Dubbo Friends Auto Care Blog

We'll give you the good oil: Penrite and Fuchs at Dubbo Friends Auto Care

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:52:43 GMT

When we say, we’ll give you “the good oil,” we’re talking about the Australian idiom. We decided to use this as our headline because we thought it was a funny play on words; in case you don’t know what that means, we’ve included a citation to an esteemed establishment explaining the Australian term to help our assimilating brothers and sisters.

(2017, October 19). The good oil means ‘reliable, and therefore welcome, information’.

1918 Gippsland Times (Sale) 20 May: I have never left my unit since I joined, only a ten days' Blighty leave. Next leave will consist of 14 days. It will soon be four years for me, and I can give you the good oil—Australia will do me!

2010 J. Elias Sin Bin : It wouldn't have been too hard to get the good oil from his New South Wales colleagues. Bennett, however, didn't say a word to me about anything aside from football.

The Australian National University. Retrieved September 19, 2024, from https://slll.cass.anu.edu.au/centres/andc/meanings-origins/o#:~:text=The%20good%20oil,will%20do%20me!

How to choose the right engine oil

A simple solution would be to let a professional mechanic choose the right oil for your make and model, but if you are changing your oil by yourself, here is a small list below to help you decide.

1. Consult Your Owner’s Manual

Your car’s owner’s manual is like the conductor’s score in a grand symphony. It holds the secrets to harmonious engine performance. Here’s why it’s your first stop:

Oil Recommendations: Flip through those pages. Your manual will recommend specific oil types, viscosities, and performance levels tailored to your vehicle. It’s like receiving personalised musical notes for your engine.

Driving Conditions: Consider your driving habits. Are you a city cruiser or a highway virtuoso? Do you drive in hot climates or chilly winters? The manual knows—it’s your backstage pass to optimal oil selection.

2. Decoding Viscosity

Viscosity—the rhythm of oil flow—matters. Imagine an orchestra playing at different speeds. Here’s the lowdown:

The Numbers: Look at the oil label. You’ll see something like “5W-30.” The first number (e.g., 5W) represents cold-start viscosity. Lower is better for cold weather. The second number (e.g., 30) is hot viscosity. Higher means better protection when the engine heats up.

Year-Round Versatility: Consider multi-viscosity oils (like 5W-30). They adapt—fluid in winter, sturdy in summer. Your engine nods appreciatively.

3. Conventional vs. Synthetic

It’s the classic showdown: conventional vs. synthetic. Let’s raise the curtain:

Conventional Oil (Petroleum-Based): Like an old-school vinyl record, it’s tried and true. It's affordable but with limitations. It's best for older engines without high-tech demands.

Synthetic Oil (Engineered Elegance): Picture a digital symphony. Chemically refined, uniform molecules, fewer impurities. Ideal for modern engines, turbochargers, and high-performance vehicles. It’s the virtuoso’s choice.

5. High Mileage Oil

For cars with more miles than a world tour, we have high-mileage oil:

Seal Conditioners: These additives rejuvenate tired seals, reduce leaks, and extend engine life. It’s like a spa day for your vintage engine.

Smoke and Emission Control: High mileage oil keeps the exhaust notes melodious and the emissions in check.

What brand of lubricants does Dubbo Friends Auto Care use?

Fuchs Semi-Synthetic Oil

Fuchs semi-synthetic oil is like a chameleon in the automotive world. It adapts, it thrives, and it delivers. Here’s why it deserves a standing ovation:

Balanced Performance: Fuchs blends the best of both worlds—conventional and synthetic base oils. It’s the Goldilocks of lubricants—just right. Expect solid wear protection, reduced friction, and a smoother engine ballet.

Cost-Effective Brilliance: Semi-synthetic oils offer a wallet-friendly compromise. You get a taste of synthetic finesse without breaking the bank. It’s like enjoying a gourmet meal at a neighbourhood diner.

Wide Application Range: Fuchs semi-synthetic waltzes gracefully with various engines—petrol, diesel, and even hybrids. Whether cruising in a compact car or commanding an SUV, it harmonises beautifully.

