FAQ's

Your Guide to Diesel Electric Automotive’s Products and Services

At Diesel Electric Automotive, we understand that every question is important. Whether you’re interested in our product range, want to learn more about our services, or need guidance in finding the right solution for your needs, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, but we recognize that each customer has unique needs. If you can’t find the information you’re after, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly.

Your inquiries help us enhance our service and ensure you receive the information you need—quickly and clearly. 

How-To Guides for Navigating Our Online Store

Discover answers to our most frequently asked questions about navigating our online store below:

Yes, it’s a requirement to access the online store. Complete a contact us form and we will send you an application form. 

Yes, our system administrator can give you online access, simply chat to your sales representative or complete a registration form now to gain exclusive access to our online store. 

Yes, you receive the same discounts when using our online store as you would when placing an order by phone. Additionally, shopping online saves you time compared to calling in.

No formal training is required. A helpful video tutorial is available under the “How To” tab, providing a step-by-step guide on using the online store. Alternatively, feel free to contact us directly for personalized assistance.

Having an account is a requirement to access the online store.

To create an account, simply call us and request to speak with a sales representative. They will provide you with the necessary documents to complete the account setup process. Once your account is established, our system administrator will issue your online login details. Alternatively, register now by completing a quick registration form. 

If you already have an account and need online access, contact your current sales representative, who will coordinate with the system administrator to set you up promptly.

Our system administrator (Dean Marais) will gladly assist with setting up new credentials, so simply give us a call and ask for him .

Online orders are typically processed within 5 minutes. Once your order is successfully processed, you will receive an order confirmation email for your records.  

You can access all our downloadable leaflets here: Resources

Our online store is created with the user in mind. Registered shoppers can shop by vehicle make or model, using the VIN number of the vehicle or by searching for a part number in the search field. 

Car Battery Questions: Signs, Costs, and Troubleshooting

Your car battery is essential for your vehicle’s performance and reliability. From knowing when to replace it, troubleshooting common issues, to charging, jump-starting, and proper maintenance, we answer the top questions to help you keep your battery in good condition.

When your car struggles to start, headlights appear dim, or dashboard warning lights indicate battery issues, it may be time for a replacement. Other signs include swelling or leaking battery casing and excessive corrosion on terminals. Read our full guide here for detailed signs and tips.

Yes. A failing alternator can prevent the battery from charging properly, leading to a dead battery. Signs include dim lights, warning lights, or the battery dying repeatedly. Learn more about how your battery and alternator work together in our blog here.

You can use jumper cables with another car or a portable jump starter. For manual cars, you can also push-start (kick-start) by getting the car to walking speed, engaging second gear, and releasing the clutch sharply. Note: Automatic cars cannot be push-started.

A typical car battery is a 12-volt system, with a full charge reading 12.6 V (engine off) and 13.7–14.7 V when charging from the alternator.

Devices like clocks, alarms, the ECU, or lights left on can drain a battery. Faulty wiring, aftermarket electronics, or a malfunctioning alternator diode can also be culprits.

  1. Disconnect the battery (negative first).
  2. Clean corrosion with a baking soda-water mix, rinse, and dry.
  3. Reconnect the battery (positive first) and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion.

Possible causes include loose or corroded cables, failed starter motor/solenoid, ignition switch issues, blown fuses, or fuel/spark problems.

Some modern vehicles allow ECU resets via fuse removal or OBD-II tools, but procedures vary by make and model. Always consult your vehicle’s documentation.

Standard lead-acid batteries typically last 3–5 years, while AGM or EFB types may last 4–7 years. South Africa’s warmer climate, frequent short trips, or periods of inactivity can shorten battery life.

Check out our blog post about replacing your car battery here to learn more about what these warning signs mean.

  • Turn the charger off before connecting clamps.
  • Attach the red clamp to the positive (+) terminal and black clamp to the negative (–).
  • Turn the charger on.
    Low-current “trickle” charging (2–6 A) may take several hours, while higher-current chargers (40 A+) charge faster. Monitor the battery and turn off the charger when ful

Always remove the negative (black) terminal first, then the positive (red). When reconnecting, connect the positive first, then the negative. This prevents short circuits.

Batteries are rated in amp-hours (Ah) and cold-cranking amps (CCA). Typical capacities are 40–60 Ah, with CCA ratings of 300–700 A indicating starting power.

Set the multimeter to DC volts. Connect the positive lead to the + terminal and negative to – terminal. A fully charged battery should read ~12.6 V; with the engine running, ~13.7–14.7 V.

Yes, but charging is slower at idle. Driving at higher speeds allows the alternator to recharge the battery more efficiently.

Techniques like desulfation or battery conditioners exist but are less common for standard lead-acid batteries. In most cases, replacement is more reliable.

Frequently Asked Questions on Jump Starters

A portable jump starter is a handy tool for getting your car started when the battery is dead or weak. It delivers a quick burst of power to start your engine safely and conveniently. Below, we answer common questions about how to use, maintain, and select the right jump starter for your vehicle.
  1. Fully charge the jump starter pack.
  2. Connect red clamp to +, black clamp to – (or chassis ground).
  3. Turn the device on if required.
  4. Start the engine, then power off the pack and disconnect (negative clamp first).

Lead-acid portable units last around 2–4 years; lithium-ion types generally last 3–5 years, depending on use and maintenance.

If it has overcharge protection, it’s generally safe. However, it’s best to unplug when fully charged and recharge periodically to maintain performance.

A jump starter doesn’t charge the battery fully, it provides a burst of power to start the car immediately. After starting, the alternator recharges the battery.

It varies by model. Contact our team for more information. 

