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Types of Car Filters and Their Purpose: A Quick Look at the Humble Fuel Filter

vuyi on November 15, 2021

by H&h Admin

There are four main types of filters in every car; the cabin filter, fuel filter, oil filter and air filter. In this article, we talk about the importance of the fuel filter.

When fuel comes out of a refinery, it’s clean but when it is poured into fuel carriers as well as the pumps at the fuel stations, it may become contaminated.  What this means is that there is a very high probability that the fuel poured into your tank contains a few contaminantes.  

So, what is a fuel filter and what does it do?

Think of the fuel filter (and other filters) like a sieve, similar to the one in your kitchen.  Imagine you are straining pulp after squeezing the juice from an orange juice. All the debris remains in the sieve and only the pure orange juice flows through the sieve. Similarly, a fuel filter works in the same way.

Located within the fuel line, a fuel filter is a cartridge with a screen within it.  The screen catches the dirt and other debris which may pour into your fuel tank along with the fuel.  As in the example of the orange juice, the fuel filter ensures that only the fuel passes through the filter and enters the car’s fuel line. 

Thanks to the correct fitment of a good quality fuel filter, the fuel going through your car’s fuel line is generally free of dirt and other pollutants which would otherwise damage your fuel system.

Signs your fuel filter needs replacement

Let’s go back to the orange juice example. After pouring pulp through the sieve for a while, the sieve gets clogged up, making it more difficult for the orange juice to pass through it.  In the same way, the fuel filter also gets clogged up over time and needs to be replaced.  Failure to change a blocked fuel filter can lead to noticeable problems to your otherwise smooth driving experience.  

Image: AutoZone

Here are two common problems you may notice when your fuel filter is taking strain: 

1. Poor engine performance

A blocked fuel filter causes the engine to sputter or hesitate randomly. This can happen at any time but is more prominent when accelerating or when traveling up a steep incline.  A clogged fuel filter limits the amount of fuel going through the fuel line, drastically reducing the car’s ability to perform optimally.

2. Stalling or misfiring 

An engine that repeatedly stalls while driving could be a sign of a dirty fuel filter.  Depending on the severity of the blockage, your car may start right back up without any noticeable loss of power.  However, as the clog worsens and fuel delivery becomes more sporadic, stalling will become more excessive or worsen upon acceleration.  Worst case scenario, your engine will stall and fail to start up altogether.

Keeping up with fuel filter maintenance

Following the recommended change intervals in your owner’s manual is key to maintain optimal vehicle health, and in this case, the health of your fuel system. Waiting until you are starting to experience issues with your fuel filter may cause bigger fuel delivery issues to deal with beyond a clogged filter. 

Impurities that pass through the fuel filter can cause a fuel injector to leak which in turn can lead to a myriad of drivability problems.  Replacing a dirty fuel filter is a relatively inexpensive and easy fix and once attended to, you should be back on the road in no time!

Lexus welcomes Robert Marawa as its newest Brand Ambassador 

vuyi on November 13, 2021

Press Release: Lexus South Africa

Lexus South Africa has today announced well-known media personality, sports broadcaster and businessman – Robert Marawa, as its new brand ambassador. Robert kicks off his brand experience with the 2021 Lexus IS 300 h F Sport in Poseidon Blue.

As one of the country’s esteemed media personalities, Robert is the epitome of someone who embodies true class, style and charisma.

Robert was a perfect choice, as he has shown the ability to constantly evolve his own personal brand personality. This speaks to Lexus’ core brand values: Anticipate, Innovate, Captivate. 

Robert will kick off his Lexus experience in the much-loved and re-imagined IS luxury sedan. The Lexus IS sports sedan delivers a new level of luxury as standard, in addition to a core focus on evocative design, imaginative technology and leading driving dynamics.

