A recent article by Eyewitness News (https://www.ewn.co.za/2026/04/07/sa-insurance-association-warns-public-about-risks-of-storing-fuel-at-home) highlights growing concern from the South African Insurance Association (SAIA), warning that this trend could have serious consequences for both safety and insurance cover.

Understanding the Legal Risk

One of the most important points raised in the article is that fuel storage is not simply a personal choice – it is regulated.

According to SAIA, “storing fuel above local limits constitutes a breach of legislation.”

This means that exceeding the permitted amount of fuel at home does not just increase danger – it also places homeowners on the wrong side of the law.

Insurance Implications

Beyond legality, there is a financial risk many consumers may not be aware of.

The article notes that insurers may reject claims where unsafe or non-compliant fuel storage is involved. In practical terms, this means that if a fire or damage occurs and stored fuel contributed to the incident, policyholders could find themselves without cover.

A Serious Safety Concern

Fuel is highly flammable, and improper storage can quickly turn a manageable situation into a disaster.

Even small amounts, if stored incorrectly or too close to heat sources, can pose a threat. The presence of fuel can also accelerate the spread and intensity of fires, putting lives and property at greater risk.

A Clear Recommendation

Perhaps the most direct guidance comes from the SAIA itself, as consumers are urged to reconsider the practice altogether, with a warning to “avoid storing petrol at home.”

Responsible Fuel Storage

If fuel must be stored, it should be done responsibly by:

• Staying within the legal limits
• Using approved containers
• Storing fuel in well-ventilated areas away from living spaces
• Keeping it far away from any ignition sources

But ultimately, the safest approach is to avoid unnecessary storage altogether.

The Reality South Africans Need to Understand

Preparedness should never come at the expense of safety or compliance.

As highlighted by the SAIA, the risks tied to fuel storage are not theoretical; they are real and they carry legal, financial, and safety consequences. When legislation is breached and insurance cover is compromised, what may seem like a precaution can quickly become a liability.

The guidance is clear: avoid storing petrol at home.

Diesel engines are built for precision. They rely on clean, properly filtered fuel to operate efficiently. The moment dirt, water, or debris enter the system, the precision is compromised. 

Diesel that has been on the road can contain water, sand, dust, tar, metal particles, and other debris. Modern diesel engines, especially common rail systems, operate at extremely high pressure and rely on clean, properly filtered fuel. Even small amounts of contamination can cause: 

• Clogged fuel filters 
• Damaged fuel injectors 
• Injector pump failure 
• Corrosion inside the fuel system 
• Poor combustion and excessive smoke 
• Loss of power and misfiring 
• In severe cases – complete engine damage 

Water is particularly dangerous. Diesel systems are not designed to compress water. It can cause internal rusting and catastrophic damage to high pressure pumps and injectors, which are expensive components to replace. 

If you have already used contaminated diesel, act quickly. Do not ignore rough idling, hard starting, smoke, or loss of power. 

What can help: 

• Replace your fuel filter immediately 
• Use a quality diesel fuel treatment or injector cleaner 
• Drain and flush the fuel system if contamination is severe 
• Have your injectors and pump inspected 

If you suspect contaminated fuel, act immediately. Replacing a filter today is far cheaper than replacing injectors tomorrow. 

Stop in at your closest AutoZone branch if you need any assistance or have any questions. 

Streaking or Smearing on the Windscreen

If your wiper blades leave streaks, smears, or patches of water across the windscreen, it is usually a sign that the rubber edge has worn down or hardened. Instead of wiping water away cleanly, the blade drags it across the glass, reducing visibility.

Clear wiping should restore full visibility in a single pass. If it does not, it is time to replace the blades.

Squeaking or Skipping Noises

Wiper blades should glide smoothly and quietly across the windscreen. If you hear squeaking or skipping noises, the rubber may be stiff, cracked, or uneven.

This not only affects performance, but can also cause damage to the windscreen over time.

