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Merelda Naidoo

About Merelda Naidoo

https://www.logicocreative.co.za/

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Show-Me-Dunlop-SA-Beware

Beware of your spare

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Motorists often breathe a sigh of relief when they find a spare tyre in their boot after experiencing a puncture. However, this relief may be short-lived, as the spare tyre could lead to other road risks.

Keith Phelps, Dunlop Tyres SA’s leading technical tyre expert, warns that the compact “biscuit” spare can pose serious dangers to drivers, passengers, and other road users if misused or poorly maintained.

“It’s not often that drivers need to pull out the spare tyre from the boot,” Phelps states. “For many cars, this trusty little biscuit tyre—so named for its size—sits unused. While we may enjoy not needing to use the spare, it is crucial that we don’t ignore it. As drivers, we must always prepare for emergencies by regularly assessing our spare wheel and using it correctly to avoid additional problems.”

Understanding the Biscuit-Sized Spare Tyre

The biscuit tyre, also known as a space saver tyre, is designed as a temporary emergency solution that enables a driver to reach the nearest service station or tyre shop for tyre replacement or repair. These compact spares are smaller, narrower, and lighter than standard tyres, helping to save space in the trunk. However, their limitations can make them unsafe for extended use.

Dangers of Using a Biscuit Spare Tyre for Too Long

  1. Reduced Traction and Stability:
    The smaller tread surface area of a biscuit tyre leads to less grip on the road, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. This increases the risk of skidding or losing control of your vehicle—known as aquaplaning or hydroplaning—especially at high speeds or during sudden manoeuvres. Drivers should remain aware of road conditions and adjust their driving style accordingly.
  2. Limited Speed and Distance:
    Most biscuit spare tyres are designed for a maximum speed of 80 km/h and should not be driven for more than 60-80 kilometres. Exceeding these limits can result in blowouts, handling issues, and even tyre failure. Motorists should exercise caution, particularly when driving on freeways and in heavy traffic.
  3. Braking and Handling Risks:
    Because the spare is smaller and thinner than the regular tyres, it alters the vehicle’s handling characteristics, affecting steering and braking performance. This can be especially dangerous on freeways, where making emergency stops becomes more challenging.
  4. Damage to the Car’s Suspension and Transmission:
    Prolonged use of a spare tyre can cause uneven wear and additional stress on the vehicle’s suspension system, leading to costly repairs. In vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive, using a smaller spare can also strain the drivetrain and potentially damage the transmission.

What Should Motorists Do?

  • Replace or Repair the Damaged Tyre: The spare should only be used to get to the nearest service station.
  • Follow Speed and Distance Recommendations: Never exceed the recommended speed or distance limits for a spare space saver tyre.
  • Regularly Check Your Spare Tyre: A spare tyre that has been unused for years may be underinflated or deteriorated, showing signs of cracking in the tread or sidewall rubber. Such signs indicate that the tyre is no longer safe for use.
  • Consider Investing in a Full-Sized Spare: If your vehicle has space for one, a full-sized spare offers a safer alternative in emergencies.

Stay Safe on the Road

“While a biscuit spare tyre can be a lifesaver in an emergency, it is not a long-term solution. Driving cautiously and replacing your damaged tyre as soon as possible can help prevent accidents, vehicle damage, and unnecessary risks on the road,” concludes Phelps.

Toughees

Toughees Wraps Up Back-to-School Campaign

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Iconic school shoe brand Toughees has successfully concluded its latest back-to-school campaign fronted by Makazole Mapimpi, achieving notable year-on-year growth in sales both in-store and online. The “For Every Kind of Tough” campaign ran from late December to mid-February and aimed to ease the burden on schoolchildren and their families. Customers had the chance to win a share of R200,000 in cash prizes simply by purchasing a pair of Toughees school shoes either in-store or online.

The campaign was supported by a robust digital marketing effort and an inspiring television commercial that resonated with South African families preparing for the new school year. It featured Springbok rugby legend Makazole Mapimpi alongside a group of inspiring young South Africans, celebrating the resilience and determination of children.