At the same time, Robert will experience hybrid performance and technology-rich vehicles during his tenure as brand ambassador. Robert expressed his appreciation for the privilege he’s been afforded: “I am really honoured to begin my journey with a global brand such as Lexus and really excited to experience the cutting-edge hybrid drive that the Lexus IS – my first chariot – boasts.”

Marawa is the first Lexus ambassador to be confirmed in a while, and the brand looks forward to working with him. Furthermore, and true to the Lexus tagline − Experience Amazing – the brand delivers a strong, unified message and it signals a progressive shift in a lifestyle direction.

Black Style Package added to the Polo Vivo range

vuyi on November 12, 2021

Press Release: Volkswagen South Africa

The Polo Vivo is the latest model in the Volkswagen range to offer the popular Black Style Package. 

The Black Style Packages were introduced in the Tiguan and Touareg in 2019. 

“The Black Style Package is a popular optional package and its success in the Tiguan and Touareg models motivated our decision to also introduce it in the new Golf GTI and now the Polo Vivo,” said Steffen Knapp, head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand. 

The Black Style Package is available on the Polo Vivo Comfortline and Highline derivatives. It is only offered in Pure White, Reflex Silver, Flash Red and Reef Blue exterior colours. 

In the Polo Vivo range, the Black Style Package includes black 16-inch Portago alloy wheels, gloss black mirror caps, a gloss black painted roof, gloss black B and C pillar covers, black side sill covers, body-coloured boot spoiler, privacy glass, chrome exhaust tip as well as anthracite headliner and sun visors. 

The Black Style Package on the best-selling Polo Vivo is now available from Volkswagen dealers and retails for R9 000.00 on the Comfortline and R8 250.00 on the Highline. 

In the Golf 8 GTI, the Black Style Package features piano black side mirrors, a piano black chrome strip on the front grille as well as black 18-inch Bergamo alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Golf 8 GTI retails for R8 000.00

In the Tiguan, the Black Style Package comes with a body coloured bumper and lower door parts, black air intakes with fins on the radiator grille, black decorative trim on the side windows, black exterior mirror housings, privacy glass, black roof rails, a black headliner, sport suspension and black 20-inch Suzuka alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Tiguan costs R28 000.00.

In the top-of-the-range Touareg, the Black Style Package features blackened out chrome elements, an ‘R’ style bumper, body-coloured bumper and lower door parts, black roof rails, black decorative trim on the side windows, black side mirrors, black radiator grille and black 21-inch Suzuka alloy wheels. The Black Style Package in the Touareg, which is only available on the Executive model, retails for R45 200.00.

Types of Car Filters and Their Purpose: A Quick Look at the Simple Cabin Filter

vuyi on November 10, 2021

by H&h Admin

There are four main types of filters in every car; the cabin filter, fuel filter, oil filter and air filter. In this article, we talk about the importance of the cabin filter.

The cabin filter cleans the air which comes into the cabin of the car through the air-con and heating system. Whether or not you are using the air conditioner, the cabin filter – which forms part of the ventilation system – filters out airborne particles such as:

  • Exhaust fumes
  • Odours
  • Smoke
  • Dust
  • Pollen
  • Vegetation
  • Dirt
  • Bugs

In addition to the above, the cabin filter prevents muck from clogging up the vehicle’s air-con system. Anyone with respiratory problems or allergies will know just how important inhaling clean air is. 

Taking your car in for service timeously helps ensure that the cabin filter continuous to work optimally. Here are just three reasons why it is important to have your cabin filter changed:

  1. To breathe fresher air 
    The cabin filter allows you to breathe clean air, by filtering bacteria, pollen and pollutants. When your cabin filter becomes clogged up, you may experience allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, etc.  
  2. To avoid safety and visibility issues 
    When a cabin filter is clogged, it may partially block the airflow coming into your car. This can be problematic, especially when you need to defog the windows.
  3. To increase the life of your car’s A/C heating system 
    Having a clean cabin filter will maximize airflow and extend the life of your car’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.  

