’Twas the week before Christmas, the car was packed tight,
With kids in the back and no homework in sight.
The boot was jammed full, the playlist was queued:
A long road ahead and a holiday mood!

The engine purred nicely, the air con blew cold,
Dad said, “She’s solid, this car’s made of gold!”
But not far from the driveway, just out of town,
There came a strange rattle… then silence—then frowns.

Hazard lights on, tempers up, plans astray,
Their festive road trip had stalled midway.
Because nothing says Christmas like discovering too late
Your car doesn’t care that it’s holiday break…

Australians love a good road trip, and there is no better time to embark on a family holiday than during school holidays! But before setting off on a long road trip with the family this Christmas and New Year season, it is important to properly service your car. This will ensure that your vehicle is in good working order, making the trip both safer and more enjoyable.

Here is a handy school holiday service checklist to guarantee safer drives for you and your loved ones this school holiday season.

Why Pre-Holiday Car Checks Are Essential

A well-maintained car is less likely to face mechanical problems, such as a faulty alternator or a worn-out timing belt. These types of issues can be dangerous, and they can also be costly to fix if you are far away from home.

By servicing your car before you hit the road, you can identify and fix potential problems before they become major issues. Staying on top of burgeoning car problems will also protect the value of your car, making future car log book servicing and roadworthy certificates easier.

The Ultimate School Holiday Car Service Checklist

From topping up your fluids to checking your tyre pressure, here is your ultimate school holiday car service checklist.

Fluids

Check your car’s oil and fluid levels, including engine coolant, power steering fluid, and brake and clutch fluid. If your car isn’t due for a mechcnial repairs just yet, simply pop the bonnet open and inspect the levels yourself. And be sure to check windscreen washer fluid levels and top up if needed!

Windscreen

Speaking of your windscreen, you should check it for any chips or cracks before hitting the road. These can become a bigger problem (literally) and require a windscreen replacement if not repaired in time.

Tyres

Ensure all four of your tyres have at least 3mm of tread on them to effectively displace water in heavy rain—the legal minimum is 1.5mm. Look for any racks or bulges. Go ahead and check your tyre pressure, too, including the spare! If you notice anything wrong with the fit of your tyres, then you may want to book in for a wheel realignment.

Battery

Watch out for signs of a weakening car battery, such as your engine starting more slowly or sounding different than before. Other signs include flashing warning lights due to low voltage and screen displays acting up. If in doubt, get your battery replaced or tested as necessary. It’s a good idea to go on your road trip knowing your battery will reliably get you there and back again!

Lights & Indicators

Confirm all your headlights, brake lights, and indicators are working. Faulty lights are a safety hazard and can result in hefty fines, so be sure to check them regularly. It may be worthwhile booking in for a diagnostic service to get an accurate reading of your car’s electrical systems.

Air Conditioner

Aussie summers are HOT! No matter where you’re going with your family, you’ll want to be cool and comfortable the whole way there. Check that your coolant levels are sufficient and that it blows reliably for long periods of time. To save yourself from a sweaty road trip, get your air conditioner serviced before your departure!

Extra Tips for A Stress-Free Family Road Trip

Beyond making sure your car is working, here are some extra things to keep in check when preparing for your holiday road trip!

Insurance

Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date and suited to your latest travel plans. Knowing you have suitable cover means you can focus on the adventure and avoid any stress!

First-aid Kit

It is recommended that all motorists carry a first-aid kit and a high-vis vest in case of a breakdown or emergency. Pack some safety cones in your car, too, in case you do break down on the side of the road and need to step out of your car.

Water!

Make sure you have plenty of water with you throughout the duration of your trip! Not only will this keep your family hydrated, but a spare bottle of water in your vehicle can come in handy in case you need to cool off an overheated radiator or engine.

Completing these checks will help ensure a safe and smooth summer road trip—Happy Holidays!

Why Choose S.S.C. Mechanics for Your School Holiday Car Service?

At S.S.C. Mechanics, we’re committed to delivering exceptional automotive care built on trust, respect, and quality workmanship. As a proud family-owned business with decades of experience serving Melbourne Airport West and its surrounding communities, we understand the importance of reliable car service.

Our team provides honest advice, competitive pricing, and expert servicing using only genuine manufacturer parts and premium oils, ensuring your vehicle performs to dealership standards without the dealership price tag. Plus, with a 12-month warranty on all our services and repairs, you can hit the road with complete confidence knowing your vehicle, investment, and safety are all in good hands.

Book Your School Holiday Service Today!

A little preparation now can save you from a lot of stress later on. By ticking off this school holiday service checklist—or letting a trusted professional handle it for you—you’re giving your family the best gift of all: a safer, smoother journey and fewer roadside surprises.

Before you load up the car this school holiday, make sure your vehicle is truly road-ready. The busy holiday period fills up fast, and the last thing you want is a breakdown stealing time from your well-earned break.

Book a car service near you with S.S.C. Mechanics today and travel with confidence knowing your car has been thoroughly checked by experienced, local professionals.

Service Areas We Cover

S.S.C. Mechanics provides professional mechanical repair services for Melbourne’s north-west. We provide car safety checks for all kinds of makes and models.

Based in Airport West, our customers come from various surrounding locations, including:

• Essendon
• Keilor
• Keilor East
• Moonee Ponds
• Niddrie
• Pascoe Vale
• Tullamarine
• Westmeadows
• Aberfeldie
• Gladstone Park

And more locations surrounding Melbourne’s North-West!

Give us a call today on (03) 9338 9573 or 0430 928 764 to discuss how we can help you.

The post Your School Holiday Service Checklist: Safer Drives for the Whole Family appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

When time is tight, or budgets are stretched—and let’s face it, they always are—fixing your own car can seem like a smart and even convenient solution. After all, how hard can it really be to change some oil, swap a battery, or replace brake pads? A radiator repair can’t be that hard, right?

Unfortunately, modern vehicles are not built for guesswork. What may appear to be a simple at-home fix can quickly snowball into costly damage, serious safety risks, or even complete system failure.

In this guide, we break down why DIY car repairs often go wrong, using real-world examples to show how well-intentioned fixes can end up causing you far more harm than good.

The Rise of DIY Car Repairs

Look, we get it—booking your car in to a mechanic to get fixed can be stressful sometimes. All of us are super busy, especially near the end of the year and maybe you just don’t have enough time in your schedule to bring your car in. Or maybe you spent a little too much extra money this month and can’t spare the expense to get your car serviced—surely one more month will be fine, or six more months…

…or perhaps you could save yourself both time and money by simply doing a little auto DIY. It would be way more convenient to fix your car up in your own garage. There are plenty of tutorials available online, too—countless YouTube videos covering timing belt replacement. What could go wrong?

The truth is, a lot can go wrong. With more and more access to online resources, many folks have started to resort to performing their own amateur repair work on their vehicles in an attempt to save time and money. As tempting as a DIY car repair may seem, unqualified work on a car can be far more troublesome and even dangerous.