Shear Stability: Picture a tightrope walker maintaining perfect balance. That’s Fuchs. It resists viscosity breakdown even during engine acrobatics. Smooth shifts, happy gears!

We’ll use the Fuchs brand on older model vehicles needing thicker viscosity to prevent leakage, etc.

Penrite Synthetic Oil

Penrite’s synthetic oil isn’t just oil; it’s a whispered promise to your engine. Here’s why it’s the secret handshake among car aficionados:

FULL SYNTHETIC Mastery: Penrite’s base oil is precise, elegant, and optimised like a mathematician's theorem. It’s the VIP pass to engine longevity. (Excluding Diesel Vehicles)

Heat Defiance: When the asphalt sizzles, Penrite stands tall. It laughs at high temperatures, ensuring your engine stays cool, calm, and collected. No meltdowns here!

Minimal Sludge, Maximum Love: Sludge? Not on Penrite’s watch. It fights off deposits like a diligent housekeeper. Your engine nods appreciatively.

Penrite’s secret? It’s a frugal wizard. It ensures your engine sips oil gracefully, like a connoisseur savouring fine wine.

Learn more about Fuchs semi-synthetic oil here and Penrite synthetic oil here .

Disclaimer: No engines were harmed during the creation of this concise oil ode. Always consult your car’s manual for the perfect oil match.

When it comes to servicing or repairing your vehicle, quality is essential. That's why at our shop we only use quality parts and lubricants to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. We understand that you want to invest in quality when it comes to your car, and we strive to provide you with the best service possible.

Book in today! Call or Book Online.

How do you know it's time for an oil change?

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 06:34:38 GMT

It is difficult to know when it's time for an oil change, but there are some tell-tale signs that you can look out for.

One of the most obvious signs is the color of your oil. If the oil in your car changes from a golden brown to black or dark brown, it’s time for an oil change. If you're unsure where to check your oil tank dipstick you can always pop in and see us at Dubbo Friends Auto Care.

Another sign is when your engine makes a knocking sound or starts to shake. The sound and vibration from this means that there’s not enough lubrication in the engine, which can be caused by old or dirty motor oil. Leaving it to long can cause serious issues to your motor.

The oil change is a necessary maintenance measure for your car. It is recommended to get an oil change every 3,000 kms. If you are not sure about how many kilometers you've traveled, it's best to go for an oil change every 3-6 months.

The life of your engine depends on how well you take care of it. Regularly changing and checking the engine oil will ensure that the engine will last longer and run smoother.

The benefits of changing the engine oil are:

- Improved performance

- Reduced emissions

- Reduced risk of breakdowns

- Reduced wear and tear on other parts of the car.

If you'd like us to check your oil for you or do a service on your car feel free to call us on (02)58060360 or book in using any of the buttons on this site.

How to keep your drive belt from breaking on your car

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:14:31 GMT

Most Common Causes of Drive Belt Breakage

A drive belt is an integral part of any vehicle because it transmits power from the engine to other components of the car. Belts are one of the most common parts of a vehicle that need replacement.

Since drive belts have such an important job, it is important to know how to identify and fix them when they break.

Here are some of the most common causes of drive belt breakage:

Corrosion: This can be caused by salt or chemicals that accumulate on the belt over time. To prevent corrosion, make sure you wash your car regularly, use a rubber mat in your garage, and use a good quality oil for your car's engine.
Heat: The heat from the engine can cause the rubber in a belt to deteriorate and breakdown. (use a good quality oil for your car's engine)

It’s best to replace your drive belt as the manufacturer recommends, which can be found in your log book or owners manual. Many suggest at around every 100,000 kilometres. Source - Natrad

What are the Best Ways to Prevent a Drive Belt Failure?

There are many ways to prevent a drive belt failure. One is to keep the belt clean and lubricated. Another way is to check the tension of the belt periodically, and make sure that it’s not too tight or too loose.

The last way is to get your car serviced regularly so that they can inspect the condition of your car’s drive belt and replace it if necessary.

