Many drivers are unaware that their everyday habits may be gradually reducing their vehicle’s lifespan and resulting in expensive repairs.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), which operates under the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), emphasises that small changes in maintenance routines and driving behaviour can have a substantial impact on a vehicle’s durability.
“Your car is one of your biggest investments, and how you care for it directly impacts its performance and durability,” says Ranft. “Ignoring routine servicing, revving a cold engine, or even something as simple as riding the brakes can accelerate wear and tear, leading to expensive repairs.”
Ranft points out common habits that may harm vehicles:
- Skipping services: Missing regular maintenance lets small issues grow into bigger ones. Use MIWA-accredited workshops for early fault detection.
- Neglecting tyres: Poor alignment, incorrect pressure, and worn treads affect safety and fuel efficiency.
- Overusing brakes: Riding the brake downhill or braking harshly causes overheating, wearing pads and rotors faster.
- Revving cold engines: Aggressive acceleration before the engine warms up strains components, especially in winter.
- Low fuel levels: Running on near-empty risks damaging the fuel pump and clogging injectors, reducing performance.
- Delaying oil changes: Old oil fails to lubricate, accelerating engine wear.
- Hitting potholes: Speeding over potholes damages tyres, rims, and suspension, leading to expensive fixes.
- Using subpar parts: Cheap or incompatible parts can harm performance and raise breakdown risks. Always choose high-quality, vehicle-specific options.
Ranft stresses the importance of proactive maintenance: “Taking care of your vehicle doesn’t just save you money in the long run – it also enhances safety and reliability. Small, everyday actions make a significant difference,” he said.
Regular check-ups at MIWA-accredited workshops help prevent minor issues from escalating, ensuring that vehicles remain in optimal condition for years to come.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
warren@mahareng.co.za