Common DIY Fixes That Often Go Wrong (Real Examples)

Incorrect Oil Change

It’s easy enough to check your oil levels at home (any dipstick can do it), but it’s also just as easy to change your oil incorrectly. Overfilling your car or simply using the wrong type of oil can lead to serious engine damage, so even though you can buy oil on your own, you should most definitely leave the oil change and any other car repairs to a trusted car mechanic near you.

The cost of a DIY oil change: On average, fuel drain cost in Australia ranges from $250 to $450, depending on the vehicle type, contamination severity, and location.

Battery Replacement Gone Wrong

Does anyone else remember back in the day when you could buy a car battery right off the shelf in Kmart? Times may have been simpler then, but what is not so simple is replacing your car battery. You can definitely replace a car battery improperly; an unintended reversed polarity can damage your vehicle’s electrical systems, and you may harm yourself from battery corrosion or electrocution, so you’re better off reserving any car battery replacements for your mechanic.

The cost of correcting improper battery replacement: Fixing an error caused by improper battery installation will definitely incur labour costs, which can range from $25 to $50 or more per hour or more, depending on the location and mechanic, plus the price of a new battery.

Brake Pad DIY Mistake

There is nothing more annoying than hearing the piercing squeal of your own worn-down brake pads and while it may seem like too much of a bother to bring your car in to a brake specialist, attempting to replace them on your own can be extremely dangerous. Uneven wear can compromise one’s safety on the road, and a brake failure is a very real worst-case scenario. In all seriousness, let a mechanic handle your brake repairs.

The cost of repairing a ruined or compromised brake system: Fixing a messed-up brake system can cost upwards of $1000 or more, depending on the size of the vehicle and the severity of the damage caused by DIY repairs.

Over-tightened Bolts

Over-tightened bolts, or over-torqued bolts, can lead to a higher risk of mechanical failure in a car, along with component damage, stripped threads, and compromising critical connections due to excessive force. Your car’s suspension, wheels, and engine can all suffer from overzealous bolt tightening, so leave the wrench in the hands of a professional.

The cost of over-tightened bolts: Depending on the damage, simple stud replacement can cost between $60 to $300 per stud, but if the hub is damaged due to stripped threads or damaged parts, then costs can skyrocket.

Using Cheap Online Parts

We’ve all seen those spammy-looking ads online for cheap auto parts and whole engines, and as tempting as they may appear, you should never install cheap parts in your car. Cheaper parts lead to a shorter lifespan and improper fit, meaning your car will likely end up in the shop anyway, far sooner than later. To protect yourself, your investment, and your roadworthy certificate, be sure to only use premium, manufacturer-approved parts installed by a licensed mechanic.

The cost of using cheap parts bought online: Limitless—using cheap car parts bought online can offer initial cost savings, but carries hidden costs and risks in the long run, including premature failure, potential damage to your vehicle, and even on-road safety hazards.

Book Your Next Service with S.S.C. Mechanics

While DIY car repairs might seem like a quick and easy way to save a few dollars, the reality is that even small mistakes done at home can lead to serious safety risks and far higher repair costs down the track. Modern vehicles are very complex machines, and what may look like a simple job often requires specialist tools, professional experience, and manufacturer knowledge to do properly and safely.

Book your next service with a trusted car mechanic in Tullamarine with S.S.C. Mechanics today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in expert hands. At S.S.C. Mechanics, our experienced technicians use the right parts, follow manufacturer specifications, and ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and roadworthy.

Don’t risk costly DIY mistakes and instead, swallow your pride and let a local mechanic near you take care of your car properly.

Areas We Service

S.S.C Mechanics provides professional mechanical repair services for Melbourne’s north-west. We provide car safety checks for all kinds of makes and models.

Based in Airport West, our customers come from various surrounding locations, including:

• Essendon
• Keilor
• Keilor East
• Moonee Ponds
• Niddrie
• Pascoe Vale
• Tullamarine
• Westmeadows
• Aberfeldie
• Gladstone Park

And more locations surrounding Melbourne’s North-West!

Give us a call today on (03) 9338 9573 or 0430 928 764 to discuss how we can help you.

The post Why DIY Fixes Sometimes Make Things Worse (With Real Examples) appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

Automotive issues can be a slippery slope, especially when complex electrical systems and computers are involved. Once one issue gets big enough, there is often a ripple effect through the rest of your car, putting both your own safety and your investment at risk.

Automotive issues don’t always announce themselves. Sometimes a minor problem can quickly snowball into an expensive one, compromising your safety on the road and requiring extensive repair.

That’s where professional car diagnostic services come in. By examining your car’s engine systems, electronics, transmission, brakes, and more, we can uncover hidden issues and nip them in the bud before they become serious and costly.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a car diagnostic test shows, how it can save you money and stress, and why it’s a worthwhile addition to your vehicle maintenance routine.

What is a Car Diagnostic Test?

If your “Check Engine” light starts flashing or you see an ERROR message appear on your dashboard, then you very well may require a diagnostic test. A car diagnostic test is a digital analysis of a vehicle’s components and different systems, including the engine, transmission, oil tank, and more.

When working on a vehicle diagnostic procedure, a repairman will use a scanning system to inspect the different components to identify developing issues. Data reports are then generated based on specialised software that monitors the vehicle’s features.

Here are some of the internal systems of your car that are inspected during a diagnostic test:

• Engine management systems
• Alternator, battery, and electrical systems
• Transmission and gearbox faults
• Suspension and steering electronics
• ABS and braking systems
• Air conditioning and climate control
• Hybrid and EV system checks

Vehicle testing can be quite complex and requires some form of expertise and specialised equipment, so only professionally licensed auto mechanics in Airport West usually carry out these tests. Diagnostic services are just one form of preventive maintenance that some owners regularly incorporate into their routines.

A professional diagnostic service will ultimately save you time and money. Once our diagnostic technicians identify what the problems may be with their accurate fault detection systems, they will provide a practical and speedy course of recommended action.

What Does a Diagnostic Test Actually Show?

Automotive issues can be a slippery slope, especially when complex electrical systems and computers are involved. Once one issue gets big enough, there is often a ripple effect through the rest of your car, putting both your safety and investment at risk.

Here are some of the issues that a diagnostic test can reveal:

Engine Performance Issues

If your vehicle has any mechanical issues that are interfering with your engine, our mechanics can help you identify them and provide a course of action. Whether you are experiencing misfires, fuel malfunctions, or ignition issues, we can detect their root cause and repair them.

Transmission Problems

A diagnostic test can reveal concerns with your car’s transmission. This could be indicative of problems while slipping gears or transmission fluid leaks. A minor transmission issue can become a major repair if you wait to get it checked, so a diagnostic test will help identify burgeoning transmission problems.

Exhaust System Failures

Any issues within your vehicle’s exhaust system will be detected through a diagnostic test. It could reveal a failing catalytic converter or issues with oxygen sensors. From the initial diagnosis, we can repair any damage present as well as improve your car’s overall emissions and drivability.

Brake System Alerts

If you notice your service light is illuminated when braking, then you’ll want to schedule a diagnostic test immediately. It can identify brake system issues, such as sensor failures or hydraulic problems. We can repair any brake issues and get you back on the road quickly and safely.

