Brake repairs are what many people think about when it comes to being safe, but focusing on brake maintenance is far more vital to your overall safety. Properly maintained brakes shouldn't need to be repaired. 

Maintaining your brakes means not waiting until they need repairs but having them checked on a regular basis to help avoid any unseen or unexpected problems which might impact your ability to brake safely and efficiently should the need arise. 

Regular brake maintenance means that you can be confident that your brakes will be working properly when you need them most - in an emergency!

When it comes to Brake Maintenance, you should never take a risk. If you're not sure if your brake maintenance is 100% - call a professional like Autocare Mount Gambier without delay.

It is important to remember that unusual brake sounds are not only caused by normal wear and any unusual noises anywhere in your car should always be investigated by a qualified professional mechanic.

Your brake pads are a key element of your braking system and a part that you your shouldn't disregard. Friction is caused when the brake pads compress against the brake rotors in order for your car to stop. So your brake pads are working really hard, really often. The amount of pressure they need to apply to pull up a moving vehicle is extreme and the friction used to do so generates a lot of heat - which wears down the brake pads.

Squealing brakes are a sure sign that your brake pads are worn thin as many pads have a small metal piece set into them that scrapes on the disc when your brake pads are getting worn, causing that high pitch noise. However, you should never wait until you hear noises to get your pads assessed, we advise having your brakes inspected at every service.

At Autocare Mount Gambier we offer a free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection we inspect the brake pads for wear and inform you if they call for replacing. We can also recommend the right pad for your local conditions and driving style.

Brake Pads can last anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 km's. This can differ according to a number of causes such as; driving style, local conditions, towing heavy loads. If your brake pads are wearing out prematurely your mechanic might advise using a special heavy duty brake pad more suited to your vehicle.

Brake fluid provides the pressure needed by the brake pads to stop your car. It also helps prolong the lifespan of your various brake components by helping to prevent corrosion. Most people know that it is imperative to keep the brake fluid level topped up, but did you know that you should also have the entire system flushed regularly to replace old brake fluid and prevent excessive moisture in the fluid?

Simply because it looks clean doesn't mean it's actually in good condition. Moisture accumulates in the brake fluid and it's not always noticeable in a visual inspection. Moisture in the fluid increases the chance the fluid will boil, which could result in a loss of braking pressure. A visual inspection is not sufficient to identify excess moisture in your brake fluid, only a professional boiling point test can tell you this.

A brake fluid flush can be done as part of a scheduled service - but sometimes we may suggest you need one outside of a regular schedule if we feel it's necessary. We are always happy to discuss the reasons why with you.

Autocare Mount Gambier are qualified to perform a wide range of brake services and repairs using quality parts, all covered by our nationwide warranty.

At Autocare Mount Gambier we offer a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and back discs and pads, calipers and cylinders and more. This Vehicle Inspection Report lets you know if there is immediate or future need for repairs to your vehicle allowing you to budget in advance.

Maintaining your brakes means not waiting until they need repairs but having them checked by Autocare Mount Gambier on a regular basis to help avoid any unseen or unexpected problems which might impact your ability to brake safely and efficiently should the need arise...

Brake maintenance service in Mount Gambier

Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Autocare Mount Gambier and Repco Authorised Service.

Drive Safer in Winter with these simple tips

We've all experienced that moment where you turn on the wipers at the first spot of rain and remember that at the end of last season you should have replaced them! Wiper blades don't last forever, especially sitting under the harsh Australian sun all summer. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Autocare Mount Gambier can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

2. Don't let your car dehydrate - Keep up the fluids up

Fluids and other mechanisms in your car can be effected by cold weather; such as coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. It's essential to get your vehicle regularly serviced by a professional technician who recognises the correct parts and products to keep your car in peak operating condition. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.  

It's essential to drive to the road conditions Slow down in wet weather or poor visibility and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Drive on the safe side and book in today for a service or a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report.

Be aware of the symptoms that your brakes need to be inspected, like vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If you notice any of these you should get it checked out by a qualified mechanic. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in.

Driving on incorrectly inflated tyres won't just cost you money on additional fuel; it can also impact your stopping ability. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

Bald tyres are dangerous for winter driving. Now is the time to check how much tread depth you have. If you notice spots which are worn unevenly, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below: 

Drive Safe this Winter with a 65 Point Written Vehicle Inspection Report which is free with every service at Autocare Mount Gambier in Mount Gambier. 

Drive Safe this Winter with simple tips from Autocare Mount Gambier in Mount Gambier.

Winter car maintenance for safe driving

Simple maintenance tips to help you Drive Safe this Winter 

It’s not widely known that you have the freedom to choose where your car is serviced, maintained, and repaired – and often at very competitive prices. 

Are you eagerly anticipating end-of-year car sales in search of a great deal? Or perhaps you’re keen to have your new vehicle serviced and ready for the festive season? Autocare Mount Gambier has some helpful advice for you. 

Purchasing a new car is a significant investment, so it’s only logical to take the necessary steps to ensure it’s well looked after. Caring for your new vehicle involves more than simply cleaning the interior and giving it a regular wash to keep it gleaming. 

One of the key things to think about is who will service your car. 

It’s important to have your car serviced routinely by a qualified expert, following the manufacturer’s guidelines, using quality parts from trusted suppliers, and ensuring fluids meet the manufacturer’s specifications. This is not just to keep your car running smoothly, but also because fulfilling these requirements helps maintain your manufacturer’s warranty.