Get ready for the new BMW K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America

vuyi on November 5, 2021

Press Release: BMW Motorrad South Africa

Six-cylinder in-line engines have always belonged to the showcase drives at BMW. Since 2010, BMW Motorrad offers fascinating high-performance and luxurious six-cylinder equipment at the highest level with the K 1600 models.

The K 1600 GT represents the particularly agile, dynamic variant of the six-cylinder design, while the K 1600 GTL with its more comfortable ergonomics and standard topcase is more for pleasurable riding. 

The K 1600 B is of a completely different breed. It provides characteristic “streamlining” with a low rear section in bagger style. Its motto is “The Spirit of the Open Road”. It represents elegance, power and luxury on two wheels and allows the rider to experience every road, every tour and every moment particularly intensively.

Derived from the K 1600 B, the K 1600 Grand America finally combines the superior performance of the six-cylinder in-line engine with exclusive equipment features that make long-distance rides in American highway cruising style an experience that is as comfortable as it is fascinating, both alone or with a partner.

Highlights of BMW K 1600 GT, GTL, B and Grand America are:
  • Revised six-cylinder in-line engine according to EU-5 regulations with new BMS-O engine control.
  • Two knock sensors and four lambda probes instead of previously two.
  • Power 118 kW at 6 750 rpm (previously 7 750 rpm).
  • Torque: 180 Nm at 5 250 rpm (previously 175 Nm).
  • Exemplary emission values, smooth running and performance.
  • Even more powerful acceleration across the entire speed range due to increased torque.
  • Knock sensors for optimised riding capability.
  • Engine drag torque control (MSR) as standard.
  • Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” electronic suspension with fully automatic load compensation as standard.
  • New full LED adaptive headlight as standard.
  • Connectivity: New multifunctional instrument cluster with  10.25 inch full-colour TFT display and numerous features such as easy-to-use telephony with extended smartphone connection as standard.
  • Smartphone compartment with USB-C charging option as standard.
  • Four freely assignable favourite buttons as standard.
  • New audio system 2.0 as optional equipment.Intelligent eCall emergency call equipment as optional equipment ex works.
  • One attractive basic colour, style variant and Option 719 variant each.
  • Option 719 “Midnight” for K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America: Paintwork in Meteoric Dust II metallic with “Galaxy” theme applied by water transfer printing method.
  • Extended range of optional equipment and original BMW Motorrad accessories.

The new K 1600 models will be available in South Africa from the first quarter of 2022

Here are the powertrains available within the incoming Range Rover

vuyi on November 2, 2021

The new Range Rover SV is an exquisite interpretation of Range Rover luxury and personalisation, handcrafted by Special Vehicle Operations

Press Release: Land Rover South Africa

The new Range Rover maintains its compelling combination of effortless performance and peerless refinement with a comprehensive line-up of advanced six- and eight-cylinder powertrains. Spearheading Land Rover’s Reimagine strategy, a pure-electric model will join the family in 2024, bringing full-time zero tailpipe emissions driving to the Range Rover for the first time.  

In South Africa the new Range Rover will be available in a choice of new Extended Range Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains, the P440e and P510e, and the Ingenium diesel D350 engine. A powerful new petrol flagship – the P530 Twin Turbo V8 – delivers increased refinement and performance and is 17 percent more efficient than the previous Range Rover V8.

The new Range Rover is the first Land Rover to be powered by a new 4.4-litre V8 engine, which deploys two parallel twin-scroll turbos – one for each cylinder bank – to minimise turbo lag and optimise efficiency. The new engine produces 390kW and 750Nm of torque, and powers the new Range Rover from 0-100km/h in 4.6s with Dynamic Launch engaged, and to a top speed of 250km/h.

The powerful D350 diesel produces 257kW and 700Nm of torque, and powers new Range Rover from 0-100km/h in 6.1s. 

