Maintaining your car isn’t just about timely servicing—it’s also about how you drive every day. Many drivers in Tanzania unknowingly adopt bad driving habits that slowly wear down their vehicles, leading to costly repairs. Whether you’re driving through the busy streets of Dar es Salaam or navigating rough rural roads, knowing what not to do can make a huge difference in your car’s lifespan.
Here are five common driving mistakes that can damage your car, along with practical tips to avoid them.
1. Riding the Brakes on Downhill Roads
Tanzania has its fair share of hilly and mountainous terrain, especially in regions like Mbeya and Arusha. When descending slopes, many drivers tend to keep their foot pressed lightly on the brake pedal the entire time. While it might feel safer, this habit can overheat your brake system and wear out brake pads prematurely.
What to do instead:
Use engine braking by shifting to a lower gear when going downhill. This reduces the load on your brake system and improves control. If you drive an automatic, use the “L” or “2” setting to achieve the same effect.
2. Ignoring Potholes and Rough Roads
Potholes are common on many Tanzanian roads, especially during the rainy season. Some drivers plough through them without slowing down, which can cause damage to the suspension, alignment, and even the undercarriage.
What to do instead:
Stay alert and reduce your speed when approaching uneven surfaces. If a pothole is unavoidable, slow down as much as possible and avoid braking at the moment of impact to minimize the shock to your car’s suspension.
Looking for vehicles built to handle rough conditions? Many second-hand SUVs and crossovers available on https://auto24.tz/ are well-suited for Tanzania’s mixed road conditions. Models like the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester are known for their durability and ground clearance.
3. Overloading the Vehicle
Whether you’re heading to a family gathering in Dodoma or transporting goods to a market in Mwanza, overloading is a tempting shortcut. However, exceeding your car’s recommended weight limit stresses the engine, transmission, and suspension system, and increases fuel consumption.
What to do instead:
Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the maximum payload capacity. Distribute the load evenly and avoid placing heavy items on the roof unless your car is equipped with a proper roof rack. If you regularly need to carry heavy loads, consider upgrading to a stronger vehicle—Auto24 offers a variety of robust pickup trucks ideal for such purposes.
4. Revving the Engine When Cold
On chilly mornings in areas like Iringa or Njombe, some drivers start their car and immediately rev the engine, believing it helps the engine “warm up” faster. In reality, this does more harm than good. Revving a cold engine increases wear on internal components due to poor oil circulation.
What to do instead:
Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This allows the oil to flow properly and lubricate essential parts before you drive off gently. Avoid high RPMs until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
5. Driving with Low Fuel Frequently
Some Tanzanian drivers wait until the fuel gauge is nearly empty before refueling. While it might seem harmless, consistently driving with low fuel can damage your fuel pump. Dirt and debris at the bottom of the fuel tank can also get sucked into the system, leading to clogged fuel filters and poor engine performance.
What to do instead:
Keep your fuel tank at least a quarter full at all times. This not only protects the fuel system but also ensures you’re never caught off guard in areas with few petrol stations.
Final Thoughts
Driving with care is just as important as regular maintenance. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you a lot of money and headaches in the long run. Tanzania’s roads present unique challenges, but with the right habits, your vehicle can serve you reliably for years to come.
For more expert tips on driving, car maintenance, and travel ideas across Tanzania, visit Automag Tanzania, your go-to source for automotive insights.
Want to upgrade your ride or find a car better suited for local roads? Browse reliable second-hand options on Auto24, where you’ll find popular models like the Toyota Hilux, Nissan X-Trail, and Honda CR-V.
Read more here for additional driving and maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in top shape.
