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7 Essential Items Every Motorist Should Keep In Their Car

vuyi on December 21, 2021

By H&H Admin

Given the amount of time we spend in our cars we could be forgiven for treating them as if they were our second homes; so much so that there are items which we simply must keep in our cars which come in handy in emergency situations.

If you’re unfortunate enough to have a break down, you will need reflective triangles to alert other road users. Similarly, wearing a high-visibility jacket will ensure that you’re seen by other road users — this is especially vital if you’re walking to find help.

It’s a good idea to keep a spare tyre and the tools you need to use it such as a jack, wheel spanner and nut lock — otherwise, you won’t be able to change it!

A flat battery is another common reason for breakdowns. If you have a set of jumper cables, you will be able to get a jump start your car, (with the help of another driver) and be on your way in no time.

Good Samaritans aren’t very common and if you want to avoid waiting around for help, pack a portable phone charger so that you can call for help as soon as you get into trouble. you’ll be back up and running in no time.

Another essential item to keep within easy reach is a rechargeable or solar powered torch. If you can get a water resistant torch you will really have scored well as such an item will come in handy no matter the weather nor time of day (or night as the case might be).

Duct tape is something most people associate with the kid’s school project but you would be amazed how handy it is as a temporary fix for car related problems. Duct tape can hold cables together, keep a globe in place or act as a seal for a leaking pipe. Think of duct tape as the swiss army knife of the tape world and is a must-have in all toolboxes.

Keeping a fire extinguisher comes in handy in several instances ranging from (obviously) putting out a fire in your car as well as assisting others. It may not be common practice in South Africa but it is so important that it is a legal requirement in other countries.

While on the subject of fires, a pair of heat-resistant gloves is a good idea to keep in your car too as they will help you handle hot surfaces (particularly in the engine) while keeping your hands protected.

Other absolute must-have items include:

Wet wipes, sanitizer, an extra face mask, 2 red reflective triangles, a reflective vest/jacket, a well-stocked first aid box, and an umbrella.

These items are small and light and will not take up too much space in your luggage area but will definitely come in handy.

Why you should avoid jumpstarting a modern car

vuyi on November 10, 2020

Like most electronics, a power surge can cause damage to the electronic systems of a modern car. A seemingly well-meaning jumpstart can cause said power surge and impact the effectiveness of onboard computers, safety systems, damage the engine and be the result of expensive repairs.

Over the years, trusted battery specialists have assessed many vehicles brought in by customers who have attempted to jumpstart them. Damages have included,

Blown Engine Control Unit (ECU)
A blown ECU can occur if there is a voltage spike when jumpstarting. This impacts the alternator and other electrical components such as the fuel pump, onboard computer and possibly the fuses.
Compromised traction control systems
When jumpstarting a car equipped with traction control, it’s important to follow the manufacturer instructions. If these protocols aren’t followed, the cars’ traction control may be compromised, resulting in unstable road grip, which could endanger the driver and other motorists.
Power steering damage
If manufacturer instructions aren’t followed, the power steering system can be impacted, resulting in a stiff steering experience, making steering your car tougher than usual. This can be dangerous.
Airbag system flaws
After jumpstarting a modern car, the airbag system may become inconsistent, which could result in airbags not deploying due to an electric fault. The consequences can be catastrophic.
Inconsistency with Start/Stop systems
Most modern cars are equipped with Start/Stop technology. An incorrect jumpstart may disable the Start/Stop system and may require you to take your car to a dealership for further assessment. Jumpstarting a car equipped with Start/Stop technology is not advisable as the battery used is specialised to that car.
Damage to the boosting car
Sometimes, a modern car is used to jumpstart an older car, this may cause a power surge to the newer car, resulting in damage to the expensive electronic systems.

Source: Battery Centre

The importance of carrying an emergency kit

vuyi on June 29, 2020

A car emergency kit is a first aid kit for your car; it holds everything you may need to keep your car running and to help you out in a sticky situation. Your emergency kit should include jumper cables (which are only effective if you know how to use them), a torch, screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape (perfect for any quick fixes to get you to the nearest petrol station or garage) and an emergency warning triangle which must be placed behind the car if your car has broken down.

Be sure to include a blanket, a few bottles of water and perhaps some non-perishable food in the kit to sustain you if you need to wait for help. But most importantly, a charged power bank.