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What Maintenance Does A Car Need?

Car maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. To keep your vehicle running smoothly, it requires regular care and attention. Here’s a detailed guide on the essential maintenance your car needs.

  1. Regular Oil Changes

One of the most critical aspects of car maintenance is regular oil changes. Engine oil lubricates the engine, ensuring smooth operation. Experts recommend changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but this can vary based on your vehicle and the type of oil used.

  1. Tire Care and Rotation

Proper tire maintenance is vital for safety and performance. Check tire pressure regularly and rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear. This practice extends tire life and enhances fuel efficiency.

  1. Brake Inspection and Service

Brakes are fundamental for safety. Regularly inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Any unusual sounds or reduced responsiveness should prompt an immediate inspection by a professional.

  1. Fluid Checks and Top-Ups

Regularly check and maintain essential fluids like coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Proper levels of these fluids are crucial for the overall functioning of your vehicle.

  1. Battery Maintenance

The battery is the heart of your car’s electrical system. Ensure terminals are clean, and connections are secure. Check the battery’s condition and replace it if it’s more than three years old.

  1. Air Filter Replacement

A clean air filter improves fuel efficiency and prolongs engine life. Replace it every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or more frequently if you drive in dusty conditions.

  1. Scheduled Maintenance by Mileage

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule based on mileage. This includes tune-ups, inspections, and component replacements at specific intervals.

  1. Inspecting Belts and Hoses

Belts and hoses wear over time. Regular inspection helps prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. Replace them if you notice any signs of wear, cracking, or leaks.

  1. Addressing Warning Lights Promptly

Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights. These indicators can signal potential issues with the engine, brakes, or other vital systems. Immediate attention can prevent further damage.

  1. Professional Mechanic Check-ups

While regular maintenance is essential, having a professional mechanic inspect your car annually or bi-annually ensures any underlying issues are detected and resolved promptly.

  1. Regular Car Wash and Wax

Keeping your car clean isn’t just about appearances; it’s about protecting the paint and body from corrosion and damage. Regularly wash and wax your car to preserve its shine and prevent rust.

  1. Proper Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment ensures your car drives straight and handles properly. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear and affect steering. Get your alignment checked periodically, especially after hitting potholes or curbs.

  1. Inspecting and Replacing Wiper Blades

Clear visibility is crucial for safe driving. Inspect wiper blades regularly and replace them if they leave streaks or fail to clear the windshield properly.

  1. Check and Maintain Lights

Ensure all lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, are functioning correctly. Replace bulbs promptly to maintain visibility and comply with road safety regulations.

  1. Cabin Air Filter Replacement

The cabin air filter ensures clean air inside your car. Replace it at recommended intervals to maintain air quality and prevent respiratory issues.

  1. Rust Prevention

Regularly inspect your car for signs of rust, especially in vulnerable areas like the undercarriage. Address any rust spots promptly to prevent them from spreading and causing structural damage.

  1. Proper Storage and Shelter

If your car will be parked for an extended period, consider storing it in a garage or using a car cover to protect it from harsh weather conditions, which can accelerate wear and tear.

  1. Driving Habits

Lastly, your driving habits significantly impact your car’s longevity. Avoid sudden acceleration, hard braking, and excessive idling, as these behaviours can strain various components of your vehicle.

Conclusion

Car maintenance is not just about keeping your vehicle in top condition; it’s about ensuring your safety on the road. By staying proactive and following a routine maintenance schedule, you can prolong your car’s life and enjoy worry-free driving.

Remember, a well-maintained car not only performs better but also retains its value for longer. Invest in regular maintenance to save yourself from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs down the road.

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What Is A Pink Slip Inspection? | E-Safety Check In NSW

mechanic performing a pink slip inspection

You’ve been driving your car in Australia for five years now, and as your registration renewal approaches, you’re faced with the term “pink slip inspection.” What is it, why do you need it, and what does it cost?

The pink slip is a colloquial term for the safety inspection report issued to your vehicle after a successful inspection. This document signifies that your vehicle has passed the safety check and is roadworthy, allowing you to renew your registration after 5 years.

Well, let’s understand why pink slip vehicle inspection is not just a legal obligation but also a crucial safety requirement for your vehicle.

Pink Slip Instruction?

