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Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Car troubles: from a small problem to a massive headache

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With more than a million vehicles on our roads in Cape Town, just driving around can give you a headache. Throw in some car trouble and it’s a complete migraine. It’s often the small problems that turn out to massive issues with your car.

The small problems that lead to major car trouble

According to Autotrader, TopAuto, and Hippo, these are the most common ‘small’ issues that can lead to bigger problems with your car:

Ignoring warning lights

Ignored electrical lights means ignored electric faults. They can lead to more expensive part failures, engine management, safety systems, increase fuel usage, or lead to breakdowns.

Fuel consumption being worse than you expected

The most common complaint among new-vehicle owners. It could indicate issues with the engine tuning, fuel injectors, air filters, or sensors. If left unchecked, can lead to increased engine wear, more emissions, and higher repair bills.

Tyre problems

Poor tyre maintenance can lead to uneven tread, fast wear & tear, and even accidents.

Brakes, lighting, and wiper blade maintenance

Poor braking means there is a safety risk; defective lighting causes reduced visibility, legal trouble, more likely to cause an accident; and bad wipers can reduce a drivers field of view.

Phil de Lange
Phil de Lange
Phil de Lange is the producer of the Ryan O'Connor Breakfast show and has been with Smile 90.4FM since it's inception in 2013. Through his work on the breakfast show he has won two national radio awards. He has been in broadcasting for 15 years and has honed his talent at 6 different radio stations. Outside of radio he is also a podcast producer and award winning stand-up comedian.

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