Ensure Your Bakkie is Safe For The Easter Roads
The Easter long weekend is known as a time when hundreds of South Africans will hit the road to enjoy the mini holiday with their friends and families and usually includes going away to a different location this time. If you are one of these South Africans who are planning a road trip in your beloved bakkie, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is safe for the journey ahead. Here are some tips to help you prepare your bakkie for the Easter roads.
Check Your Tyres
It is important to remember that your bakkie’s tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so it’s vital that they are in good condition and will be able to withstand the long, or short, journey to your Easter destination of choice. Before leaving, you should check the tyre pressure and ensure that it’s within the manufacturer’s recommended range, this number can usually be seen on the inside of the driver’s door panel. You should also check the tread depth and replace any worn-out or damaged tyres.
Inspect Your Brakes
Your bakkie’s brakes are critical for ensuring your safety on the road. Make time to have a professional mechanic inspect your brake system and replace any worn-out brake parts, such as brake pads, discs, or callipers. You should also ensure that your brake fluid is at the correct level and has not become contaminated. Contamination usually happens when the fluid comes into contact with air or when there is excess moisture as this can cause issues and make braking less effective, and therefore more dangerous.
Check Your Lights
Be sure to check that all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators, are working correctly and that there are no faults or electrical issues. Check the alignment of your headlights and adjust them if necessary for optimal vision. Also, ensure that your bulbs are clean and free of dirt and debris which may affect their brightness and ultimately your vision when driving at night.
Ensure Your Load is Secure
If you’re carrying a load in your bakkie, ensure that it’s securely fastened to avoid movement and distraction while driving. An unsecured load can cause a serious accident, especially when driving on uneven or bumpy roads, which are a common occurrence on some of our South African roads.
Service Your Vehicle
Before taking off, have your bakkie serviced by a professional mechanic. A comprehensive service can detect any potential issues, big or small, and will ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition. Additionally, ensure that your oil and other fluids are topped up and have been changed as recommended by the manufacturer.
The above tips will ensure that you reach your Easter destination safely and that you can enjoy the much-needed family time while taking a breather from your everyday responsibilities. Be safe on the roads this Easter holiday in South Africa!
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