Though his Caldina was manufactured in 1999, Mugerwa says it often catches the eye of car enthusiasts who admire its pristine state. PHOTO/ROLAND D NASASIRA
For the last 11 years, only two mechanics have serviced Hilary Mugerwa’s Toyota Caldina. This, he says, is one of the key reasons the car remains in excellent mechanical condition. The second? He never lends it out, not even to relatives with longer driving experience. “I cannot give you my car, however much you want, and I take care of it using my principles. I always visit the garage for service 500km before the 5,000km interval recommended in the service manual. Many times, when I go to the washing bay, I move it from the spray area to where it is dried. That is how hard it is for anyone else to get a chance to drive my car,” Mugerwa says.
Age defying
Though his Caldina was manufactured in 1999, Mugerwa says it often catches the eye of car enthusiasts who admire its pristine state. Some even question whether its number plate is original; it is neither cracked nor bent. The engine, too, remains intact. During one garage visit to replace the engine mountings, Mugerwa received a cash offer of Shs17m from a mechanic’s friend. He is one of three enthusiasts who have made standing offers, hoping Mugerwa will one day cash in. Remarkably, all three offers exceed what Mugerwa paid for the Caldina 11 years ago, though he declines to disclose the amount. Normally, a car's value depreciates every time it hits the road. Not so for Mugerwa’s Caldina.
Driving less means fewer repairs
Besides refusing to lend out his car, Mugerwa attributes his minimal garage visits to how rarely he drives. Working from home allows him to go one or two weeks without using the car at all. The result: lower wear and tear. “Every time I’m driving and I feel a slight change in its sound or movement, I go to the mechanic immediately. Mechanics joke that I treat the car better than a child,” he says of his automatic, 2000cc petrol engine vehicle. “I have set principles for maintenance. I won’t drive it if anything is off. Any strange sound is a red flag. If I’m broke, I park it and find other ways to move.”
Tyre care
Tyre health is another area where Mugerwa does not compromise. Unlike many who use tyres until treads vanish, he replaces all four tyres every three years, regardless of their appearance. Midway through this period, he rotates the front tyres with the rear ones. This approach aligns with global tyre safety guidelines. According to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tyre rubber degrades over time, even if the treads look fine. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres every six years at a minimum, regardless of mileage.
Smart spending on service
Mugerwa’s spending on regular maintenance is modest but consistent. On average, he spends Shs95,000 for minor services, including changing engine coolant, oil, brake fluid, and other lubricants. He last replaced the rear brake pads over a year ago for Shs120,000 and does so every two to three years. The most expensive repair? Replacing a front headlamp broken by a motorcyclist, which set him back Shs240,000.
A mechanic’s perspective
Benjamin Sserwadda, Mugerwa’s long-time mechanic, says it would be difficult to find another Caldina in such good shape. Most cars on Ugandan roads are in poor mechanical condition, even if they are still moving. “Many car owners only visit garages when their vehicles break down. A car is like a human body. If you care for it consistently, it will serve you longer,” Sserwadda explains. He recommends early detection: “Always watch out for signs of wear and tear before they become major issues.”
Expert advice
Mugerwa and Sserwadda agree, if you want your car to last, be selective about who drives it and never skip timely servicing. Even if you have just bought a vehicle from a local bond, do not assume it is ready for long trips. Give it a full inspection and basic service before you hit the road. According to the AA (Automobile Association), allowing multiple drivers increases a car’s wear and reduces its resale value. Every driver treats a car differently, often with less caution than the owner would. Hilary Mugerwa’s Caldina is a testament to what discipline, consistency, and a little stubbornness can do for your car. His principles, timely service, exclusive driving rights, and proactive maintenance have not only saved him money but also increased his car’s value over time. If you are a Ugandan motorist hoping to get more years from your car, Mugerwa’s message is clear: Do not share it. Care for it. Listen to it.
A keeper
What makes the Caldina a cult classic?
Reliability: The Toyota Caldina, especially models from the late 1990s to early 2000s, is built on the same platform as the Toyota Corona and shares engines with other legendary Toyotas. The 3S-FE and 1ZZ engines found in many Caldinas are famous for longevity when serviced regularly.
Versatile wagon design: The Caldina offers ample cargo space, rear seat comfort, and a practical layout.
Strong resale value: Due to its durability and reputation, a well-maintained Caldina can fetch high resale offers, even increasing in value if it remains in mint condition, as seen in Mugerwa’s case.
Easy maintenance: Caldina parts are still readily available in Uganda thanks to their mechanical similarity with other Toyotas. Mechanics are familiar with the engine layout, making repairs and maintenance easier and more affordable than for newer models.
