Why you need to get your car air conditioner serviced

March 11, 2021 by Moranbah Discount Tyres And Mechanical

When you are thinking about servicing your car, most people first think about maintaining the wheels or the engine. What is often overlooked is your car’s air conditioning system.

So why do you need to get your car air conditioner serviced, and what are the signs you should look out for?

Why you need to get your car air conditioner serviced

1. It’s hot year-round

When you live in Queensland, it is essential to have working air conditioning in your car all year round. If you don’t get your air conditioner serviced, you may find yourself driving without a working air conditioner on a 40-degree day. Nobody wants that!

2. Remove coal dust

person removing air conditioner unit from car

Do you know how much coal dust your car air conditioner is collecting? For many people, their air conditioner collecting coal dust is an afterthought, or something that has never been thought about at all.

To avoid risking your health, we recommend getting your car air conditioner serviced.

3. Stay COVID-safe

When servicing your car’s air conditioner, Moranbah Discount Mechanic & Tyres also offers a full sanitisation option. This ensures that you as well as your family and friends stay COVID safe.

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4. Longer life span of the air conditioner

Servicing an air conditioner may seem like a cost that you don’t want to pay. However, maintaining your car’s air conditioner will be a cost that pays off in the long run. Servicing will help you to expand the longevity of your car’s air conditioning system. It will also help ensure it runs at peak efficiency.

If you wait to get your air conditioner serviced once it has stopped cooling completely, it may have already incurred damage. Don’t wait – as soon as you notice your air conditioner not working as efficiently as before, it may be time to book a service.

What are the signs you need your car’s air conditioner serviced?

1. Weaker air flow

car air conditioner with animated air flow

Does it seem like your air conditioner is struggling to cool down the car? Sometimes it can be difficult to tell, especially on those extremely hot days. However, chances are it isn’t just your imagination – your air conditioner needs a service.

2. Rattling and other noises

Hearing strange noises coming from your air conditioner system? This isn’t a good sign. Before your air conditioner gets damaged too badly, it is best to get a service.

3. Blowing warm air

person holding hand over car air conditioner

If your car starts by blowing cool air, but then starts to blow warm air, it is a sign there is something wrong. This could be numerous problems, including a clogged expansion valve or a blown fuse. Before these problems cause larger problems, go get your car serviced.

4. Leaking water

If you can see water, it may be a sign that your dashboard is leaking. This may not be directly a problem with your air conditioning system, however, leaking water can cause damage to other areas of the car. Avoid having to pay thousands of extra dollars; get your car serviced when you first notice the problem.

5. Unpleasant odors

When your air conditioner is on, does it smell unpleasant? This may be a problem with your air conditioner filter. However, the problem will vary depending on what type of smell there is. If you can smell burning, this may be a problem with the wiring, which will need to be replaced as soon as possible.

As soon as you notice any small problem with your air conditioning unit, make sure to take your car for a service. If you put off the service, you may find yourself driving a car with more damage, and leaving the mechanic with a much larger bill.

Do you need your air conditioner serviced? Contact Moranbah Discount Mechanic & Tyres today.

Car Care News

February 14, 2021 by Moranbah Discount Tyres And Mechanical

Repco Authorised Service

Is there a road trip in your future? If so, see us first for a service to make sure your car is as ready as you are to get away, including the all important air conditioning.

In this edition we also take a closer look at bearings, and not just those in your car. It’s important that the wheel bearings on anything you tow are also safe before you hitch up. So, bear with us (and our dreadful puns!) and check out our articles to learn more.

Is heading bush with the 4WD one of your favourite things to do? Did you know it’s important that you have the right battery if you’re serious about 4WDing? Our new AutoFact Video and story will help you understand how to get more out of your 4WD battery set up.

If it’s been a while between services or you’ve got any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call us, we’re here to help.

Finally, if you are heading away to explore this fantastic country of ours, stay safe and have a great time where ever you roam!

