jasmine, Author at Express Auto

What You Need to Know About Canberra Mechanics

November 8, 2019November 8, 2019 by jasmine

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Car maintenance can be a headache. Being without a car is very inconvenient – running errands and various responsibilities become much more complicated. Getting your car fixed takes time, and can feel like a waste of your time. Especially if you are in an area of Canberra without good public transport. And in the end, the bill can be large with unexpected charges or big surprise about your vehicle condition. But, repairs and maintenance are vital for your safety as we constantly use cars in our daily routine.

Cars are a large expense – they require petrol, insurance and frequent maintenance. Compared to the rest of Australia, the running cost of a car in Canberra is average. Cars in Canberra cost $50 lower per week than Brisbane and Melbourne, and $100 lower than in Sydney (despite being only 290 km away). This article will try to give you some more information about car repairs and auto mechanics to help you save while keeping your care safe.

The importance of cars in our lives makes maintenance unavoidable, but can car maintenance in Canberra be made less disruptive? Here are a few helpful tips to help you navigate Canberra mechanics.

Find A Trusted Mechanic

Number one on this list is finding a trusted mechanic. Some who is not only skilled but provides a service with options; such as a mobile mechanic service. Also, communication is key. Which is why it is so important to go to a Canberra mechanic who is able to explain issues to non-mechanic will help to save time and money. If you understand your mechanic, you will trust their troubleshooting process and timelines.

The customer-mechanic relationship begins well before your car rolls into the shop. It begins with the auto shops’ website and booking process. Often you can book an appointment with your mechanic through the website, which can be very useful. Booking online allows you to see all the auto repair shop’s information, while also setting up notifications and/or text messages to remind you of your appointment. Having a list of services and price is useful for budgeting, or understanding any additional cost. A car is already a significant cost, but by being able to understand the price for parts and workmanship, will strengthen your relationship with your mechanic.

Use Helpful Technology!

Speaking of easy access to information, finding other kinds of technology to help you take care of your vehicle. Ultimately, having your car’s information collected and easy to access can only help both you and your mechanic. Here are a few you can try:

MyToyota provides an online logbook, track and collect your car’s info. You can even book a maintenance service for Toyota’s through the app.
Fuelly is a great app, which allows you to track and share any details about your vehicle. This kind of technology makes it easier to note mileage, the age of your vehicle and tracking its various costs. Apps like Fuelly can also allow you to compare other users and their data, giving you a better understanding of your own car.

Educate Yourself

Although a few articles and youtube DIY videos do not equal a mechanic’s qualification, however having an understanding of some of the basics issues can be very helpful. If you understand a few things about the internal mechanics of your car, you may be able to distinguish between major and minor issues.

Here are a few maintenance tasks that all should know:

Oil and oil filters
Putting coolant in the radiator
Air filters
Windshield wipers fluid
Tyre pressure
Lights

There are a number of useful websites and creators who can offer advice, like Engineering Explained or Auto Guru. This creator can help explain the above tasks and more! Being able to understand your car can help you be specific about its problems, which can help you save time and money. Checking, cleaning and caring for your own car does take up time, so keep that in mind before attempting any DIY car maintenance. Most importantly, having an understanding of your car is important for your own safety. Before setting out on any journey make sure your car meets safety requirements, and if it does not fix them, and/or get a local mechanic to do it.

What do you need? A Mechanic or an Auto Electrician

October 28, 2019October 28, 2019 by jasmine

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The cars of today rely more and more on electrical systems, perhaps as much as the engine. There are many gadgets and systems under your bonnet that keeps your car running as smoothly and safely as possible. This includes everything from your headlights to the battery & starter motor and everything in between, electrical components are necessary for correct function. A car has just as many electrical parts as Mechanical, which is why sometimes you may need a local Auto Electrician rather than a Canberra Mechanic.

So what’s the difference?

Auto electrician run tests, identify issues and perform repairs just like Mechanics, but they specifically focus on the systems in automobiles while electricians repair and maintain electrical systems. Auto electricians can repair a variety of electrical wiring and computer-based equipment in cars, trucks, caravans, trailers, earthmoving and agricultural equipment and boats. It’s really all in the name; Mechanics care for the Mechanical aspects of a car, while Auto Electricians care for anything electrical.