A pink slip inspection, also known as an e-safety check, is a mandatory safety assessment required for all light vehicles in New South Wales over 5 years old.

This inspection aims to ensure that your vehicle meets the necessary safety requirements and is roadworthy. When your car reaches this age milestone, getting a pink slip inspection becomes essential for maintaining your registration.

Process Of A Safety Check Inspection

To obtain a pink slip, you need to visit an authorized inspection station (AIS). These stations have mechanics trained to conduct pink slip e-safety inspections.

Be sure to choose a reputable inspection station to ensure a fair evaluation of your vehicle’s condition. Once your vehicle passes the safety check inspection, you will receive the pink slip report, which is electronically recorded with the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS).

Note – It’s essential to remember that the pink slip is only valid for 6 months, so you must renew your registration within that time frame. Failing to do so could result in hefty fines for driving an unregistered vehicle.

What Is Checked In A Safety Inspection Service?

During the esafety inspection, a certified mechanic will conduct a thorough assessment of your vehicle, checking various crucial components, including:

  • Functioning of lights and indicators
  • Tyre condition, tread depth and wear
  • Body corrosion or accident damage
  • Any leaks in the engine bay
  • Safety features (verifying seatbelts and airbags)
  • Efficiency of the braking system.

The aim is to guarantee that your vehicle is in good condition and poses no safety hazards. Regular safety checks help prevent accidents and keep our roads safer for everyone.

How Much Does A Pink Slip e-Safety Check Cost?

jims mobile mechanics premium mobile car mechanic near me

The cost of a pink slip inspection may vary slightly depending on where you choose to have it done. However, in New South Wales, the maximum fees for common pink slip inspections are as follows:

  • Light Vehicle: $46
  • Motorcycle: $26
  • Trailer Without Brakes: $24
  • Trailer With Brakes: $36

Keep in mind that additional repair costs may apply if your vehicle does not pass the initial inspection and requires necessary repairs to meet safety standards.

What If Your Vehicle Fails The Pink Slip Inspection?

If your vehicle fails a pink slip inspection, don’t worry. Here’s what you should do:

  • Review the inspection report carefully.
  • Take the report to a qualified mechanic who can address the identified issues.
  • After the necessary repairs are done, return to the AIS with your vehicle for a reinspection.
  • If your vehicle passes the reinspection, you will receive a pink slip report.
  • With the pink slip report in hand, you can proceed to renew your vehicle registration.
  • Remember, if you do all of this within 14 days of the first safety inspection, you may not need to pay for the reinspection.

Remember that safety is the primary goal of pink slip inspections, and addressing any issues promptly ensures a safer driving experience for you and others on the road.

FAQs – Pink Slip Services

Is Pink Slip Car Inspection Only Required In NSW?

Pink slip inspections are primarily required in New South Wales (NSW) for vehicles over five years old when renewing registration. Other states in Australia have their own vehicle inspection requirements, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations in your state if you’re located elsewhere.

How Long Does a Pink Slip Last Before Rego Check?

A pink slip is typically valid for six months. It means you must renew your vehicle registration within this timeframe after obtaining a pink slip. Failing to do so may result in driving an unregistered vehicle and potential fines.

Do You Need Rego Papers for a Pink Slip in NSW?

In NSW, you don’t need your registration papers to get a pink slip inspection. However, it’s a good practice to have your current registration details on hand in case they are needed during the inspection process. The pink slip is a separate document verifying your vehicle’s roadworthiness.

What is the difference between Pink Slip and Blue Slip NSW?

Blue slips are required for vehicles that are unregistered, or if your car registration has lapsed for more than three months. Unlike pink slips, blue slip inspections are more extensive and are needed for vehicles that may have been off the road for an extended period.

Get Your Car Roadworthy With a Pink Slip Inspection!

A pink slip inspection is more than just paperwork; it’s a thorough examination of your vehicle’s key components, from lights and brakes to body integrity and safety features.

This safety inspection ensures that your vehicle meets the necessary safety requirements and is roadworthy. Don’t wait until the last moment; schedule your pink slip inspection within the required timeframe and keep your vehicle safe and road-legal.

If you have any further questions or require additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Jim’s Mobile Mechanics by calling 131 546

Stay safe and keep your vehicle roadworthy—it’s a shared responsibility.

