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KNYSNA NEWS - If you ask any local mechanic what leads to big repair bills, the answer is usually the same: it’s not bad luck, it’s small things that were left too long.
According to dotsure.co.za’s workshop specialist, Louis Stander, most major problems don’t happen overnight.
“They develop quietly through small oversights: skipped services, incorrect oil, or warning lights that are ignored.”
As vehicles get older, certain parts naturally wear out. The car parts that fail most often include:
- Engine components like piston rings, bearings and oil pumps, which operate under high temperatures
- Gearboxes, where gears and bearings wear over time
- Cooling systems, including water pumps, thermostats and ageing coolant
- Electrical systems, especially sensors and control units that run constantly
- Steering and suspension, often affected by potholes and rough road conditions
- Brake components such as discs and calliper parts, not just brake pads
Understanding the importance of regular car servicing and avoiding common car maintenance mistakes, while having a car warranty plan in place as backup, can mean the difference between a repair bill that runs into tens of thousands of rands or peace of mind.
The car maintenance mistakes drivers make
One of the biggest mistakes motorists make is not following the manufacturer’s service schedule. It’s easy to delay a service when the car still feels fine, but that’s often when hidden wear begins.
Common maintenance mistakes include:
- Skipping service intervals
- Using the wrong or cheapest oil
- Ignoring coolant condition or levels
- Delaying repairs after a warning light appears
Engine, overheating and gearbox problems
Among the more expensive common engine-related issues is uneven oil circulation caused by a worn oil pump. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious internal damage.
Overheating is another major risk. The most common causes include:
- Old or poor-quality antifreeze
- Low coolant levels
- A cooling system that hasn’t been flushed properly
- Faulty water pumps or thermostats
Gearboxes are another high-cost area. The main causes of gearbox failure are worn gears or bearings, contaminated oil, excessive towing and harsh driving habits. Automatic gearboxes, in particular, have more moving parts and electronic controls than manual ones.
This makes them more complex and generally more expensive to repair when something goes wrong.
How to avoid expensive car part failures
The good news is that most serious failures give warning signs. “New noises, persistent warning lights, changes in steering or braking, overheating or loss of power,” says Stander.
These simple preventative habits can save you money:
- Stick to manufacturer service intervals
- Use the correct oil and fluids
- Check coolant regularly
- Inspect gearbox and drivetrain oils
- Never ignore warning lights or unusual sounds
- Fix small problems early
Proactive maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs. Even with good care, parts can still fail as a vehicle ages. That’s where a car warranty can help manage the financial risk.
With dotsure.co.za’s extended warranty, valid claims are paid directly to you, helping you get back on the road without the stress of unexpected repair costs.
Ts & Cs and possible exclusions may apply and can be obtained by emailing [email protected]. Claim payouts subject to submission of a valid claim. Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06) is a licensed non-life insurer and authorised financial services provider (FSP39925).
Get worry-free car warranty from dotsure.co.za with cover for over 100 parts across key components. Image supplied.
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