When would I need an Auto Electrician?

You should go to see your Auto Electrician if you have a problem with:

Car air conditioning
Ignition Systems and Starting Problems
Factory Wiring
Lights & Lighting
Aftermarket Accessories
Caravan Repairs
Boating and Marine Repairs
Roo Systems ECU remapping

While a Mechanic focuses on services such as:

Engine including servicing and oil changes
Transmission including clutch, gearbox and differential
Suspension systems including springs, steering, brakes, wheels, and tyres

Keep in mind, if you have a problem with an unknown problem with a component in your car it is your best to go with a local, Canberra-based Mechanic. As they will be to advise you what best to do, and may even be able to diagnose and help with small electrical issues. But any complex electrical problem should be taken to an Auto Electrician. It is also important to note that these services may be either a separate business or included within your Canberra auto service, so make sure to check with your Mechanic. This way you can decide whether you want a one-stop-shop or a specialist.

Is there anything else I should know?

Some cars have more electronic devices than others, so some will need more help from Auto Electricians than others. The tricky thing about electronics is that you can never know for certain how long they’ll last. Even though they are made to be durable and basically malfunction-proof, everyone who owns a car will tell you they’ve experienced problems with their car electronics at least once. It’s impossible to perfectly design these systems, but that’s why we have Auto Electricians to repair them.

You can access Auto Electrician through a variety of different ways. There are Auto Electrical shops, as well as Auto Electrical shops that come to you. Just like there are mobile Mechanics, there are also mobile Auto Electricians, who will do emergency roadside services, offering help round the clock for stranded motorists.

Canberra’s Favourite Cars in 2019

October 10, 2019October 10, 2019 by jasmine

Canberra is a mechanics paradise, so much so that it has recently been named Australia’s car capital. In Canberra, more than half of households have two or more cars registered to their addresses. Canberran’s one of the heaviest car users in the country. So what are Canberra’s favourite cars, and why? In no particular order, here are our opinions on some of Canberra’s most popular cars.

Holden Commodore

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The Holden Commodore has historically been a favourite in the ACT. From Gungahlin to Googong, this reliable and sturdy car fills up the streets. It has a quiet engine, that is ideal for both the city and suburbs. And its’ large size is great for families. This sedan is also pretty fuel-efficient, making its running cost lower. The Commodore can hold up on both long and short trips, meaning you will take less visits to the mechanic. Because this car is so popular, car servicing becomes easier as your Canberra mechanic will be accustomed to working with them.

Mazda 3

Much like the Holden Commodore, the Mazda 3 is economical and has a heavy emphasis on safety technology. This means it is a great choice for any Canberran. The Mazda 3 has the look of a sedan, but is technically a small car. It is particularly good for a family while also looking somewhat trendy. It is also very fuel-efficient, with the average cost of fuel per being around $1,110, while the Commodore is approximately $1,585. As it is a popular model, Mazada 3 owners will have an easier time with servicing as a mechanic in Canberra will be experienced with your car.

Toyota Corolla

As of 2014, Toyota has remained one of the Canberra’s most registered cars – with nearly 47,000 of Toyota product found in ACT streets. This also makes Toyota a very popular second-hand choice in Canberra. As well as making it a very common car to have serviced in Canberra. The Toyota Corolla, in particular, seems to have risen in popularity in 2019. This little hatchback, although often criticized for its small boot and lack of storage, has a punchy fuel tank and will get you where you need to be.

Just remember, it is always important to do your research before making a purchase. Find the right car that works for you, regardless of popularity. However, we do recommend to keep in mind the:

The initial cost of your car
The average running cost
The average serving cost
Size, storage and other built-in technology

Also, after purchasing your car, always make sure to ask your mechanic to tick off tasks as they’re completed, and stamp your logbook to ensure your new car warranty stays intact. This will help you keep on top of your car cost while keeping it in tip-top condition.