Driving on South Africa’s roads teaches you a few things: Joburg’s bustling streets will have you handling the steering wheel a pro. Durban’s winding roads teach you how to master corners and obstacles. Cape Town’s worsening traffic will teach you patience.
But what can an unroadworthy vehicle teach you?
A lesson in negligence and how you should avoid it like the plague.
Maintaining your car’s condition is crucial to your safety and other road users. Pineapple’s guide provides essential car maintenance practices tailored for South African drivers.
Read on to learn to avoid common breakdowns and accidents by keeping your vehicle in optimal condition.
Stay roadworthy. Get insured. Click here for Pineapple’s instant car insurance quote!
TL;DR – Our version of “I’m not reading all that, *SparkNotes pls.”
- Vehicle roadworthiness in South Africa is vital for safety and legal compliance. Cars must pass regular inspections for issues like brakes, tyres, lights, and safety features.
- Common causes of car breakdowns include battery issues, damaged tyres, faulty alternators and starter motor failure (to name a few).
- Ignoring your car’s maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, a higher risk of breakdowns, and potential fines for unroadworthy vehicles.
- 8 essential maintenance tips to keep your car roadworthy:
- Inspect wheels and tyres (check for damage, inflation, and alignment).
- Maintain brakes (check pads and fluid).
- Ensure all lights and signals work.
- Keep your windscreen and wipers in top condition.
- Inspect steering and suspension.
- Check the exhaust system for leaks or excessive smoke.
- Monitor fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid).
- Test seatbelts and safety features.
- Pineapple offers affordable car insurance starting from R589/month with benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, emergency accommodation and towing.
Understanding Vehicle Roadworthiness in South Africa
If you’ve ever watched the 8 pm news, you’ve probably heard of an unroadworthy vehicle causing major car accidents.
But what makes a car unroadworthy, and who decides?
In South Africa and other parts of the world, a vehicle is considered unroadworthy when it has defects that compromise its safety and may endanger other road users.
According to a 2024 statement by the Department of Transport (DoT), approximately 10% of all vehicles registered in South Africa are unroadworthy, with an average age of 11.
Driving an unroadworthy vehicle can increase the risk of traffic fines and penalties, breakdowns, and liability in case of an accident. Any claim you submit may be rejected if your car is insured, as roadworthiness is a prerequisite for insurance coverage.
An insurance provider may reject insurance claims if unroadworthiness contributed to the accident, subject to your insurance policy’s terms. An argument can be made that the car’s un-roadworthiness could have been a contributing factor or was the cause of the accident.
On the flip side, a roadworthy vehicle is one that can operate safely and legally on South Africa’s public roads.
A roadworthy test can establish whether a car belongs on the streets or in a scrapyard. A vehicle deemed roadworthy has passed all the necessary inspections and is considered safe and fit for use.
Factors that undergo a roadworthiness test include:
- The vehicle’s mechanical condition
-
- The vehicle’s interior (hooter, speedometer and odometer) and exterior condition (rust and damage or faulty doors)
- The condition of the brakes, tyres, lights and mirrors
- The condition of the car’s safety features, like the seatbelts and airbags
- The condition of the windows, windscreen and wipers (free from cracks and are operable).
Testing a vehicle’s roadworthy status is a legal requirement; every car in South Africa must pass before it can be licensed in a new owner’s name.
A roadworthiness test can also be conducted every time a vehicle changes ownership. For automobiles used for public transport or heavy-load vehicles (excluding buses), the test usually occurs annually before their license is renewed.
Once your car passes the test, you can complete the application for certification of roadworthiness (ACR) form, which an accredited testing centre issues.
To obtain an ACR, visit the closest testing centre with the vehicle’s registration certificate, identity document (ID), and the prescribed fee.
Common Causes of Vehicle Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them
Other research by the National Vehicle Testing Association on more than 1,000 cars in KZN and the Western Cape found that up to 80% of the vehicles on South African roads were not in roadworthy condition.
SA’s roads are challenging enough as is: potholes, poor road quality, and extreme weather conditions, which make driving an extreme sport. If a car isn’t roadworthy, it has no business on any road if you ask us.
