As the festive season approaches, many of us begin planning trips to see family and friends. However, before hitting the road, it's crucial to ensure that your car is in top condition for a safe and smooth journey. Booking your vehicle for service early is not just a good idea—it's essential.

Many workshops are extremely busy during this period and often close over Christmas, making it vital to secure your spot well in advance.

The weeks leading up to Christmas are some of the busiest times of the year for car service workshops. As people prepare for holiday travel, the demand for vehicle servicing skyrockets. This surge can lead to long wait times and potential unavailability of appointments. By booking your car service early, you not only secure a spot but also allow yourself plenty of time to address any unexpected issues that may arise during the inspection.

1. Ensuring Safety and Reliability
Regular car servicing involves a thorough check-up of your vehicle's key components to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Mechanics typically inspect brakes, tyres, fluids, lights, and batteries, among other components. Addressing these basic mechanical tasks can make a significant difference in the safety and performance of your car, especially during long holiday drives.

Key Benefits of Regular Car Service Before the Holidays

2. Peace of Mind
Nothing beats the assurance of having your car serviced by a professional mechanic who is part of a reputable network. This ensures that your car receives top-notch care, backed by a nationwide warranty. Knowing that your vehicle has been thoroughly checked and serviced provides peace of mind as you embark on your road trip. You can focus on enjoying your holiday without worrying about unexpected car troubles.

3. Avoiding Holiday Disruptions
Imagine being stranded on the side of the road because of a car breakdown during your Christmas getaway. Regular servicing minimises the risk of such occurrences, ensuring that your travel plans remain uninterrupted. With a comprehensive inspection and maintenance, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become major problems.

4. Enhanced Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Servicing your car regularly not only keeps it running smoothly but also improves its performance and fuel efficiency. During the service, mechanics will check and replace air filters, spark plugs, and other components that contribute to optimal engine performance. This means a more enjoyable driving experience and potential savings on fuel costs during your holiday trips.

5. Longevity of Your Vehicle
Regular servicing is an investment in the longevity of your car. By keeping your vehicle in good condition, you can avoid costly repairs down the line and extend its lifespan. This is particularly important if you plan to make frequent road trips during the holiday season.

When you take your car in for a service, the mechanics will perform a variety of checks and maintenance tasks to ensure your vehicle is road-ready. Here are some of the critical areas they focus on:

Brake Inspection and Maintenance: 
Brakes are one of the most crucial safety features in a vehicle. During a service, mechanics will inspect the brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure everything is in working order.

Tyre Check and Rotation: 
Tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Regular servicing includes checking tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. Rotation is often performed to ensure even wear and prolong tyre life.

Fluid Levels and Replacements:
Good Mechanics will check and top up essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Replacing old fluids is vital for maintaining the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.

Battery Test: 
A weak or faulty battery can leave you stranded. During servicing, the battery's condition is tested, and terminals are cleaned to prevent any power issues.

Light and Indicator Check: 
Ensuring that all lights and indicators are functioning properly is essential for safety, especially when driving at night or in adverse weather conditions.

By entrusting your car to a professional mechanic for regular servicing, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season with your family and friends. Remember to book your service appointment early to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure your vehicle is in perfect shape for your Christmas adventures.

In summary, preparing for the Christmas holidays with regular car service is a wise decision that can save you time, money, and stress. By ensuring your car is safe, reliable, and efficient, you can focus on creating cherished memories with your loved ones.

So, don't delay—schedule your car service today and get ready to enjoy the festive season with peace of mind...

Ensure your car is ready for the Christmas holiday road trips with early booking for regular service. Discover why a professional mechanic is essential for safe and worry-free travel…

Preparing Your Vehicle for the Christmas Holidays: The Importance of Early Car Service

Get Ready for the Christmas Holidays with Regular Car Service

When the cold snap hits Traralgon, it’s not just us humans who feel the pinch; our cars do too.

That's why prepping your vehicle for the winter months is as essential as wrapping yourself in a snug jacket. Let's delve into the why and how regular servicing at Vast Automotive ensures your car is ready to tackle Victoria's chilly conditions with ease.

First off, regular servicing isn't just an automotive spa day; it’s preventive health care for your vehicle. It ensures every component is performing optimally. At Vast Automotive, specialists in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles, we see servicing as an opportunity to catch minor issues before they escalate into winter breakdown nightmares.

The Engine Check:
A hearty engine makes for a hearty drive. During regular services, the engine oil and its filter are replaced, ensuring smooth operation. In winter, engine fluids become more viscous. Regular checks and replacements keep everything flowing, reducing the risk of breakdowns in the cold.

