As South Africans unpack from their Easter holidays and settle back into daily routines, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is calling on motorists to take one final, essential step in their holiday journey: a comprehensive post-trip vehicle check.
According to Dewald Ranft, National Chairperson of MIWA, long-distance travel – especially with heavy loads or in challenging conditions – can place considerable strain on a vehicle. “Many families hit the road for extended trips over Easter, and this can aggravate pre-existing issues or create new ones,” he explains. “If your car was already due for a service or showing signs of wear, that extra mileage could push it over the edge.”
The warning is timely. The Department of Transport’s Easter Safety campaign, which launched on 20 March, led to the removal of 2,200 unroadworthy vehicles from South African roads. “This stark figure is a reminder that roadworthiness is not just a legal requirement – it’s a vital aspect of public safety,” says Ranft.
The Essential Post-Trip Checklist
MIWA advises motorists to visit a MIWA-accredited workshop for a professional inspection. These workshops adhere to strict standards of service excellence, ensuring motorists receive reliable advice and workmanship.
Ranft highlights several key areas that require immediate attention after long trips:
- Tyres: Check for uneven wear, embedded debris, and ensure tyre pressure meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Fluids: Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid levels should all be checked and topped up or replaced if necessary.
- Battery: Post-trip sluggishness when starting the engine could be a sign of battery fatigue. Inspect terminals for corrosion and ensure it holds a charge.
- Unusual noises and warning lights: Strange sounds or illuminated dashboard indicators should never be ignored. These are early red flags that something may be wrong under the bonnet.
For those who travelled along the coast or through rainy regions, Ranft strongly recommends a seasonal undercarriage wash to remove salt and grime. Left unattended, these elements can accelerate rust and compromise critical components over time.
Keep Safety Front of Mind
While the holiday might be over, road safety is a year-round responsibility. Ranft encourages motorists to keep their emergency road safety kits fully stocked and within easy reach. “Jumper cables, a tow rope, torch, phone charger, water, and a first-aid kit – these are non-negotiables,” he says. “And every driver should know how to perform basic roadside tasks like changing a tyre or jump-starting a car.”
To prevent maintenance from slipping through the cracks, MIWA also recommends signing up for service and licence renewal reminders via email or SMS – a small step that can make a big difference in keeping your vehicle roadworthy.
Trusted Workshops, Safer Roads
MIWA-accredited workshops provide a safety net for South African drivers, combining professional expertise with consumer trust. “Our members meet strict operational and ethical standards, which means motorists can drive away with confidence after every visit,” Ranft affirms.
As the Easter memories fade and daily life resumes, Ranft reminds all drivers that vehicle care is an ongoing responsibility. “Good preparation and maintenance are your best defences against future problems. Don’t wait for a breakdown to remind you of what you could have prevented.”
For peace of mind and long-term vehicle health, South Africans are encouraged to schedule their post-holiday check-up today.