Wiper Blades Leaving Unwiped Areas

If sections of your windscreen remain wet or dirty after the wipers have passed over them, it indicates uneven pressure or a warped blade. This is common as blades age and lose their flexibility.

Even small unwiped areas can be dangerous, especially in heavy rain or low light conditions.

Visible Cracks or Damage

A quick visual inspection can reveal a lot. If the rubber on your wiper blades appears cracked, split, frayed, or loose, they are no longer able to make proper contact with the windscreen.

Damaged blades should be replaced immediately to avoid scratching the glass.

Reduced Visibility in Light Rain

Worn wiper blades often perform poorly in light rain or mist. Instead of clearing the screen effectively, they may leave a thin film of water and cause glare, particularly at night.

If your visibility feels worse in light rain than in heavy rain, your wiper blades are likely past their best.

Blades Older than One Year

As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every 12 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Heat, sunlight, dust, and road grime all contribute to faster wear.

If you cannot remember the last time you replaced your wiper blades, it is probably time to install a new set.

Why Timely Replacement Matters

Good visibility is essential for safe driving. Worn wiper blades increase driver fatigue, reduce reaction time, and raise the risk of accidents in wet or dirty conditions.

Replacing wiper blades is a quick, affordable maintenance task that delivers immediate safety benefits.

If you notice any of these warning signs, visit your nearest AutoZone branch for advice and replacement of your wiper blades.

A few simple checks before you set off can make all the difference between a stress-free trip and a roadside emergency.

1. Check Your Cooling System

South African summers can be brutal on engines. Before you hit the highway, inspect your coolant levels and radiator hoses for leaks or cracks. Overheating is one of the most common causes of holiday breakdowns, so top up your coolant and make sure your radiator fan is working properly.

2. Inspect Tyres for Long-Distance Safety

Your tyres are your only contact with the road, and holiday traffic means you’ll be spending a lot more time on it. Check tread depth, pressure, and for any visible damage or bulges. Underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption and overheat on long drives. Don’t forget to check your spare tyre and ensure you have a working jack and wheel spanner.

3. Test Your Battery

Hot weather can be just as tough on batteries as cold. If your battery is more than two years old, have it tested before your trip. The last thing you want is to be stuck at a petrol station with a car that won’t start.

4.Inspect Lights and Indicators

From sunrise to sunset, you’ll face changing light conditions, and if you’re travelling at night, good visibility is crucial. Test all your headlights, brake lights, and indicators. Replace any dim or blown bulbs. It’s a small cost that could prevent a big problem.

5. Check Brakes and Suspension

Extra weight from luggage, passengers, and holiday gear puts more strain on your brakes and shocks. If you notice squeaks, grinding, or vibrations, have your brakes inspected. Worn shocks can also affect your stopping distance and control, which is not ideal for long highway stretches.

6. Service Your Aircon and Cabin Filter

A cool cabin makes for a much happier road trip. Clean or replace your cabin air filter to help your aircon run efficiently. This also helps keep out dust and pollen when driving through dry areas.

7. Pack an Emergency Kit

Before heading out to your destination, make sure your boot includes essentials like a first aid kit, torch, jumper cables, a reflective triangle, bottled water, and a spare phone charger. Keep a list of emergency numbers handy too, especially roadside assistance and your insurer’s contact number.

8. Clean and Protect Your Car

Dust, sea air, and insects can take a toll on your car’s paint and windows. Give your car a thorough wash and apply a protective wax before your trip. Check wiper blades for cracks and make sure your washer fluid is full as bugs and coastal grime can quickly build up on windscreens.

9. Plan Your Route and Rest Stops

Plan your route in advance, take breaks every two hours, and share driving duties if possible and avoid travelling when you’re tired.

Before you pack the cooler box and get your playlist ready, give your car a quick summer check at your nearest AutoZone store. From batteries and bulbs to wipers and coolants, we’ve got everything you need to get road-trip ready.