How Can You Get Better Mileage from Your Car?

 

Although we may not be using our cars quite as much as in recent years, the cost of filling the tank with fuel is still a major consideration for most drivers. However, while we can’t control the price of fuel, we can do something about how we use our vehicles to ensure that we’re using our fuel efficiently. And improving fuel efficiency not only means good news for our bank balance but helps the environment too.

Regular Servicing is a Must

No matter what kind of car you drive, the way to ensure that it’s running optimally is by booking it in for a regular car service with an Earlwood mechanic. A qualified mechanic will quickly identify any issues and something as simple as ensuring a car is running well enough to pass its emissions test can boost fuel efficiency by 4%. More serious faults such as fault oxygen sensors can also affect the amount of fuel used. So, it’s always wise to ensure that that schedule a regular car service.

Check Your Tyres

Checking your tyres for damage regularly is a sensible precaution but did you know that the condition of the tyres affects fuel consumption? Always make sure that your tyres are correctly inflated. Although it may not be a part of a regular car service, your Kingsgrove mechanic can check wheel alignment and rotate your tyres to ensure better and more even wear.

Don’t Forget the Air Filter and Oil

Air filters and engine oil will be checked as part of our regular car service in Bexley. Cleaning or replacing the air filter stops dirt and other residues from entering the engine compartment and making sure that it’s changed between 15,000 and 30,000 miles can improve fuel efficiency by 6%. You’ll also see an improvement in fuel economy by changing the engine oil in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Pay More Attention to How You Drive

While fuel efficiency can be improved with regular servicing, how and what you drive will have a significant effect on how much fuel you use. Older vehicles tend to use more fuel than newer models. Smaller vehicles tend to be more efficient than those with larger engines. Ensuring that you drive as smoothly as possible will help you to save fuel. Speeding, sharp braking and rapid acceleration increase the amount of fuel you use.

The Bottom Line

There are several ways you can help to make your fuel go further but the bottom line is that you should ensure your vehicle is well maintained, regularly serviced and that you drive smoothly and within the speed limit.

Is Your Mechanic Qualified? Here’s What You Need to Know!

 

You wouldn’t visit a doctor or dentist if you knew they didn’t have the necessary qualifications or choose an unqualified hairdresser to give you the haircut of your dreams, so why would you trust your car to an unqualified Kingsgrove mechanic?

If you’re taking your vehicle to a new mechanic, you need to be sure that they have all the qualifications they need to look after your vehicle and that they know what they are doing. But how can you find out whether they have the correct qualifications? We explain how your local Bexley mechanic got their qualifications.

Pre-apprentice Studies

High school students can opt to take pre-apprenticeship studies in motor mechanics as part of their school curriculum. This will give them an idea of what it’s like to be a mechanic. Students can then continue their studies by joining an apprenticeship scheme.

Apprenticeships

Many Earlwood mechanics started as apprentices and embarked on a four-year apprenticeship. During this time, they will have supplemented formal learning sessions and assignments in the classroom with training both on and off the job.

Certificate Courses and Post Trade Qualifications

Following completion of their apprenticeship, qualified mechanics can choose to take specialist certificate courses to improve their knowledge of certain aspects of car repair such as servicing, maintaining, and repairing diesel engines. They may also take courses such as panel beating and bodywork repairs to qualify them to look after the exterior of vehicles.

Experience versus Qualifications

Although qualifications are a basic requirement of any trade, including that of a mechanic, experience can only be achieved by doing the job. Therefore, a mechanic with several years of experience under his belt is likely to be more proficient than a newly qualified mechanic.

Experienced mechanics are likely to have a broader knowledge and experience of working on different makes and models of vehicles and a greater understanding of mechanical problems and their symptoms. They’ll probably have a well-established system for carrying out routine car servicing and maintenance.

Motor Industry Association Memberships

In addition to relevant qualifications, many mechanics choose to join the local automobile association and other trade organisations. This shows that they take their work and business seriously.

How to Check a Mechanic’s Qualifications

If you’re in any doubt about a mechanic’s status, ask to see their qualifications. It’s also possible to check whether they are licensed through the Department of Fair Trading in each state. However, bear in mind that it’s not necessarily a requirement to have a license to practice in every state. And don’t forget about reviews from previous customers and recommendations from friends, family and neighbours - they will give a good indication of the quality and reliability of a mechanic’s work.

Could Your Driving Help Save the Planet?

Did you know that the maintenance of your car and the way you drive can all make an impact on the environment? Here at Roselands Automotive Centre, our Belmore mechanic and the rest of the team is here to help you get the most from your car and driving experience.

