Are you excited for your upcoming holiday but unsure if your car is ready for a long trip? In South Africa, distances can be vast and breakdowns risky—making a pre-holiday car check absolutely essential.
This guide highlights the top car repairs every South African should prioritise before heading out for a holiday. These checks help you avoid breakdowns, stay legal, and keep your adventure stress-free.
Why Pre-Holiday Car Repairs Are Important
The demands of SA roads, harsh weather, and legal roadworthy requirements mean your car needs to be in excellent shape.
Top 10 Repairs and Checks Before Holiday
1. Brake System
- Inspect pads, discs, and brake fluid.
- Look for warning signs: squealing brakes or a spongy pedal.
- Book a comprehensive pre-trip car inspection that includes brakes.
2. Tyre Condition & Alignment
- Check tread depth and look for cracks or bulges.
- Align wheels and don’t forget your spare.
- For a checklist, see our essential car checks before the holiday season.
3. Battery Health
- Test for corrosion and weak charge.
- Replace if over 3 years old or unreliable.
- AutoTrader confirms battery failure is a leading cause of delays.
4. Cooling System
- Check coolant levels, hoses, and radiator.
- Watch for leaks or high temperatures.
5. Engine Oil and Fluids
- Change oil if needed and top up all fluids.
- Look for leaks.
- See why regular car diagnostics are crucial for reliability.
6. Suspension and Steering
- Check for bouncing, knocking, or leaks in shocks.
- Book a diagnostic inspection for car bounce or sway issues or inspection for a bouncy or unstable ride.
7. Lights & Electricals
- Check and replace any faulty bulbs.
8. Windscreen Wipers & Visibility
- Replace worn wipers and top up washer fluid.
- Fix cracks or chips. Roadworthy certificates require a clear windscreen.
9. Transmission & Gearbox
- Watch for grinding gears or shifting issues.
- Need help? Help with shifting from park to drive problems.
10. General Pre-Trip Inspection
- A full inspection covers all systems and spots issues before they escalate.
- Book a comprehensive pre-trip car inspection for peace of mind.
- Learn why it’s important to take care of your car and when to schedule regular maintenance and how to schedule a diagnostic inspection on your car.
Don’t Let a Breakdown Spoil Your Getaway
it’s clear: a pre-holiday inspection is a must. Book your car service before your holiday with Fixxr—mobile mechanics you can trust to keep your holiday stress-free and safe!
