🚗Tips to Look After Your Car During Winter in South Africa.

Because no one wants to be stuck in the cold with a car that’s throwing a strop

Winter in Mzansi might not bring snowstorms like in the movies, but it still throws a spanner in the works for our cars. Cold mornings, fogged-up windows, and lazy batteries can make your daily start feel like you’re fighting with your ride. So before your car catches a moody and leaves you stranded, here are some lekker tips to keep your chariot purring all through the chill.

1. Warm it Up, But Don’t Overdo It

We know it’s tempting to let your car idle while you finish your morning coffee, but idling for too long wastes fuel and isn’t that great for the engine. Just start it up, let it run for a minute or two, and then take it easy for the first few kays.

Pro Tip: Don’t rev the engine like you’re at Killarney – keep it chilled.

2. Battery Blues

Batteries don’t like the cold – much like you getting out of bed at 6am. If your car is starting slowly or making weird sounds when you turn the key, your battery might be on its last legs. Have it tested, and make sure the terminals are clean and tight.

Avoid a flat battery on a frosty morning, bru. That’s not how you wanna start your day.

3. Check Your Tyres – Seriously!

Cold weather causes tyre pressure to drop, and driving with soft tekkies is dangerous and costs you more fuel. Make a habit of checking your tyre pressure regularly – especially after those chilly nights in Jozi or the Cape.

No one wants to skid around like you’re trying out for Fast & Furious Joburg Drift.

4. Lights On, But Don’t Blind the Oke

Winter means shorter days and misty mornings. Make sure all your lights are working – including brake lights and indicators. And for the love of bakkies, don’t drive with your brights on all the time. You’re not auditioning for a UFO sighting.

5. Keep That Windshield Clear

Fogged-up windows are a pain, and they can be dangerous. Use your aircon or demister (yes, even in winter!) to clear them up quickly. Also, check your wiper blades – if they’re streaking more than a dodgy uncle at a wedding, replace them.

You can’t drive if you can’t see, my bru.

6. Top Up All the Juices

Your car needs its fluids just like you need your morning coffee. Make sure your oil, coolant, brake fluid and washer fluid are all topped up. If anything looks low or dodgy, get it sorted before it turns into a mission.

7. Don’t Ignore Weird Noises

That strange rattling or whining? Ja no, that’s not just the cold. Winter can bring out problems that weren’t obvious in summer. If your car starts sounding like it’s possessed, take it to your local mechanic before it ghosts you for real.

8. Be Lekker to Your Car

Lastly, just treat your car nicely. Keep it clean (winter grime is a real thing), park it under cover if you can, and don’t drive like you’re in a street race. Your car will love you back with fewer breakdowns and more smooth rides.