Why a Diagnostic Test Is Worth It

A professional diagnostic service will ultimately save you time and lots of money. Once our diagnostic technicians identify any problems that may be present, they will provide a practical and speedy course of recommended action.

Proactive diagnostics and early issue detection will help prevent costly breakdowns and keep you safe while driving. You can maintain your vehicle’s warranty compliance with routine maintenance and car log book servicing, as well as improve your vehicle’s performance and safety—all boosted by informed diagnostic readings.

When Should You Book a Car Diagnostic Test?

How do you know when the right time to get a car diagnostic test is? Is it only when the check engine light appears, or are there red flags? Should I get one once a year or more frequently?

Car diagnostics are preventative services, so there is certainly no wrong time to get a test done on your vehicle. Here are some of the telltale signs that issues are brewing deep inside your vehicle, and you should book in for a diagnostic test with your local mechanic.

Check Engine Light Flashing

This is the most common reason people seek diagnostics. If your check engine light flashes and stays on, then that indicates something is not right. Early diagnosis often means a more straightforward, less expensive fix, so we recommend getting it checked as soon as possible.

Poor Fuel Economy

If you find yourself filling up for fuel more often than usual, then your vehicle may have sensor or radiator issues. Faulty sensors, misfiring cylinders, or a blocked air filter can all cause poor fuel economy. A diagnostic scan can quickly detect these issues and fix them, saving you money at the pump!

Rough Idling or Stalling

Does your car feel rough when sitting idly at traffic lights? Does it hesitate or stall when you accelerate? These are signs that your engine is not firing correctly, and a diagnostic test will be able to identify the problem.

Strange Smells, Noises, or Smoke

Strange smells and noises that don’t seem familiar to you should never be ignored. Any knocking, pinging or hissing sounds may also be cause for concern, and any smoke indicates that your engine might be under stress. A diagnostic test can help identify if the mystery issue is electronic, mechanical, or somewhere in between.

Why Choose S.S.C. Mechanics for Car Diagnostics?

Here at S.S.C. Mechanics, we offer certified diagnostic services, meant to nip every car issue in the bud. Our team of expert mechanics cares first and foremost about your safety while driving, so we pride ourselves on only offering transparent repair recommendations and cost estimates.

In extreme situations, we also offer the option for same-day repairs if necessary. If you worry your car may have something wrong with it or you require emergency repairs, then call (03) 9338 9573 to speak with one of our mechanics today to explore your solutions.

Service Areas We Cover

S.S.C. Mechanics offers professional mechanical repair and diagnostic services for Melbourne’s north-west and beyond.

Based in Airport West, our customers come from various surrounding locations, including:

• Essendon
• Keilor
• Keilor East
• Moonee Ponds
• Niddrie
• Pascoe Vale
• Tullamarine
• Westmeadows
• Aberfeldie
• Gladstone Park
• Glenroy

For car diagnostics in Airport West and the surrounding areas, choose S.S.C. Mechanics for quality service and honest action every time. Contact our team online today and book a diagnostic test or car service near you!

The post What Does a Car Diagnostic Test Show, and Is It Worth It? appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

Open roads, blue skies, and the wind in your hair; there is nothing quite like a road trip! In Australia, nearly a million people will have gone on a road trip during the spring and summer months this year alone. One thing any prospective roadtripper will tell you, though, is that no road trip is truly set for success without proper planning.

Whether it’s a quick, half-day beach trip down the coast or a full-on weeklong excursion through the bush, you’ll only go as far as your motor vehicle will allow you to. If your car hasn’t been taken on a long-haul or off-road excursion for a long time, then you should consider a pre-road trip car servicing or inspection.

You will save yourself peace of mind and future headaches by knowing your vehicle will carry you to your destination quickly, comfortably, and above all, safely.

Why Pre-Trip Car Servicing Is Essential

You shouldn’t leave for your road trip without checking that your car is up for the task, just like how you wouldn’t go out on the sea before checking if your boat is seaworthy or jumping out of a plane without making sure your parachute is working. Pre-trip car servicing is essential to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive, reliable on the road, and ready for the journey ahead.

Long drives can put extra strain on your car’s engine, brakes, tyres, and other components, so having a qualified mechanic inspect and service your vehicle beforehand can help prevent unexpected breakdowns on the road or costly repairs away from home. Routine checks and regular log book servicing can make all the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful roadside emergency.

Servicing also helps improve fuel efficiency and overall performance, allowing your car to run more smoothly and use less fuel over long distances. From venturing off-road in the Dandenong Ranges or braving bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Hume Highway, pre-trip servicing can give you peace of mind knowing your vehicle is in top condition and that you and your passengers can all travel safely and confidently wherever you choose to go.

Your Ultimate Pre-Road Trip Car Checklist

Before embarking on your next road trip adventure, make sure your vehicle’s systems are in working condition. If you are looking for a car mechanic near me for your pre-trip car inspection, Use the following checklist to discuss any issues.

Fluids & Oils

Check your car’s engine oil, coolant, transmission, and brake fluid levels to ensure everything is topped up and clean. Likewise, check your radiator is in good working condition, too.

These are all vital for smooth operation as well as preventing overheating. If you are suspicious of any fluid leaks, high temperatures, or simply need a standard oil change, then book your car in for a standard mechanical repair service to top up your fluids and address any developing issues.

Tyres & Wheels

Inspect your tyre pressure and tread depth as well as the condition of your spare tyre. Proper tyre maintenance improves safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. Check for any deep scratches or damage on your tyres that could compromise your safety while driving.

You should also check on your wheel alignment. Wheels and tyres can get misaligned over time, and an intense road trip could exacerbate any existing problems brewing in your undercarriage.

Battery & Lights

Test your car battery for charge and check that all exterior and interior lights are functioning normally. Safely clean up any battery acid corrosion and replace your car battery if it has passed its expiry date, usually between three and five years.

Make sure your headlights and brake lights are also all operational and easy to see. Good visibility is crucial, especially for driving at night or in the early mornings. Replace any bulbs you can and consider booking in for a diagnostic service to gain insight about all the other electrical systems in your vehicle.

Brakes & Suspension

Before going on a long drive, you should always inspect your brakes for wear and tear as well as the stability of your suspension. Both of these systems are essential for safety and control during long drives.

If you are struggling to brake reliably and effortlessly, then you should get yourself booked in for brake repair and servicing as soon as possible. Your suspension helps to keep much of the heavy-duty parts in your car protected from shock and abrasion, so if you need a suspension repair then it is essential to get it sorted before going on a road trip, especially if off-road or going through anywhere wet or dusty.

Air Conditioning & Cabin Filters

The last thing you want to be on your road trip is hot and sweaty while behind the wheel! Ensure your air conditioning system and cabin filters are all working properly. This will keep you and your passengers comfortable through the duration of your trip and maintain good air quality.

The interior of Australia can get dangerously hot in the warmer times of year, and an unreliable air conditioning system can truly lead to life-threatening complications if unchecked. So if you plan to go on any road trips up north or in the desert, then you ought to book in for a regular air conditioning service to make sure you don’t overheat while driving.

