Maintaining your car doesn’t have to be a costly exercise. Several basic DIY maintenance tasks can be done at home for South African drivers looking to save money and keep their vehicles running smoothly. These tips will help you extend the lifespan of your car, improve safety, and reduce long-term repair costs. 

Click here to find the perfect vehicle for your needs

1. Check and change engine oil

Engine oil is vital for keeping your engine lubricated and running efficiently. Check your oil level regularly using the dipstick:

  • Park the car on a level surface.
  • Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it again.
  • Remove it to check the oil level; if it’s low, top up with the manufacturer-recommended oil. For most cars, oil should be changed every 10,000 km or annually.

2. Inspect and maintain tyres

Proper tyre maintenance is critical for safety and fuel efficiency:

  • Check tyre pressure: Use a pressure gauge to ensure the tyres match the recommended PSI, typically found in the owner’s manual or the driver’s door.
  • Tread depth: South African law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. Use a tread depth gauge to check.
  • Rotate tyres: Rotate the tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 km to ensure even wear.

3. Replace wiper blades

With South Africa’s unpredictable weather, functional wiper blades are a must. If your wipers leave streaks or make noise, replace them:

  • Lift the wiper arms and slide out the old blades.
  • Clip in new blades, ensuring they lock securely in place.

4. Check battery health

Car batteries can fail unexpectedly, but regular checks can prevent surprises:

  • Look for corrosion on the terminals and clean them using a mix of baking soda and water.
  • Ensure the battery is securely mounted and check the charge using a multimeter (12.6 volts is optimal).

5. Replace air filters

A clogged air filter reduces engine efficiency. Check your filter every 15,000 km:

  • Locate the filter under the hood.
  • Remove the housing, replace the dirty filter, and secure it back.

6. Top up fluids

Regularly check and top up essential fluids, including:

  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Windshield washer fluid

Get the best insurance quote for your vehicle here

While DIY maintenance is rewarding and cost-effective, always refer to your vehicle’s manual for guidelines. For complex issues, consult a professional mechanic to avoid costly mistakes. By keeping up with these simple tasks, South African drivers can enjoy safer, more efficient vehicles and save on unnecessary repairs.

Mpho Mahlangu, in association with 

proudly CHANGECARS