Every driver on South Africa’s roads must know how to change a tyre, identify and replace a flat battery, and handle an overheating engine.
This will give you the skills to avoid or manage many of the common roadside emergencies motorists experience on the country’s dangerous streets.
“A part of road safety that does not receive as much attention as it likely should, is the ability to perform basic repairs and maintenance on one’s vehicle,” said Eugene Herbert, CEO of advanced driver-training company MasterDrive.
“The danger is exceedingly high when you find yourself with a flat tyre on the side of the road or in a parking lot with no battery power. Just as one should ensure they have the skills and training to be the best possible driver, also ensure you know what to do should you have a roadside emergency.”
Tyre changes
The high number of potholes on South Africa’s roads makes cars here especially susceptible to flat tyres.
As such, it is essential to know how to replace a flat tyre to avoid sitting stranded next to the road while waiting for a friend, family member, or emergency services to arrive.
Drivers are also encouraged to carry basic equipment safely stowed away in the boot of their cars at all times, including:
- Tyre jack
- Tyre iron
- Tyre pump
- Tyre sealer
- Reflective triangle
- Well-inflated spare wheel
If you have never replaced a tyre before, it won’t hurt to practice at home with someone knowledgeable nearby before being thrown into the deep end if you’re caught in public with a flat wheel.
“Being equipped to change a tyre is one of the most important skills a driver can have,” said Herbert.
Keep in mind, however, that not all cars come with spare wheels as certain models, generally from premium brands, are fitted with “run-flat tyres” that can still drive when they’re deflated at a reduced speed until the driver is able to find assistance or get to a safer area. It’s worth making sure which one your vehicle has.
Flat batteries
Early signs of a failing battery include but are not limited to sluggish starting, malfunctioning features, dim cabin and exterior lights, a swollen or misshapen battery, and corrosion and residue around the battery terminals.
If you experience any of these issues in your daily driver it could mean it’s due for a new battery, and you should get it tested by a professional to determine whether the module is the cause or something else.
To avoid the car’s electronics unnecessarily drawing power when the vehicle is not being used, always double-check that fixtures such as the headlights and cabin lights are turned off, the doors are fully closed, and accessories such as cigarette lighters and chargers are plugged out.
Moreover, ensure that there are no loose cables or corrosion around the battery’s terminals as this hampers its ability to successfully transfer energy to the engine.
It’s vital to carry a set of jumper cables in your car, as well as to know how they work, should the worst happen and you need to ask for help.
“Also take time to educate yourself on the specific requirements of your vehicle and whether jump starting should be avoided,” said Herbert.
Modern vehicles with lots of electronics may suffer when a large electrical surge flows through them which can lead to problems with components such as the Engine Control Unit (ECU), traction control and power steering systems, airbags, and start/stop system.
Overheating engine
Always keep an eye on your vehicle’s temperature gauge and don’t take any out-of-the-ordinary spikes lightheartedly.
As soon as you see the temperature rising more than usual, find the nearest filling station or a safe place to pull over and let the car cool down.
“Ideally, if the temperature is not rising rapidly, you should not immediately pull over and switch off. Keeping the car moving is what will get the radiator and water pump going,” said Herbert.
“Additionally, once you arrive at the garage never open the water tank with the vehicle off otherwise you can be seriously burnt.”
To lower the possibility of this situation happening to you, it’s wise to check your vehicle’s coolant levels on a regular basis and top them up when necessary, especially before a lengthy trip.
“With the potential for personal injury, it is essential to understand how best to handle an overheating engine,” said Herbert.
Keyword: 3 must-have skills every South African driver needs