Bonus: Wipers & Washer Fluid

Replace any and all worn-out wiper blades to maintain clear visibility in rainy or dusty conditions. You may be offered this as part of your regular log book servicing or roadworthy checks.

Be sure to also top up your washer fluid so you’re ready to clean off any obstructions that may hit your windshield. Keep a reserve bottle of wiper fluid in your car, just in case!

If your pre-road trip inspection passes the test, then you’re free to hit the road! But if your vehicle falls short on any of the parameters listed above, then get in touch with our team of expert mechanic Airport West at S.S.C. Mechanics for a trustworthy and speedy vehicle servicing.

Your car will be roadworthy and ready before you know it!

Why Choose SSC Mechanics for Your Pre-Trip Inspection

At S.S.C. Mechanics, we’re committed to delivering exceptional automotive care built on trust, respect, and quality workmanship. As a proud family-owned business with decades of experience serving Melbourne Airport West and its surrounding communities, we understand the importance of reliable car service.

Our team provides honest advice, competitive pricing, and expert servicing using only genuine manufacturer parts and premium oils, ensuring your vehicle performs to dealership standards without the dealership price tag. Plus, with a 12-month warranty on all our services and repairs, you can hit the road with complete confidence knowing your vehicle, investment, and safety are all in good hands.

Service Areas We Cover

S.S.C Mechanics provides professional mechanical repair services for Melbourne’s north-west and surrounding areas. Based in Airport West, our customers come from various surrounding locations including:

• Essendon
• Keilor
• Keilor East
• Moonee Ponds
• Niddrie
• Pascoe Vale
• Tullamarine
• Westmeadows
• Aberfeldie
• Gladstone Park

Ready to Hit the Road? Book Your Pre-Trip Service Today!

Don’t let car troubles put the brakes on your next adventure. A quick pre-trip inspection can make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free drive and an unexpected series of roadside setbacks. At S.S.C. Mechanics, we’ll ensure your vehicle is safe and ready for any road trip, performing at its very best.

Book a pre-road trip car service near you today with our trusted team in Airport West and beyond. Call (03) 9338 9573 or book online to get your car checked, serviced, and ready for the open road ahead.

The post Planning A Road Trip? Here’s What to Check Before You Go appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

But unfortunately, there is a catch: new cars lose between 10-15% of their value the minute you drive them off the lot. Even a well-maintained and garaged secondhand car has a certain value that begins to drop once you buy it and drive it off the lot of a secondhand auto seller.

How To Maintain The Value Of Your Car

So how do you maintain the value of your car to ensure that you can get a maximal return on your auto investment once it’s time to sell again?

Our top tips to help you keep your new car in great condition over the course of your ownership are:

1. Get suitable insurance
2. Understand the importance of storage
3. Find a car that is an investment
4. Keep your car clean
5. Keep the mileage low
6. Ensure proper maintenance
7. Don’t eat, drink, or smoke
8. Look out for curbs

1. Get suitable insurance

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that your new vehicle is suitably insured. For new cars, the best type of insurance that you can acquire is comprehensive car insurance. This particular vehicle insurance covers both your vehicle and third party vehicles or property in the event that you’re found at fault for causing a collision or accident. As comprehensive car insurance provides cover for your vehicle as well, it’s generally considered to be more preferable for new car owners than third-party car insurance, which only covers third-party vehicles and property in the event that you’re found at fault for causing a vehicular collision.

Comprehensive car insurance policies typically also include cover for the loss of your vehicle (by theft), as well as costs to provide you with a replacement vehicle if your car cannot be driven due to requiring repairs. It’s important to read through your car insurance policy in full to ensure that you understand the extent of your insurance cover. It’s also worth revisiting your policy around your renewal period to see if you can get a better deal on your comprehensive (or even third-party) insurance elsewhere.

2. Understand the importance of storage

Where you park your car is as important as how you drive it, so be sure to keep your car garaged if you can. This is both to reduce the risks of your car being stolen or damaged by other cars passing or whilst street parking, but also to keep your vehicle protected from the elements.

Some car insurance quotes may also drop if you keep your car in a secured garage, as this reduces your risk to insurers. If you have no choice but to park your car on the street, however, then we strongly recommend that you consider parking away from trees. Falling branches can scratch paint or break glass, and bird droppings can also negatively impact your paint job.

3. Find a car that is an investment

As we said earlier, whenever you buy a car, you’re really making an investment – especially if you’re purchasing a car with the intention of selling it on in the near future, as most of us do. So considering that vehicles lose some value as soon as you buy them, it’s a good idea to do some research before you buy a car and choose one that depreciates at a lower rate.

You might find that a car you really dislike is at the top of that list, but you don’t have to choose that one. Rather, find the vehicle out of the ones that you do like that holds its value best, and go with that one.

You can also find car depreciation calculators online or use car depreciation formulas to provide an additional reference point.

4. Keep your car clean

Now this one’s a no brainer, but it’s often an overlooked part of car ownership. It may be difficult to keep your car clean if you’ve got a busy life that’s always keeping you on the move, or if you’ve got kids who like to be messy. However, keeping a car in a messy or even dirty state can affect it negatively.

Seats, carpets, and some of the buttons can all wear out quicker than they should. A build up of dust and dirt also affects the exterior of the car. Paint fade is a common issue amongst cars that aren’t cleaned often. These issues can make your car very undesirable to future buyers, or heavily decrease the trade in value when you buy a new car.

A helpful tip; keep air fresheners in your car at all times to keep it smelling fresh. It’s also worthwhile keeping track of how often you bring your car in for a good wash and wax.

5. Keep the mileage low

Depending on what kind of car you buy and what you’ll be using it for, it may be harder or easier to keep your usage to a slight minimum. Big people movers that are owned by families are likely to be driven everyday, whereas a couple with a car each can usually keep their driving to a minimum.

Some people won’t agree with this point and might want to drive their car as much as possible – after all, what was the point of buying it? However, it’s a well known fact that a car with lower mileage will have a higher value than a car with a higher mileage. If anything, this is just something to keep in mind.

6. Ensure proper maintenance

It should go without saying that maintaining your car is very important in retaining the highest value possible. Choosing a good mechanic Airport West for your mechanical repairs is important in keeping the standard of work higher. Getting your car serviced regularly is vital in keeping the value of the car as high as possible. Potential buyers will often ask about the service history and may even pay more for a car that has been well maintained and has a log book to prove it.

Not to mention, regularly servicing your car will help you avoid big, costly repairs in the future. The name of the game is preventative maintenance. Simply put, this means fixing potential minor issues before they become big enough to cause major issues.

7. Don’t eat, drink, or smoke in your car

If you live a fast paced life and hit drive-thrus regularly, you might want to consider waiting to get home before digging into your dinner. It’s simple enough; no eating or drinking in the car means no potential spills or stains. Worse than stains, however, is smoking.

Often, many people will avoid buying a car if they can still smell smoke in it from the previous owner. Even if you keep all your windows open when you smoke, the seats, carpets, and fabric lining will soak up the smell and it’s very difficult to remove. So think before you light up at a red light!