That said, here are some common causes of vehicle breakdowns and how you can prevent them:
1. Battery issues
A weak or dead battery is typically caused by age, corrosion, excessive electrical drain, or extreme temperatures.
Preventative measures:
- Regular maintenance (especially before a long trip)
- Cleaning the battery’s terminals
- Ensure the charging system functions properly
A final pro tip is to avoid leaving your headlights or radio on while the vehicle is off.
2. Damaged tyres and misalignment
Potholes, uneven road surfaces, and vehicle overload can result in worn, torn and damaged tyres and poor alignment.
Preventative measures:
- Regular tyre pressure checks
- Tyre rotation and balancing
- Avoiding reckless driving, potholes and debris
A final pro tip would be to replace your tyres when the tread depth is low. The legal minimum tread depth in South Africa is 1.6 mm in the main grooves.
3. Faulty alternator
You might not even be aware of this mechanism, but a vehicle’s alternator is one of the three main parts of its electric charging system. Worn brushes, faulty voltage regulators, and damaged wiring are sure signs of a damaged alternator.
Preventative measures:
- Regular inspection of alternator belts (wear and tear)
- Monitoring battery voltage
- Professional electrical systems checks
A final pro tip is to refrain from running multiple electrical accessories simultaneously, especially while idling. This puts unnecessary stress on your alternator.
4. Starter Motor Failure
Hearing clicking noises when turning the ignition or if the car isn’t starting should alert you that your starter motor is failing.
Preventative measures:
- Regular battery maintenance
- Avoid excessively cranking the engine
A final pro tip is to consult with a professional mechanic or technician. They’ll have the experience needed to diagnose the intricate starter motor system.
Keep Your Car Roadworthy: Essential Maintenance Tips For South African Drivers
The secret to long trips, safe driving, and avoiding financial ruin is keeping your car in top shape. Now that you know the common car issues to look out for, let’s dive into some essential maintenance tips.
- Regular inspections based on the vehicle’s service plan. Monthly inspections can help you identify minor issues before they become big (expensive) problems.
- Checking your car’s fuel levels. Change your engine oil regularly for better performance and lubrication. Similarly, maintaining your coolant levels can prevent the engine from overheating. Other fluids to look out for are brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
- Regularly upkeeping the braking system. When your brakes start squeaking or are taking too long to engage, you know you’re in k*k. So, turn the radio down occasionally and listen closely for unusual noises. Consider conducting a visual inspection of wear and tear of the car’s brake pads and rotors, or get a professional to check your braking system for you. We mean a qualified mechanic, not someone’s brother who’s “really good with cars”.
- Ensure the lights and signals are working. According to the National Road Traffic Regulations, driving with faulty lights is illegal in South Africa. Headlights, tail lights, and indicators are crucial for safety and visibility. They also communicate your intentions to other drivers, helping them anticipate whether you’re turning, slowing down, etc. So, check your lights and lenses for cracks or damage and replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately—as in ASAP.
Proactively maintaining and servicing your car will reduce the likelihood of frequent breakdowns and ensure longevity.
Roadworthiness Checklist – 8 Steps to Ensure Your Car is Roadworthy
You’re probably reading this, thinking, “How do I know if my car is considered roadworthy in South Africa?” No? Well, let’s pretend you were. We would respond by saying, “wonder no more.”
Use Pineapple’s checklist to ensure your car meets South African roadworthiness standards:
Item 1: Wheels and tyres
- No cracks, bulges or punctures
- Tread depth is above the legal minimum requirement (1.6 mm)
- Tyres are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications
- No uneven wear, which can make the vehicle pull to one side.