From the team at Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical

Towing Away

Your van, trailer, camper, or anything else you tow needs to be as roadworthy as your car, to help you keep safe on the road and avoid any unexpected breakdowns. Check out our AutoFact video here to discover more or call us today and book in for a service.

Bearing Up Ok?

Like all moving parts on a car (or trailer), wheel bearings are subject to significant wear and tear. Learn more about the importance of wheel bearings and their impact on safety here.

Going Bush? Is Your 4WD Battery Up To It?

Heading off road can be tough on all aspects of your vehicle, even the battery. Did you know that vibrations and impacts from rough roads (or no roads), high temperatures under the bonnet and some accessories can impact a battery’s life and performance? Learn more about what type of battery is right for your 4WD here. If you need any advice, we’re here to help. We can supply and fit the right high quality Repco battery for your vehicle, no matter what you drive.

Is Your Car Exhausted?

Is your car making rattling noises? Sound louder than usual? Is there an odd smell or can you see smoke? It could be your exhaust system. See AutoFact and discover how your cars exhaust system works.

For car servicing you can rely on www.moranbahdiscounttyres.repcoservice.net

What to do when you need towing in Moranbah

February 10, 2021 by Moranbah Discount Tyres And Mechanical

If you get into a collision or your vehicle breaks down on the side of the road, this can be quite a traumatic and stressful experience. In times of crisis, when adrenaline is flowing, we can go somewhat blank on what steps need to be taken. It’s particularly important to ensure you and your vehicle are safe. The good news? We have compiled a comprehensive list of steps you will need to take if you find yourself in the sticky situation of requiring to have your vehicle towed.

So what do you need to do when you need towing in Moranbah or surrounding areas? First and foremost, take a deep breath, calm your heart rate, and check you are pulled over in a safe location. Put your hazard lights on, your park lights are also a great idea if it’s dark (this is of course if they are working). Exit your car on the opposite side away from the traffic. You are then going to want to follow these next steps:

1. Call your insurance company first

Always keep your insurance company’s assistant phone number in an easy to find location, as you never know when it will be needed. It’s always a good idea to keep a copy in your vehicle, and in your phone address book just in case your phone doesn’t survive the collision and you need to borrow someone else’s. Your insurance company may have a preferred repair facility/ tower and may even arrange this all for you, so it is best to check with them first. You will need to give your insurance all the other relevant details of the collision/ break down at this time as well.

2. Determine if your vehicle needs a tow

Once you are in a safe location and have spoken to your insurance company you can assess if your vehicle needs a tow or not.

Your insurance company may step you through these checks, however, if they are unreachable, there are a few things to look out for:

Is the vehicle free of any visible fluid leaks?
Are headlights and taillights still functioning as normal?
Are all the mirrors intact?
Does the vehicle maneuverability feel normal (power steering, braking etc.)?
Is your hood able to close securely?
No signs of your airbags deploying?
No damage to any of your wheels?

You should be able to answer yes to all of the above questions. However, if you have any shadow of a doubt, it is best to have the vehicle towed to risk further damage to the vehicle, or possibly another accident. Something else to consider is if you are in a state to safely drive your vehicle to your final destination.

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3. Call a tow truck

Calling a tow truck company is the most important, and probably obvious, step to this article. Call your local tow truck company! If you are in Moranbah or any of the surrounding areas please contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical, we will be happy to assist you. With our modern Isuzu tow truck, we have the ability to tow two vehicles at the same time, which is something to keep in mind in the event of a collision.

4. Prepare your vehicle for towing

With the tow truck on its way to your rescue, it is time to prepare your vehicle for towing. Take photos of the scene and your vehicle. This can be used for your insurance claims. Remove any valuables from your vehicle, particularly items of sentimental value that you would like to keep on your person.