8. Look out for curbs

This one’s just an extra tip. When parking your car, specifically adjacent to a curb, take your time, drive carefully, make sure your mirrors are correctly calibrated, use cameras and sensors if you have them, and try your hardest to avoid scratching or denting your wheels. Simple enough right? Wheels are undervalued in car owners’ minds, but they can be quite expensive to repair or have changed. Take it slow, take it easy, and avoid the hassle.

The Final Word

Buying a new car is always such an exciting and thrilling experience, and selling it shouldn’t be such a hassle. Simply follow these steps, show some love to your car and you’ll keep its value as high as possible for the entirety of your ownership, making the selling or trading-in process a breeze!

For specialised European car servicing and more, contact S.S.C Mechanics today!

The post How to Maintain the Value of Your Car appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

But what exactly do you need to change a car battery? Contrary to popular belief, not all car battery swapovers require you to use soldering irons for mechanics. These specialised tools can be used to repair damaged electrical wiring in cars – but if your battery and all its cables are intact, then all you need to change your car battery is a jump starter or memory minder, a socket wrench or adjustable wrench, some rubber gloves (for electrical safety), and some pliers, for safely holding bolt heads in place when moving battery terminals and cabling.

Keep on reading for more nifty information on how you can change your car battery safely at home.

How To Change Your Car Battery

Before we jump into our step-by-step guide on how to change your car battery, let’s first outline how you can tell if your battery even needs to be replaced. There are 5 obvious signs that your car battery is either dead, failing, or faulty.

These signs are as follows:

1. You can turn your ignition, but your car won’t start.
2. Your car headlights and other electronic accessories fail to power on.
3. You’ve had to jumpstart your car frequently in the recent past.
4. Your car battery is showing signs of physical damage (i.e. cracks, chips, or swelling).
5. Your car’s dashboard battery light has turned on or has been illuminated over the recent past.

If you’ve observed any of the signs outlined above, then it’s likely that your car battery will need to be changed.

Now that that’s out of the way, here’s our step-by-step guide on how to change your car battery safely.

Below are our 6 steps to changing your car battery:

Step 1- Disconnect your old car battery

Step 2- Remove all screws and fasteners holding your battery in place

Step 3- Inspect and clean your battery tray

Step 4- Install your new car battery

Step 5- Reconnect your battery cables and test-start your vehicle

Step 6- Ethically dispose your old car battery

Step 1 – Disconnect your old car battery

The first thing you’ll want to do is prepare your car for the battery swapover. This involves parking your vehicle on level ground with the parking brake on and the engine off. Put the gear in first for manual vehicles or in the park for those with an automatic transmission.

Next, if you’re looking to keep all the radio presets or any other presets in your car’s electronic settings, we recommend plugging a memory minder into your cigarette lighter. This will help ensure that all your radio presets are saved and replacing your car battery doesn’t have to feel as unsettling as clearing your browser cache.

Once everything is in place, pop on some rubber gloves, open up the hood of your car, find your battery tray, and get to work on disconnecting your battery terminals. If your car has a negative ground (negative cable going to the frame of the car), then you’ll want to disconnect the negative terminal first. Your vehicle manual should detail whether your car has a positive or negative ground. If you don’t have your vehicle manual handy, you can either inspect the battery terminals yourself to see which cable is going directly to the frame of your car or simply take your car to your local mechanic for expert assistance.

Step 2 – Remove all screws and fasteners holding your battery in place

If you’ve been able to disconnect your old car battery safely, the next step is to remove all screws and fasteners that are holding the depleted battery in place. You’ll need your socket wrenches and pliers here, so be sure to keep them handy, along with a small container or tray for keeping track of all your battery screws.

If for any reason, some of your cables are being caught or tangled in amongst other hardware components, safely remove them using your gloved hands or even by lightly tapping them away with the handle of a socket wrench or other tools like a hammer. Try not to yank or put any pressure when removing the cabling to avoid tears or other kinds of damage. Damaged cables can result in electrical leakage which may deplete your new battery prematurely.

Step 3 – Inspect and clean your battery tray

Once your old battery has been removed from your tray, it’s time to inspect the tray bed for any signs of rust, debris, or oil build-ups. Be sure to thoroughly clean your tray bed – again, with gloved hands.

Once large bits of debris have all been removed, clear any smaller pieces of dirt or oil residue with a simple water and baking soda solution. Gentle wipes may also work here.

You should also inspect your battery terminals for any signs of rust or corrosion. We recommend coating your terminals with anti-corrosion terminal grease. Doing so (alongside clearing your battery tray) can help ensure that your new battery has the perfect environment to perform at its best from the get-go.

Step 4 – Install your new car battery

Now that your battery tray and terminals are all ready for the new battery, it’s finally time to put it in position. Remember that car batteries can be quite heavy, so be sure to enlist a second set of hands if you feel you may require additional support when lifting and positioning the battery correctly.

Make sure that the positive and negative terminals are in the right position before lowering your new car battery safely into the battery tray. Once everything is in the right place, simply go about reinstalling your battery screws and fasteners, and returning everything to where it originally was.

Step 5 – Reconnect your battery cables and test-start your vehicle

Now, connect your battery cables back in the opposite order that they were removed. In other words, if your car has negative ground and you disconnected the negative terminal first, reconnect your positive terminal at this stage before connecting up your negative terminal again. This will prevent electrical surges due to current imbalances. The last thing you want is to blow out your new battery mere minutes after it’s just been installed.

Once your terminals have been safely reconnected, do a quick double-check to make sure that you haven’t left any tools, loose screws, or other foreign objects in your hood. Then, simply close up your hood, and test-start your vehicle. If your car is turning on, then your battery replacement has been a success! If there are still issues (i.e. sputtering), then there’s a chance your battery may not be connected properly, or there may be another underlying issue that’s causing the problem (but more on this later).

Step 6 – Ethically dispose of your old car battery

Once the process has all been done and dusted, the final step is to ethically dispose of your old car battery. Remember that your automotive battery is technically considered to be electronic waste, and so it cannot be placed in your curbside bin. Instead, you’ll have to drop your old car battery off at recycling facilities that specialise in responsibly disposing of depleted automotive batteries.

Still unsure? Take a look at this video with visual steps:

The Final Word

If you’re still experiencing performance issues after successfully changing your car battery, there’s a chance that your vehicle may be experiencing other technical problems. Remember that car batteries are supposed to last approximately 5 years, so if your car is consistently experiencing electrical problems, it’s likely not due to a dead or faulty battery.

Combustion engines possess a lot of intricate components and highly complex electrical and mechanical systems. From your fuse box to your oil filter, there are so many potential causes behind the failure of a combustion engine. If you’re truly stumped and can’t seem to identify whether the issue can be attributed to an electrical or mechanical fault, then your best foot forward is to consult your local, trusted mechanics.

With over a decade of industry experience, our team at S.S.C Mechanics will be able to promptly examine and diagnose your vehicle’s electrical or mechanical faults. Our team is equipped to provide a wide range of different services, including support with changing your car battery as well as conducting routine auto servicing, maintenance, and mechanical repairs. Better yet we accept Afterpay and ZipPay!