Item 2: Brakes
- Brake pads aren’t excessively worn
- No squeaky or grinding sounds when stopping
- The handbrake holds the car securely when you’re parked on an incline or steep hill
- The brake fluid is topped up and free from contaminates
Item 3: Lights and signals
- Headlights (both high and low beams), brake lights, and indicators are fully functional
- No flickering or broken lightbulbs
- Headlight alignment
Item 4: Windshield and wipers
- No chips or large cracks which can obstruct your vision
- The wipers work effectively in clearing the windshield
- The wiper fluid’s reservoir is either filled or topped up
Item 5: Steering and suspension
- The steering wheel has no excessive play (the amount of free movement a steering wheel has before it turns the car’s wheels)
- No vibrations or strange noises when turning
- The car doesn’t pull to one side when driving straight on a level surface
- Shock absorbers are functioning correctly (the vehicle isn’t bouncing excessively)
Item 6: Exhaust system
- There’s no excessive smoke coming from the exhaust system
- No loud noises, which could mean there’s a leak somewhere
- The exhaust is securely mounted and isn’t dragging along behind the vehicle
Item 7: Fluid levels
- Fluids like engine oil, coolant/antifreeze, brake, transmission, and power steering fluid should be at the correct level. (Side note: each fluid will have a specified range in which it should operate for optimal performance and safety.)
- There should be no visible leaks underneath the car
Item 8: Seatbelts and other safety features
- Every seatbelt should function properly, retract as expected and have no tears
- The airbags are fully functional (no dashboard warning lights are going off)
- The hooter works (*beep* *beep*)
The Cost of Ignoring Vehicle Maintenance – Risks & Consequences
Now that you know how to maintain your car and why, let’s look at what happens if you choose to forgo these simple car servicing tips. Spoiler alert: it may end in tears.
Here are some risks associated with neglecting your car’s maintenance:
- Expensive repair costs. Minor issues can quickly become costly problems, resulting in you paying a fortune at the panel beaters. Just ask Pineapple’s Marketing Project Manager, Eunice McGill, “A few years back, I had a car that needed servicing. The mechanic charged me something like R8,500, which might not seem like much in today’s time, but back then, it was more than what I earned! Plus, he hadn’t factored in the labour costs or other service fees.”
- Higher likelihood of breakdowns (not the emotional kind, but that, too). Again, just ask Eunice, who said, “I once had a secondhand Renault Clio, which broke down within 3 months of me owning it. It was fairly new in the country then, so I struggled to find the necessary parts to fix it. So, for 6 months, my car was parked at home, and I had to use public transport to get around. The sad part was I’d saved up so much for that car, and in the end, once I eventually got it fixed, I had to sell it because the experience scarred me.”
- Increase safety hazards. Neglecting your vehicle’s maintenance can increase the risk of car accidents and collisions. For example, faulty lights can reduce visibility, making it harder to see the road ahead. It also makes it harder for other drivers to see you. Eunice said, “Being stranded on the side of the road is not fun, and it’s especially dangerous as a woman. Before, people would stop and ask, “Are you okay?” but it’s not safe to do that anymore.”
- Potential fines. Driving an unroadworthy vehicle in South Africa is illegal, meaning you could face penalty fees and fines, or your car may even be impounded. At the time of writing, Section 42(1) of the National Road Traffic Act stated, “If any member of the public is caught driving such vehicles on public roads, a fine of R3000,00 will be issued and vehicle impounded. Offenders will further be liable for impoundment and storage costs.”
Neglecting your car’s maintenance can lead to a cascade of problems, penalties and a world of regrets. Not only will your vehicle suffer, but our wallet and mind might catch a few strays, too.
So, the next time you’re thinking of foregoing a visit to your car’s service centre… maybe don’t.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car Roadworthiness and Vehicle Breakdowns in South Africa
1. What makes a vehicle unroadworthy in South Africa?
In South Africa, a vehicle is considered unroadworthy if it fails to meet the standards and regulations set by the National Road Traffic Act. A car is roadworthy when it has passed all the necessary inspections and is considered safe and fit for use on public roads.
2. What is needed for a car to pass a roadworthy test?
To meet the National Road Traffic Act’s requirement and pass the roadworthy test, a vehicle must meet the following standards:
- Identification: The engine and vehicle identification numbers (VIN) must match those on the registration document. There should be no signs of tampering on any of the vehicle identifiers. All associated requirements must be in place and logged on to the National Traffic Information System if the engine has been changed.
- Braking system: This is one of the most critical safety components in any vehicle because reduced braking efficiency can cause fatal accidents. Your car’s owner’s manual should give you an idea of how often you need to replace your vehicle’s brake pads. When preparing for a roadworthy test, you must check the brake pads, disc, and fluid levels.