Consider the way you drive

When you need to use your car, take your time and take the journey at a steady pace. If you avoid suddenly accelerating and braking, you will use less fuel. As well as this, by taking the journey steadily, you can anticipate what the drivers ahead of you are doing, so you are not on the back foot.

If you are unsure of where you are going, plan your journey before you leave so that you have a better idea.

Get your tyre pressure sorted

Your car’s tyre pressure is something that needs to be checked regularly. Many modern cars will offer you a handy reminder if your tyre pressure needs attention. Aim to check your tyre pressure every couple of weeks.

Should your tyres be underinflated, it can cause you to use more fuel, which is not good for the environment or your bank balance!

Overinflated tyres are also problematic. It causes less traction on the road, which means you will have a longer braking distance. The key is to get it right. You can find your car’s ideal tyre pressure by looking in the manual or on the side of the driver’s door.

Get your car serviced

You want to ensure that your car is working well, and any issues are picked up and fixed. Our Lakemba mechanic can help you make sure your car is in the best possible condition so that it runs efficiently.

Think about how you use your car

It’s amazing how many aspects of your car use fuel. Your air-conditioning, radio and others all use fuel. If you do not need it, turn it off, and you will save fuel. Opening the windows can also use more fuel because they create drag.

You should also clear your car of clutter. Consider what you need to carry, and do not take any items that you could do without. These all add to the weight of your car and cause you to use more fuel.

Travel at the best times

It can be hard to avoid commuter traffic if you need to get to work for a certain time. However, if you can, you should avoid driving during rush hours. When you are in the car for longer, you will use more fuel.

Choose Roselands Automotive Centre

At Roselands Automotive Centre, we help you keep your car in the best possible condition, and you can help do your part to save the environment. Call us today to get your car booked in.

How to Keep Your Car in Great Condition

If you rely on your car to get you to work, take you on holiday, ferry the kids around and do the numerous other journeys that arise during everyday life, you’ll know just what a pain it can be if it fails to start one morning or develops a problem just when you’ve got an important meeting to get to. It’s true that today’s modern cars are much more reliable than cars from yesteryear, but it pays to give them a little attention to ensure that they’re running at their best. We take a look at the three main things you should do to keep your car in great condition.

Servicing

Whether you drive 2000 or 20,000 kilometres a year, your car is going to need servicing at regular intervals. And we know that it’s one of those things that you may consider putting off, but the long-term consequences of not having regular services could be costly. Not only can a service pick up potential problems which can save you money before they become a big problem to fix but it shows that your car has been well looked after which means you’re likely to get more for it if you want to sell.

So be sure to put a reminder in your calendar to book a service with your local Kingsgrove mechanic.

Fluid Checks

Your fluids (oil, water, brake fluid and coolant) will be checked during your service but you’ll also need to keep an eye on them in between services too. They need to be replaced regularly to ensure that your car runs smoothly. You can easily check the fluid levels yourself, but if you do need extra help, you can visit our Bexley mechanic.

Tyre Checks

Driving with tyres at the incorrect pressure is not only dangerous but they’ll wear out quicker and you’ll use more fuel too, so be sure to check your tyres at regular intervals. They’re the things that keep your car on the road, so you need to be sure that they’re safe, have enough tread and don’t have any tears, bulging, damage or objects stuck in the tread.

Checking your tyre pressure is easy and can be done at a service station or you can invest in your own pressure gauge. If you suspect you have a problem with your tyres, getting an Earlwood mechanic to check them out is the best course of action.

Bring Your Car to Roselands

At Roselands Automotive Centre, our dedicated mechanics and technicians can help make sure that your car remains in great condition.  So, follow our tips above and help your car stay as reliable as possible for as long as possible.

 

Could Your Suspension Use Some Attention?

 

We use our cars a lot, and sometimes we can put them through their paces. Whether you spend time driving over rough roads or hit the occasional pothole, it can affect your suspension. If you spot any of the signs mentioned below, get in touch with us at Roselands Automotive Centre, and our Kingsgrove mechanic will get you sorted.

Why does suspension stop being effective?

Over time, any vehicle will begin to show its age. Unfortunately, issues like potholes and the condition of the road are not always unavoidable. Your car will be able to handle a certain amount, but after time, the wear and tear will begin to show.

Can you hear high-pitched noises when you go over bumps in the road?

If so, it could be a sign that your suspension needs to be seen by our Bexley mechanic. The reason it could be making this noise is that the shock absorber has become worn down. Should your car be making this noise, it can be fixed. Replacing the shock absorbers at your local Roselands Automotive Centre will fix this issue.

Can you feel all the bumps and lumps in the road?

If you are going over a dirt track, you probably expect to feel some bumps that might jerk you. However, when you are feeling them all the time, it means you may have an uncomfortable journey. It could be due to your piston-cylinder assembly. Bring it to Roselands Automotive Centre as soon as possible, and we will get it sorted for you.