Want to get your set of wheels back on the road? Then contact the team at S.S.C Mechanics today to schedule your next servicing, maintenance, or auto repair appointment.

If you enjoy this blog, our editor also recommends:

• How Long Do Car Batteries Last?
• How To Jump Start Your Car

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How To Save Money On Car Repairs

Have you been wondering how to save money on car expenses and car servicing? Your car will always need a little love from a professional mechanic once a year, but by changing the way you drive and care for your car, you can avoid the cost of unexpected repairs or replacement parts when scheduled service time comes.

Keep reading to learn more about how to save money on car maintenance by following these 6 simple tips:

• Tip 1: Stay on top of servicing
• Tip 2: Learn how to change a tyre
• Tip 3: Fuel smartly for long-term savings
• Tip 4: Drive wisely, save more
• Tip 5: Regular tyre pressure checks are a must
• Tip 6: Explore Afterpay Mechanics

1. Stay On Top Of Servicing

Regularly sticking to your car’s maintenance schedule is much like keeping up with a healthy lifestyle – it keeps your car running smoothly and helps you sidestep potential headaches down the road like costly repairs or sourcing a Roadworthy Certificate. By keeping up with routine checks, from oil changes to brake inspections, you’re effectively investing in your vehicle’s future. It’s a bit like regular check-ups at the doctor – you catch minor issues before they evolve into something far more serious (and expensive!).

Plus, a car that’s regularly serviced doesn’t just run better – it sips fuel more efficiently. With everything working in top gear, your vehicle won’t need to guzzle as much petrol to get you from A to B. So, not only will you get a smoother ride, but you’ll also feel a little lighter at the petrol station, with those extra dollars staying right where they belong – in your wallet. Put simply, staying on top of servicing is not just a smart move – it’s a pocket-friendly one too!

2. Learn How To Change A Tyre

Don’t get us wrong, we love it when you visit us – but learning how to change a tyre is one of those fundamental skills that can significantly trim your car maintenance costs. When a flat tyre interrupts your journey, you’ll no longer need to dial a mechanic’s number or have your car towed to the nearest shop.

Imagine the scene. You’re on the road, and you notice that dreaded sag in your car’s handling. Instead of stressing out over the inconvenience and expense, you simply pull over, fetch your trusty jack and spare tire, and get to work. In no time, you’re back on the road, heading to your destination.

Learning how to change a tire is easy. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to change a tyre, or you can view free how-to videos on Youtube, like this one:

With a bit of learning and some practice, you can save yourself a chunk of change.

3. Fuel Smartly for Long-term Savings

Did you know using the right fuel for your vehicle can add years to its life and boost its performance? Don’t fall for the myth that pricier, higher octane fuel is always better. High-performance engines or turbocharged cars require premium fuel because it doesn’t burn prematurely. While this may benefit your car if it’s working harder than usual, i.e towing a trailer or carrying an excess, there’s no need to spend money on high octane fuel. Instead of paying up at the pump, put that cash towards your next scheduled service. It’ll help save money on car maintenance long term. For a better guide on how to save money on fuel, check out our other blog.

4. Drive Wisely, Save More

Your driving habits can significantly impact your car’s health. Avoid harsh acceleration and sudden braking; they can speed up your vehicle’s wear and tear, leading to frequent and costly repairs. Actions like harsh acceleration and abrupt braking can have negative impacts on your car’s health. These habits put unnecessary stress on your vehicle’s components, causing them to wear out faster than they should.

Instead, adopt a gentler approach to driving. Aim to maintain steady speeds whenever possible and allow your engine to rev smoothly. This driving style results in less strain on your vehicle’s engine and other components, prolonging their lifespan and, as a result, increasing the intervals between necessary repairs or parts replacements.

5. Regular Tyre Pressure Checks are a Must

Keeping your tyres at the right pressure boosts fuel efficiency and prolongs their lifespan. Properly inflated tyres evenly distribute your vehicle’s weight, preventing premature wear and tear. On the flip side, tyres that are either under or over-inflated wear out faster, as they can’t distribute the weight correctly. That means you could find yourself needing to replace them sooner than you’d like, hitting your wallet where it hurts.

So, how often should you be checking your tyre pressure? Make it a weekly ritual. It’s a quick and easy task that offers significant pay-offs. A few minutes each week can lead to savings on petrol, a longer tyre life, and a smoother ride. Put simply, checking tyre pressure weekly is a small effort with big pay-offs.

6. Explore Afterpay Mechanics: Your Budget-Friendly Option

When choosing a car mechanic near me, don’t limit yourself to the first one you find. Prices can differ substantially between workshops, so comparing costs and requesting quotes is smart. Consider mechanics offering Afterpay – a payment option that lets you get the service now and pay in instalments. This can make unexpected repair costs much more manageable, keeping your car in top condition without stretching your budget.

The Final Word

Keep in mind, folks, car maintenance doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. With these six money-saving tips and the handy option of Afterpay mechanics, you’ll keep your ride running smoothly while keeping your finances on track. If your car is in need of a service, Roadworthy Certificate or repairs, call S.S.C Mechanics today 9338 9573. We’re the Afterpay mechanic in Airport West you can trust!

Looking for more how-to guides to make car repairs easy? Check out some other guides that might help you!

• How To Sell A Used Car
• How To Choose The Right Mechanic
• How To Jump Start Your Car From Another Car
• How To Get Roadworthy Certificates
• How To Change A Car Battery

The post How To Save Money on Car Maintenance appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

Every year, thousands of vehicles fail roadworthy inspections in Victoria, and often for simple issues that could have been avoided. It can happen to you, too—but you can save yourself from a whole lot of headaches by learning how your car can fail inspection and knowing what to do about it.

From pending mechanical repairs to failure to provide a valid roadworthy certificate, our mechanics at S.S.C. are here to share the most common reasons they’ve observed for cars failing to pass their vehicle inspections.

Common Reasons Cars Fail Vehicle Inspections

Here are some of the most common reasons cars in Victoria fail their safety inspections:

Tyres and Tread Depth

Your tyres play a part in your car’s weight distribution. Beyond air pressure and punctures, a whole slew of factors work together to ensure your tyres keep you and your vehicle on the road reliably when moving fast. Tyre tread depth is one crucial element, integral for safe driving, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.

Adequate tread helps tyres grip the road, reducing stopping distances and risks of skidding or hydroplaning. Insufficient tread depth can also increase the chance of punctures and affect vehicle handling. Inspect your tyres and check your air pressure often when stopping at a petrol station to make a habit of ensuring your tyres stay in good health.

The Dangers of Worn or Mismatched Tyres

There are obvious issues with tyres that can pop up, like punctures, low pressure, or sidewall damage. But even having the wrong tyres can be enough to thwart your vehicle inspection.

Mismatched tyres can lead to unpredictable handling, braking, or cornering. Worn tires reduce grip on the road, especially in wet conditions, increasing the risk of skidding. Alongside being a vital component of getting your car ready for winter, ensuring your tyres are in good health can also help make your vehicle more appealing to prospective buyers.

Check with your mechanic that you have the right tyres for your make and model. Pro tip: Rotate and inspect tyres for alignment issues every 10,000km, too!

