

Can I buy a car if I don’t have a Drivers License?

There is no legislative requirement in South Africa that prevents you from buying a car without a Drivers License. However, you are not permitted to drive a car without a valid Drivers License.

Can I get car finance if I don’t have a Drivers License?

Providing that you are the owner of the car, you will also not be able to obtain car finance or car insurance if you don’t have a valid Drivers License.

Summary

Obtaining a valid Drivers License is an important and necessary requirement if you want to drive a car in South Africa. Although the process of obtaining your Drivers License requires time and money, it’s a worthwhile investment that you can make use of for the rest of your life. Get your Drivers License today…

Search for a Used car on Cars.co.za

Searching for a used car is simple with Cars.co.za. This article offers advice on how to effectively search for a used car on Cars.co.za. Cars.co.za offers thousands of used cars to choose from, here’s what you need to know to find the perfect used car for you.

How do I search for used cars on Cars.co.za?

You can search for used cars using the ‘Car Search’ facility or by clicking on the ‘Used Cars’ tab in the menu bar. Follow the following instructions to find your ideal used car.

Car Search Facility

The Car Search’ facility can be found on the left hand side of the Cars.co.za webpage and allows you to quickly and effectively search for a used car. Remember, the more information you provide regarding the used car you are looking for, the more accurate the search results will be. Here’s what you need to do,

  • Using the drop-down box, select the car make you are interested in,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the car model you are interested in,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the area you are interested in,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the minimum price you are willing to pay. Setting a minimum price will only show results for cars that are identical or more than the minimum price you have selected,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the maximum price you are willing to pay. Setting a maximum price will only show results for cars that are identical or cheaper than the maximum price you have selected.

Click Search’ and your search results will be displayed momentarily where you will be able to browse the used cars for sale relating to the search criteria you have provided. You can further refine your search by clicking on the More options (click to open)’ button in the Car Search’ box. Here’s what you need to do,

  • Using the drop-down box, select the vehicle type you are interested in, for example, Hatchback, Sedan, Single Cab Bakkie etc,
  • Using the drop-down box, select whether you want a petrol or diesel car,
  • Using the drop-down box, select whether you are looking for a dealer sale or a private sale,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the age of the car you are interested in, for example, newer than 2003 or newer than 1994 etc,
  • Using the drop-down box, select the colour of the car you are interested in, for example, Beige, Black, Blue etc,
  • Using the drop-down box, select how you want to sort your search results, for example, Price, Year, Mileage.

Click ‘Update’ in the Car Search’ box. Your updated search results will appear momentarily where you will be able to browse the used cars for sale relating to the search criteria you have provided.

Used Cars Tab

As an alternative to searching for a used car using the ‘Car Search’ facility, you can also use the ‘Used Cars’ tab found in the menu bar, here’s what you need to do,

  • Click on the ‘Used Cars‘ tab in the menu bar,
  • Browse used car options by selecting a car brand, car type or area.
  • Select the car brand you are interested in and choose the model you are looking for,
  • Select the type of car you are looking for then select the car brand and model you are interested in,
  • Select the area you are interested in and then choose the car brand and model you are looking for.

Summary

Searching for a used car on Cars.co.za is simple and effective. Find the used car you are looking for using the Car Search’ facility or the Used Cars’ tab.

Submit a car request on Cars.co.za

This article offers advice on how to effectively use the Car Request System on Cars.co.za. Although Cars.co.za has thousands of new and used cars to choose from, there is a chance that you might not find the exact car you are looking for. The ‘Request a Car’ facility on Cars.co.za will help you find the car you are looking for by searching the Cars.co.za database on a daily basis until your ideal car is found.

How do I use the Car Request System on Cars.co.za?

Using the Car Request System on Cars.co.za is simple, here’s what you need to do,

  • Click on the ‘Car Alert‘ tab in the menu bar,
  • Fill in the car request form,
  • When you have completed the car request form, click ‘Submit’.

The Cars.co.za database will search for your ideal car on a daily basis and send you feedback via e-mail when your ideal car has been found.

When using the Car Request System, it’s important to provide specific details regarding the car you are searching for. For instance, if you only provide Volkswagen as the car you are looking for, you will receive feedback for all Volkswagen cars for sale on Cars.co.za. Rather provide the exact details regarding the car you are searching for, that way you will receive more relevant results until you find the car you are looking for.