Lemogang Kodisang, Marketing Manager at Bata South Africa, the manufacturer and distributor of the Toughees brand, stated, “At Toughees, we believe that toughness comes in many forms, beyond just physical strength. Whether it’s overcoming adversity, standing tall in the face of challenges, or demonstrating emotional and mental toughness, we wanted to encourage South African children to embrace their own inner strength. The “For Every Kind of Tough” campaign achieved this by leveraging Mapimpi’s appeal as a beacon of hope for many South Africans.”

For over 70 years, Toughees has earned the trust of parents for its superior quality and durability, designed to withstand the rigors of both the playground and the classroom. Proudly manufactured at the Bata Loskop factory in the foothills of the Drakensberg in KwaZulu-Natal, Toughees uses premium leather to ensure durability, breathability, and easy cleaning. All Toughees products come with a six-month warranty against fair wear and tear.

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Dunlop Tyres SA calls on Motorist to Prioritize your tyres amidst the Festive Tragedies

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Dunlop Tyres South Africa extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the 1,502 lives lost during the 2024/25 festive season, underscoring the urgent need for improved road safety.

The recent road fatality statistics, shared by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, highlight the critical need for stricter tire maintenance and road safety measures.

Worn Tyres Among Top Traffic Offences

In the first five days of the festive season, the Department of Transport’s first-week report revealed that worn tires ranked among the top five offenses noted by traffic officials, who stopped nearly 20,000 vehicles.

“This is a major concern for Dunlop,” says CEO Lubin Ozoux. “Worn tires reduce grip, increase blowout risk, and extend stopping distances—making them a serious hazard. Since tire wear happens gradually, regular inspections are essential to prevent failures and keep all road users safe, especially during peak travel periods.”

“If you’re unsure about your tires’ condition, visit a tire dealer for an expert check-up. Prioritize safety—for yourself and others on the road,” says Ozoux.

Tyre Safety: A Shared Responsibility

As a leading tire manufacturer, Dunlop Tyres SA is committed to raising awareness about the vital role of tire maintenance in road safety. Well-maintained tires save lives, improve performance, and enhance fuel efficiency.

Key Safety Tips for Drivers:

  • Inspect your tires regularly: Check tread depth, tire pressure, and overall condition before every journey. Ensure your tires have at least 1mm tread depth and replace them before reaching this limit.

  • Avoid overloading: Excess weight accelerates tire wear and reduces handling capabilities.

  • Rotate and balance tires: Regular rotation and balancing extend tire lifespan and improve stability.

  • Replace worn tires promptly: Don’t wait until tires are visibly damaged—replace them when wear is noticeable or performance declines.

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA, said: “This is of particular concern to Dunlop. Worn tires significantly compromise a vehicle’s safety and performance due to reduced grip on road surfaces, they are weaker and more prone to blowouts, and stopping a vehicle on worn tires takes longer, among many other failures. Importantly, worn tires do not take place instantly, it takes time for the tire material to wear down. This is why regular inspections are necessary. Worn tires highlight the direct connection between vehicle maintenance and the safety of all road users, especially over peak traffic seasons such as the year-end holiday season.”

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Punctured your tyres due to rocks/spikes on the road? Here’s what your tyres are capable of to potentially get you out of danger

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With the rise in road spiking incidents, where sharp objects are deliberately placed on roadways to damage vehicles and target unsuspecting drivers, safety on our roads has become a pressing concern.

Dunlop Tyres SA’s leading technical tyre expert, Keith Phelps, provides the following key information for drivers – presented in a Question & Answer format below – to unpack how tyres respond to such situations, and offers practical advice to help drivers make safer decisions during emergencies.

How will a driver know they’ve driven over something that has impacted their tyres?

When a tyre is penetrated, a hissing noise would be heard, and the vehicle would suddenly pull to the one side of the road, or a vibration will be felt on the steering wheel of the vehicle.

What happens when a tyre hits a spike?

A tyre is designed to contain air and when it’s severely impacted against a low-lying object or is driven in a very under-inflated condition, the steel protector breaker plies are broken, resulting in a sudden deflation that we call run flat tyre damage, that is the tyre fails when occurs. The tyre cannot be repaired as its casing or carcass integrity has been affected. Please note that if the tyre is repaired and placed back into service, the tyre will fail.

