Although the law dictates that cars on South African roads must be roadworthy, a survey showed that 80% of cars are not. It is important for motorists to know what is included in a roadworthy test. Why? Read on and you’ll see.
THE DIRE SITUATION IS DUE TO OLD LEGISLATION
Unfortunately, cars are currently only tested when there is a change of ownership. After that, a car could be driven for the next 20 years without any further tests. Surely, after a few years, even the best of cars could start failing in some aspects of the roadworthy test? All taxis, trucks and buses have to present valid roadworthy certificates if they wish to renew their licences.
NO ROADWORTHINESS, NO CAR INSURANCE
Yes, it is as simple as that. You will not be able to get cover for your car if it is not roadworthy, Just check your policy document. An insurance company will not honour a claim, should the car be found to be not roadworthy or if its non-roadworthiness had caused the accident.
DO WE REALIZE HOW SERIOUS THE SITUATION IS ON OUR ROADS?
Up to 80% of cars on roads in the Western Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal were found to be not roadworthy. If you add to that all the false roadworthy certificates that continue to be issued, we begin to see a bizarre situation developing on our roads.
SO WHAT SHOULD THE AVERAGE MOTORIST DO ABOUT THIS?
The onus that your car stays roadworthy is on you, the owner. Otherwise, you may have an insurance claim rejected, which could financially ruin anyone for a long time to come.
This doesn’t mean that you must take your car for a roadworthy test every year or so. If you know what comprises a roadworthy test, you can keep a lookout for those items on a continual basis.
THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS MUST BE CORRECT
The only way any car can be identified is by its engine and chassis numbers. If these numbers are not the same as those on the vehicle registration certificate, the car will have to go for Police Clearance.
THE CAR’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MUST WORK
If a car fails a roadworthy test, you can rest assured that, in most cases, it’s due to electrical failure. Electrical failure involves head lights, dip lights, as well as parking and number plate lights. Then here are also the stop and tail lights, the windscreen wipers, the indicators, the battery and missing battery clamps, generator, alternator, and wiring in general. Any loose or exposed wiring is also not acceptable.
WHAT ABOUT HEADLIGHTS?
Fully functional headlights are obviously crucial, especially for safe night driving. Thus, they have to focus correctly, and cracked lenses are not permitted, as they could let in moisture. This, in turn, could cause rust to develop in the lamp reflector area.2
THE CAR’S HANDLES AND DOORS MUST WORK
All doors and handles should work smoothly with all opening and closing. Inside panels must not be damaged, and thus cause injury.
HAVE YOU CHECKED WINDOWS AND WINDOW WINDERS?
The window glass must always be made of safety glass. Windows must always open and close unhindered. If not automatic, window winders must be in place.
THE INTEGRITY OF SAFETY BELTS MUST NEVER BE COMPROMISED
Safety belts must fasten and unfasten unhindered, and may not be frayed or worn. The belts must display
THE CAR’S SEATING MUST BE SECURE
Ensure that seats are securely fastened to the body. Exposed springs or padding is not acceptable.
THE FUEL CAP
Irrespective of whether the cap is opened by key or via a cable release mechanism, check if it opens easily.
NO RUST IS PERMITTED IN THE CHASSIS AND UNDER-CARRIAGE
The chassis and under-carriage are the very heart of the car and if their structural integrity is compromised through rust, it will affect the safety of the entire vehicle. Weld a plate onto the chassis in those areas where rust is evident.
WHAT IF THE CAR’S BODY HAS RUSTED?
Address sharp rusty edges that could injure passengers and pedestrians. Favourite rusty spots are in car cavities where moisture can collect.
CHECK TYRES REGULARLY
HOW ARE YOUR BRAKES DOING?
Unless you know what you are doing, rather let a professional change the front and rear brakes. The brake disc itself must not be badly grooved. If it is, either
Even though you may be so attentive towards your car regarding its roadworthiness, another careless driver could damage your car. So why not buy affordable car insurance with PMD and get peace of mind?
Disclaimer:
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the views and opinions of Prime Meridian Direct (Pty) Ltd, FSP41040 (car insurance and life cover products). The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.