The Car Parts You Need to Change Regularly
If you are a vehicle owner, you are probably well aware that replacing certain car parts is inevitable (and sometimes pretty costly). Unfortunately, some parts need replacing more frequently than others. Since most vehicles have around 30 000 parts, it is no wonder that a replacement is needed from time to time.
Whether you opt for original equipment manufacturer (OEM), brand-new originals, second-hand OEM parts, or aftermarket generics, always ensure that you shop with a reputable supplier that you can trust. Happily, here at A.S.A.P. Spares, we stock a wide range of quality car spares sold for affordable prices that will not break the bank. We also have many return clients and are Pretoria’s largest auto spares distributor. When you work with a reputable supplier, you do not have to compromise on quality when you shop second-hand.
While any part can technically need replacing, these parts are usually in need of more regular replacements:
1. Alternators
Alternators are an essential component of a car’s battery system, ensuring that the battery remains charged at all times. Essentially, alternators work by sending power to the car’s electrical system. However, since they have such a big job to do, they usually do not have a super long lifespan, and they should usually be changed every seven to ten years. While every alternator will have a slightly different lifespan, it is a good idea to get it checked out if your car is an older model and you have been driving extensively. Always get your alternator checked out by a reputable mechanic, as you do not want to fork out on an alternator if you have other mechanical issues.
2. Air Filters
Air filters are a super important component for any engine, ensuring that the air going in is filtered and keeping your engine clean. Air filters ultimately enhance the lifespan of your engine by ensuring that it remains dust and debris free. However, since filters are made with paper, they need to be changed pretty regularly. The frequency will naturally depend on where you live and how often you drive, but a good rule of thumb is to change them every year. If you get your car serviced on an annual basis, your mechanic will most likely change the air filters as part of the job.
3. Brake Pads
Brake pads are imperative when it comes to safe driving. These nifty mechanisms make contact with the vehicle’s rotors (the individual metal discs on the inner part of each wheel) and enable friction which slows and then stops the car. As a general rule, you should replace your brake pads every three to five years; however, this will depend largely on your vehicle and how often you drive. You can always get the brake pads checked out when you go for a vehicle service and replace them as needed. Larger vehicles and trucks and drivers who travel on heavy-traffic roads might need to change their brake pads more often.
4. Battery
Anyone who has experienced a flat battery understands how critical they are to the overall functioning of a car. When your battery goes flat or permanently dies, the hope of any on-road adventure becomes a thing of the past. A dodgy battery can also become a huge safety concern since you do not want to be stranded in remote locations and unable to start your car. Oftentimes, when a battery goes flat (perhaps because you left your headlights on), you can easily start your vehicle with jumper cables and another car. However, if you often drive at night or travel often for work, you do not want to be stuck in this situation.
If your car battery goes flat regularly or your car is taking longer than usual to start, you will want to test the battery power. If you want to check how your battery is doing at home, check how bright your lights are (dim lights or no lights could signal minimal battery power) or check the battery power on a multimeter device. A healthy battery should measure around 12,6 volts. If it is lower, you may need a replacement. A reading of below five is a sign for an immediate battery replacement as you do not want to get stuck without a functioning battery. For extra safety, always keep a pair of jumper cables on hand and sign up to a vehicle assistance company in case you ever get stuck on the road.
5. Tires
Your tires encounter a great deal of wear and tear every time you drive your car, especially if you are traversing off-road terrains or unmaintained roads. Tires need to remain inflated at all times, and it is a good idea to get them tested regularly when you put in fuel at the petrol garage. They also need to retain their quality and avoid extensive wearing. When you drive with worn tires, safety is compromised, and tire blowout might become a reality. Tires usually last for around 80 000 kilometres (or between 5 and 7 years), depending on when you are driving. Get them checked every few years.
Find Quality Spares with Us at A.S.A.P. Spares
Whether you are looking for an alternator, battery, or an entire engine, we have many auto spares and specialise in Opel, Suzuki, Renault, Peugeot, Chevrolet, and Citroën. We also have a fully fledged scrapyard with numerous vehicles and will buy your accident-damaged vehicles. Whatever spare part you need, the team at A.S.A.P. Spares will ensure that you find the perfect parts for your car. If you are looking for a particular car spare, get in touch with us and share the vehicle brand, model, engine number, and part number. If we do not have the particular part on hand, we will gladly network with our connections and work hard to source it for you. When it comes to quality auto spares, we are the team that you can trust! We look forward to working with you and finding you the best automotive spares. View all our products on our website or visit our store in Pretoria.