Fixcar

04/09/2026

Driving through water safety tips

03/09/2026

When a car suddenly starts burning more fuel—or if vehicles seem more fuel-thirsty in general—the causes usually fall into three distinct categories:

3. Macro Trends in Modern Vehicles

Vehicle Weight & Size: Modern cars are larger, heavier, and taller (the shift from low sedans/hatchbacks toward high-riding SUVs/crossovers), requiring more power to overcome wind resistance and mass.

Fuel Blends: In many markets, fuels containing higher ethanol blends (like E10) have a lower energy density than pure petrol, meaning a car must burn marginally more fuel per kilometer.

02/09/2026

When a car suddenly starts burning more fuel—or if vehicles seem more fuel-thirsty in general—the causes usually fall into three distinct categories:

2. Driving Patterns & Environment

How and where a vehicle is driven has the single largest immediate impact on fuel consumption:

Stop-and-Go Traffic vs. Open Road: Frequent idling, crawling in 1st/2nd gear, and stop-start commutes consume significantly more energy than cruising at steady speeds.

Frequent Short Trips: Engines run inefficiently and burn extra fuel until they reach their optimal operating temperature (usually 5–10 minutes). Frequent short runs never let the engine reach its peak thermal efficiency.

Heavy Air Conditioner Usage: Running the A/C compressor puts continuous parasitic load on the engine, especially noticeable in smaller engines during hot weather.

Carrying Dead Weight or Roof Racks: Empty roof racks and luggage carriers introduce aerodynamic drag at highway speeds, increasing consumption by up to 10–15%.

31/08/2026

THANK YOU Guardian Rescue Volunteer Services

“Some people show up, some people go the extra mile, some do what they do for the absolute love of their profession, that's the type of Service provider we have with Fixcar, working late into the night just so our response unit can be ready for the weekend. If you need anything electrical done there is only one name to go to Fixcar! Thank you for standing buy us!


www.https://fixcar.co.za/ “

FIXCAR – Mobile Mechanic, Auto Electrician & Diagnostics Specialist.
WhatsApp 076 718 9308

https://www.facebook.com/FixcarHelp/reviews

Prestigious Mobile Automotive Repairs

28/08/2026

When a car suddenly starts burning more fuel—or if vehicles seem more fuel-thirsty in general—the causes usually fall into three distinct categories: (1)

1. Mechanical & Maintenance Culprits

Small mechanical inefficiencies force the engine to work harder to maintain speed:

Under-inflated Tires & Poor Alignment: Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance on the road. A drop of just 0.3 to 0.5 bar (4–7 PSI) can increase fuel usage by 3% to 5%. Poor wheel alignment creates continuous drag.

Failing Sensors (Oxygen & Mass Airflow): Modern Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems rely on the O2 sensor and MAF sensor to calculate the ideal air-fuel mix. When dirty or worn out, they cause the engine to run "rich" (injecting more fuel than necessary).

Clogged Air & Fuel Filters: A suffocated air intake ruins combustion efficiency, while dirty fuel injectors spray fuel unevenly, wasting petrol.

Worn Spark Plugs: Misfires or incomplete combustion mean unburnt fuel simply exits out the exhaust pipe without generating usable power.

Sticking Brake Calipers: If a brake pad lightly drags against the disc, the engine constantly fights hidden friction.

27/08/2026

Novice Guide to First-Time Car Owners in South Africa

Congratulations on becoming a car owner! Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate your new experience, from choosing the right vehicle to maintaining it properly.

1. Choosing the Right Car
• Determine Your Needs: Consider your lifestyle, such as commuting distance, family size, and preferred driving conditions (city vs. off-road).
• Budget: Factor in not just the purchase price, but also insurance, fuel, maintenance, and licensing costs.
• Research Models: Look for reliable brands with good resale value. Check online reviews and local forums for feedback.

2. Understanding the Basics
• Vehicle Documentation: Familiarize yourself with essential documents, including:
◦ License Disc: Ensure it’s up to date and displayed on your vehicle.
◦ Service Book: Keep track of maintenance and service history.
◦ Roadworthy Certificate: Required if you're buying a used vehicle.
• Basic Car Components: Learn the functions of essential parts:
◦ Engine: The heart of the car.
◦ Brakes: Critical for safety.
◦ Tires: Check pressure regularly and inspect for wear.
◦ Fluid Levels: Know where to check oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

3. Driving Tips
• Familiarize Yourself with Controls: Spend time understanding the dashboard, including warning lights and gauges.
• Defensive Driving: Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
• Speed Limits: Abide by local speed limits and traffic regulations.

4. Maintenance Essentials
• Regular Servicing: Stick to recommended service intervals (usually every 10,000-15,000 km).
• Check Fluids: Regularly check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels.
• Tire Maintenance: Rotate tires every 10,000 km and keep them inflated to the recommended pressure.
• Battery Care: Keep the battery terminals clean and check for corrosion.

5. Insurance and Safety
• Get Insured: Shop around for car insurance that meets your needs and budget. Consider comprehensive coverage for added peace of mind.
• Emergency Kit: Keep a kit in your car with basic tools, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and emergency contact numbers.
• Roadside Assistance: Consider joining a service for emergencies like breakdowns or flat tires.

6. Navigating Legalities
• Traffic Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, including parking regulations and road signs.
• Renewing Your License: Keep track of when your driver’s license and vehicle registration are due for renewal.

7. Getting Help When Needed
• Contact Fixcar: Use Fixcar for reputable services.
• Understanding Repairs: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about any repairs needed. A good Fixcar professional will explain the issues clearly.

Conclusion
Owning a car for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. By understanding the basics, keeping up with maintenance, and being aware of your responsibilities, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the freedom of car ownership. Happy driving!

🚗💨 If you have any questions or need specific advice, feel free to ask!

27/08/2026

Oil leak call out

26/08/2026

diag polo intermittent issue

26/08/2026

Beating the Dust: Air Filters

🌪️ Is your engine struggling to breathe?

Between gravel roads, dry spells, and general city dust across Mzansi, your engine and cabin air filters take a serious beating.

Why it matters: A clogged filter chokes fuel efficiency and forces your engine to work harder.

Pro Tip: Have your filters checked every 15,000 km—or sooner if you frequently travel on district gravel roads.

25/08/2026

Surviving the Haul on the highway (N1, N3, & M1)

Driving the M1 or N1 during rush hour requires nerves of steel and eyes everywhere! 🏎️💨

Keep left, pass right: If you’re cruising along and someone is flashing behind you, just move over. It’s not worth a road rage incident or risking an accident trying to "police" the speed limit.

Watch the blind spots: Joburg taxis and fast-moving bakkies love darting into small gaps. Always double-check your mirrors before changing lanes.

Keep your cool: A bad commute isn't worth your peace of mind. Turn up your favourite playlist, breathe, and let the aggressive drivers rush past.