Having a rough understanding of what is going on within your car is a must for all road users. A basic understanding of how each car component works will let you know when something is malfunctioning or what repair needs to be done to prevent future accidents.
Our Northern Beaches mechanics at Peninsula Auto Clinic are always ready to help when these issues need expert intervention. Our team members have all the experience and knowledge needed for both basic and advanced car repairs. We have spent years attending to all issues affecting vehicle performance and providing the best and most efficient solutions for these problems.
Basic Car Service and Repairs
Car troubles can happen at the most unexpected times. Due to the unpredictability of such incidents, car owners should know the basics of common vehicle repairs. Having an idea of what to do next when facing this problem helps prevent it from developing into an even bigger issue. 
An unexpected breakdown in the middle of nowhere is enough reason for car owners to familiarise themselves with basic repairs. The following are essential vehicle repair services everybody should know:
- Oil Change– Fresh engine oil ensures smooth operation and prolongs the engine’s lifespan. This repair involves removing the oil drain plug, unscrewing the oil filter and emptying it, returning the oil filter, removing the oil filler hole cap and putting in fresh oil.
- Flat tyre replacement – The tyres are one of the most vital car parts. Due to the increased chances of encountering a flat tyre, anyone should pick up this skill.
- Spark plug replacement – Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the gasoline to power the vehicle. However, they wear out after 16,000 km. The first thing to do is to locate the spark plug. Next, remove the spark plug wire and the faulty spark plug. After removing, insert the new spark plug and put the wires back.
- Removal of scratches from paint – Scratches are not only eyesores. It could also cause rust and other damaging effects on the vehicle. We recommend having it fixed as soon as possible. For car owners who want to do it on their own, it is possible to remove scratches with care and proper equipment.
- Car battery replacement – A dead or low battery can see a car driver finding himself helpless in the middle of nowhere. It is best to regularly inspect or replace their car’s battery. It could be done by removing any covers from the battery, disconnecting the negative and positive cables and moving the clamp away from the battery posts. Once screws are removed, the new battery can replace the old one.
- Headlight or tail light replacement – It is illegal to have a malfunctioning headlight or taillight. The good news is that even an untrained individual can fix this issue. The process requires emoving the screws from the old headlight or taillight, disconnecting the electrical connector, removing the faulty equipment and replacing it with a new one.
- Windscreen fluid replacement – This is the easiest of DIYs, simply lift your bonnet and pour wiper fluid into your windshield wiper fluid container. If you are unsure of where it is, please refer to your owner’s manual
- Air filter replacement – This replacement involves opening the hood, locating the air filter unit, removing the cover, taking the filter out and cleaning the filter housing. Once cleaned, the new filter can finally replace the old one.
- Brake pad replacement – The brake system is one of the most important parts that ensure the safety of the driver and his passengers on every trip. Once the new brake pads are in place, the slider bolts need to go back where they were removed and the wheels should be secured. This is a repair that is best trusted to a skilled mechanic.
- Jump-starting a vehicle – Jump-starting a car is a basic skill every car driver needs to know. Possessing this knowledge helps when roadside assistance is unavailable. When jump-starting, one needs to take the jumper cables out, put both vehicles in neutral and shut off the engine. Next, the red clips of the jumper cable need to be attached to the positive terminal of both car’s batteries. For the black clips, one must be clipped to the negative terminal of the other car’s battery while the other black clip must be attached to an unpainted metal surface. After ensuring all are properly connected, the driver can now start the vehicle.
Who Should I Contact When DIY Repairs Do Not Work?
Local mechanics who have spent years dealing with all car issues can help remedy whatever is happening. These professionals have the experience, knowledge and needed tools to diagnose what went wrong and which resolution is the best for the car trouble. These professionals should be able to help with a variety of car problems, including a dead battery, a malfunctioning engine and busted tyres, among other car issues.
Choose the Best Northern Beaches Mechanic Today!
Mechanics should be the only individual who provides solutions to common car problems. While doing a first-aid cannot harm the vehicle, it is still best to bring it over to an auto shop later. These professionals have the necessary skills to know which and how to carry out a car repair. At Peninsula Auto Clinic, our Mona Vale mechanics have seen all car issues after spending more than two decades in the industry. We specialise in a wide range of repairs under NSW Fair trading including those involving brakes, exhaust systems and automatic transmission systems. Contact us today for any car repair or car service, we have worked with over 30,000 vehicles and have seen it all. We are located at 7 Perak Street, Mona Vale!