Summary

Using the Car Request System on Cars.co.za will help you to easily find the car you are looking for and will notify you when your ideal car has been found. Cars.co.za, the simple way to buy and sell cars.

Sell your used car to a private buyer

This article offers advice on how to sell your used car to a private buyer with a particular focus on what questions to ask the buyer and what safety precautions to take to avoid physical harm or being scammed.

Use Cars.co.za to sell your used car

Providing that you have adequately researched and prepared your car for sale, your next move should be to advertise your used car for sale on Cars.co.za. Cars.co.za is a premier car website in South Africa that attracts a large South African audience, giving you access to more than 250 000 potential buyers every month. Follow the 3 easy steps and load your used car for sale on Cars.co.za today.

  • Click on the Sell Car’ button on the menu bar,
  • Step 1: Fill in your personal details,
  • Step 2: Fill in the vehicle’s details,
  • Step 3: Select your preferred advertising package,
  • Payment can be made with a Credit Card or EFT,
  • Once payment has been received, your advert will be screened for quality purposes and your advert will appear on Cars.co.za within hours,
  • If you require further assistance with your advert, please email [email protected] or contact 011 614 5612.

Once your used car has been advertised on Cars.co.za, you can expect to receive telephone calls or e-mails from potential buyers who may want to arrange a time and place to view your used car for sale. As the seller of your used car, you should try and obtain as much information as possible about the potential buyer. This will help you determine if the buyer is serious about buying your used car or if the buyer has ulterior motives.

What questions should you ask the buyer?

The questions to ask the buyer offered here only serve as a guideline, you may think of your own questions to suit your specific needs. Some questions are better asked before meeting the buyer, while other questions may have to be asked when meeting with the buyer in person. Here are some questions you can ask the buyer,

General Questions

  • What is your name?
  • What is your address?
  • What is your landline telephone number?
  • What car are you looking for?
  • Have you looked at any other cars?
  • Where did you hear about my car?
  • Who is the car for?

Meeting Arrangements

  • Would you like to arrange a time and place to view the car?
  • When would you like to view the car?
  • Where would you like to meet to view the car?
  • Do you want to test drive the car?
  • Do you have a valid drivers licence and insurance to test drive the car?
  • Do you want to have the car inspected by a mechanic?

When Meeting the Buyer

  • Do you like the car?
  • Do you want to buy the car?
  • How do you plan on paying for the car?
  • Would like to put down a deposit to secure the car?
  • When do you want to collect the car?

*Tip: Only accept cash or electronic bank transfers. Be weary of cheques and only release the car once you have received the full amount of money for the car.

What precautions should you take when meeting with the buyer?

Personal safety and avoiding car scams is of paramount importance when meeting with a potential buyer. For your own safety, consider the following safety precautions,

Personal Safety when meeting the buyer

  • Meet the buyer in a public place. Never meet in quiet or deserted locations,
  • Have a friend or family member accompany you when meeting with the buyer and when on the test drive,
  • Let other people know when and where you are meeting the buyer,
  • Ask the buyer for a driving licence, this will allow you confirm that the buyer is the person you have been communicating with, but will also ensure that they are legally able to test drive your used car.

How to avoid car scams

  • Avoid buyers who want to purchase your used car from overseas,
  • Avoid being distracted and watch your car keys at all times during the test drive. Some buyers, posing as thieves, could do a key swap and return later to steal your car,
  • Never let a potential buyer test drive your car alone because they may never come back,
  • If you accept a cheque as payment for your used car, make sure that the cheque clears before you release the car. Never release your car until the full amount of money is visible in your bank account,
  • If you suspect fraud, or are a victim of a car scam, contact your nearest Police station immediately.

What documents do you need when selling your used car?

When selling your used car to a private buyer, it’s important to have the necessary paperwork ready before meeting with the potential buyer. Make sure you have the following documents ready to handover to the buyer of your used car,

Service History Book

A comprehensive service history book and any other receipts regarding the maintenance of your used car are valuable to the buyer because it proves that your used car has been serviced and maintained properly. A wise car buyer won’t purchase a used car without comprehensive service history records.