  • Battery type: Lithium-ion (lighter, longer lifespan) vs. lead-acid.
  • Peak amps and capacity suitable for your vehicle’s engine size.
  • Safety features: reverse-polarity protection, short-circuit and overheat protection.
  • Additional functionality: USB ports, built-in lights, air compressors, etc.
  • Maintenance requirements and duty cycle for durability.

Frequently Asked Questions on Shocks

Shock absorbers keep your car stable, safe, and comfortable by controlling suspension movement and keeping tyres on the road. Here are answers to common questions about shocks and their maintenance.

CV means constant-velocity. The joint allows the driveshaft to transmit power smoothly while bending with the steering and suspension, keeping rotational speed constant.

The ball bearings allow torque to transfer through varying angles without change in rotational speed while remaining lubricated within the boot.

Not long! Driving with a failing CV joint can lead to complete failure. A broken CV can leave you stranded and risk further damage. It is best to replace CV joints as soon as possible. Contact us for a competitive price. 

Not long! Driving with a failing CV joint can lead to complete failure. A broken CV can leave you stranded and risk further damage. It is best to replace CV joints as soon as possible. Contact us for a competitive price. 

A CV joint contains inner and outer races, ball bearings, and a cage, all encased in a rubber boot filled with grease.

Clicking during turns usually indicates an outer CV joint failure. If noise occurs while driving straight, especially vibrations, it may be the inner CV joint or another drivetrain issue. 

You may lose drive to the wheel, and in severe cases, parts could break apart, causing hazards or rendering the vehicle undrivable.

Technicians usually replace the entire CV axle. The process involves removing the wheel, axle nut, disconnecting the axle from the hub and transmission, installing the new axle, and tightening components to spec, then testing road performance.

Frequently Asked Questions on Injectors

Fuel injectors deliver fuel into your engine with precision, and keeping them clean is key to performance. Injector cleaners help remove deposits that can affect fuel flow, efficiency, and a smooth driving experience. Below are answers to common questions about how they work and their benefits.

The additive is poured into your nearly empty fuel tank, then filled with fuel. Drive normally, letting a full tank run through the system. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guide for correct dosage, usage frequency, and compatibility with your vehicle.

It removes carbon and varnish inside injectors, improving fuel atomisation and engine smoothness.

Yes! Cleaners contain detergents that dissolve buildup, restoring proper spray patterns and fuel flow.

Cleaner injectors can yield improved idle, smoother acceleration, reduced emissions, and better fuel economy if deposits are causing performance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions on Shocks

Shocks are key to your vehicle’s safety and comfort. They keep tyres firmly on the road, improve handling, and ensure a smoother ride. Below are common questions and answers about their purpose, lifespan, and when to replace them.

Most passenger and light commercial vehicles have four shock absorbers. One at each wheel. Heavy-duty vehicles may include additional or auxiliary shocks, such as cab or load-levelling variants.

Typically, shocks last up to 80,000 km depending on driving conditions and terrain. Rough roads and heavy use can shorten their lifespan, while well-maintained, smooth driving can extend it. 

Shock absorbers dampen the motion of the springs and suspension, helping keep tyres firmly in contact with the road, ensuring stability, control, and ride comfort.

Look for symptoms like excessive bouncing, porpoising over waves, longer braking distances, uneven tyre wear (e.g., cupping), steering issues, or visible fluid leaks.

It is important to note that shocks should be inspected around 40,000 km or sooner under harsh conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions on Wiper Blades

Wiper blades are essential for clear visibility and safe driving in all weather conditions. They sweep away rain, snow, and debris from your windshield, ensuring a clear view of the road. Below, we answer common questions about checking, choosing, and replacing wiper blades.

Locate the windshield washer fluid reservoir under the hood. It’s usually translucent with a windshield icon on the cap. Open the cap and check the fluid level.

Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield and remove the old rubber insert from the blade frame. Slide or clip in the new rubber, making sure it’s properly seated and locked in place. Note: depending on the wiper type, you may need to replace the entire blade. Always follow the fitting instructions provided on the wiper packaging.

For best results, use distilled or filtered water to prevent mineral deposits on your windshield. Even better, opt for commercial washer fluid, which not only cleans effectively but also contains additives and antifreeze to protect your wipers in cold weather.

  1. Lift the wiper arm upward from the windshield.
  2. Remove the old blade via its connector (e.g., tab or latch).
  3. Attach the new blade by aligning and snapping it into place.
  4. Lower the arm gently and test by running the wipers with washer fluid.

Shock absorbers dampen the motion of the springs and suspension, helping keep tyres firmly in contact with the road, ensuring stability, control, and ride comfort.

Confirm correct blade length and attachment style (from your owner’s manual or parts store). Options include standard frame-style, beam-style (offers better resistance to ice and longer lifespan), or hybrid blades.

Wiper blades act like rubber squeegees, pressed against the windshield by an electric motor that moves them back and forth to clear water and debris.

General Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we do. We supply quality aftermarket Polo Vivo spare parts. Contact your sales representative today or shop online. Filtering car parts such as clutch kits, service kits, and radiators for a Polo Vivo makes it quick and easy to get a price, and place an order. 

All our account customers registered for online shopping can easily access all the spare parts for VW Polo vehicles. If you are a registered online shopper, log in now to start browsing, or register to create an account now. 

All our account customers registered for online shopping can easily access all the spare parts for any vehicle. If you are a registered online shopper, log in now to start browsing, or register to create an account now. 

Enjoy exclusive access! 

If you have any further questions, please contact us or call us on 0861 DIESEL and we will gladly be of further assistance.

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