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Vehicle checks
“Check that the tread on your tyres is correct, especially before and after that highly anticipated road-trip,” says Ian Kaplan, owner of Speedy Tyre and fitment in the Cape Town CBD. You can even get a specialist to check it for you.
Next, check your exhaust for any loose clamps and leaks to avoid further damage to your vehicle.
Then, look after your battery. “Winter places particular pressures on your battery, whether you’re working the heater, driving with your lights on or using the wipers,” says Ian. “Batteries tend to last a maximum of 5 years, so replacing one near the end of its lifespan can save you a lot of time and trouble.”
Pack a winter toolkit
Heading off on a long drive? Keep these items handy.
• First aid kit (for any emergency).
• Clothing and blankets (because you can never be too warm).
• Non-perishable food (who doesn’t need an extra snack?)
• Flashlight with an extra set of batteries (OK, let’s be honest - we mean a fully charged cellphone with a flashlight app enabled.
• Jumper cables (for the unexpected breakdown)
Take precautions
Slippery roads = caution, so watch your speed. Even if you’re accused of Driving Miss Daisy, stick to a speed well below the speed limit. Plus, remember to keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. As the saying goes: “rather late to work than early to the emergency room”.
Remember to use your headlights. Nights are longer, days are darker and rain is a frequent occurrence, so get those bulbs checked.
Finally, keep your tank half full. “This means you’ll always get from A to B in an emergency,” says Kaplan. Plus, if you do break down, half a tank of petrol will mean you can keep the heater on longer. It’s the small things, right?