Quick tips to keep your car on the road

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 03:18:35 GMT

Keeping your car on the road is about more than just keeping it running. It's about making sure that you get to your destination safely, and that means having a safe, functional car. You can make sure that your car stays in good shape with these quick tips.

1. Keep your tires inflated

2. Watch out for potholes

3. Don't drive when you're tired!

4. Keep the oil changed regularly

5. Check your brakes and alignment regularly

In order to avoid paying for costly repairs or even worse, having your car break down on the side of the road, it’s important to care for your vehicle properly. If you are looking for a reliable auto repair shop that is close by and can provide quality service at affordable prices, please consider us. We’re available online or over the phone to answer any questions you may have and help get you back on the road as quickly as possible!

Contact your friends in auto care on 02 5806 0360 or book online

What are the causes of a car overheating?

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 21:39:10 GMT

Causes of overheating

Car overheating can be caused by a number of different factors. Let’s have a look at some of the most common causes.

A car water leak is one of the most common causes of engine problems and radiator problem. Water can drip onto the engine, causing it to overheat.

A radiator problem is another major cause of overheating in cars. Radiators are designed to keep your car cool by transferring heat away from your engine. If there is any damage to this system, it will not be able to do its job and your car will overheat as a result.

How does an overheated engine affect your vehicle?

In a car, the engine is the most important part of the vehicle. It is what makes it go. If it overheats, this could lead to some serious consequences.

The boiling point of water is 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). When an engine reaches this temperature, it can cause a lot of damage to the car. This includes damaging the engine and other parts that are not designed to withstand high temperatures like fuel lines and sensors.

A malfunctioning cooling system can also be a problem with overheating engines. A cooling system works by taking heat away from the engine and releasing it into the air outside of your car when you drive on a hot day or when you are stuck in traffic on a hot day.

If there is not enough coolant in your cooling system or if your cooling fan isn't working properly, then you may notice that your car's temperature gauge goes up quickly and starts to show signs of overheating such as steam coming out from under your hood.

How to prevent a car from overheating?

Overheating is a common issue that can be solved with a few simple steps.

- Check the coolant level

- Add coolant

- Check the hoses for leaks and tighten them if needed

- Check the radiator cap for correct pressure and replace it if necessary

- Check the thermostat for proper operation, replace it if necessary

- Change your engine oil and filter according to the manufacturer to keep your car running at its best

- Book in for regular servicing at Dubbo Friends Auto Care

Sources: www.firestonecompleteautocare.com www.midas.com.au

Your car doesn't need to be serviced by the dealership to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty (Part 2)

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 01:24:34 GMT

Here's some things you should know

About manufacturers warranty ( Read Part 1 )

A car warranty is a written promise from the manufacturer to repair or replace your vehicle if it has a defect in its parts. The warranty is usually offered for up to 3 years.

A warranty can be offered by the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of a product. In most cases, warranties are given for one year from the date of purchase or delivery.

The Australian government has set standards for the minimum warranty period and the minimum coverage that must be included in any policy. It is important to know what you are covered for before purchasing a car warranty.

The ACCC provides some solid guidelines on buying a car and knowing your rights, according to the Australian Consumer Law. As outlined by the ACCC, the warranty period for a new vehicle is three years. If your car encounters a major failure within that period, the consumer gets the choice between a repair, a replacement or a refund.

Source: Gizmodo .

Who pays for repairs & maintenance under warranty?

The owner of the car is responsible for paying for any repairs or maintenance. Warranty is meant only to cover any defects due to poor workmanship or manufacturers error.

Here's what isn't covered under warranty:

Oil changes
Damage from negligence
Alteration of manufacturers parts
General maintenance.

It's important to take your car to a mechanic for regular servicing

Taking your car to the mechanic for servicing is a good way to maintain your warranty and keep your car in running condition.

When you bring your car in for servicing at Dubbo Friends Auto Care, we will check everything from the engine to the air-conditioning and let you know what needs to be repaired.

We'll also use the necessary lubricants and parts needed to cover the manufacturer's warranty.

If you don't take your car in for servicing, then it's possible that something might go wrong with it later, which could end up costing you more money than if you had just taken it in for regular servicing. Book Online Today!

