With many South Africans returning from their Easter holidays, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is reminding motorists to prioritise post-trip vehicle checks and ongoing maintenance.
Dewald Ranft, National Chairperson of MIWA, says long-distance travel can take its toll on a vehicle, especially if it was already due for a service or experienced an increased load during the holiday. Unroadworthy cars can be a major source of accidents.
The Department of Transport noted that since their Easter Safety campaign began on March 20, 2 200 vehicles had been removed from the road.
“Now is the perfect time to have your vehicle checked by an MIWA-accredited workshop to ensure everything is in good working order and to avoid unnecessary breakdowns,” he advises.
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Ranft highlights key checks which should be carried out after a holiday trip and stresses the importance of inspecting tyres for wear and correct pressure, checking oil and other fluid levels (such as brake, coolant, and transmission), and assessing the condition of the battery.
“It’s also vital not to ignore any unusual noises or dashboard warning lights. These are often early signs of a potential problem,” he adds.
He recommends including a seasonal undercarriage clean, especially for those who drove in coastal or wet conditions, to remove salt and grime that can accelerate rust. Ranft emphasises the importance of only using MIWA-accredited workshops.
“Our members are held to the highest standards of quality and professionalism, ensuring that consumers receive trustworthy service every time,” he says.
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Ranft suggests motorists sign up for service and licence renewal reminders to stay on top of regular maintenance.
“Simple SMS or email reminders from your workshop help prevent lapses that could compromise vehicle safety,” he notes.
Lastly, Ranft urges motorists not to pack away their road safety kit just yet.
“A well-stocked emergency kit including jumper cables, a tow rope, a torch, first-aid kit, water, and a phone charger is essential. Drivers should also know how to perform basic tasks like changing a tyre or jump-starting a car.”
“Good preparation and maintenance are your best defences against future problems,” he concludes.