Does speed play a role in the type of damage sustained?

If the driver of a vehicle collides with a large object at a high speed, it can result in the tyre bursting and the driver losing control of the vehicle. On the contrary, if the driver had been driving at a low speed, the tyre would be able to withstand the impact due to the flexing of the sidewall area of the tyre, resulting in the driver having increased control of the vehicle and the tyre may not burst.

What happens to the tyre and its structure upon impact?

A sudden deflation will result in severe run flat damage occurring, which negatively compromises the inner liner of the tyre, and the carcass or casing plies would be damaged. Due to the tyre having insufficient air inside it, the vehicle’s handling will be impacted, such as pulling to one side, or unusual vibrations will be felt on the vehicle’s steering wheel. The vehicle would not brake which can result in the driver losing control of the vehicle. When a sudden deflation of a tyre occurs, do not brake. Rather, continue to hold the steering so that vehicle can travel in a straight line. When brakes are applied suddenly on a vehicle with a flat tyre, a sudden weight shift occurs from the rear of a vehicle to the steer axle, which can result in the driver losing control of the vehicle. My view is that you’d rather lose the tyre, than lose control of the vehicle.

What if I don’t want to step out of my car to check my tyre damage?

If you feel vulnerable, especially with the context of road spiking, and don’t want to stop and get out of your vehicle to inspect the damage, continue to drive on the flat tyre until conditions are safer. Alert local law enforcement if you had seen something suspicious on the roads and call a family or friend to alert them of your situation and share your live location if possible. Try and drive to a place of safety. Please remember that tyres and rims cannot be repaired and must be replaced.

Can I drive on a punctured tyre?

Only in these types of situations, continue driving – and I’d recommend driving at 30-40km/h to get out of a potentially dangerous situation to safety. Do not “floor it” as an instinctive measure to get out of danger. However, note that driving on the punctured tyre would result in severe run flat damage which can result in casing or carcass breakup depending on the weight of the vehicle and the speed. Sparks may come off a steel rim when the rim contacts the road surface. With an alloy rim, no sparks would occur, however, as alloy rims are softer, more damage would occur. The casing integrity of your tyre will be negatively affected and will distort the casing plies which means the tyre cannot be repaired.

Is there a difference between having one tyre damaged, or many, and is one tyre(s) more important than the other(s)?

All four tyres are important as it’s the air inside the tyres that carries the load of the vehicle, and not the tyres. No tyre can react or perform with insufficient air inside it. However, you have less control over the vehicle if the steering axle tyres are impacted or spiked. This affects the braking ability on the steering axle tyres of a vehicle. The tyres would be negatively compromised, and the overall handling characteristics of the vehicle would be compromised. 70% of a vehicle’s braking ability is obtained from the steer axle of a vehicle. If the rear axle tyres are spiked or impacted, you have more control over the vehicle as 30% of a vehicle’s braking ability comes from the rear axle tyres.

Are newer technology tyres designed to withstand such impacts?

While modern tyres are designed to be durable and safe, no tyre can fully withstand deliberate spiking. Some manufacturers of high-end vehicles and military vehicles fit run-flat inserts into their tyres, but this is not common due to the expense of the manufacturing process. Motorists have the option to put after-market tyre sealant inside their tyres which will buffer the impact of small screws and nails should the tyre be compromised. However, the tyre sealant may not be effective against the size of the spikes being placed on road surfaces.

What tyre products or tools can I carry to repair my tyre?

Carrying a temporary repair care kit is advisable, however, it is only a temporary repair and should not be left in the tyre. I suggest carrying a small compressor which will work from the battery of the vehicle and can inflate the tyre adequately.

How do the right tyres and regular tyre maintenance help minimise impact?