Minimum Legal Tread

Another subtle problem for your tyres could be their tread depth. Make sure your vehicle’s tyres maintain a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm in Australia. Most tyres come with a tread indicator on them, so check this every so often to make sure they aren’t getting too close to the limit. They should be replaced before reaching this threshold, though.

Brake Issues

It’s hard to ignore a developing brake issue for a car: you can literally hear it coming from a mile away, or your passengers may even feel it. Many common brake issues make themselves obvious, like a common case of worn brake pads or vibrations.

Other issues will lie under the surface, however, like leaking brake fluid or spongy brake pedals. If left unchecked, these brake issues can snowball into more costly repairs, so it’s imperative you get your vehicle brakes serviced regularly.

Here are some of the tell-tale signs your brakes need servicing before your safety inspection:

Spongy Pedals, Squealing Sounds, or Low Fluid Levels

Some brake issues are very noticeable, like spongy brake pedals, squealing sounds, and low fluid levels. These can all be indicators of potential issues with your car’s braking system. The best way to address any of these issues early on is through regular inspections and maintenance.

Steering or Suspension Problems

Brake issues can also be linked to other issues in your car. Squeaking or shaking in the brakes can be attributed to a problem with your alignment or suspension components. Over time, the components that make up your suspension can wear down, affecting your brakes, too.

If you suspect that your suspension is experiencing issues, we strongly recommend contacting a certified car mechanic near you to carry out a proper inspection to perform suspension repairs before advertising your vehicle.

Vehicle is Pulling to One Side

If your car is veering to one side more than the other, especially when braking, then you may likely have worn-down brake pads or brake callipers. The relationship between tyres and their appropriate brake pads is a delicate one, and if either one of these components is starting to go, then your car will feel harder to handle.

Faulty Lights, Indicators, & Safety Features

In order for a car to pass a vehicle safety inspection, its headlights, brake lights, and indicators must be fully operational at a minimum. Vehicle safety inspections are also designed to look for any imperfections in your windscreen and wiper blades.

If these aren’t up to snuff, you won’t pass inspection either. Ensure your car passes its inspection the first time and you keep yourself and other drivers safe by making sure your lights and indicators are working correctly.

Regular Bulb Checks and Replacements

Frustratingly, you usually never notice you have a blown headlight until you drive out at night. Or, perhaps a friendly driver (and hopefully not a police officer) has told you that one of your indicators has stopped working.

Others might notice these things before we do because these lights are what they’re looking out for! Save yourself some time down the road at your next vehicle inspection by getting your lights and indicators checked regularly.

Cracked Windscreen or Faulty Wipers

Windscreens and wipers are components an inspector will not overlook. Even a small crack in the driver’s line of sight can lead to a failure. Similarly, if your wipers leave streaks, skip across the glass, or fail to clear rain effectively, they’ll need to be replaced. Wipers must clear rain effectively, especially during Victoria’s wet seasons.

Our team at S.S.C. Mechanics can assess your windscreen for chips or cracks and replace worn-out blades to ensure you qualify for a roadworthy certificate, rain or shine.

Frayed Belts, Faulty Buckles, or Malfunctioning Airbags

Seatbelts must be completely undamaged and able to be pulled and retracted with ease to meet vehicle safety standards in Australia. Any frayed seatbelts will need replacing, as well as any faulty buckles, too. Your vehicle airbags will need to be fully operational as well, and these will be tested during a roadworthy inspection.

Leaking Fluids

You may not have given that dark spot under your car on the garage floor a second’s thought, but a safety inspector sure will. Any visible leaks can result in a failure of your vehicle’s safety or pre-purchase inspections. Whether it’s from leaking coolant, oil, brake fluid, or a faulty radiator—you name it. S.C.C. Mechanics can help identify what is leaking and perform the necessary repairs to keep you from failing your safety inspection.

What Happens if Your Car Fails an Inspection in Victoria?

If your car fails a safety inspection in Victoria, you will be unable to register, re-register, or sell it. When given the certificate of failure, you will have seven days to repair the identified issues, depending on the year and model of the car.

If the repairs are met within that time frame, then you’re all set for the next 30 days! This means you can move forward with selling your car, changing its ownership, or re-registering it in your name. You can find more information about safety inspections in Victoria here.

But if the repairs take longer than seven days, a full inspection will be required again. This probably means even more appointments will be needed at the mechanic with multiple specialists. You could potentially be paying for two safety inspections on top of all the repairs. The earlier you act, the less chance you will face added expenses or registration delays. The best way to do this is to book regular, repeat logbook servicing and inspections with specialist mechanics.

3 Pro Tips to Avoid Failing a Roadworthy Inspection

Are you hoping to get your car certified as roadworthy for the first time? Whether you’re prepping to sell your current car or you’ve just bought a pre-owned vehicle, a roadworthy inspection is required to drive it in Victoria. It can definitely feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

Here are three tips to boost your chances of passing the inspection on your first go!

Don’t Ignore Dashboard Lights

Those little warning icons on your dashboard aren’t just suggestions. We’ve all been guilty of ignoring them from time to time, and they tend to show up at the most inconvenient times, too. But dashboard lights are our car’s way of saying something needs looking at soon, like the engine warning, brake system alert, and oil pressure lights.

Ignoring them can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the line, like a failed roadworthy inspection. If you’re unsure what a flashing light means, book a diagnostic check before it becomes an issue.

Get Pre-Inspection Car Servicing

Think of a pre-inspection service as a practice run. At S.S.C. Mechanics, we offer thorough pre-roadworthy checks to help you identify and fix any small issues before your official inspection, saving you some time and ease of mind.

Catching worn-down brake pads and thinning tyre treads is not only cheaper, but it gives you the best chance of passing your safety inspection the first time around. And if you’re in the market for buying or selling a car, we offer pre-purchase car inspections, too, for even more guarantees.

Service Your Car Regularly

Regular logbook servicing keeps your car in tip-top shape and helps prevent surprises. Gaps in your vehicle servicing history can also greatly deter prospective buyers from making an offer on your car, as vehicles with an incomplete servicing history are more likely to be considered a higher risk investment.

The team at S.S.C. Mechanics services all makes and models, including European cars. Staying on top of your car servicing ensures your car will be safer, more reliable, and easier to sell when that time comes.

Why Choose S.S.C. Mechanics for Your Vehicle Inspection?

Passing your roadworthy inspection doesn’t have to be a game of chance if you stay on top of car maintenance. Many common causes of failure, like faulty lights, worn brakes, or steering issues, can be prevented with early detection and regular servicing.

Whether you’re looking to get a roadworthy certificate or just seeking peace of mind, the qualified technicians at S.S.C. Mechanics are here to help. From suspension repair to log book servicing to car battery replacement, S.C.C. Mechanics can provide the fast, honest, and affordable servicing and maintenance you’re looking for. And with flexible payment options like Afterpay, you can save more to put towards running your car ads!

We offer flexible appointment times to work around your busy schedule, and you may even be eligible for a free vehicle inspection or consultation when you book. For reliable car service in the Tullamarine, Dandenong, and South East Melbourne areas, book your inspection or service with S.C.C. Mechanics today!

