When you buy a car, the costs don’t stop at the dealership. While this is certainly not news to those of us who have been around block a few times (in different cars), it does tend to come as a shock to first-time car owners. Between tanks of gas, insurance, as well as services, tyres, brake pads, and the occasional repair, the costs keep coming. 

Perhaps the most pressing and sizeable expense is that of maintenance. You would not be too surprised to learn that maintenance has the knack of quietly becoming the biggest ongoing expenses of car ownership. For sure, this makes sense but when you are considering the exact change in your pocket, how much do South Africans really spend each year in an effort to keep their vehicles roadworthy? 

Let’s break down the numbers, the hidden costs, and how you can budget smarter for your car’s upkeep. 

The Facts And Figures 

According to the AA’s 2024 Vehicle Ownership Index, South Africans spend anywhere from between R1,500 and R4,000 per month on vehicle-related costs. The exact amount depends on the car’s age and mileage, but generally speaking, of that amount, around 10% to 15% typically goes toward maintenance and repairs. 

This means that, on average, motorists spend roughly R18,000 to R30,000 per year keeping their cars in good working condition. These costs can vary significantly depending on the vehicle type, with entry-level hatchbacks racking up a modest R1,000 to R1,800 per month. Mid-range sedans and SUVs, on the other hand, tend to come in between R2,000 and R3,500 per month, and premium vehicles could cost you R5,000 or more per month once out of warranty. 

Even with careful driving and regular servicing, wear and tear adds up quickly. 

Common Car Maintenance Expenses 

While some costs are predictable, others catch drivers off guard. Here’s where the average South African’s car maintenance budget tends to go: 

• Tyres: R6,000–R12,000 every 2–3 years, depending on size and brand. 

• Brake pads: R1,500–R3,000 per set, with replacements every 20,000–40,000 km. 

• Oil changes and filters: Around R1,200–R2,000 per service. 

• Battery replacements: R2,000–R3,500 every few years. 

• Unexpected repairs: Averages R3,000–R5,000 annually, especially for older cars. 

We should point out that this is before you add routine checks, wiper blades, bulbs, and other small items that tend to fail when you least expect it. 

Warranty And Service Plans: Worth It Or Not? 

Many new cars come with service or maintenance plans, but once these expire, the costs can climb sharply. It is for this reason that some drivers opt for extended service plans or mechanical warranty products from insurers or dealerships. 

The reality is that these plans can help spread costs and protect against big, unexpected bills. However, it’s worth reading the fine print carefully – some only cover specific components, while others limit labour rates or service intervals. 

How To Budget Smarter For Car Maintenance 

Car maintenance doesn’t have to drain your wallet if you plan ahead. Here are some smart strategies: 

• Set aside a fixed monthly amount (around 5–10% of your vehicle’s value per year). 

• Service your car on schedule (small problems get pricier the longer they’re ignored). 

• Use reputable independent mechanics once your warranty expires. 

• Keep tyres inflated and fluids topped up to reduce long-term wear. 

• Shop around before replacing parts or doing major repairs. 

If you are not sure how much you should be spending, the AA’s cost calculator is a helpful tool to estimate your annual vehicle expenses and identify where you can save. 

Feeling Informed? 

Would it not be grand if we could buy a car and only need to worry about fuel and insurance? Those two expenses on their own are enough to make owning a vehicle of your own quite a costly affair… unfortunately, car maintenance is an unavoidable part of owning a vehicle.  

It doesn’t have to catch you by surprise, though. With a clear picture of your expected yearly costs, and a small monthly budget to match, you can keep your car running smoothly without denting your savings. 

If you’re interested in comparing warranty plans you can trust to be there for you when need it most. And if you’re shopping for a car or want to understand what ownership will really cost you, check out the AA’s vehicle ownership calculators to make sure you are fully informed before you hit the road.