Think how you need to continuously build and maintain a strong immune system to fight off illnesses and colds. In the same manner, your tyres need to be in good health to withstand an impact. You need to do continuous maintenance to ensure it’s in good health. If you are using the wrong tyres for your vehicle, and for what you put it through, you are compromised. Severe off-road conditions require a 3-ply sidewall tyre which is more conducive versus a standard radial tyre. Consult a tyre expert at your local tyre dealer to ensure you fit the correct tyre for the correct application you are travelling in. If your tyres are not properly inflated and have bulges etc., then it’s already compromised and poorly able to withstand an “attack” such as spikes.

Tyre maintenance advice:

  • Tyres should be inspected for potential vulnerabilities or damage once a week.
  • Regular tyre cold inflations should be carried out at least once a week when the tyres are cold. Proper tyre inflation pressures are crucial as this will provide the vehicle with better handling and cornering and braking characteristics and assist with fuel consumption.
  • Ensure regular wheel alignment and balancing checks.
  • Have your tyres rotated every 8 000 to 10,000 kms.
24 HOURS NURBURGRING 23-26 june 2011 © CLEMENT MARIN

Dunlop Strengthens Global Position with Strategic Acquisition

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Dunlop Tyres is set for greater global expansion, following Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. (SRI) acquisition of the DUNLOP trademark, and other rights for four-wheel tyres in Europe, North America, and Oceania, from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

On 8 January 2025, SRI signed a purchase agreement of $526 million (about R10 billion), which enables SRI to operate its tyre business globally under the DUNLOP brand, cementing its presence in nearly every corner of the world.

SRI is the parent company of Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (PTY) Ltd (SRSA), that trades as Dunlop Tyres South Africa locally.

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA, said: “We are extremely excited at the developments at the parent group level of SRSA, as it shows their continued confidence in the Dunlop brand in all regions. Through this acquisition, SRI is reaffirming its commitment to delivering world-class tyres that live up to Dunlop’s legacy of performance, reliability, and cutting-edge technology. Just over a year ago, SRI backed our South African operations with a multibillion investment in our uMnambithi (Ladysmith) plant for the manufacture of premium quality tyres for the SA market, with a focus on expanding the manufacturing capabilities of our premium Sport, SUV and 4×4 ranges for African and international markets.”

Dunlop has been a trusted and iconic name in the tyre industry, established 137 years ago in 1888 after John Boyd Dunlop changed the tyre world with his pneumatic tyre invention. Today, Dunlop is backed by SRI bringing the precision of Japanese engineering technology to a premium tyre brand.

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High temperatures and snakes: Steps to take to stay safe

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Residents of Durban and surrounding areas should not be taken by surprise if they come across unexpected visitors over the festive season, and should rather be informed and prepared, advises expert snake catcher, Nick Evans.

The soaring December temperatures has awakened the slithery inhabitants of our region, and snakes can make an appearance, as indicated by sightings in recent weeks.

Westville and the greater Durban region are particularly affected. This time of year is especially significant, as pregnant black mambas begin to make appearances. And, despite its name, the Mozambique Spitting Cobra is also a common sighting in and around Durban.

Evans, who is known for the rescue of reptiles and amphibians in the Upper Highway area, is driven by his conservation initiative, the KZN Amphibian & Reptile Conservation, and apart from snakes he also undertakes rescue of the endangered Durban Dwarf Burrowing Skink and the KwaZulu Dwarf Chameleon.

“With my hands-on work, I focus on educating the public, dispelling myths about snakes, and encouraging a deeper understanding of these misunderstood creatures”.

Educating communities is a key method to keep people safe, especially in the summer season.

As he prepares for upcoming talks in northern communities, Evans faces the challenge of navigating rough terrain to reach these often-remote areas. Recently, tyre fitment centre Dunlop Westville sponsored four brand new Dunlop Grandtrek tyres for Evans’ bakkie. “My educational talks take me far and wide, and they’re in places I do not want to have any tyre issues. I cannot thank Dunlop enough, not only for their generosity, but also for their eagerness in wanting to educate the public about snakes,” said Evans.

Evans says residents should be vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent unwanted snake encounters. By being aware of their surroundings and taking steps to secure their homes, residents can minimise risk.

The two infamous species in Westville are the Black Mamba and Mozambique Spitting Cobra which despite its name, is indigenous.

