Keep safe on the road during the Easter traffic rush

11 April 2014
Document Downloads 
application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document iconKeep safe on the road during the Easter traffic rush 17.09 KBDownload
PreviewIf there is any damage to shock absorbers or tyres, it is highly recommended that the vehicle is taken to a specialist fitment c1.08 MBDownload
PreviewBefore setting off on holiday, it is essential that checks are carried out on a car's tyres, brakes, oil, transmission fluid, wi1.08 MBDownload

The South African division of global powertrain and vehicle safety technology leader Federal-Mogul has put together a number of useful hints and tips for keeping safe on the road this Easter. Federal-Mogul technical adviser Bertie Steyn stresses that it is of the utmost importance to complete fundamental vehicle point checks before undertaking a cross-country journey.  

"Before setting off on holiday, it is essential that checks are carried out on a car's tyres, brakes, oil, transmission fluid, wiper blades and all lights. Any failure in these areas may have fatal consequences, simply as a result of being overlooked. The most effective way of ensuring peace-of-mind in this regard is to book a vehicle in for a safety inspection at a specialist centre," he explains.

In tough economic times, going away for a short break can already prove costly, and many motorists may not be able to afford this service. In this case, Steyn reveals that the driver can conduct personal safety inspections from home. "It is important that to ensure that all headlights and indicators are in working order, and that the engine has sufficient oil, coolant and brake fluid. Wiper blades must be in good working condition and the washer tank should be filled with an effective cleaning solution."

Steyn adds that a home check should also include a thorough inspection of the spare wheel set to ensure that there are no missing components, while tyres and shock absorbers should be checked for wear and tear. "If there is any damage to shock absorbers or tyres, it is highly recommended that the vehicle is taken to a specialist fitment centre, as this will affect braking and performance."

Although this may seem to be an unforeseen expense, the cost is insignificant compared to the potentially catastrophic results of an accident. Steyn reveals that squeaky or 'spongy-feeling' brakes are telltale signs that the braking system must be checked. "In this case, it is also advisable to take the vehicle to a specialist who can determine precisely what action should be taken."

April weather can also be unpredictable, and it is important to slow down in rainy conditions, as it takes far longer to stop or adjust on wet roads. Headlights should always be turned on too. Other important aspects to consider during long distance journeys is to always abide by the speed limit, maintain a safe following distance behind other vehicles, and to take regular breaks at designated rest stops located along the national road network.

Federal-Mogul is committed to improving vehicle safety, with recent local innovations that include;

- The introduction of copper-free Ferodo Taxi brake pads, designed specifically for Toyota Quantum   minibus taxis that transport millions of commuters nationwide during Easter. Ferodo Taxi pads have improved brake pad and disc wear, which improves safety by lowering friction.

- The launch of Champion Easyvision, the rebranded consolidation of two tried-and-trusted wiper blade ranges. A 'retro-clip' system allows flat blades to replace conventional blades, to ensure that the Champion range covers 95 percent of local light vehicles and light commercial vehicles.

Ends

Notes to the editor
There are numerous photographs specific to this press release. Please visit http://media.ngage.co.za and click the Federal-Mogul link.

About Federal-Mogul
Federal-Mogul Corporation is an innovative and diversified $6,7-billion global supplier of quality products, trusted brands and creative solutions to manufacturers of automotive, light commercial, heavy-duty and off-highway vehicles, as well as in power generation, aerospace, marine, rail and industrial. Federal-Mogul has two business segments, namely powertrain and vehicle components.

The powertrain segment focuses on original equipment powertrain products for automotive, heavy-duty and industrial applications. The vehicle components segment sells and distributes a broad portfolio of products in the global vehicle aftermarket, while also serving original equipment manufacturers with vehicle products, including; brake friction, chassis, wipers and other components. Federal-Mogul boasts four dedicated divisions in major centres in South Africa, including; Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Pine Town.

Federal-Mogul Corporationis a leading global supplier of powertrain and safety technology and innovation to improve fuel economy, reduce emissions and enhance vehicle safety. The company serves the world’s foremost original equipment manufacturers of automotive, light, medium- and heavy-duty, aerospace, marine, rail and off-road vehicles, as well as industrial, agricultural and power-generation equipment. It also provides well-known brands in the global aftermarket.

Federal-Mogul’s world-class global engineering, lean manufacturing and distribution network deliver best-in-class quality products and services at competitive cost. The company’s sustainable global profitable growth strategy creates value and satisfaction for its customers, shareholders and employees. Federal-Mogul was founded in Detroit in 1899. The company is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, United States and employs 45,000 people in 34 countries. 

Federal-Mogul’s aftermarket products are sold under a variety of well-known brands, including:  Abex®, AE®, ANCO®, Beral®, Carter®, Champion®, FP Diesel®, Fel-Pro®,  Ferodo®, Glyco®, Goetze®, MOOG®, National®, Necto®, Nüral®, Payen®, Precision®, Sealed Power®, Speed-Pro® and Wagner®. All Federal-Mogul trademarks are owned by Federal-Mogul Corporation, or one or more of its subsidiaries, in one or more countries.

Federal-Mogul Contact
Bertie Steyn
Phone: (011) 630 3000
Web: www.federalmogul.com

Media Contact
Ryan Collyer
NGAGE Public Relations
Phone: (011) 867-7763
Fax: 086 512 3352
Cell: 072 377 5000
Email: ryan [at] ngage [dot] co [dot] za
Web: www.ngage.co.za