Does your car seem uneven?

When you got your car, it should seem equal from both sides. If your car seems higher or lower on one side, it indicates that there is a problem with your suspension. Over time, your car’s suspension spring will wear out and then need replacing. When your car no longer holds its weight evenly, it is time to call Roselands Automotive Centre and see our Earlwood mechanic, who will get your vehicle sorted.

Has your vehicle become harder to steer?

Did your car initially feel like a breeze to steer? When your steering feels harder, it is an indicator that not all is how it should be. When you bring it to Roselands Automotive Centre, we will ascertain if any parts of your suspension system need replacing so that your car is fully functional once more.

Book an appointment at Roselands Automotive Centre today

If you are concerned about your suspension or any other issues with your car, give us a call at Roselands Automotive Centre. We will see you as soon as possible and put any issues that you are having with your vehicle right so that you can rely on it for where you need to be.

Make Sure Your Car is Safe Before Your Staycation

This year, more of us than ever are taking a staycation because of the pandemic. At Roseland’s Automotive Centre, we want to make sure your car is ready and safe for your trips away. Do not forget you can always get it checked by your Kingsgrove mechanic before you go.

Check the basics: your tyres

Tyre safety is essential, and you should always check the state of your tyres before taking any long journeys. As a matter of course, you should check your tyre pressure every couple of weeks because it helps keep you safe and give your tyres a longer lifespan.

While you are checking your tyres, you should also visually inspect them for any damage, along with the amount of tread that they have left.

If you find you need new tyres before you go, our Bexley mechanic can help you out.

Are your fluid levels correct?

Before you set off on your staycation, it is important to check your fluid levels. Checking your oil is easy, and it will not take you long to do.

Regularly changing the oil in your car is beneficial, and you should aim to do this about once a year.

Don’t forget to check that you have enough screenwash to clear your windscreen if it gets dirty.

Is everything working?

Check your car’s lights are working; you never know when you may end up travelling in the dark or low light. Ask a friend, family member or neighbour to help as it can be hard to check by yourself. It is a good idea to carry spare bulbs with you in case you need them.

Your windscreen

You need to be able to see clearly when driving, so check your windscreen is in good condition. If there are any chips or cracks, get them fixed before you go, as these can often get worse.

You also want to check that your windscreen wipers are working well because you cannot guarantee the weather!

Get your car serviced before you go

To ensure that your car is in tip-top condition and ready for your road trip, bring it to Roselands Automotive Centre for a service from our Earlwood mechanic. This is the best way to make sure your car is safe, and if we find any problems or potential problems, we can put them right before they become a bigger issue.

You do not want to find yourself stranded at the roadside or stuck not being able to travel when you are away. With Roselands Automotive Centre, you can be sure that your car is in the best hands. Call us today to book your car in.

Why is a Car Service an Essential Part of Car Ownership?

 

A car service is an important part of being a car owner, and wherever you live, finding a garage that you can trust to complete the work can save you time and money.

Why bother to service your car?

A regular car service by your Kingsgrove mechanic means that your car will be healthier and less likely to have problems. One of the reasons for this is because your mechanic will be able to pick up on any issues during your car service near Bexley and put them right before they become bigger issues. With regular servicing, your car will also be safer to drive. A service checks for parts of your car that may be worn or damaged, and they will then replace them as necessary.

If you look after the engine of your car with regular servicing, your car will look after you, and you will get a longer life out of your car.

Should you want to sell your car in the future, potential buyers who want a used car will often go for one that has a full servicing history because it tells them more about the state of your car. With regular servicing, your car may be worth more.

When is it important to service your car?

Generally speaking, you should get your car serviced annually. However, if you travel between 10,000 – 15,000 kilometres before the year is up, you should then take it for a service.

There are also other situations where you may need your car serviced more often. This can include drivers who use their car primarily for short trips. This is because the car does not get to its full operating temperature.

Along with this, if you use fuels that contain sulphur, or you leave your engine running idle often, then your car could suffer. Servicing more regularly could help to keep it in better condition.

If you drive in a dusty atmosphere or tow a trailer, you are also putting your car under more stress, and a car service will be beneficial.

Find an independent garage

An independent garage, such as Roselands Automotive Centre, can save you a lot of money on your car service. Franchised dealers tend to have higher prices than independent garages for the same service. You can come to us for your car service near Earlwood and know that you are getting quality work for fair prices.

You can read our testimonials to discover more about what our customers have thought of our services and see why we are the garage for you. With our car servicing, we will help you keep your car in the best possible condition so that it is reliable and lasts. We look forward to seeing you soon.