“These two species are common in valley areas throughout Durban, and nature reserves. Westville is quite well-known for these species, because the suburb sits between the Roosfontein, Paradise Valley and Palmiet Nature Reserves, and the north end of Westville North has a valley separating it from Clermont. These areas are home to mambas, and cobras, and occasionally they come into homes,” said Evans, adding that fortunately, snake bites are incredibly rare.

Other venomous species include Rhombic Night Adders, Vine Snakes and Stiletto Snakes. The three most commonly encountered snakes are harmless, though: Spotted Bush Snakes, Brown House Snakes, and Heralds.

Here’s his advice when encountering an unexpected visitor:

  1. The number one rule with snake safety is: leave it alone. Do not try to kill it. Do not try to catch it. If you do try to catch or kill a snake, you drastically increase your chances of being bitten.
  2. Hurting or scaring a snake is going to cause it to want to defend itself. If you see one, move away from it, preferably slowly.
  3. If you know it’s a venomous species, call a snake catcher.
  4. If you can, take a photo of the snake from a safe distance (4m+ depending on the snake), and send it to me or a local snake catcher. If it is non-venomous, and it is in your garden, we can encourage you to rather just leave it be. If it’s venomous, we’ll come out. If you can’t get a photo, that’s okay too.
  5. If you do call a snake catcher, it is crucial that you watch the snake. Snakes disappear in a flash and are rarely found again.
  6. Please keep pets, particularly dogs, away from the snake. Cats seem to know which snakes to leave alone. Dogs, though, will go for any snake, to defend their family and home.

With these simple steps, residents can protect themselves.

Nick’s contact details are: 072 809 5806, nickevanskzn@gmail.com

 

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Drivers: Prepare to Drive Responsibly Over the Festive Period

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With the festive season moving up a gear, roads across our country will be bustling with additional traffic. While a festive mood lingers, drivers take on the increased pressure of navigating the roads responsibly.

For this period, Dunlop Tyres SA urges all drivers to practice “planning, preparation, patience and performance” while on the roads.

“There is no doubt that South Africa has one of the most festive December seasons, and it’s always exciting for us to be able to go out and visit our friends and families. But, it’s also a time when road safety is critical because of the volume of people and vehicles on our roads,” said Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA.

“We urge all drivers to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others on the road.”

The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) has warned of increased traffic volumes on major routes, including the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban, the N2, and the N1. Peak daily traffic volumes are expected to reach up to 90,000 vehicles on some stretches.

“The expected increase in road use requires careful planning,” said Ozoux. “Increased traffic volumes, drunken driving and speeding, unroadworthy vehicles, and tyres that aren’t in good condition can only increase the risk of road accidents and fatalities. We urge all road users to respect traffic laws and drive responsibly to ensure safety for all.”

To help drivers prepare for their trips, Dunlop Tyres SA advises on following 4 Ps this festive season:

  • Planning: Check the weather forecast and plan your trip around weather conditions to avoid travelling in hazardous conditions. Choose a safe and reliable route, avoiding construction zones and high-traffic areas. Aim to travel during daylight hours. Ensure you have emergency contacts stored and easily accessible. Ensure you have back up measures in place for peace of mind, such as Dunlop Sure tyre insurance, which offers free replacement of Dunlop tyres damaged beyond repair. Pack essentials like a spare tyre, jack, torch, first aid kit, and water in your vehicle.
  • Preparation: Check your vehicle’s oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels. Ensure your battery is in good condition, and terminals are clean and secure. Check all lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace your windshield wipers if they’re worn or damaged. Check your tyre pressure and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Ensure your tyre tread is at least 1.6mm deep to maintain traction on the road. Inspect your tyres for signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. Check your spare tyre’s condition and ensure that it is inflated and ready for use.
  • Patience: Drive calmly and avoid risks. The festive season often means congested roads and unpredictable weather. Stay calm and composed by avoiding aggressive driving and sudden lane changes. Keep a safe following distance to allow ample reaction time. Obey speed limits, especially in residential and school zones where foot traffic may increase.
  • Performance: Know your limits and that of your vehicle. Be mindful of road conditions. Consider switching tyre profiles depending on where you are driving to – speak to tyre experts, as can be found at Dunlop retailers, to advise on whether the tyre you intend driving is suitable for the environments you will be driving in.

