Owning a car is not just a matter of mobility, but a lifeline for families, businesses, and daily survival in many cases. From navigating Madina’s rugged and stressful roads to braving the bumper-to-bumper traffic in Accra Central, your car takes a daily beating. But how often do we, as car owners, pause to check what’s happening under the hood or beneath our tires? Too often, we only react when things break down, and by then, the cost—financially and emotionally—can be devastating. A car isn’t just metal and bolts; it’s a system of carefully working parts that need care and attention, just the way your girlfriend craves your care and attention.
Think of the many times you’ve seen a broken-down trotro causing a traffic jam on the Accra-Tema motorway or a taxi overheating at Lapaz in the middle of the day. Most of these breakdowns are preventable. By paying attention to key car parts, we not only protect our wallets but also save lives and reduce the stress that comes with avoidable car troubles.
Letsridendrive gathers 20 important car parts that car owners should pay close attention to, and what can go wrong if these parts are ignored.
Engine
We are starting with the Engine because it’s the heart of your vehicle, and the most important component of an automobile by all accounts. When not serviced, it can overheat, stall, or fail. For example, many cars get stuck climbing the Aburi Hills because the engine has not been properly maintained.
Transmission
The transmission is like a middleman between the engine and the wheels, making sure power gets where it needs to go. It shifts gears to match the car’s speed, keeping everything running smoothly. If shifting feels slow or rough, it could mean trouble.
Brakes
Faulty brakes can be extremely dangerous. In Ghana and many African countries with unpredictable driving conditions, especially during rainy weather, having reliable brakes is essential. If brakes aren’t properly maintained, they can fail at critical moments, leading to longer stopping distances, loss of control, and even severe accidents. Regular brake checks help ensure safety, preventing dangerous situations on wet and slippery roads.
Tires
Worn tires can be a serious hazard, especially when roads are wet during the rainy season. Rough roads in places like Ashaiman and Kasoa make tires wear out faster, increasing the risk of failure. A tire bursting at high speeds can cause a driver to lose control, leading to dangerous accidents.
Battery
A weak car battery can leave you stranded, preventing your car from starting, especially on a busy Monday morning, when you are supposed to be making money (In Rema’s voice) at Circle, where delays could cost you hours or even an important meeting..
Radiator and Cooling System
Ghana’s heat isn’t kind to engines. An overheating car on the traffic is a common sight. Always check your coolant levels.
Suspension System
Pothole-ridden roads in many parts of Accra and Tema can destroy your suspension if you’re not checking it regularly. Signs include bouncing or rattling noises.
Steering System
If your steering feels stiff or loose, it may be dangerous. Losing steering control while dodging potholes could lead to a crash.
Alternator
Powers your car’s electrical system. If you notice your lights dimming at night on the Kumasi-Sunyani highway, it might be failing.
Lights
Working headlights, brake lights, and indicators are essential. Without them, especially on poorly lit roads in the Volta region, your car becomes a hazard.
Wipers and Washer Fluid
Visibility is everything. A sudden downpour on the Kaneshie highway with faulty wipers is a scary experience.
Air Filter
Ghana’s dusty roads—especially in the northern parts like Tamale—can quickly clog air filters, reducing your engine’s efficiency.
Cabin Air Filter
Keeps the air inside your car clean. If you often drive around markets like Makola or Agbogbloshie, this filter can get dirty fast.
Fuel System
Bad fuel from unreliable stations can clog your fuel injectors. This results in stalling or sluggish acceleration, often seen in older taxis.
Exhaust System
A damaged exhaust increases pollution and noise. In crowded areas like Osu or Madina, it can also attract police attention and fines.
Drive Belts & Timing Belt
These keep your engine parts moving in sync. If they snap while you’re on a trip to Cape Coast, it could mean a total engine breakdown.
Clutch (Manual Cars)
If your clutch slips, shifting gears becomes difficult. This is common in older vehicles used for ride-hailing services in Kumasi.
Wheel Bearings
If you hear humming while driving, your wheel bearings might be worn. Ignoring this can lead to wheel failure, extremely dangerous at high speeds.
Dashboard Warning Lights
These lights are your car’s way of talking to you. Don’t ignore that check engine light on the Legon road—it could prevent a major issue later.
Body and Undercarriage
Rust or damage from waterlogged roads in areas like Weija can silently eat away your car’s structure. Regular checks are essential.
Your car is more than a ride—it’s an investment, a livelihood, and in many cases, a partner in your daily hustle. Neglecting small issues today could lead to big breakdowns tomorrow, especially in a country where roads and weather conditions can be unpredictable. Proactive maintenance not only saves you money in the long run but also keeps you, your passengers, and others on the road safe.
So, whether you’re a Bolt driver navigating Lapaz, a family man heading to church in Adabraka, or a student commuting from Legon to Accra Central, don’t wait for your car to fail before you care. Show your vehicle some love—it’ll return the favor with reliability and peace of mind. If you’re unsure where to start, a visit to a trusted mechanic or a quick check-up at your nearest auto center could make all the difference.