Tyre Tread and Pressure:
Wet, icy roads demand good tyre traction. Regular servicing assesses tyre condition, ensuring they have sufficient tread to grip those slippery roads. Additionally, tyre pressure is adjusted; too low, and you risk aquaplaning, too high, and you diminish your car’s stability and braking 

Battery Life:
Cold weather is notorious for diminishing battery capacity. A regular service includes a battery check, ensuring it has the juice to start your car on the frostiest mornings.

Visibility is Vital:
Shorter days mean more night driving. Headlight and brake light checks are part of the service regimen. Clear visibility is not just about seeing but also being seen. Moreover, wiper blades and windshield washer fluid are inspected and replaced if necessary, ensuring you can always keep your windshield clear.

Braking System:
A car's braking system is its prime safety feature, more so in winter. Regular servicing inspects brakes for wear and tear, replacing brake fluid and pads if needed. This ensures that, come rain or shine (or snow), your vehicle can stop promptly and safely.

Suspension and Steering:
The suspension and steering systems bear the brunt of increased pothole appearances in winter. Servicing checks these components for damage or wear, ensuring the car remains stable and responsive under all conditions.

Heating and Cooling Systems:
Staying warm inside while the outside freezes is a given, but did you know that the heating system also demists your windows? Regular checks ensure this system works when you need it most, keeping visibility high and interior temperatures comfortable.

Exhaust System:
A leaky exhaust system in winter is a hazard, with the risk of harmful gases seeping into the cabin. This becomes particularly important in winter time as there tends to be more "stop/Start" traffic in cold and wet conditions and cars tend to idle more with the windows closed. A thorough inspection during service can catch any potential leaks or damage.

Coolant Level:
Coolant, is critical in winter. It not only keeps your engine from overheating in the summer months, it also prevents the engine from freezing in low temperatures. During servicing, levels are checked and topped up if necessary, ensuring your engine runs, no matter the outside temperature.

Regular servicing by Vast Automotive is more than just routine maintenance; it’s preparing your car to be a reliable companion during the challenging winter months in Traralgon, VIC. With years of experience and backed by the reliability of the Repco Authorised Service Network, including a Nationwide Warranty, you can be confident that your car is in expert hands.

Remember, winter readiness is a journey, not a destination. It starts with regular servicing and ends with you, comfortably navigating the winter roads of Victoria, knowing your car is prepared for whatever comes its way. At Vast Automotive, we’re not just servicing cars; we’re ensuring your safety and peace of mind during those chilly winter drives. 

So, when the temperature in Traralgon starts to drop, make sure your car's preparedness doesn't with regular servicing from Vast Automotive...

When the cold snap hits Traralgon, it’s not just us humans who feel the pinch; our cars do too. That's why prepping your vehicle for the winter months is as essential as wrapping yourself in a snug jacket. Let's delve into the why and how regular servicing at Vast Automotive ensures your car is ready to tackle Victoria's chilly conditions with ease...

How Regular Service Prepares Your Car for Winter in Traralgon, VIC

Brake fluid transfers the pressure you put on the brake pedal through to the actual brakes.
Without the brake fluid your brakes quite simply would not work. As everyone knows - not having brakes is a huge problem! In fact even slightly affected brakes are very dangerous.


Brake fluid absorbs moisture very easily. Brake fluids are also subject to very high temperatures and so they are designed to have a high boiling point to stop them from boiling and evaporating- when brake fluid has accumulated too much moisture- this lowers its boiling point and it can boil off more easily causing low levels. Low levels of brake fluid affect your braking performance and could mean your car will fail to stop.
Brake Fluid that has absorbed too much moisture will also shorten the life of your braking system including damaging the callipers, wheel cylinders and anti-lock braking systems.

Why is brake fluid replacement necessary?

Your manufacturer's log book will advise how regularly your brake fluid should be changed or flushed, we recommend a drain and replacement every two years however it is wise to have it regularly checked by an expert at every service to make sure the levels are not reducing too fast (a sign of a leak) or that the moisture levels have not reached a point that could be damaging your system.

How often should I replace my brake fluid?

At Vast Automotive we offer a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and back discs and pads, callipers and cylinders and more. This inspection helps to identify any issues in your vehicle which should be addressed and our mechanics will certainly advise you if they feel your vehicle might need a brake fluid replacement, or an out of schedule brake system service or repairs.

Do you check the brake fluids during a car service?

Without the brake fluid your brakes quite simply would not work.

Brake fluid - what is it and why do I need it? 