“By preparing well ahead of your trip and having all checks and balances in place, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and other road users. It’s our joint responsibility as road users to make this festive season a safe and enjoyable one for all,” said Ozoux.

For more safety tips and information on premium tyres for every condition, visit www.dunloptyres.co.za

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Dunlop hands over new classrooms to Ladysmith School

In just a few weeks the final bell of Term 4 will ring in not just the holiday season for Ithubelihle Special Opportunity School in uMnambithi (formerly known as Ladysmith) but signals the start of an exciting new school year bolstered by the construction of a much-needed new classroom block by Dunlop Tyres SA.

The brand-new classroom block, comprising two classrooms, a principal’s office and a sick bay, to the value of R1 240 000, offers much-needed additional space that will allow the special-needs school to accept more learners, as well as expand its curriculum offering.

The project was completed a year after it was announced during Dunlop’s 50th anniversary celebration of its manufacturing plant last year.

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA, said: “At Dunlop Tyres SA, we’re committed to supporting skills development and education initiatives that empower our youth, especially in the community of uMnambithi. This school has a special purpose, creating a learning environment for learners who may not have easy access to special schools that cater to their needs. We are proud to be able to support the school so that they can grow and continue their mission to empower young people. Education plays a key role in unlocking job opportunities. We must continue investing in education to address South Africa’s unemployment challenges and foster a more inclusive, sustainable future.”

Ithubelihle’s story is one of resilience and determination. Founded by Headmistress Sibongile Tshabalala after her own son struggled to access mainstream education due to dyslexia, the school has since grown from humble beginnings to a sought-after educational facility in the region. From operating out of a rented house and a church hall, to makeshift classrooms, the school’s journey reflects the community’s commitment to special needs education.

Catering to learners aged 5-18, the school provides a holistic education that supports independence and confidence. The new facilities will enable Ithubelihle to expand its curriculum, which includes Basic English, Reading and Mathematics, Computer Literacy, Visual Arts, Performance Arts, Beadwork, and Sewing.

“Dunlop’s generosity is a godsend,” said Tshabalala. “This invaluable donation enables us to enrich the educational experience of our learners, providing a nurturing environment that equips them with skills to thrive as independent individuals. In this month of October, we celebrated World Teachers Day, and in a way we are all teachers playing a role in developing learners with special educational needs. This inspires us to continue investing in our children’s future, empowering them to reach their full potential. “

Joanne de Freitas, PR and Events Manager at Dunlop Tyres SA, said: “The past year and a half working with headmistress Sibongile Tshabalala and her learners, has been a wonderful journey of purpose for us all at Dunlop. Our collaboration has been particularly inspiring as we were motivated by the dedication to her students, and the eagerness from the learners. It’s an honour for us to have been able to undertake this project from the initial conversation, to now, seeing the tangible impact on the children’s and teachers’ lives, and witnessing the heartfelt gratitude and joy that comes with it. It is truly humbling.”

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Dunlop Wins Respected Ask Afrika Orange Index® Award, Reinforcing Commitment to Customer Excellence

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Dunlop Tyres South Africa celebrates being named the Industry winner of the Vehicle Consumables Category in the respected 2024/25 Ask Afrika Orange Index®. This special award is a testament to Dunlop’s dedication to delivering outstanding customer service and customer experiences.

The Ask Afrika Orange Index®, a rigorous independent benchmark study, has been evaluating South Africans’ service-experience expectations since 2001. This year’s winners were selected based on meticulous evaluations of customer satisfaction, emotional satisfaction, and loyalty across 200 brands and 26 industries. Ask Afrika’s data from 2024/5 revealed a shift in customer expectations regarding their interactions with businesses, with a marked emphasis on investing time, resources, and energy into finding balance and building new relationships based on hope, trust, and human connection.

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres South Africa, attributes this achievement to Dunlop’s customer-centric approach: “We value this recognition, which is a testament to our commitment to providing quality safety-tested tyres , and striving to offer excellent levels of customer service. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue to invest in building emotional connections with them.”

