TL;DR – Our version of “I’m not reading all that, *SparkNotes pls.”
- Wear and tear is the natural deterioration of car parts over time due to regular use.
- Wear and tear commonly affects a vehicle’s tyres, brakes, battery, and steering.
- Common signs of wear and tear include reduced tyre traction, a faded paint job, squeaky brakes, and steering that pulls to one side.
- Smooth driving, not overloading the car, and regular maintenance are tips for reducing wear and tear in older vehicles.
- Comprehensive car insurance provides roadside assistance for breakdowns and protection against accidents, theft, and weather damage.
@pineapple__sa Do you guys have any tips?🤔 Also, we have a blog about it. 🤓 Go read it here: https://pineapple.co.za/post/reduce-wear-and-tear-on-older-cars/😘 #PineappleSA #CarInsurance #WearAndTear #CarCare
There’s nothing quite like having an older vehicle.
Age on a car can signify its durability and reflect your smart spending habits—what’s the point of a car if you can’t afford the fuel or service costs?
But cars are usually depreciating assets, meaning they’re susceptible to ageing, which is known as wear and tear.
Understanding what this means can be the key to keeping your classic ride cruising for even more years. Let’s explore the common signs of wear and tear and provide practical tips to keep your car in top shape.
Don’t let car worries keep you up at night—explore Pineapple’s comprehensive car cover today!
What Is Car Wear and Tear?
Wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration of a car’s components due to normal use. Over time, a car’s brakes, body, tyres and suspension system can wear down from regular driving.
That said, it’s crucial to note that wear and tear differs from avoidable or deliberate damage caused by negligence (failing to maintain and service the car regularly) or accidents.
Ignoring regular car maintenance can lead to more serious issues down the road, like engine failure and brake problems. These can be pricey to fix and can pose safety hazards!
Plus, slacking on your car’s upkeep can put you at higher risk of being in an accident, which is not covered by insurance – i.e. if an insurer can see that the event occurred as a result of poor maintenance, your claim could be denied.
Common Signs of Wear and Tear in a Vehicle
Many parts of your vehicle will likely be susceptible to wear and tear, with the most common being:
- Tyres.
- Batteries.
- Brakes.
- Steering.
Tyres
Worn-out tyres can reduce traction and increase braking distance, posing a safety risk. According to Regulation 212 of the National Road Traffic Act, tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1mm. Uneven tyre wear can indicate potential alignment issues or suspension problems and can result in you getting fined.
Car Battery
A car’s battery might lose its ability to store energy properly, resulting in dimmer lights, slow engine cranking, or a warning sign on the dashboard. Not maintaining your battery can result in a breakdown, leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Car Brakes
Squeaking brakes, longer stopping distances, and a spongy pedal can all be telltale signs that your vehicle’s brake pads are reaching their expiry date. Worn brakes can significantly reduce your stopping power—if you need to make a sudden stop, this will be a challenge because your brakes will not be reactive or reliable.
Side note: Squeaky brakes are super embarrassing.
Steering
As mentioned, uneven wear on tyres and suspension issues can negatively affect a vehicle’s steering capabilities. You might experience loose or vague steering, pulling to one side, or unusual noises when turning. Additionally, driving over speed bumps or over potholes at an unsavoury speed can affect your wheel alignment. So, it’s good to check the alignment when getting your car serviced.
Other signs of wear and tear can include cosmetic problems like faded paint and rust, leaking fluids (oil, antifreeze, brake fluid—you name it), and rattling or screeching noises.
Keeping an eye, and ear, on the above can help you recognise and prevent further damage, costly repairs and unnecessary headaches.
Tips to Reduce Wear and Tear on Older Cars
Wear and tear is inevitable, but thankfully, it isn’t unavoidable. So, if you’re looking for practical ways to keep your older car running like a dream, Pineapple’s got you covered (with information since we don’t actually cover wear and tear)!
Here are seven cost-effective ways to reduce wear and tear on an older car:
- Smooth acceleration and braking.
- Avoid overloading the car.