5. Make sure the tow truck that arrives is the one you called

Although it is unlikely, another tow truck may be passing by and see an opportunity for new work. Ensure the company that arrives, matches the one you called! If you haven’t even called the tow truck yet, and one turns up, this can be a red flag. Proceed with caution!

6. Tell your driver where you would like your vehicle towed

In most cases, you will be able to have your vehicle towed to whatever address you provide. In some cases, however, the police may order the vehicle to be towed to a specific location, such as straight to a mechanical workshop.

7. Keep the receipts & document all provided information

Take note of everything your tow truck driver says. As you may be a little flustered from the whole experience, take notes in your phone of all the things you need to remember. This may be the mechanical workshop it is being towed to, their contact details, and what you need to do next. Keep the receipts from the tow truck provider, as your insurance will want copies to reimburse you if it is covered in your policy.

Do you need towing in Moranbah or the surrounding areas? Contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical today!

What To Expect When You Visit a Mechanic

February 8, 2021 by Moranbah Discount Tyres And Mechanical

Is your car ready for its regular maintenance or are you having an issue that needs to be looked at? We have compiled a list of things for you to expect when visiting a mechanic. It’s best to be informed to avoid any mishaps, or poor service. So what should you do before you visit a mechanic, and what should you expect on the day?

Before heading to a mechanic for your car repairs you should consider the following:

1. Mechanical Trade Certificates

Firstly, you are going to want to check the Mechanics carrying out the repairs have their Mechanical Trade Certificates. To do this you can ask the service centre carrying out the repairs at the time of booking.

You can rest assured that all our Mechanics at Moranbah Discount Tyres and Mechanical hold their Mechanical Trade Certificates.

2. Go to a Regular Mechanic Shop

We suggest establishing a relationship with the one mechanic shop to do all your repairs. You then know what to expect each time, and can trust the level of service you will receive. Circumstances sometimes permit this from occurring, and in that case, do your research!

3. Shop Around and Don’t Settle

Check out each mechanic shop in your area, do not settle on the first shop you see as it may not be the best! Your friends and family may have suggestions on a mechanic they visited and had a good experience. You may also look for online review, keeping in mind that these sometimes are not the most factual representation of a service. Something else to consider is different mechanics may specialise in certain types of cars. For example, Moranbah Discount Tyres and Mechanical is a certified Isuzu Service Centre, so this would be the best option for you if you own an Isuzu. A crucial part of shopping around is comparing prices, and ensuring you get your estimate in writing! Your estimate should be an itemised list of each part required and service fees.

So you have now picked the mechanic shop you would like to carry out your repairs, based on their reputation, price, and services available for your vehicle, what should you expect to happen on the day?

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Setting realistic expectations can relate to the price of the repairs, and also the time frame in which they can be achieved. Expect to pay the going rate in your area for your parts, and labour. Keeping in mind that cheap and quick, doesn’t necessarily mean good. It’s a good idea to ask up front when dropping your car off how long it is expected to take. Even if it seems like a quick repair to you, there may be several other cars ahead of yours in the queue for that day.

2. Communicate Properly

The better you can communicate the issues with your vehicle to your mechanic, the easier it will be to diagnose and fix the problem. A good tip is to write down ahead of time, everything you have been noticing with your vehicle to avoid forgetting to mention anything on the day. Note down specific sounds, leaks and smells, shudders, shakes, and when and how these are occuring. Record how the vehicle was performing right before and after the issues, the day before, the day after. All of this information can help with a quicker and more efficient diagnosis on the day.

3. Make Yourself Available

Be sure to leave your direct phone number, and have it on you throughout the day. The mechanic may need to phone you at any time to discuss the repairs being carried out and ask for approvals before continuing work. If you cannot be reached, this will hold up the repairs and blow out the time frame that was originally set.

Do you need to visit a mechanic? Contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical today!

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Why you need to get your car air conditioner serviced

Car Care News

What to do when you need towing in Moranbah

What To Expect When You Visit a Mechanic

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