The Ask Afrika Orange Index not only evaluates customer experiences but also serves as a catalyst for growth and innovation, enabling businesses to refine their services and solidify their market position.

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Prepare for a Safe Holiday on the Roads

As the school holidays start this week and Heritage Day is around the corner, many South Africans will use this opportunity for a mini-break of fun road trips and family get-togethers. With more of us hitting the road during this time, Dunlop Tyres SA urges drivers to inspect their vehicles, particularly the condition of their tyres.

Dunlop Tyres SA, a member of the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC) and Road Safety Partnership South Africa, is committed to sharing the road safely, and calls on drivers to take responsibility and contribute to a safer journey for all.

”As South Africans, we cherish our downtime with family and friends, but the holidays also mean increased traffic volumes. By planning ahead of your trip, observing road safety rules, and being prepared, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for ourselves and our loved ones,” said Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA.

To stay safe on the road this holiday, Dunlop recommends:

  • Planning: Traffic volumes on all major routes like the N3, and N1 and N2 to Cape Town increase over holiday periods. Always have an alternative route in mind and stay up-to-date with road conditions and traffic issues on your planned route.
  • Vehicle Check: Ensure your vehicle is road-ready with a basic maintenance check, such as:
    • Checking the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels.
    • Checking that your vehicle’s battery is in good condition, and all lights (headlights, taillights, indicators) are functioning optimally.
    • Have a mechanic inspect the brake pads and brake discs for wear to ensure smooth and safe braking.
    • Prepare for wet weather conditions by inspecting the wiper blades for wear and replace if needed.
    • Ensure that the spare tyre is inflated according to the recommended tyre pressure and is in good condition, along with all the tools you need such as the tyre jack, tyre iron, and emergency triangle, that you will need in the event of a tyre emergency.
  • Tyre Safety: Tyre failure may occur as a result of punctures, impact damage, improper inflation, overloading, uneven wear due to misalignment, excessive wear, misapplication (incorrect tyre or rim for the vehicle) or other abnormal use conditions beyond the design parameters of the tyre.
    • Check that the tyre pressure in all your tyres, including the spare, is according to the recommended tyre pressure by the vehicle manufacturer. This should be done at least once a month and before you embark on a long road trip. Ensure the tyres are cold when you inflate them as hot tyres will increase the tyre pressure and can be misleading. If you will be travelling with a load, the tyre pressure will need to be adjusted accordingly.
    • Never overload your tyres. The maximum load-carrying capability of your tyre is moulded onto the sidewall of each tyre, in the form of an index.
    • Inspect the tread and tyre regularly – It’s recommended to inspect your tyres and tread once a month, turn the steering to the far right to get a full view of the front tyres and inspect the tread. Look out for uneven tread wear and inspect the tyre tread depth. Then check the rear tyres as well. Tyre manufacturers include a tread wear indicator (TWI) within the tyre tread. This indicator looks like a small square in the groove of the tyre. As an international standard the TWI is set at 1.6mm and when the rest of the tyre tread is level with this indicator, or below, your tyres are no longer legal and need to be replaced. It is important to note that once you go below 3mm tread depth, the braking performance of your tyres will be reduced. Once the tread gets to the absolute minimum – the 1.6mm – your wet braking could increase by more than double, and you will have a problem stopping your vehicle in an emergency. The tyre is also illegal according The National Road Traffic Act.
    • Inspect the tyres for scuffing, bulges, separations, cuts, snags or embedded foreign objects.
    • Potholes and worn roads may cause major tyre damage.  Dunlop Sure is free tyre insurance for 12 months offered for Dunlop tyres purchased at a Dunlop dealer to protect you against irreparable tyre damage from any road hazards.
    • Never operate your vehicle above lawful speeds, beyond reasonable speeds for the driving conditions, or at speeds greater than recommended for the tyre you are using.
  • While Travelling: Ensure all car occupants wear seatbelts. Keep a safe distance and take regular breaks. Don’t drink and drive, and always drive according to road conditions and speed limits.

By covering the basics of tyre care and road safety rules, South Africans can play their role in a safer and more enjoyable school holiday period.