Bidvest Insurance explores the car parts that need extra tender loving care (TLC).
Some car parts need a little extra TLC. Cars are manufactured using thousands of parts. Sometimes, mechanical or electrical breakdowns can happen. A breakdown doesn’t mean you should give up on your car. Instead, you should look to replace the defective part!
Here’s a list of car parts that need a little extra TLC:
Battery
Your battery gives power to start your engine and run the electrical system. Unfortunately, battery failure is common. Car batteries have a typical lifespan of between four to five years. A dead battery could leave you stranded.
Here are some tips to maximise your battery’s lifespan:
- Don’t leave the lights on when your car is parked.
- Don’t use the air conditioner when your car is off.
- Check for dirty terminals, damaged cables, or any other defects.
- Replace your battery every four to five years.
Brake pads
Brake pads are another crucial part of your car then need a little extra TLC. Your brakes are responsible for stopping your car. For safety reasons, they must be maintained and remain in good condition. Your brake pads should last around three to five years. Alternatively, your brake pads should last around 50,000 kilometres.
Spark plugs
Keep your engine firing on all cylinders with sparkling spark plugs. Spark plugs help start your engine. Without spark plugs, your engine would not start. Spark plugs work by creating a spark of electricity, which then ignites the fuel and air mixture. This causes the combustion that powers your car’s engine.
Spark plugs need to be clean and free from dust and dirt. Spark plugs should last around 40,000 kilometres, depending on your driving.
Light bulbs
You get enough loadshedding at home – you don’t need it when you drive. You can’t drive at night without lights. Check your lights on a regular basis to ensure they’re always shining.
Shocks
Don’t get a shock when your shocks give in. You don’t want to feel every bump you drive over. Your shocks give you a smooth ride. You need to replace your shocks every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometres.
Fuel pump
You need fuel to power your engine and keep your wheels moving. Your fuel pump makes this possible. Fuel pumps should be replaced when your car nears the 100,000 kilometre mark.
There are many things that could go wrong with your car. Even though you service your car on a regular basis, unexpected breakdowns can happen. While you can’t predict unexpected breakdowns, you can get cover for them. Get a Motor Warranty from Bidvest Insurance today.
*A Motor Warranty does not cover general wear and tear items or components.