As We Start To Open Up And Use Our Cars More

mobile-mechanics-sydney-jims-mobile-mechanics

We haven’t been using our cars anywhere near what we had ‘pre covid’. With lockdowns in place, traffic and vehicle journeys have drastically dropped.

With summer approaching and once restrictions ease, this will change. Traffic will build up again and more people will be using their cars not only to move around locally but for that extended ‘road trip’. However, if the surveys, statistics and talk are correct, people haven’t been servicing their cars during this time and, in some instances, have not checked their car at all. This may not be the level of comfort that you are looking for when you hop back into the car and head off.

It could well be the case, that fewer people will use public transport and rely on their vehicle as their only mode of transport. That being the case, the reliability of your car becomes increasingly concerning for people especially if the vehicle has been sitting around in the garage not getting used.

It may not surprise you to read that you need to service and maintain your car when you use it. What you may not know that your car still needs to be checked over and serviced even when it doesn’t get used.

With cars that sit idle or have had minimal use, tyre pressures can drop and batteries lose their charge. Degradation of fuel, oils and fluids can occur as well. This could impact the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

There are simple checks of the oil and water levels and tyre pressures that can be done easily enough prior to driving your vehicle again. To give you peace of mind, more thorough checks of your vehicle including the brakes and brake fluid, load testing of your battery, the operation of your lights, condition of your coolant and drive belts might be that saviour that prevents a breakdown when you start to use your vehicle more frequently.

To give you that level of comfort prior to driving your vehicle, Jim’s Mobile Mechanics, your local mobile mechanic can come to you when convenient, service or check over your vehicle or attend to that breakdown you were trying to avoid. Jim’s Mobile Mechanics can give you that peace of mind that Jim’s is renowned for.

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How to maintain your Car in Winter

Maintain your Car in winter

Winter and your Car

June is here and simply winter is upon us and temperatures have dropped. Preparing and maintaining your vehicle for the change is a great step in trouble-free motoring. Preventative maintenance and checks are better than any cure. At Jim’s Mobile Mechanics we have listed the top tips you can use to keep you moving during these colder months:

1. A winter service for your car is always a good thing

Many reasons why we don’t service our vehicle on time. However, regular servicing of your vehicle can highlight potential issues or concerns. A service will consist of a thorough check of the vehicle and immediate attention to anything that needs replacing. A frequently serviced vehicle has a greater lifespan than one that isn’t. Keeping your car in good condition not only keeps you safe when you are out on the road, but it can keep a few extra dollars in your pocket.

2. Have your battery checked.

During winter, it’s likely to be under additional strain. Shorter trips, reduced daylight, and using your lights and internal components more, generally means that it’s going to be working harder. Always get your battery checked as they rarely fail at a convenient time!

3.  Correct oil and coolant levels

Engine oil, coolant, transmission, brake, and power steering fluids are all vital for vehicle longevity. Check your fluid levels regularly and have them replaced as required. The vehicle may appear fine now however, prevention is always better than breakdown.
If you are unsure of how to check the levels, your car service manual is full of hints and tips to assist.

4. Check and clean your head and tail lights!

Reduced daylight, fog, snow generally means that you are relying heavily on your lights. It is also to ensure that others road users can see you.

5. Check your tyres.

Australia can throw all weather conditions at you as a driver, especially at this time of year. With cold, wet, and wintery conditions, you want the best out of your tyres and having the right pressure is the first step. Always check the tyre placard generally located on the driver’s door for your vehicle’s tyre pressures.

6. Prepare your windscreen and wipers by cleaning them thoroughly

Check your wiper blades first. If your wipers are quiet and smooth and clear the water off the windscreen, then they are probably working correctly. If the wiper blades are squeaky, loud and they leave sections uncleaned or streaky, it may be time to have the wipers replaced.
During winter, Jim’s Mobile Mechanics, your local mobile mechanic can come to you, service your vehicle or attend to your breakdown and give you that peace of mind that Jim’s is renowned for.

MUST-READ:   5 BASIC CHECKS BEFORE YOU HIT THE OPEN ROAD

 

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5 Basic Checks Before You Hit The Open Road

Basic Checks Before You Hit The Open Road

As the Easter long weekend is now only a hop, skip, and a jump away, you may be considering using this opportunity to get back on the open road, to visit some of the favourite places you have been missing or to explore some of the exciting places you have so far only read about!