Many people are unaware that you can choose who will service your new car without affecting either the manufacturer’s warranty or your consumer rights under the Consumer Guarantee. 

Car dealerships cannot insist that you return to them for servicing or repairs. As long as the service is performed by a qualified professional, adheres to the manufacturer’s guidelines, and uses appropriate parts and fluids, your warranty remains intact. You are entitled to make your own choice about who services your car. 

With Repco Authorised Service, you can meet all the necessary standards. Every mechanic at Autocare Mount Gambier mechanic is fully qualified and trained through Auto-Tech, giving them access to leading automotive technical knowledge and training. This ensures they are equipped with the latest techniques to service your car without compromising the warranty. 

Repco branded parts and products are held to strict quality standards and are backed by the Repco Nationwide Warranty, offering you additional peace of mind. Furthermore, Autocare Mount Gambier uses only fluids and lubricants that meet your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications. 

If you already own a new car or are considering buying one, it’s essential to understand where your legal rights begin and end. 

Be sure you’re clear on the differences between statutory, express, and manufacturer warranties so that you don’t make an uninformed decision when it comes to servicing your vehicle. Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), you’re automatically protected by a statutory warranty, also called a Consumer Guarantee. This protection cannot be replaced by any express or manufacturer warranties provided by the car maker or dealer. 

Unfortunately, the lack of disclosure requirements at the point of sale can leave buyers unaware of all the details they need to make well-informed choices. 

When purchasing a new car, remain cautious of dealers offering express or extended warranties, often promoted as free extras. These add-ons may contain specific conditions or limitations and are frequently unclear. In many cases, they offer minimal extra benefits beyond your statutory rights and can tie you into long-term agreements with the dealership. 

These arrangements often fail to highlight the potential downsides of returning to the dealer for servicing or repairs. For instance, you may face longer travel distances, fewer available service centres, or longer wait times due to limited mechanics. 

Take control of your choices when it comes to servicing your car and ensure your decisions are informed and in your best interest.

Check out our frequently asked questions below for more information on New Car Service and warranties. If you need to know more, the AAAA website and ACCC website have some great information too.

New Car Service Frequently asked questions

It’s not widely known that you have the freedom to choose where your car is serviced, maintained, and repaired – and often at very competitive prices. Autocare Mount Gambier can service your new car using quality parts and fluids, preserving your warranty…

Autocare Mount Gambier - The Right Choice for New Car Servicing

Choosing a reliable service center for diesel vehicle servicing and tuning can seem daunting. Yet, with Autocare Mount Gambier, powered by Repco's nationwide warranty, it has never been easier or more stress-free.

We understand that when it comes to your diesel vehicle, you deserve the very best care. Our experts offer complete diesel servicing including log book servicing, transmission servicing, tyre changes, wheel alignments, and a complete diagnostic and repair process for all types of mechanical work.

Autocare Mount Gambier is committed to providing top quality log book servicing. Our experienced technicians keep detailed records and ensure each service interval is met according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Maintaining a complete log book service during your vehicle’s warranty period will not only help keep your car in peak condition, but it also significantly increases your vehicle's resale value.

The health of your transmission is essential to your diesel vehicle. Autocare Mount Gambier offers comprehensive transmission servicing, ensuring smooth gear shifts and maximising the lifespan of your vehicle. We focus on providing a reliable and effective solution that reduces the chances of major breakdowns.

Whether you need new tyres, wheel alignment, wheel balancing or tyre rotation, Autocare Mount Gambier has got you covered. With a variety of premium tyre brands and precise wheel alignment service, we help enhance your car's performance, fuel efficiency, and safety.

Your vehicle may encounter a range of problems, each requiring a unique solution. Autocare Mount Gambier offers advanced diagnostic tools and a team of highly skilled mechanics who can accurately diagnose and repair any problem your diesel vehicle might face.

Our mechanical expertise doesn't stop there. Autocare Mount Gambier caters to all types of mechanical work, from engine rebuilds, suspension and brake repairs to air conditioning and radiator servicing. We work to ensure your car runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Choosing Autocare Mount Gambier means choosing an independent service workshop backed by Repco’s nationwide warranty. Our wealth of experience and customer-focused approach makes us your trusted service center for all your diesel vehicle needs.

Choose Autocare Mount Gambier for exceptional diesel vehicle servicing and tuning. From log book servicing, transmission checks to complete diagnostic and repair services, we offer comprehensive care. Enjoy quality services backed by Repco's nationwide warranty.

Autocare Mount Gambier - Diesel Vehicle Servicing in Mount Gambier

Best Local Car & Truck Service in Mount Gambier: Autocare Mount Gambier is your friendly local independent, family owned and operated car service. 

Our fully qualified log book servicing ensures your car is in safe hands with Autocare Mount Gambier, and as a Repco Authorised Service, we provide quality car service and repairs on all makes and models. 

Catering to your performance increase needs, Autocare is an advanced car service in Mount Gambier, incorporating an auto tune center. 

Autocare Mount Gambier is a first class car service workshop that is a credit to the vision of the owners and a testament to hard work and persistence, a first class car service facility for all your auto repair needs!

Autocare Mount Gambier

Diesel Servicing

Log Book Servicing

Transmission Servicing Mastery

Tyres & Wheel Alignment Perfection

Accurate Diagnosis and Quality Repairs

Covering All Types of Mechanical Work

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Autocare Mount Gambier - The Right Choice for New Car Servicing