Registration Documents

Make sure that you give the buyer the original vehicle registration document. You will also need to obtain form NCO (Notification of Change of Ownership) and fill in the relevant seller information. Make sure that the buyer understands that he/she has 21 days to notify the relevant registration authorities of change of ownership.

Receipt

Once all monies have been exchanged, you may write out a receipt or sellers contract to conclude the sale. Make sure you create two copies, for yourself and the buyer. Include the vehicle’s details such as make, model, year, mileage, registration number and VIN number. Make sure that the date and sale amount is also included. Stipulate that the car was sold as is, and include any other extra information relating to the sale. The seller and buyer’s name must appear on the receipt and both parties must sign the documents as proof of sale. Also have a witness sign the documents in case any issues arise in the future.

Summary

Selling your car privately can be a rewarding experience if you know what to ask potential buyers. Be aware of your surroundings when meeting with potential buyers and take the necessary precautions to avoid being scammed. Remember, Cars.co.za, the simple way to buy and sell cars.

Compare Car Adverts on Cars.co.za

If you are searching for a new or used car on Cars.co.za, it’s important to compare car information so that you are able to make the best possible decision when buying a new or used car. This article provides information on how to compare car adverts on Cars.co.za so that you can get the best possible deal on your next car.

What factors should you compare on Cars.co.za?

Every car is different and it’s therefore important to compare various characteristics so that you are able to make the right choice when you buy a new or used car. Here are some aspects you need to compare,

Price

The price of a car is one of the most important aspects to compare and will vary according to many factors including make, model, age, mileage and condition. Always compare prices with similar makes and models on Cars.co.za.

Mileage

The average mileage per year is about 25 000 km. Use this figure to compare the mileage with the age of the car as well as the price. Try and find a car that has the lowest mileage for the best possible price. Always compare mileage and price with similar makes and models on Cars.co.za.

Extra Features

Comparing extra features included with the car is necessary, especially if you are looking for specific features like ABS brakes, power steering, central locking etc. Compare car features against the price and compare features with similar makes and models on Cars.co.za.

Finance

Finance is an important aspect to compare when searching for a new or used car and will vary greatly depending on the price of the car, interest rate and the length of the financing term. Compare different financing options for similar makes and models on Cars.co.za.

Specifications

Compare car specifications with similar makes and models to narrow down your options when searching for a new car. Every new car model advertised on Cars.co.za is accompanied with a detailed specification sheet to help you decide what car is right for you. Remember to compare critical specifications such as fuel consumption, acceleration, CO2 emissions and so forth.

How can I compare cars using the Wishlist’ tool on Cars.co.za?

Comparing cars on Cars.co.za is simple with the Wishlist’ tool. Every car advertised on Cars.co.za is accompanied with a Wishlist’ button. Here’s what you need to do to compare cars using the Wishlist’ tool,

  • Browse for cars on Cars.co.za. If you are interested in a car, click the ‘Wishlist’ button. When you click the ‘Wishlist’ button, the car you are interested in is added to your ‘Wishlist’,
  • Find other cars that you are interested in and add them to your ‘Wishlist’ by clicking the Wishlist’ button,
  • To compare the cars you have selected, simply click Compare’ in your ‘Wishlist’ window,
  • If you want to contact the relevant dealers / sellers for the cars you have selected, simply click Contact’ in your ‘Wishlist’ window. Fill out the ‘Contact Seller’ form and click ‘Contact Now’ to send your details to the relevant dealer / seller.

Summary

Its important to Compare car adverts before buying a new or used car. The ‘Wishlist’ tool on Cars.co.za is a simple way to compare cars that you are interested in. Cars.co.za, the simple way to buy and sell cars.

Car Maintenance Checks to Perform on Your Car

 

Performing regular car maintenance checks on your car is an important aspect to owning a car and will ensure that your car is safe for diving and in excellent running order. This article highlights regular checks that you should perform on your car.