Signs that your brakes need a service include squealing or grinding noises whilst braking, sluggish response times and shaky steering wheel.

Your car's various braking systems play an important role in keeping you and your family safe while driving and it is important to make sure your car is in a safe and working order. There are some common problems you can spot yourself with a little information...

Puddles under the car - If you notice puddles under your car that are neither water or oil there is a chance you have a brake fluid leak.

Visible wear-and-tear - If you can see your brakes through the you might be able to tell with a visual inspection that your brakes need attention.

High-pitched screeching - A design feature in most modern brake pads includes embedding a small piece of metal which produces a warning sound when your brake pads are getting low and need replacing.

Pedal vibration - This is usually a sign the rotors are getting too old and may be warped. Replacing the rotors usually fixes the issue.

Screeching (even with new brake pads) - Excessive and hard braking creates a lot of heat which can burn or even warp the brake rotors. Screeching noises from brakes with good condition pads may indicate the rotors need replacing.

Poor stopping response - If your brakes seem slow to respond or are not as effective as they should be it could indicate a leak in either the brake hoses or leaking brake fluid

Overly sensitive brakes - If the slightest touch of the brakes tends to "jerk" the car to a stop rather than smooth controlled braking it usually means you are due for a brake fluid change. It can also indicate uneven wearing of the brake rotors.

Brake pedal goes all the way to the floor - This could be caused by a number of things including air in the brake fluid, low brake fluid levels, brake pads getting too thin or even a hydraulic system issue.

Car pulls to one side - When a car "Pulls to one side" under braking it is usually an indication that the brake linings require adjustment due to uneven wear, it could also point to contaminated brake fluid which will need to be replaced.

Grinding sounds - Grinding or Growling sounds often mean that the brake pads are completely worn out. You should get the car looked at by a mechanic immediately and avoid driving if possible if you hear such noises from your brakes

Regular car servicing is the best way to prevent problems, but if you notice anything amiss, contact Vast Automotive ASAP to get it checked out. 

Top Quality: As a part of the Repco Authorised Service Centre network all of the work Vast Automotive perform is backed by the Repco Nationwide Warranty.

The Right Parts: Each Vast Automotive mechanic is kept up to date on all the latest parts thanks to Repco service bulletins. Additionally, we have access to the Repco spare parts network which means we can find you the right part at the right price.

The Best Team: All Vast Automotive mechanics are well versed in many different makes and models. From a fleet of vehicles to the family car, we are here for you

To better help you understand the function of your brakes, here is a short glossary of some important brake parts;

ABS Brakes: Antilocking brake system. Allows the wheels to maintain traction with the road and prevents them from locking up and causing dangerous skidding.

Electric Brakes: Brake system often found in trailer brakes.

Hand Brake: Parking brake used to keep the vehicle stationary, particularly when the vehicle is parked on an incline.

Brake Pads: Pads which clamp onto the Disc rotors to create friction and bring the vehicle to a stop.

For a high quality Brake Service at a competitive price, speak with the team at Vast Automotive or book online. We are located at 34 McMahon Street
and service many customers in Traralgon and the surrounding areas.

Get more useful information in Repco's Auto Facts Videos;

Signs that your brakes need a service include squealing or grinding noises whilst braking, sluggish response times and shaky steering wheel...

Brake warning signs you should be aware of

Celebrating the twelve years as your local mechanic in Traralgon, Vast Automotive provide the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs

Specialising in High Performance Upgrades, Performance Enhancements, Tune-Ups, Hi-Tech Diagnostics and Fleet Servicing, Vast Automotive offers Full Vehicle Inspection Report with every service for all makes and models, including 4WDs, diesels, caravans, trailers and custom makes. 

Visit Vast Automotive workshop in Traralgon for all your Exhaust, EFI, Brake & Clutch, Disk Machining, Wheel Alignment, Transmission and Engine Recon and Maintenance needs.

Along with all mechanical services, we also provide expert Auto Electrical Service, Steering, Suspension and Log Book Servicing. Traralgon mechanics can inspect your vehicle with modern diagnostics equipment and provide also a 65 Point Inspection or 150 Point Inspection for peace of mind motoring. You can utilise our Towing Service and our mechanics are also happy to pick up your car and deliver it to you after repairs have been made.

As qualified motor engineers, Vast Automotive use only the highest quality equipment and parts. Your comfort and safety is our paramount concern, and so we never do a job that we cannot complete properly. When you come to our Traralgon workshop, you know that you are dealing with a car service that will put your safety first.

