AA Blogs

With the petrol price continuing to rise, it is well worth it to know how to calculate your car’s fuel efficiency. If you know your fuel efficiency, you can budget more accurately, and you can also make some improvements to how you drive. The following factors could affect your car’s fuel consumption: Irregular servicing Under-inflated tyres Air conditioning Traffic density Air temperature...

Did you know that a well-maintained car uses between 10 and 20% less fuel than an improperly maintained vehicle? Things like regular services, correct tyre pressure and proper wheel alignment can make the world of difference to your fuel consumption, and your pocket. At the AA, we want to empower all road users in South Africa, which is why we have compiled a list of nine ways to save on your...

Car tyre safety remains a massive problem that, if addressed effectively, can play a significant role in reducing the carnage on South African roads. At a recent event the AA held a car tyre safety demonstration at the Gerotek Test Facilities west of Pretoria, which highlighted the dangers of driving with worn or damaged tyres. The tyre safety demonstration highlighted the need for better...

With so many spectacular long-distance holiday destinations in South Africa, staying safe on the road is essential for you and your family. A ‘long distance’ trip is generally a trip of 300 km or more, or longer than three hours. Here are ten long distance driving tips that will help you this holiday season. Tips: 1. Plan ahead Know where you are going. This will ensure your drive is relaxing...

When we're travelling, it's often the pictures we take that help us to capture and share our experiences. They tell a story and preserve a memory. The better the photos, the more they communicate. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your camera; whether it's a DSLR, a cell phone or something in between. Tip 1: Take control of the camera Learn how your camera works before your...

Human Rights tomorrow marks an important event in our country’s history: the uprising in Sharpeville in 1969. Almost 50 years on we still value the ideals of that day, universal human rights for all in our country. As part of that we must be reminded that every South African, including children, have inalienable rights which we, as adults, must observe. And, these rights extend to when they are...

The Easter school holidays this year begin on 28 March, which means roads across the country will be much busier during this period as thousands of people embark on holidays. An increase in traffic volumes almost always sees an increase in fatalities on the country’s roads, and motorists are urged to be vigilant while driving. More than 1700 people died on South African roads over the 2016/2017...

How do you know if the number plates on your vehicle, motorcycle, trailer or caravan are legal? Here is our quick guide. Size There are only three legal number plate sizes and each must be embossed with alphanumerics of a specific size. 520 mm x 113 mm – embossed with 75 mm high alphanumerics 250 mm x 205 mm – embossed with 75 mm high alphanumerics 250 mm x 165 mm – embossed with 60 mm high...

Temperatures are dropping across South Africa, signalling that winter is on its way. While most people will ensure they are protected from the cold, they forget about their vehicles. These valuable assets also need some care against the elements at this time of year. To get your vehicle in winter-ready shape, we’ve put together some car maintenance tips to keep you safe and moving on the roads,...

Paternoster and the Cape West Coast: seaside romance South Africa’s western coastline is dotted with scenic beaches and small towns, with Paternoster amongst the oldest and the most picturesque. Just 145 kilometres from Cape Town, it offers visitors a vision of an alternative life; simpler, prettier and in harmony with the sea. You’ll discover beaches made for strolling along and plenty of...