See also: Everything You Need to Know About Vehicle Safety Checks

The post Top Reasons Your Car Can Fail Inspection appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

1. Make Services A Priority

A way that will without a doubt make a huge difference to your fuel consumption, is ensuring that your car is serviced regularly. If you’re wondering how to save petrol this is without a doubt one of the best ways. Seeking professional advice and making certain your car is running at its best capacity. The longer you wait, or more irregularly you receive services the more likely you are to develop problems that affect your fuel consumption; for example, if the oil you’re using is too thick, parts of the engine will have a more difficult time moving through it and you end up using more than necessary and needing to purchase petrol more often.

Think of visiting a car mechanic near me for regular servicing as an investment in your vehicle. By keeping your car moving and working at an optimum rate, you avoid issues that will arise due to few and far between services, these issues can seriously affect your car and cause it to break down sooner. Services save you these issues and keep your car running in a way that will cost you less over time.

Fear not if you’re wanting to keep your car in the best condition but don’t have the funds to pay for it this month; we offer Afterpay so you can keep your car prioritised without having to splash out the cash.

2. Find A Mechanic That Caters To Your Type Of Car

It’s important to find a mechanic that specialises in the particular type of vehicle that you own. Mechanics with years of industry experience will know what to look for as they specialise in your car, and may pick up on little details that could be missed. These mechanics will undertake such services as road safety inspections, replacing and maintaining your wheels, as well as general repairs. Tullamarine mechanic like S.S.C Mechanics will ensure that in the instance that the issue is not able to be handled by their expertise, they will refer you to an alternative qualified mechanic to look after the problem. Having a mechanic like this that you can trust means you know you’re always in the best hands, and your car is always in the top condition, this will create a positive domino effect, you will end up spending less fuel due to less internal issues that could be overlooked by somebody who does not specialise in your type of car.

3. Keep Your Tires Pumped Up

Ensuring that your tires are properly looked after and inflated may seem like a minor issue to deal with in the grand scheme of your vehicle care and petrol usage, but it is in fact vital when looking at how to save money on petrol. We’ve all been guilty of letting our tires fall a little flatter than perhaps they should be, but this is more than a minor hazard. This will increase your car’s rolling resistance when moving which makes parts of the engine have to work harder, this then affects how much petrol you use.

As this task feels like such a tedious and minor one, it can often fall to the wayside until it is too late, this is why seeing a mechanic is so beneficial, they can do this for you during their service and you’ll find you will be taking trips to the petrol station far less.

4. Keep Your Driving Efficient

A simple, but effective way to use less fuel, is to drive efficiently. There are a number of ways to do this, firstly, plan your route beforehand and when possible, drive in low traffic times, this will decrease your starting and stopping, and mean that overall you are spending less time on the roads. For those who are especially thrifty, turning your engine off when stopped during high traffic periods does in fact not waste fuel and can actually save you money when driving for longer periods of time. Unfortunately for those who have queried “does driving in neutral save petrol?” It will not, so save yourself some time and try to drive in less congested areas and times.

For many of us, our car is almost like a second home. We spend so much of our precious time inside of it and it takes us wherever we want to go. So, it’s important we look after it, as it will ensure that our cars last longer over time, and is beneficial for the drivers as we spend less time stopped at a petrol station.

The post 4 Ingenious Ways To Reduce Your Petrol Usage appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.

At S.S.C Mechanics, we have a wealth of experience offering vehicle owners, buyers and sellers assistance with the maintenance and upkeep of their machines. So, if you’re wondering how to sell a used car, but aren’t sure where to start looking for information, we’re here to help.

Can You Sell a Car Without a RWC (Roadworthy Certificate)?

This is a surprisingly complex question, in part due to how different laws can be from country to country, or even from state to state. However, for a short answer, using Victorian law as an example, you need a roadworthy certificate to be sold alongside your vehicle if the new owner plans on actually driving it on the road. This can change if you’re selling or transferring ownership of your used car to a licensed dealer, but whilst VicRoads has no exact specifications on who is responsible for organising a used car’s RWC, in most cases it will fall on the seller, not the buyer, to organise.

So, if you want a simple response to “Can you sell a car without a roadworthy certificate?”, the answer would technically be yes, but only in specific situations.

Is the Process Different Depending on the Type of Vehicle?

In some ways, yes, but the broad strokes are the same. From the VicRoads website, you can download the Vehicle Transfer Form, which will guide you through the entire sale process. For the sake of simplicity and ease of use, this form will help you in the transferring of cars, motorbikes, trailers, caravans and tracks, so all in all, if you have experience selling one type of used vehicle, the process for others should be quite familiar to you.

What Paperwork Will I Have to Organise Before Selling My Used Car?

As the person selling a car, you will need to be able to prove that you have the right to transfer this vehicle to its new owner. For this, you will need to show proof of the right to transfer, which includes:

• The vehicle’s registration renewal or certificate.
• An accepted form of photo ID.
• If preferred, the vehicle’s record in your myVicRoads account.

There will also be other processes in place if you have custom plates that you would prefer to keep. For this, you will have to notify VicRoads and remove the plates prior to the sale. As discussed in the first point, many cases will require you as the seller to handle registration before you can sell, which will also require you to organise new number plates with VicRoads and pay the associated fees.

With all that said, there are circumstances in which you may want to sell your vehicle with its custom plates. Luckily, this is quite simple and just requires you to transfer the reg number rights to the buyer during the selling process.

Can I Sell My Used Car to a Dealer?

One of the main questions when it comes to selling a used car is “Can I sell my used car to a dealer?”, as opposed to selling it in a private sale. In short, the answer is yes, but “Can I sell my used car to a dealer?” is a very different question from “SHOULD I sell my used car to a dealer?”.

In the question of dealer vs private sale, both are going to have their benefits, but if you need a quick guide, the main difference will be the profit-to-effort ratio. Dealers often expect very little of you to sell your car, which makes it an easier process, but they are also less likely to give you the best price. On the flip side, a private buyer doesn’t need to be able to immediately sell the vehicle for a profit, so you can get more, but there are a lot of expectations placed on you in terms of preparation.

In short, there’s no right answer, and what you decide will be determined by what your priorities are. For those who want a quick, easy sale, a dealer is going to be the ideal avenue, and for those who want to get the most they can out of the sale and are willing to put in the work, a private sale will be the right choice.

Selling your car can be an incredibly difficult process when you don’t know where to start. However, with the right information and research, there are many different viable avenues for ensuring that your car-selling experience goes off without a hitch. Want to learn more about vehicle maintenance? Want to see what an experienced mechanic in Airport West can do for you? Just want to book your appointment? Well, you can read more of our mechanic blog, or contact us today for all your vehicular maintenance needs.

Looking for more how-to guides to make car repairs easy? Check out some other guides that might help you!

• How To Choose The Right Mechanic
• How To Jump Start Your Car From Another Car
• How To Get Roadworthy Certificates
• How To Save Money on Car Maintenance

The post A First Timer’s FAQ on Selling a Used Car appeared first on Mechanic Airport West.