The new Extended-Range PHEVs combine the inherent refinement of Land Rover’s in-line six-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine, in a choice of 323kW or 375kW outputs, with a 38.2kWh lithium-ion battery – with usable capacity of 31.8kWh – and a 105kW electric motor integrated with the transmission. Together, the powertrain provides up to 100km of near-silent pure-electric driving. With instantaneous electric torque the new P510e (375kW) accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.6s.

The state-of-the-art PHEVs can reach up to 140km/h allowing customers to enjoy the new Range Rover as an EV-only model for most journeys in town and country, with overall CO2 emissions lower than 30g/km9. Typical Range Rover customers will be able to complete up to 75 percent of trips using electric power only6 if they begin each journey with a full charge. The clever packaging of the battery, beneath the vehicle and within the wheelbase, ensures both luggage space and all-terrain capability are uncompromised.

The use of advanced eHorizon navigation data also allows the hybrid system to optimise energy usage across a journey, to provide a peaceful arrival at a destination on electric power, while also optimising EV usage for travel in low emissions zones. 

All powertrains are driven through a smooth and responsive eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and twin-speed transmission, which provide a set of low-range ratios essential for towing or off-road driving when more control is required. 

The new Range Rover will be launched in South Africa toward the middle of 2022 with pricing to be available closer to the time.

Honda Quest 2021: Finalist Announcement

vuyi on October 19, 2021

The Honda Quest 2021 boot camp held in the Koue Bokkeveld in the Cederberg came to conclusion on Thursday October 14th.

The 28 semi-finalists were put through their paces during an extensive 3-day bootcamp which tested them on various tasks that involved more than just riding a bike.

The selection panel had the arduous task of eliminating 14 of the 28 hopeful semi-finalists by conducting theoretical and practical tests that varied from adventure related general knowledge questionnaires to African geography quizzes. The semi-finalists were also asked to perform various practical and mechanical tasks with the added pressure of time limits per task.

The individual tasks also included the assembly of adventure essential accessories to the CRF1100 Africa Twins, one of the finest adventure motorcycles, and the bike they will be using to compete in the Honda Quest 2021 competition. Additional tasks over the 3 days included the assembly of a camp, motorcycle maintenance, tyre and tube repairs among others.

The selection panel were constantly on the lookout for individuals who demonstrated the competitive spirit and determination to complete the necessary tasks that would stand them in contention to compete in the final of Honda Quest 2021. Individual interviews were also conducted with each of the 28 semi-finalists which gave the panel insight into the behavioural responses of each semi-finalist.

The finalists (in no particular order) are:

Ellio Marcello Striglia

Hein Kumm

Peter Wilhelm Siegling

Murray Ross Campbell

Clemence Neil Rieck

David Johannes Gouws

George Hugo Minnaar

Andrew de Bruin

Hendrik Schalk Visser

Shaun Engelbrecht

Ruan Carl Ueckermann

Daniel Francois de Kock

Jaco Swiegelaar

Tom Andrew Stewart

The seven teams of two will now have the opportunity to embark on a life changing adventure from 1 – 10 November as they navigate through the challenging terrain in the Northern Cape’s Richtersveld, Namakwa Eco Trail, Tankwa Karoo and Cederberg whilst competing for the title of Honda Quest True Adventure 2021. The winning team will ride off on the very bike they will have competed on.

6 Essential Rules for Jogging Safely

vuyi on October 12, 2021

Jogging is one of the most common and popular forms of exercise among South Africans; and as the months get warmer, more and more people can be found running along the road.

Sadly, there are many challenges runners face daily, mainly distracted drivers, poor visibility, blind spots, and motorists driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Although motorists are required to yield to joggers (pedestrians and cyclists), some drivers seem to be stubbornly unwilling to share the road with runners.  As a result, the onus falls more upon joggers to ensure their safety, than it does on other road users.


