If you’re one of the many parents ferrying children to school each morning, you’ll know your car is more than just transport. It’s a mobile breakfast bar, cloakroom, waiting room, and sometimes the only place you can catch your breath.
As the school run kicks back into gear, here are a few practical — and often overlooked — reminders to keep your car happy and your mornings a little less stressful. Because you already have enough on your plate without adding breakdowns, wobbly brakes, or mysterious dashboard lights into the mix.
1. Short Trips Are Hard on Cars.
School runs are usually quick and stop-start. While they feel effortless for you, they’re tough on engines and batteries. Short journeys don’t give the engine time to warm up or the battery a decent charge. If your car feels sluggish, or it’s been a while since a proper drive, consider getting the battery checked.
2. Brakes Are Non-Negotiable.
September roads around schools are hectic: kids darting between cars, bicycles zipping past, and parents pulling out with half a glance. This isn’t the moment to gamble on squeaky brakes or a spongy pedal. Make sure your brakes are sharp, reliable, and ready for anything.
3. Parking Punishes Suspension.
Kerbs, potholes, and tight squeezes make school parking a daily assault course. Over time, this takes a toll on your suspension. If the car feels extra bumpy or one corner sits lower than the others, have it checked before the issue becomes a bigger, pricier problem.
4. Weight Builds Up Quickly.
Backpacks, PE kits, instruments, forgotten art projects — plus the occasional extra passenger — can overload smaller cars fast. Extra weight affects tyres and suspension, so keep an eye on tyre pressure if you’re often running fully loaded.
5. Don’t Forget the Cabin.
Juice spills, muddy shoes, wet coats, and mysterious midweek smells — the inside of the car takes a beating during term time. A quick wipe-down now and then can save your upholstery and keep the air fresh. If breakfasts-on-the-go are a regular thing, stash some wipes and a spare bag for rubbish — future you will be grateful.
6. Low Fuel = Extra Stress.
We’ve all ignored the fuel light, only to regret it in traffic at 8:10 am. During term time, keep the tank at least half full. It’s one less headache when the morning rush is already enough of a juggle.
7. Stock Your Glovebox Smartly
A few small items can save the day: a phone charger, tissues, a spare hair tie, even old sunglasses. They’re not just nice extras — they’re sanity-savers when the morning doesn’t go to plan (again).
Final Thought: Give Your Car Some Credit
It wakes up when you do, braves potholes, kerbs, and rush hour, and carries the most precious passengers you’ll ever have. A little care goes a long way in keeping it running smoothly. And if something does go wrong — like a flat battery at the school gates or a surprise warning light — Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance Towing and Recovery is here to get you moving again, quickly and without fuss. https://www.facebook.com/105600827733427 Call or WhatsApp us any time: 0780 579 261 | 0718 084 297 | 0736 523 424. Available to members & non-members, 24/7, 365 days a year — nationwide. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance – More than just breakdown cover.