With the various lockdowns that have been endured and the increase in the numbers of people working from home, it may be that your car has played a smaller part in your life recently than it used to. And yet, we expect them to be ready to go when we are!

By performing checks on your car regularly, you increase your chances of catching any potential problems before they become an expensive repair.

Here are 5 Basic Checks You Can Do Before You Hit The Open Road…

Regular checks and maintenance are all it takes to avoid potential car reliability problems.

These simple tips can help you keep your car in shape and ready for your adventure!

Oil_Level_check

1. Oil Level

Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, keeping the internals lubricated and functioning as intended. To get an accurate reading of your oil level, follow these steps:

  • Park the car on level ground.
  • Oil can be checked when the engine is hot or cold. Check the owner’s manual if you are unsure.  If you have had the vehicle running, turn the engine off and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
  • Remove the oil dipstick and wipe clean.
  • Reinsert the dipstick all the way and then remove once more to check the level on the dipstick. Should you need to top up the oil, ensure you are using the recommended viscosity for your engine and top up in small amounts. Allow time for the oil to reach the sump and repeat the process to check the oil level. It is important not to overfill the oil.
  • Remember to push the dipstick fully in when you have finished your checks.
  • If you are regularly filling your car with oil, this could be a sign of a bigger problem and you should consult a qualified mechanic.

Water_coolant_check

2. Water/Coolant Level

‘Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Always let the engine cool for a few hours to avoid injury.’ Checking your water/coolant level is easy and should be performed on a weekly basis. Your car should be on a level surface and allowed to cool. Most cars carry a reservoir (as seen in the picture above) with MIN and MAX markings on the exterior allowing you to observe the current level. A quick check of the radiator coolant is as easy as looking at the level in the plastic overflow bottle of most cars. The coolant level should be in between the high and low markings. Should you need to top up the level, a 50/50 mix of coolant and demineralised (or distilled) water is recommended. Refer to your owner’s manual to ensure you are using a coolant that is suitable for your vehicle. Make sure to only top up to the MAX marker. Do not fill all the way. Tyre_presure_and_condition

3. Tyre Pressure and Condition

Your tyres are the only contact your car has to the road. If you are about to embark on that road trip, it is great timing to check and see if you need a new set of tyres. A few quick checks prior to driving are a must to keeping you and your family safe.

  • Tyre pressures if incorrect can reduce the life of your tyres, may make your car less safe and is often uncomfortable to drive. The correct tyre pressures specifically for your car are located on the tyre placard. This can be found on the driver’s side front door. Failing this, refer to your owner’s manual.

Tyre_pressure_check

  • Check to see if your tyres have enough tread. Tyres should have a minimum of 1.5 mm of tread across the entire tread surface. Tyres have wear indicators located between the grooves in the tread (as seen in the image above). When the tread is worn to the indicators, it is time for a new tyre.
  • Check your tyres for:
    • Uneven or abnormal wear.
    • Damage such as cracks or bulges. This could indicate a suspension or steering problem.
  • Regularly rotating your tyres (swapping the front tyres for the rear) helps even out the wear and extend tyre life. It would be a good idea to have this done before a big trip.

Don’t forget to perform the same checks for your spare tyre. Just because it is out of sight, it should not be out of mind.  windscreen_washer_Check

You may also read... Why-mobile-mechanics-are-building-in-popularity

 

4. Windscreen Washer and Wiper Function

Washer fluid:

Fill your washer bottle with clean water and a small amount of windscreen-washer additive if you wish. Avoid using kitchen and laundry detergents as they may damage your paintwork and wiper blades.

Windscreen wipers:

Clear visibility out of your windscreen is fundamental to safe driving. If your wipers are torn, noisy or do not clean your windscreen, visibility could be compromised, so a simple check prior to leaving on your road trip is a must. Operating the wipers on a dry windscreen could scratch and damage the windscreen. This could affect visibility. Make sure fluid is introduced to the windscreen before operating the wipers. taillight-indicator-check

5. Checking Headlights, Taillights and Indicators

Having working lights can often be overlooked. Get help from a friend or a family member and test your indicators and headlights, including the high beams. If you cannot get a friend or family member to help, use a glass window or check against a wall to test the reverse lights, taillights and brake lights.  Checking_headlights_check Finally, don’t forget to top up your fuel before you set off. It may sound like an obvious one, but many people don’t fill up before they leave and find themselves getting stuck in traffic or in unfamiliar surroundings only to realise they’re low on fuel. Avoid the inconvenience and fill up the car prior to leaving. You are all set! Stay safe and enjoy yourselves! And don’t forget, Jim’s Mobile Mechanics are here to assist with any servicing, maintenance or repairs you may need. And we come to you! Click here to read more: Jim’s Mobile Mechanics Services

Must read!