- Keep your speed down.
- Regularly wash your car.
- Regularly service your vehicle.
- Drive on well-maintained roads.
- Park the car in an enclosed space.
Smooth Acceleration and Braking
Aggressive acceleration and braking, a.k.a. reckless driving, can put additional stress on the vehicle’s engine, cause the brake pads and rotors to deteriorate faster, and affect the suspension. Smooth driving helps conserve your car’s fuel consumption and enhances safety.
Avoid Overloading the Car
Carrying excess weight can affect your suspension, brakes and tyres, resulting in premature wear and tear. A rule of thumb is to frequently empty out unnecessary baggage from your car. There is usually a tyre placard sticker on the inside of the driver’s door; this tells you how much air you should have in the front and back tyres based on the weight carried in the vehicle. By properly inflating your tyres, you can prevent any damage.
Keep Your Speed Down
Travelling at high speeds forces you to make sudden changes, such as gear shifting or swerving, which can be dangerous for the car’s mechanics and your safety. Driving within the speed limit allows for better reaction time and allows you to spot potholes and other obstructions sooner rather than later.
Regularly Wash Your Car
Debris, like dirt, dust, salt, and other grime, can lead to rust, especially if you live by any of SA’s beautiful coasts. So, regular car washing can help maintain your vehicle’s paint job. Motorists with leather seats and trim can use leather conditioner or cream to prevent the material from drying out and cracking.
Regularly Service Your Vehicle
One of the most effective ways to prevent vehicle wear and tear is regular trips to the service centre. And no, not by your brother in the garage. Get a credible, reputable servicing centre that is approved by your insurer. Sticking to your car’s suggested service schedule allows you to catch small problems before they become expensive issues.
Plus, you don’t have to wait for a service to check your oil, water, and tyre pressure.
A rule of thumb is that every time you fill up at the petrol station, kindly ask the attendant to check your fluid levels. If you are low on any of the above, you can resolve it then and there instead of months later.
Drive on Well-Maintained Roads
Given the state of South Africa’s roads, this might seem like a tall order. But, avoiding potholes and dirt roads can increase the longevity of your vehicle.
Park the Car in an Enclosed Space
Keeping your car under a carport or in a locked garage helps protect it from elements like rain, harsh sunlight and dust, which can cause fading, cracking or rust.
All in all, preventative measures are like vitamins for your vehicle; they help keep it healthy and strong. Plus, your wallet stays protected because unexpected repairs can really put a dent in your budget.
Protect your car and your wallet. Get a quote for our car insurance tailored for older vehicles.
How Insurance or Warranties Can Help with Wear and Tear Costs
Most car insurance policies typically don’t offer wear and tear protection.
Pineapple’s Claim’s Manager Martika Topp explained, “Wear and tear is not covered because insurance is meant to cover unexpected and accidental events, not a car’s gradual deterioration.”
Still, comprehensive car insurance, especially for older vehicles, can cover unforeseen incidents that can cause financial ruin.
And since older cars are more likely to suffer breakdowns and need random repairs, having car insurance allows you to manage the costs without dipping into your savings or getting ‘help’ from a loan shark.
Here’s how Pineapple’s comprehensive car insurance can help:
- Covers accidental damage, theft, and weather-related damage.
- Offers roadside assistance for breakdowns.
- Provides peace of mind and financial protection.
Similarly, standard warranties might not cover wear and tear but can assist with associated costs.
While some extended warranties might offer limited coverage for wear and tear on specific components, like the engine, it’s best to consult your vehicle’s user guide.
The choice between car insurance and a car warranty might depend on your budget and overall affordability; however, both are needed to ensure total vehicle protection.
Conclusion
Wear and tear in inanimate objects is like wrinkles in humans; a natural occurrence. However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely helpless.
Proper car maintenance, coupled with the right comprehensive cover (*cough* Pineapple’s *cough*), can extend your older vehicle’s already long lifespan. That, and you can avoid unplanned trips to the repair shop.
Explore more car care tips and maintenance advice on our blog.
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.
