8 things every driver should know to make your driving experiences safer

RoadCover provides tips that every driver needs to know:

Vehicle Maintenance

“It is a good idea to service your car regularly, especially by a reputable service station,” said RoadCover’s Marketing Agent, Amanda Rogaly.

Regular service ensures your cars reliability and keeps it in great condition which reduces the chances of having a breakdown. See your cars manual for when services should be done, with the recommendation being an annual service by a professional.

Tyre condition

“Keep an eye on your tyres, making sure the treads are not too smooth. Treadless tyres are not only illegal but can be very dangerous. Smooth tyres prevent your car from gripping the road which can be especially dangerous in wet weather,” said Rogaly.

Replace worn or damaged tyres immediately, making sure the wheels are balanced.  “It is a good idea to keep an eye on your spare tyre, making sure that it’s inflated and in good condition if ever it needs to be used,” said Rogaly. Additionally, double check that your jack and spanner are safely secured and in the designated compartment in case a tyre needs to be changed.

Know your car’s warning signs

Become familiar with the different sounds and lights on your dashboard to make sure that your car is safe on the road. One should always keep an eye on the temperature gauge; ideally, it should never pass the ¾ mark. Another warning sign to keep an eye out for is the engine warning light. This doesn’t specify a particular issue, but it does show you that something needs to be attended to.

Oil check

Checking your car’s oil is important for your engine’s health, plus it can prevent costly damage in the long run. First things, first: dipstick. This is generally bright silver or brightly coloured. Remove the dipstick, wipe it down with a tissue and you should find some sort of indication of measurement saying ‘empty’ and ‘full’. Reinsert the dipstick for 10 seconds into the oil sump and remove once again. You should now be able to see the oil level according to the level indicator so that you can top up if necessary.

Replace windscreen wiper blades

“The first sign that you need to change your windscreen wiper blades need is when they begin to squeak, stop making proper contact with your windscreen or creating a smear which reduces visibility,” said Rogaly.

Replacement is easy. Go to any of the big hardware stores, where you are more than likely to find directions on the wiper blade package.

Cleaning your windscreen

When filling up with fuel, get your windscreen cleaned as well. During cold winter months, if your car is parked outside and frost or ice has taken over, spray your car down with water from the hosepipe or a bucket of water will do the trick. Don’t use warm or hot water, if you have a chip in your windscreen it could cause it to crack.

Windscreen chips

Those unexpected chips from small pebbles or stones as you drive along the road can develop into a long crack and become a hazard to your visibility.  “Believe it or not, a great temporary solution to this is to use clear nail polish on and around the chip.  This serves to keep the crack from spreading along the windscreen.” For a permanent solution visit a glass specialist who can drill and seal the chip, leaving it looking brand new.

What to do when your car breaks down

Turn on your hazards to warn other motorists and if possible move your car to the side of the road, out of harm’s way. Place the triangle at a recommended distance of 45 meters² behind your vehicle to ensure your safety as well as other road users.

Many insurance or car maintenance plans have roadside assistance as part of their package.  Have their number on your cell phone or a tow truck number if you don’t have the service.

“Knowing just a little bit more about our car makes us feel empowered and more in control.” said Rogaly.