There’s nothing quite like the excitement of embarking on a journey across our majestic country. But, is your vehicle road trip-ready?
After all, few things can dampen the spirit of an amazing trip more than being stranded on the side of a major highway. Before any holiday excursion, it’s a good idea to go through a complete car inspection checklist.
Fortunately, we’ve put together a simple-to-follow list.
Willard Battery Xpress’s Road Trip Checklist
Most vehicle owners can quickly perform these visual inspections. However, we’d still recommend getting a professional assessment done.
If you’re confident that your vehicle only needs a quick once-over, here’s our checklist for you to follow.
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Check Your Tyres
Your vehicle’s only contact with the road surface is through its tyres. When inspecting your tyres, check for the following:
- Ensure that all your tyres, including your spare, are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically specified in the driver’s door arch).
- Once you’ve checked the tyre pressures, make sure the tread depth is more than 1.6mm deep; otherwise, it’s not roadworthy, and you’ll need new tyres.
- Finally, visually inspect for any cuts, bulges, or damage to the sidewalls. If you spot significant damage, consider buying new tyres.
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Take a Look at Your Brakes
Any vehicle owner should understand the importance of well-functioning brakes, especially in a country as rich in wildlife as South Africa. To ensure your safety, perform the following visual inspections:
Inspect your brake pads and discs for visible signs of wear and tear. If you hear unusual noises when braking, it’s advisable to have them checked by an expert or replaced.
A straightforward inspection involves checking your brake fluid. The reservoir should have clear markings for the optimal level. If it’s below the mark, top it up and consult an expert to check for brake line leaks. Also, inspect the fluid for any impurities (floating bits).
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Check Fluids
Your vehicle operates with various fluids, so it’s crucial to ensure they are all at the correct levels. The primary fluids to check are:
- Engine oil.
- Transmission fluid.
- Windscreen washer fluid.
- If you’re unsure where to find these under your bonnet, refer to your vehicle’s manual.
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Check Your Battery
Checking your vehicle’s battery is essential, as expected. Visually inspect the following on your battery:
- Look for corrosion on the battery’s terminal points and ensure they are securely connected.
- Confirm that the battery is securely fitted in place.
- Test your battery’s age; if it’s older than three years, consider a replacement.
- For any concerns, you can always visit your local Willard Battery Xpress.
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Lights and Indicators
With hazard lights doubling as South Africa’s unofficial “thank you” signals, it’s crucial to ensure you’re not discourteous when traveling around the country. Also, check all exterior lights, such as headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators, to make sure they’re in working order. Don’t forget to inspect your interior lights on the dashboard.
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Belts and Hoses
Your vehicle, being a machine powered by fluids, relies on pumps driven by belts in some cases. Ensure they are free from visible damage and securely in place. Belts may fray with age, while hoses might come loose at specific joints. Often, tightening the clamp is all that’s needed for hoses.
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Air Conditioning and Heater
Certain areas in South Africa can get extremely hot, so check that your air conditioning works when the vehicle is stationary. If there is an issue, you can have it professionally repaired. While South Africans may not use the heater as much as those north of the equator, it’s still a good idea to ensure it’s functional.
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Wipers and Sprayers
Good visibility is essential. Replacing old or poor-performing wipers is advisable.
- When inspecting your wipers, make sure they are not splitting or flaking.
- If your wipers leave streaks across your windshield, replace them.
- Ensure your washer’s sprayers work.
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Emergency Kit and Numbers
It’s always better to be prepared. Accidents can happen, and having a roadside emergency kit can be a lifesaver. The top three numbers to know for nationwide roadside assistance (not just in Cape Town) are as follows:
- Nationwide Emergency Response: 10111
- Cellphone emergency: 112 – dialing this number will connect you to an automated menu, and as you answer prompts, emergency services will pinpoint your location.
- Ambulance Response: 10177
Be prepared to provide the following information:
- The nature of the emergency.
- Your current location, using landmarks if available.
- Details about any injuries or suspects.
- Your personal information.
Lastly, ensure you have your insurer’s contact details programmed into your phone in case you need to make a claim for accident damage or require a tow.
- Ensure Documents Are Up to Date
Always verify that your car’s license and your driver’s license are up to date.
Once you’ve checked off all the items on this checklist, you’re ready to hit the road. For those looking to charge their vehicle’s battery on the way to their holiday, you can visit one of the Willard Xpress locations.
Willard Xpress Locations Along the Way!
We understand that scheduling a full day for vehicle checks can be challenging. Fortunately, there are strategically located Willard Xpress branches throughout South Africa.
For instance:
- Traveling from Johannesburg to Cape Town on the N1? Willard Xpress Vrystaat is conveniently located just off the national highway.
- If you’re journeying from Cape Town to Johannesburg, there’s a fantastic Willard Xpress branch near the highway in Paarl.
- For those traveling between Durban and Johannesburg, there’s a Willard Xpress in Harrismith, conveniently situated just off the N3.
- Given the Garden Route’s popularity with holidaymakers, there’s a Willard Xpress in George, located off the N2.
- With nearly 50 locations nationwide, you’re likely to find a Willard Xpress nearby to assist you.
