Frequently Asked Questions
Automotive Car Service & Repairs - Mobile Mechanics Melbourne
Q: How often does a car need to be
serviced
A: Recommended every 6 - 12 months 10,000km - 20,000KM
Q: How often does a car need a tune up
A: Recommended every 20,000km, once a year, spark plugs every 20,000
km, 100,000 km for platinum's
Q: How long does it take to get a mobile
mechanic onsite
A: Usually for roadside assistance within the same day or next day
Q: What the best and fastest way to get a
repair quote
A: Go to our website
www.call-a-mechanic.com and click
quotes
or call (03) 9005 9643 to speak to fully qualified
mechanic from 7am - 9pm - 7 days a week
Q: What type of warranty do you offer on
parts and labour
A: 12 - 24 months on most new parts & 12 months on labour
Q: What type of services & repairs can
we do onsite
A: Minor & Major Car Servicing, Mobile Car Batteries, Roadside Assistance,
Brake and Clutch Repairs, Cooling Systems, Starter Motors and
Alternators, Radiator Replacements, Auto Electrical
Q:
Why do brakes squeak?
A:
Today’s cars are equipped with front wheel disc brakes; some models
even have 4 wheel disc brake systems. Disc brakes work much like a
modern bicycle’s brakes. Brake squealing and noises are common with
various causes. Most often it is caused by dust and high frequency
vibrations of the brake pads, much like the way a cricket makes
noises by rubbing its legs together. Worn brake linings also tend to
be noisy. Brake systems should be checked regularly and worn parts
replaced before ruining expensive callipers and rotors.
Q:
Does my car have to go back to the dealer for all services?
A: Preventative health care is important for peak performance and
longevity. Preventative maintenance for today’s hi-tech cars helps
keep small problems from becoming large expensive ones. Most new car
warranties are affected by scheduled preventative maintenance,
meaning that maintenance must be done in order to keep the factory
warranties in affect. New car dealers would like you to believe that
they are they only facilities that can perform these services. This
is not true. Anyone can perform the required services, as long as
the parts used are Original Equipment quality and all maintenance is
performed on time per the manufacturers recommended schedule
Q:
How often should antifreeze be replaced?
A: Antifreeze should be replaced every two years due to oxidation
and deterioration of important additives. These additives lubricate
the water pump and protect metal parts from rust and oxidation. They
also help keep coolant hoses soft and flexible. Today we can recycle
and clean old antifreeze, replacing the additives. Antifreeze is
very toxic and not environmentally friendly so recycling makes good
sense. The engine's thermostat should also be replaced every 2 years
to keep the engine operating temperatures in the proper range.
Q:
Why should I change my timing belt?
A: Most of today’s engines use timing belts, and are an important
preventative maintenance item. In yestersyear they were made of
metal and called timing chains. As engines became smaller and
lighter, rubber belts replaced the heavier chains that had to be
lubricated. The belt deteriorates with heat and age and lasts about
60,000 miles or 5 years although some makes have increased the life
expectancy. The timing belt's job is to keep moving parts, primarily
valves and pistons, in time with one another. If the timing belt is
not replaced, it will eventually break, leaving you stranded, and on
some models causing further engine damage which can be extremely
expensive to repair