Warning to South African motorists
South African motorists are being encouraged to pay close attention to the condition of their vehicle’s braking system.
The Vehicle Testing Association (VTA), which is part of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), warns that neglecting brake maintenance can lead to serious safety risks, legal issues, and financial repercussions.
“Your brakes are one of the most critical safety systems in your vehicle. Yet many motorists only pay attention to them once something goes wrong,” said VTA National Director Julian Pillay.
Pillay said that many drivers do not realise faulty brakes can compromise a vehicle’s roadworthiness and may even impact insurance claims after an accident.
“Vehicle owners should understand that roadworthiness and vehicle safety regulations require braking systems to meet prescribed standards,” said Pillay.
“Failure to maintain a vehicle’s brakes could have legal or insurance implications in the event of an accident.”
Regular brake maintenance is essential for ensuring a vehicle can stop safely and efficiently, especially in emergency situations.
Worn brake pads, damaged rotors, deteriorated brake fluid, and other faulty components can significantly increase stopping distances and reduce driver control.
According to VTA, routine inspections are essential for identifying potential problems before they become dangerous or costly to repair.
This warning comes amid growing concern about the number of vehicles on South African roads that do not undergo regular roadworthiness testing.
Currently, private vehicles are only required to be tested when ownership changes. In contrast, taxis and trucks are tested annually, while buses are tested every six months.
According to Pillay, this means that only about 21% of South Africa’s estimated 13 million vehicles are subject to regular roadworthiness testing.
“The reality is that nearly 80% of vehicles on our roads never reach a testing station unless they are sold or involved in a specific compliance process,” said Pillay.
“At the same time, consumers are keeping their vehicles for longer due to economic pressure, and many are delaying servicing and maintenance. This creates a growing road safety risk.”
Early warning signs
Research into vehicle-related crash factors in South Africa continues to highlight faulty brakes as a leading contributor to serious accidents.
Other significant factors include tyre failures, unroadworthy vehicles, and defective headlights.
Pillay emphasises that motorists should not wait for warning lights, unusual noises, or brake failures before getting their vehicles inspected.
“If your brakes squeal, vibrate, feel soft or your stopping distance increases, these are warning signs that should never be ignored,” he said.
Properly maintained brakes not only enhance safety but also lead to smoother driving, better handling, and lower long-term repair costs.
“Brake maintenance is not just about protecting yourself. It’s about protecting everyone who shares the road with you,” Pillay said.
Road crashes cost South Africa an estimated R205 billion each year. This amount accounts for lost productivity, healthcare costs, insurance effects, damage to infrastructure, and long-term socio-economic challenges.
In the festive season of 2025/26, a total of 1,427 lives were lost within just over a month. Although a five percent decrease in fatalities was appreciated, the overall figures still raise significant concerns.
“What is often missing from the national conversation is a fundamental question: How many of these vehicles were mechanically fit for the road?” said RMI CEO Ipeleng Mabusela.
Vehicles are remaining in operation longer than optimal maintenance cycles allow.
Additionally, smaller passenger vehicles, which account for approximately 55% of festive season crashes, are not required to undergo periodic roadworthiness testing.
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