Here are a few tips to keep runners safe:

  1. Do not wear both earpieces.  Your ability to hear what is happening around you is vital and could save your life by helping you to identify and avoid danger before it is upon you.  Rather, wear one earpiece and keep the volume high enough to hear what is happening around you while enjoying your playlist.
  2. Face oncoming traffic.  While cyclists should ride with traffic, joggers and walkers should go against traffic so they can see vehicles approaching them. By facing traffic, you increase your ability to react quickly should you feel endangered by an inattentive driver.
  3. Stay alert.  It’s ok to enjoy your morning or evening run, but do not, under any circumstances, zone out.  The more aware you are, the less vulnerable you will be.  Here are some examples:
    1. Wave at drivers so they can see you
    2. Obey road rules
    3. When possible, run with a partner, in a group, or with your dog/s.
    4. Look left, right and left again before crossing streets
    5. Approach bends, blind curves, gateways and other entrances with caution as motorists are sometimes more on the lookout for other drivers and not runners.
  4. Wear reflective clothing.  Although the sun rises early in summer and a little late in the evenings, it is advisable to be as visible as possible at all times.
  5. Stay off the road.  Whenever possible, run along the side of the road (shoulders and footpaths), and not on the road itself. When running with others, run in a single file as often as possible.  Running 2 or three abreast is only safe when running on deserted roads but be aware that traffic conditions can change quickly, so pre-arrange how to get into single file when a car approaches.

One of the most important rules of running on the road is that motor cars rule. Yes, joggers by law, have the right of way but when it comes to real-life situations where it’s car vs human beings, cars always win.  Even when you have the right of way, give way to cars and trucks.  Keep your eyes on the road, step aside whenever necessary and live to jog another day.

Car Tip of the Week: Beware when driving around trucks and buses

vuyi on October 11, 2021

Don’t fall in directly behind trucks or large vehicles that obstruct your view of the road ahead or hide your view of other motorists.  Don’t rely solely on your mirrors. Check your left and right hand sides as well as over your shoulders before changing lanes, overtaking or turning. Always be aware of your position on the road in relation to the vehicles around you at all times.

The countdown to Honda Quest 2021 is on

vuyi on September 29, 2021

And so it begins. The online call to entry for Honda Quest 2021 has officially closed.

Hundreds of entries from enthusiastic off-road motorcyclists, from all over the country were received during the call for entry to Honda Quest 2021. Entries were of a very high standard, making the work of the panel of selectors from Specialised Adventures an extremely tough task. The panel had been tasked with the unenviable job of narrowing down the entries to just 30 adventurous semi-finalists.

The selection of semi-finalists was chosen based on various selection criteria which included the riders’ skills and conditioning levels. In addition, applicants were requested to submit a motivation stating why they should be chosen as a participant in Quest 2021 as well as rate themselves on the following benchmarks:

  • Technical riding
  • Endurance riding
  • Sand riding
  • Fitness level

Quest is by far one of the most demanding off-road riding events in South Africa and anyone who is not well skilled nor in superb physical condition will not be able to withstand the harsh conditions of the adventure.

What happens next?

The whittling process is from 12-14 October 2021 and the 30 semi-finalists who are willing to put aside their worlds for a brief period of time to attend the Honda Quest Boot Camp, will converge at this year’s testing ground near the picturesque Cederberg Mountains. Over the 3 days, the riders will be put through some rigorous trials and intricate tasks.

Scrutinized by the Specialised Adventures Crew, the riders will be evaluated on their ability to handle an adventure bike safely in varying and trying terrain as well as on their individual attitudes and character. The selectors will be on the lookout for the essence of true adventurers; those who share a genuine love for exploring the great wilderness trails far off the beaten tracks.

Only 14 finalists will be selected but riders will learn their fate on 18 October 2021, just weeks before the Honda Quest True Adventure Finals takes place from 1 – 10 November 2021.

The winner of Quest 2021 not only claims bragging rights, but will also swing a leg astride their ‘trophy’, in the form of the legendary Honda CRF 1100 Africa Twin.

Source: Honda Motorcycles South Africa