Technical Inspection

Conquer the Cold: Prepare Your Car for Winter Driving in South Africa

Winter is just about here, and while South Africans may not see conditions as harsh as those in other parts of the world, it's still essential to take proper care of your vehicle during this time. To help you prepare your ride for the upcoming chill, we've compiled a list of things you can do to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter driving in South Africa. A good way to kick off the season is to make sure every part of your car is still in order with a DEKRA Technical Inspection. Click/tap here to find your closest DEKRA right now.

So, let's get to it. Here is your guide to preparing your car for winter driving.

Vehicle Maintenance

1. Servicing

First and foremost, it's crucial to have your vehicle serviced before the winter season begins. A DEKRA Technical Inspection will help to identify any potential issues that may become worse in colder temperatures. If any of the following are identified, be sure to have your mechanic check them:

Brakes: Are they functioning correctly and do the brake pads have sufficient thickness?
Suspension: Are there any signs of wear or damage?
Belts and hoses: Did the inspection note the presence of any cracked or worn belts and hoses? This is important to prevent leaks and breakdowns.
Battery: Is the battery holding its charge? If not, you should have it replaced.

2. Fluid Checks

Proper fluid levels are essential for the optimal performance of your vehicle. As you prepare your vehicle for winter driving, make sure to check and top off the following fluids:

Engine oil: Ensure your engine oil is at the correct level and viscosity for the season. Consult your owner's manual for the recommended oil type or ask one of the knowledgeable attendants at your favourite petrol station.
Coolant: Top off your coolant with a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze to prevent freezing and overheating.
Brake fluid: Check your brake fluid level and fill it up if needed
Windshield washer fluid: Use a winter-grade washer fluid that won't freeze on your windshield on those extra cold mornings.

Read: The advantages of proper car maintenance: roadworthy vehicles and long-term savings

Tire Care

Winter weather can create hazardous driving conditions, making it essential to have reliable tires. Check the following:

Tire pressure: Maintain the recommended tire pressure to ensure optimal handling and fuel efficiency. Don't forget to check your spare tire as well.
Tread depth: Inspect your tires for adequate tread depth. If you're not sure what the correct depth is, a DEKRA Technical Inspection will note the current state of your tires.
Tire rotation: Rotating your tires regularly will help ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan.

Windshield Wipers and Lights

Visibility is key during the winter months. Make sure your wipers and lights are in good working order:

Wiper blades: Even though South Africa gets most of its rain during the summer months, it's still important to replace worn or damaged wiper blades to ensure proper windshield clearing during the occasional winter rain or hail.
Headlights and taillights: Check all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean the lenses for better visibility.
Defroster: Test your vehicle's defroster to make sure it's functioning correctly.

Photo credit: Sleepi Alleyne on Pexels

Safety Equipment

Equip your vehicle with the necessary safety equipment to tackle any winter emergencies:

Emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit containing items like a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, warm blankets, non-perishable food, and water.
Fire extinguisher: Keep a small fire extinguisher in your vehicle in case of an engine fire or other incidents.
Warning triangles or flares: In the event of a breakdown, these can help alert other motorists to your presence and prevent accidents.

Interior Comfort

Keep your vehicle's interior comfortable and warm during the winter months:

Heater: Test your vehicle's heating system to ensure it's working effectively.
Seat warmers: If your car has seat warmers, check their functionality before the cold sets in.
Climate control: Ensure your automatic climate control system is functioning properly for optimal temperature regulation.
Insulation: Check door and window seals for drafts, and repair or replace them as necessary to keep the cold air out.
Steering wheel cover: Add a comfortable steering wheel cover to make holding the wheel more pleasant during colder days.

Fuel Efficiency

With fuel prices on the rise, it's essential to maintain your vehicle's fuel efficiency during the colder months:

Fuel levels: Keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent condensation from forming in the tank.
Tire pressure: Maintaining the recommended tire pressure helps improve fuel efficiency.
Driving habits: Adopt smooth and efficient driving habits to help conserve fuel, such as gradual acceleration, anticipating stops, and maintaining a consistent speed.

Read: Fuel-Saving Tips to Lighten Your Monthly Spend

Photo credit: Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

Car Wash and Wax

Keeping your vehicle clean during the winter months will not only maintain its appearance but also help protect it from the elements:

Regular car washes: Remove dirt, grime, and buildup from your vehicle's exterior to prevent paint damage and rust.
Wax application: Apply a protective wax coating to your car's paintwork to help shield it from the elements and maintain its shine.

Preparing your vehicle for winter is essential to ensure its reliability, safety, and efficiency during the colder months. By following our checklist and bringing in your car for a DEKRA Technical Inspection, you'll be well-prepared to tackle whatever the South African winter may bring. Remember, regular maintenance is key to a long-lasting and dependable vehicle, so be sure to keep up with these practices throughout the year. Safe driving, stay warm, and happy driving!