 

5 Smart Reasons To Choose Jims Mobile Mechanics For Your Car Service And Maintenance

car maintenance and repair

When it comes to cars, even the smartest people get bamboozled by how they function and what causes them to break down. Sometimes this is because you are using the wrong mechanics for your car servicing and maintenance. If you need a mechanic in Sydney, then Jim’s Mobile Mechanics are there for you. If you are wondering why exactly you should choose us, here are 5 reasons why:

1. We are trustworthy

When you need your car to be serviced or have a general maintenance check, you need a mechanic that you can trust. It goes without saying that not all mechanics are honest and some unscrupulous ones gouge customers for money. With us, you will not have to worry about whether the price you have been quoted is inflated or not. Our word is our oath.

2. We are qualified

There is a reason why we have many satisfied clients that keep using our services. We know what we are doing. Jim’s mechanics have many years of experience dealing with cars and are more than qualified to deal with any car problem. We also have state-of-the-art equipment that we use to ensure that your car keeps running efficiently.

3. We are reliable and efficient

Don’t you hate it when you have to spend all day at a mechanic’s shop waiting for your car to be fixed? You will not have that inconvenience when you call Jim’s Mobile Mechanics. We pride ourselves on being reliable and efficient. Whenever you need us, we will come to you and we will get the job done with no fuss and in the least possible time.

4. We are hassle-free

The best part of Our Service is that we are Mobile, so that means we come to you! You will have a hassle-free experience – that’s a promise! Just call 131 546 and we will have someone ready to help you. Our onsite quoting is subject to terms and conditions, when you speak to our customer service team please feel free to ask!

5. 100% satisfaction guaranteed

We are very proud of the work that we do and the level of service that we deliver to all our clients. We value all our customers and always do our utmost with each job. Our main focus is to ensure that we have 100% customer satisfaction. If you are not satisfied with any work that is done on your car, we will work on it until you are.   Are you planning a road trip then get your car serviced before going? So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment with one of our mechanics by Calling 131 546 today!  

Must read!

Can I Get My Car Serviced Anywhere?

Vehicle Serviced Anywhere

Have you ever delayed getting your car serviced because you just didn’t have the time to get it to the workshop? As our lives get busier, there is little time to attend to all the things that need to get done, even essential things like getting your car serviced. The good news is that there is another option. For anyone that needs a car service, Jim’s Mobile Mechanics has a team of professional mechanics that will come to you and service your car at your convenience. Read on to find out the top benefits of hiring us to service your car.

1. Convenience

This is probably the number one benefit to you as our client. The hassle of scheduling a time when you will be free to take your car to the mechanic is wiped away. While one of our mechanics services your car, you are free to continue with your day and deal with anything else that you need to do. There is no need to take time out of your day to get your Car to get serviced. We will come to you.

2. Transparency

When you take your car to a service center, you need to leave it there for a while. Do you really know what happens to it when you’re not there? Can you be sure that your car was being attended to or it ends up being left in the corner most of the day? When you hire a mobile mechanic, we do all the work at your convenience and you can see exactly what is done to your car.

3. Great Service

It can be quite daunting when you want to discuss your car issues with a regular mechanic. At Jim’s Mobile Mechanics, our mechanics are friendly and approachable. Whenever you need something explained, they will be willing to assist, using the language you understand (without the workshop jargon!). They are also very professional and will service your car in a way that will have it running as good as new for a very long time.

4. Affordable Price

It is very common that mobile car servicing is more affordable than taking your car to a workshop to get serviced. On top of that, you also do not have to drive all the way to the workshop. All the work will be done where you are. This also saves you money as you do not have to pay for the fuel that you’d have used to get to the workshop.

At Jim’s Mobile Mechanics we have a team of qualified and experienced mechanics. They are able to deal with any car issues that can come up. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment with one of our mechanics by calling 131 546 today!