If it's got wheels on it, it's our speciality! As the trusted one-stop shop in Traralgon for all your automotive needs Vast Automotive car service provides everything from car repairs to fine tuning your vehicle. Locally owned and operated, Vast Automotive has years of experience under the bonnet. Our workshop offers car service in Traralgon at an affordable, competitive rate to get you back on the road with minimum hassle.

Vast Automotive recommends and installs quality parts at affordable prices, including MSD Ignition systems, Penrite oils, K&N high performance filters, oil filters and air filters for cars, trucks and motorcycles, B&M transmissions for racing and performance, Walker original performance exhaust, Luke Performance headers, Castrol automotive products and we are the Traralgon stockist of Voodoo Ride, exciting range of hardcore car care products including aerosols, shines, cloths, car wash soaps, scratch removers and cleaners.

For our customers, we also provide a wide range of batteries, brakes, clutches, cooling systems, cylinder heads, differentials, engines, gearboxes, timing belts, transmissions and other car components. 

We see to your car maintenance needs, on budget and in good time

Whether you need a tune up or motor repair, we tailor our services around your needs and are dedicated to providing a range of quality services to get you back behind the wheel on budget and on time. You are welcome to visit our workshop for regular check ups, inspect your motor, investigate oil maintenance and simply verify that your vehicle is performing at it's top condition.

It is usually a good idea to visit Vast Automotive and find out how you can prevent damage and wear and tear beforehand, rather than waiting for anything to happen and then resolving the issue. Come in for advice about how you can ensure the continuous smooth running of your vehicle! As well as motor repair services, our mechanics provide helpful and easy to follow suggestions that will save you time and money in the long run.

For motor repair in Traralgon, you need to see us to get your car back to perfect condition, as we offer everything from car repairs to fine tuning your vehicle. As car specialists from top to bottom, we look after everything from bumper to bonnet. We make sure that everything is running smoothly, and run extensive diagnostic tests so that, when you drive out of our garage, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good working order. Once we're done with your vehicle, it will be running like new! 

As a Repco Authorised Service centre in Traralgon, Vast Automotive are committed to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care. Our membership with the Repco Auto Tech education program ensures regular training of mechanics, so our technicians are fully updated with modern vehicle repair methods. As your local Repco Authorised Service centre we have access to the best parts and training in the country and offer a Nationwide Warranty honoured at over 500 workshops across Australia.

Your Car - Your Choice : Vast Automotive

Our workshop accepts Motor Pass, Fleetcard and Capricorn payment cards. Investing back in local community, we are sponsors of Traralgon Golf Club. 

We are locally owned and operated, and have years of experience under the bonnet. Trust us with anything from repairs to general advice. We are your local reliable motor engineers and know vehicles inside out, so whatever it is that's slowing your car or truck down, we are the ones to book a service with. So next time your vehicle is not running as well as it should, you know who to call.

Car vacuuming can be arranged with every service. Our workshop stocks a large range of car parts for sale, including that hard to find part. We are located close to public transport, and free parking is available in front of workshop with a key drop off box for your convenience. We service all makes and models of cars, including diesels, AWDs, 4WDs, caravans, campervans, trailers, light trucks, off-roads, hybrids, racing cars, ATVs, horse floats, utes and vans.

For friendly service from a trusted independent, you can rely on the team at Vast Automotive

Visit Vast Automotive workshop in Traralgon for all your Exhaust, EFI, Brake & Clutch, Disk Machining, Wheel Alignment, Transmission and Engine Recon and Maintenance needs...

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Traralgon

When it comes to brakes, you should never wait until brake repairs are necessary.  

Proper testing and routine checkups, such as our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection which we provide with all full car services, are important to ensure your vehicle's brake system is in top condition. Our expert team of technicians will be happy to advise you when they suspect that service or repair of your brake system is indicated to stop it becoming a bigger issue.

Brake services we perform at Vast Automotive include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Traralgon workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Traralgon

Brake and Clutch

VACC

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Friday the 20th of December and reopening on Monday the 6th of January

We wish to advise that we will be closed for the public holiday on the 29th of September. Apologies for any inconvenience.

We advised we will be closed for the Easter Long Weekend from the 29th of March reopening on the 2nd of April

Vast Automotive take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Traralgon, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 

Vast Automotive have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

Vast Automotive

Brake and clutch

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Get Ready for the Christmas Holidays with Regular Car Service

How Regular Service Prepares Your Car for Winter in Traralgon, VIC

Brake fluid - what is it and why do I need it?

Signs your brakes may need attention

Car service in Traralgon