Important Car Maintenance Checks

There are several car maintenance checks that you need to perform on your car on a regular basis to ensure that your car is functioning the way it's meant to. Here are some checks you can perform on a regular basis,

  • Check the Oil Oil offers much needed lubrication for your engine and it's important to check your oil level often, preferably every time you fill up with fuel. Make sure that you use the correct grade motor oil for your car and be sure to change your oil regularly, preferably twice a year.
  • Check the Water Make sure that your car's water level is sufficient and don't forget to add antifreeze. Antifreeze increases the water's boiling point and prevents the water from boiling. Antifreeze also prevents water from freezing and helps cool your engine effectively. The mixing ratio is usually 50% antifreeze and 50% water. You should replace antifreeze approximately every two years. Take care when opening the water cap, especially when the engine has been running.
  • Check the Brake Fluid Make sure your break fluid is sufficient by checking your brake fluid canister. Refer to your owner's manual if you are unsure how to check your brake fluid.
  • Check the Wipers Make sure that your windscreen wipers are functioning properly and that the blades have not perished. Also, make sure that you have sufficient water in your windscreen washer. Replace your windscreen wipers at least once a year.
  • Check the Lights It's important to check that all the lights on your car are working correctly and should be checked at least once a week. If a light is not working, you may have to replace a bulb or a fuse.
  • Check the Tyres  Check your tyre pressure on a weekly basis and ensure that all the tyres are inflated to the required pressure. Check your owner's manual for the recommended tyre pressure for your car. Also, check that your tyres have sufficient tread. If they are worn out, have them replaced.
  • Check the Paint Keeping your car clean will ensure that the paint is well cared for and free of corrosion. Wash and wax your car on a regular basis. Don't use household cleaning detergents to clean your car, rather buy cleaning products designed for cars.

     

Apart from performing these regular car maintenance checks on your car, make sure that you have your car fully serviced as suggested by your car manufacturer. Regular servicing will ensure that your car is functioning properly and is safe to drive on the roads. Also, if you experience small issues with your car, like leaks or strange noises or smells, don't ignore them, rather seek professional advice and fix the problem as soon as possible. Summary Basic car maintenance is not difficult and only requires that you tend to the basic needs of your car on a regular basis. By performing regular car maintenance checks on your car, you avoid potentially serious problems later. A well maintained, well-serviced car will be worth more when you decide to sell your car.

Tyre Maintenance Tips

 

Tyre maintenance is an important, and often overlooked, requirement that every car owner needs to fulfil while owning and driving a car. Regular tyre maintenance will increase the longevity of your tyres and will ensure that your tyres are safe. This article offers advice on how to maintain your tyres on a regular basis.

Regular tyre maintenance tips

There are several tyre maintenance procedures you need to follow to ensure that your tyres offer the best performance possible and are safe to use. Here are six routine tyre maintenance procedures that you need to be aware of.

Check Tyre Pressure

Check your tyre pressure on a regular basis and make sure that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. Refer to your owner's manual to check what tyre pressure is suitable for your tyres. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure will help reduce fuel consumption and excessive wear on your tyres and reduce the chance of tyre failure (blow-out). For an accurate tyre pressure reading, check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold.

Check Tyre Tread

Check the tread depth on your tyres on a regular basis. All tyres have tread wear indicator bars moulded into the tread. When the tyre tread becomes level with these bars it's time to replace your tyres. If your tyre's tread depth is less than 1.6mm, you should have them replaced. Never drive on worn or smooth tyres as this drastically increases the chance of tyre failure which could lead to a serious accident.

Tyre Balancing

Make sure your tyres are correctly balanced whenever you have your tyres changed or repaired. Unbalanced tyres cause premature and irregular tyre wear and can damage your vehicle's suspension. If you feel vibrations while driving you need to have your tyres balanced correctly.

Wheel Alignment

 It's important to have your wheels and steering components correctly aligned to prevent premature and uneven tyre wear. Have your wheels aligned when you change or repair your tyres. Alternatively, you should check your wheel alignment after every 10 000km. If you notice uneven tread wear on your tyres, take your car to a professional tyre service centre and have your wheels correctly aligned.

Tyre Rotation

Rotating your tyres extends the life of your tyres and should be rotated between 5 000 km and 10 000km. Rotating your tyres on a regular basis will ensure that your tyres wear evenly and will make them last longer.

Tyre Repair

If your tyres get damaged or are punctured, avoid fixing the problem yourself. Take the tyre to a trained professional who will properly assess and repair the tyre damage. Avoid driving into kerbs or other objects that may damage your tyres.

Summary

Safety comes first and tyre maintenance is of paramount importance if you own and drive a car. Conduct regular tyre checks to ensure that your tyres are safe to use. If your tyres are worn out, replace them immediately.