Maintaining your car can be a significant expense, especially as modern vehicles require more frequent and complex servicing. To help South African car owners plan their budgets effectively, here’s a breakdown of the most costly maintenance milestones based on mileage.
The Most Expensive Mileage Milestones
At 60,000 km:
- Major Overhaul (R8,000 to R16,000): This typically occurs every four years and includes replacing brake and cooling fluids, as well as all filters (fuel, air, etc.). Also, be prepared to change the air conditioning gas if necessary.
At 80,000 km:
- Front Brake Discs (R6,000 to R24,000): Their longevity is influenced by driving style and the type of routes taken. City driving can wear them out as early as 60,000 km, while highway driving might extend their life beyond 100,000 km.
- Front Shock Absorbers (R8,000 to R30,000): The increasing weight of cars and the poor condition of roads, along with numerous roundabouts and speed bumps, can wear these out quickly.
- Transmission Fluid Change (R10,000 to R24,000): Despite manufacturers’ claims, these components are not lubricated for life and typically need servicing every five years or between 80,000 and 100,000 km.
At 100,000 km:
- Clutch (R14,000 to R34,000): City drivers might need to replace the clutch mechanism, disc, and thrust bearing sooner, while highway drivers could extend its life to 200,000 km.
- Rear Shock Absorbers (R6,000 to R24,000): These depend on the same factors as front shock absorbers but are also affected by frequent loading or towing.
- Accessory Belt (R6,000 to R16,000): Replacement is generally due after five years or 100,000 km.
Regular Maintenance for Car Health
At 120,000 km:
- Flywheel (R34,000 to R60,000, including clutch): The flywheel suffers from city driving and should be replaced along with the clutch to avoid additional labor costs.
- EGR Valve (R8,000 to R18,000): Found in modern diesels, it requires cleaning sessions monthly to prolong its lifespan.
- Drive Shafts (R12,000 to R34,000): These are worn by frequent changes in direction and stop-start sessions typical in city driving.
- Exhaust Silencer (R8,000 to R12,000): Short trips that don’t allow the engine to warm up fully can cause condensation and rust.
At 150,000 km:
- Injectors (R12,000 to R70,000 each): Diesel injectors often fail sooner due to inappropriate use like frequent cold starts.
- Turbo (R24,000 to R60,000): Turbos in modern cars often need replacement after 150,000 km.
- Particulate Filter (R12,000 to R60,000): Regular cleaning can extend its life, but replacement is often required by this mileage.
- Dual-Clutch Transmission (R24,000 to R60,000): These require maintenance similar to manual transmissions.
- Rear Discs (R5,000 to R14,000): Typically last longer than front discs unless frequently loaded or towing.
- Air Conditioning Compressor (R26,000 to R60,000): Operate the air conditioning monthly to avoid early failures.
- Catalytic Converter (R16,000 to R30,000): Expected to wear out around this mileage.
- Alternator (R16,000 to R30,000): Urban driving with frequent stops and starts can cause faster wear.
At 160,000 km:
- Timing Belt (R10,000 to R30,000): Replacement is necessary based on manufacturer’s time and mileage guidelines.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is crucial to prolonging your car’s life and avoiding unexpected expenses. By understanding these costly milestones, South African car owners can better prepare and budget for essential car maintenance.