Dealerships don't want you to know this!

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:10:34 GMT

You don't need to service your vehicle at a dealership to be covered under warranty

It's true, you can service your vehicle anywhere for the dealers guarantee and/or manufacturers warranty. There's a common misconception that you need to take your vehicle back to the dealership for it to be covered under warranty but that's far from the truth.... you're covered by a consumer guarantee provided under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) whether you've purchased a new or used vehicle with certain criteria met. Additional guarantees may fall under the motor dealers & repairers act.

Dealer/Manufacturers Guarantee:

New passenger cars have a minimum 12-month dealer guarantee from the date of sale or 20,000km, whichever occurs first, from the manufacturer.
Used passenger cars under 10 years old and with less than 160,000km have a three-month or 5,000km dealer guarantee which a dealer must provide free of charge.
Used cars over 10 years old or with over 160,000km do not have a dealer guarantee or a manufacturer's warranty, they just must be roadworthy.

Source - NSW Fair Trading

So long as your vehicle is serviced with genuine parts and lubricants from the manufacturer you're covered. That means you can support your local mechanic and still be covered by the "Dealer/manufacturers gaurantee"

Contact your friends in auto care on 02 5806 0360

For information on extended warranties read this article by NSW Fair Trading.

A quick guide to the dangers of not changing your brake pads

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:02:37 GMT

What is the Lifespan of a Brake Pad?

Brake pads need to be replaced periodically to ensure that they do not wear out. This is because their friction material wears down over time, making them less effective at slowing you down when you need it most.

The average lifespan of a brake pad is around 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. However, it can vary depending on the usage and driving conditions. If your car’s brakes are experiencing wear and tear, you may want to consider investing in new brake pads sooner rather than later.

The Safety Risk of Driving on Worn Brakes

Worn brake pads are a safety risk because they may not work as well and it takes longer to safely stop. Driving with worn brake pads is similar to driving with bad brake pads, not good.

Brake pads are the part of the braking system that applies pressure to the brake rotor in order to slow down or stop a vehicle. When you press on your brake pedal, you can feel when your brake pads have reached their limit and require replacement because they will start squealing or grinding against the rotors when you apply pressure.

The Risk of Replacing or Resurfacing a Damaged Rotor

The risk of replacing or resurfacing a damaged rotor increases when the pads are worn down to their metal backing. You could always resurface the rotor but it would be cheaper just to check your brake pads periodically.

If you have a noisy brake rotor, your first course of action should be to replace the cracked or badly corroded rotors before the problem gets worse. If you're unsure if the noise is your rotor visit a professional.

Conclusion and Takeaway

The bad brake warning sign is a sign of an impending brake failure. The warning sign may be in the form of a squealing sound, or the brake pedal may feel spongy when pressed.

For most newer cars the brake pad wear indicator warning light will turn on.

If you notice any of these signs, it's a clear indicator that your brakes need to be inspected by a certified technician. Replacing your brake pads periodically will stop any of these early signs from showing and prevent damage to your rotor.

Do manufacturer parts need to be used for warranty coverage

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 23:32:17 GMT

What does it mean when manufacturers

require genuine parts to be used for warranty coverage?

When manufacturers require that only their parts be used for warranty coverage, it means that they are ensuring the quality of their product. By using manufacturer parts, they can guarantee that the product is working as intended and will last longer than if non-genuine parts were used. This requirement also ensures that any issues with the product are covered by the warranty instead of having to pay out-of-pocket.

Additionally, this requirement ensures that genuine parts are being used in order to keep up with technology and ensure the longevity of the product.

The ACCC's guidance says that provided you use quality parts, your car manufacturer's warranty won't be voided. If a non-genuine part is used it won't be covered under the manufacturer's warranty, but it would be covered under the warranty of the part's supplier and/or Australian Consumer Law. - Source.

The benefits of using manufacturer-specified parts

If you're looking for the best warranty coverage for your vehicle, using manufacturer-specified parts is the way to go. Manufacturer-specified parts are designed and tested to fit perfectly with your car, ensuring that you get the most out of your warranty coverage. Not only do these parts provide better performance and reliability, but they also help protect you from costly repairs in the future.