- Suspension and steering: The suspension system maximises the friction between the tyres and the road surface. This helps stabilise the vehicle and enables the car to handle bumps and dips on the road. It consists of various parts, such as shock absorbers and coil springs, that all play a part in maintaining stability on the road. A car’s steering wheel is also closely tied to the health of its suspension system. Inspectors check the steering wheel and the linkage between the wheel and the rest of your car. Your wheels must be aligned to specifications, and the undercarriage must be free of rust and leaks.
- Tyres and wheels: Tyres must be the correct size and in good condition, including the spare wheel. They should be inflated to the proper pressure and have a tread at least 1.6mm deep. There should not be any cuts, bumps, or other damage. If your tyres fail the inspection, you must have them repaired or replaced before your vehicle can be deemed roadworthy.
- Lights and basic electrics: All lights must work independently and correctly; this includes headlights, fog lights, brake lights, and indicators. They must be securely fitted, with no signs of water leaking into any of them. Also, check for loose or exposed wiring and that all battery clamps are there.
- Exhaust and emissions: Check if emission levels meet regulations. There should be no leaks, excessive smoke, or noise from exhaust.
- Engine and transmission: Your car’s engine should not leak or damage. The engine and transmission mountings must be intact. Additionally, there should be no loose or damaged wirings, and the transmission must be in good working order.
- Bodywork: Inspectors will also conduct an interior and exterior check on your vehicle. The chassis should not show any sign of weakness, and the undercarriage must be free of rust. There should be no structural damage that can cause injury to pedestrians or cyclists. Ensure all doors, mirrors, and bumpers are secure, correctly positioned, and all your reflectors are intact.
- Windscreen and windows: The windscreen should be free of cracks or damage obstructing the view. At least one correctly functioning windscreen wiper must be fitted, and all windows must open and close properly.
- Seatbelts and interior safety features: All seatbelts must be fastened and released easily, with no cuts or damage. The seats must be securely in place. The odometer, hooter, and speedometer must also be in working order.
3. How much does a full car service cost in South Africa?
The average cost of an interim service is between R1,000 and R2,000, while a full service can cost between R2,000 and R4,000. However, this will largely depend on the type of vehicle and what kind of maintenance is required (minor or major service). Some service fees can cost as much as R15,000!
4. What should I do if my car breaks down on a highway?
If your car breaks down on a highway, the best thing to do is stay calm and be cautious of your surroundings. If possible, try to move to the shoulder safely, switch on your hazard lights and call for roadside assistance. If safe to do so, exit the car and place your emergency warning triangle; otherwise, remain in the vehicle with hazards on and call for help.
Conclusion
Making car maintenance a priority is an investment in your vehicle’s longevity, safety, and financial well-being. Understanding and adhering to SA’s roadworthiness standard, plus performing routine maintenance checks, can help you avoid catastrophic car problems before they happen.
Promptly addressing maintenance issues means enjoying a safer, more reliable, cost-effective driving experience. And, honestly, who wouldn’t want that?
Don’t wait for a breakdown to remind you to maintain your car’s health. Make it a habit, like going to the petrol station or going to the car wash.
But, car protection is not complete without comprehensive cover. No really.
Sure, maintenance can minimise mechanical risks. But car insurance takes peace of mind to the next level. Unforeseen events like a car accident, theft, hijacking, accidental and malicious damage, and third-party liability are all covered under Pineapple’s comprehensive car insurance policy.
Now that that’s said and done, if you’re looking for ways to thank us for this invaluable information, get a quote for Pineapple’s affordable, comprehensive car insurance.
Cover starts from just R589 P/M and includes benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, and emergency accommodation* (we were just talking breakdowns, no?).
We’ll even give you up to 30% cashback on your monthly car insurance premiums every time you travel less than 300 km in total in a month.
*If your vehicle is lost or damaged more than 100km from your home, Pineapple will reimburse you for accommodation expenses (up to the limit specified in your policy).
Get a quote for Pineapple’s cheap car insurance starting from R589 p/m in just 90 seconds.
Please Note: The information provided above is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information as legal or financial advice.
Pineapple (FSP 48650) is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited, a licensed Non-Life Insurer and authorised FSP. T&Cs apply.