Understanding the difference between manufacturer warranty and consumer guarantee

Understanding the difference between a manufacturer warranty and an Australian consumer guarantee is important for any consumer. A manufacturer's warranty is a contract between you and the company that made the product, while an Australian consumer guarantee provides protection to consumers from faulty or defective products, while genuine parts provided by the manufacturer are usually covered under warranty.

A consumer guarantee is an automatic legal right given to consumers buying a product or service in Australia. When buying the product/service, consumers are entitled to a product/service that is safe and without fault, that looks acceptable and performs as expected. If the product/service does not, consumers have a right to a remedy which may include repair, replacement or refund.

A warranty is a voluntary promise or commitment made by the business selling the product/service to you. When you buy the product/service, the warranty becomes a right. It operates in addition to a consumer guarantee however, it cannot limit or exclude consumer guarantees. - Source.

When we service or repair your vehicle we use quality parts to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly and covered by warranty

When it comes to servicing or repairing your vehicle, quality is essential. That's why at our shop we only use quality parts to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. We understand that you want to invest in quality when it comes to your car, and we strive to provide you with the best service possible.

Book in today! Call or Book Online.

How to prevent future break-downs

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 09:30:05 GMT

Service your car regularly

Regular car servicing is essential to keep your vehicle running at its best. Not only does it help you prevent any future break downs, but it also allows you to save money on costly repairs.

At a basic level, a car service will check the condition of your vehicle and identify any potential problems before they become serious.

A qualified mechanic will be able to diagnose any issues and suggest the most suitable repair or replacement parts if necessary. They can also advise on any preventative measures that may be necessary to avoid further damage or breakdowns in the future.

Regular car servicing is an important part of automotive maintenance and should not be overlooked. Investing in a professional service now can help you save money in the long run, as well as ensuring that your vehicle remains reliable for years to come.

What should you expect when getting a service?

The most common service done to a car is an oil change, which typically involves swapping the old oil out with new and putting in the correct amount of oil. Some people may want to get their car serviced every 3,000 kilometers. Others may want to get their car serviced every 6 months or even yearly. It really depends on how often you drive and how much wear and tear your vehicle has sustained over time.

Here are some of the things that you should expect when getting your car serviced at Dubbo Friends Auto Care:

An oil change
A brake fluid and coolant change
The tire pressure checked
A wheel rotation
Cabin and oil filter change
Transmission change
Safety check & diagnostic
A friendly smile

Proudly Sponsoring RSL Colts Cricket Club Dubbo

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:18:43 GMT

We're passionate about cricket and supporting our community

The owners of Dubbo Friends Auto Care aren't just mechanics, they're also passionate about cricket.

That's why we’re now the proud sponsors of the RSL Colts Cricket Club Dubbo, we hope that this sponsorship will help them continue to grow and provide opportunities for young people in the area.

The sponsorship is a win-win situation for both parties as it provides Dubbo Friends Auto Care with an opportunity to get their name out there while giving back to the community.

The new kits “T-shirts” are available for junior and senior players for seasons 22/23 and 23/24, the new kits show respect to the Wiradjuri people, who continue to care for the land and waters in which we live, work, train and play.

If you’re interested in purchasing a support t-shirt, please contact RSL Colts Cricket Club Dubbo on Facebook or via telephone.

New auto repair business opens in west Dubbo

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 09:09:11 GMT

Dubbo Friends Auto Care was opened at 1/15 Mckenzie street by Ash and his business partner at the time in the beginning of Feb 2021, they service the residents of Dubbo and surrounds with auto repairs.

Their services include eSafety Checks (Pink Slips), brake pad changes, oil changes, diagnostics and almost every other service offered by a mechanic. It's important to note that both Ash and his business partner are qualified mechanics from Melbourne, after completing their courses and working in the field they decided to move to Dubbo to start something of their own.

You can meet Ash during business hours 8-5pm or call them on 02 5806 0360 for servicing and repairs.