Logbook Servicing

Car Service “By the Book”

Sometimes known as a hand book service, a logbook service is when your car is serviced in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer specifications. It involves checking and/or replacing certain components and fluids on the vehicle at the time intervals recommended by the manufacturer.

Many people believe they must go back to a car dealership for New Car Log Book servicing in order to maintain the warranty. Actually, the ACCC have consistently confirmed that under Australian Law, you are free to have your car service carried out by a mechanic or service centre of your choice provided they are qualified to do so. Click here to see the formal ACCC statement.

Repco Authorised Service centres (Pelican Motors) are fully qualified to perform log book servicing.

Get the Facts on New Car Warranty here

Click here for more information on New Car Servicing that protects your warranty.

What is a Vehicle Log Book ?

A vehicle log book is a guide provided by the vehicle manufacturer’s containing information on the specified or recommended service requirements. It guides your mechanic on exactly what needs attention at that specific service interval. It is also used as record of Services performed. Completing these services on time helps to preserve your vehicle’s re-sale value, extend the life of the car and to maintain the warranty.

Who can Stamp my Log Book ?

The log book in some vehicles includes a box which indicates that it should be stamped by an ‘authorised dealer’. The ACCC have confirmed that even if a log book is labelled in this way, an independent repairer may sign or stamp the relevant page your service log book without it affecting the manufacturer’s warranty, provided they are qualified to do so and that all essential requirements are met. Repco Authorised Service Centres (Pelican Motors) are fully qualified to carry out your log book service and verify your log book service records.

Will having my Log Book stamped enhance my cars resale value?

Evidence of a well maintained car will usually augur well for upholding resale value.

I have lost my car Log Book – how do I get another ?

Depending on the year, make or model of the car, this is not always an easy task if you want to replace it with an original booklet. Your local Repco Authorised Service centre can offer advice, including the provision of an appropriate aftermarket replacement.

Who should I choose for my Log Book Service?

When you choose Pelican Motors Repco Authorised Service for your log book service needs, we will look after you and your car. We have Auto-tech training, which ensures continual education and training, keeping technicians up to date with modern vehicle technologies. We use Repco branded products, which are subject to Repco’s stringent manufacturing quality standards to make sure only the best parts are fitted to your car. As Australia’s largest service network we are able to offer a nationwide warranty on every service we perform. No matter where you are in Australia, we have you covered.

New Car Warranty FAQ’s

There is a lot of confusion about new car warranties and consumers rights under the Australian Consumer Laws (ACL).  It’s important to remember that regardless of a warranty offered by a business you have automatic consumer guarantees under the ACL that apply to many products and services you buy regardless of any other warranties suppliers sell or give you.

What is a warranty?

A warranty is a voluntary promise offered by the person or business who sold the product or service to you. A warranty is in addition to any rights you have under the ACL. You can find out more about warranties in general here.

What is a Manufacturer Warranty?

A Manufacturer or Dealer warranty is a promise to the consumer that a vehicle will be free from defects for a certain period of time and that any defects will entitle the consumer to a repair or other compensation. These are offered in addition to your consumer guarantees.

Will Servicing at a Non Dealer Workshop Void My Warranty?

No. You do not have to use a Dealer to service your car to protect your new car warranty or your consumer guarantees.

How Does An Independent Workshop Protect My Warranty?

To protect your new car warranty a workshop needs to follow a set of guidelines when servicing your car.  These include using quality spare parts from reputable suppliers plus lubricants and fluids that met manufacturer’s specifications. They must conduct the service in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and be carried out by staff trained, supervised and suitably qualified. If you have any questions, your local Repco Authorised Service centre (Pelican Motors) will be happy to answer them or you can read more from the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association on new car servicing here.

What if I have warranty claim?

If you have a warrantable defect it may be a condition of the warranty that any work to rectify it is carried out at the Dealer workshop. Your independent mechanical workshop may also be able to guide you through this process.

What should I do if a dealership denies my warranty?

Check your rights under the ACL and remember that often your consumer guarantees will last longer than a warranty issued by a manufacturer.   If a warranty is declined solely on the basis that your car was not serviced by the Dealership or that “non genuine” parts were used please contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.  Your independent mechanical workshop may also be able to guide you.

Automatic Transmission Service

Car nosies that go bump in the night? Don’t get spooked, get into your local Repco Authorised Service dealer for your auto transmission check-up.

The auto transmission is vital to an automatic car’s performance because it sends power to the wheels of your car. It is important to maintain your auto transmission to ensure smooth gear changes.

If you are hearing strange noises while driving, gear changes are becoming more noticeable, your transmission fluid is low or leaking or your check engine light is on, get your car into Pelican Motors.

Auto transmission servicing will ensure your transmission is in tune, there are no leaks and fluids are topped up, which will help avoid any unnecessary and expensive problems.

When you visit Pelican Motors, trained mechanics will service your car. The auto transmission will be drained and replaced. Filters will be cleaned or replaced. A road test will be undertaken to evaluate shift pattern and if required adjustments will be carried out. The transmission will be inspected for leaks and other issues.

If you are worried about the noises coming from your engine or your gear changes aren’t feeling quite right, it is time to get your car into Pelican Motors for an auto transmission service. We use the best quality parts and fluids.

Trust, knowledge and expertise

Repco Authorised Service is one of the best known names in car servicing and repairs Australia wide and that is because we are independently owned and operated. We are known locally for our honest service, years of experience and knowledge and for our community involvement. You can be sure we are best placed to look after your car’s auto transmission. Plus it is all backed by a 12 month nationwide warranty. Book your appointment today.

Auto transmissions – everything you need to know and more

The auto transmission is a very complicated beast. What makes it so complex is that to function it requires a synergy between numerous different systems; mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and computer controls.

Inside an automatic transmission are many parts, all confined to a relavitely small space;

• Planetary gear set: Automatic transmissions contain various combinations of gears.
• Hydraulic system: A transmission is depedent on a constant supply of fluid to serve a number of purposes including; shift control, general lubrication and transmission cooling.
• Torque convertor: Hydraulically connects the engine to the transmission.
• Pump: Move transmission fluid around.

Tyres & Wheel Service

Your tyres are all there is between you and the open road. We will look after them, so they will look after you.

High quality, good condition tyres are an important safety mechanism. They are the the first point in the braking system of your car and have the important role of keeping your car gripped to the road. Equally as important is aligned and balanced wheels to make your car a pleasure to drive.

If you are experiencing vibration or poor handling while driving, have problems keeping tyres inflated, have low tyre tread or can see obvious damage to your tyres, it is time to get them checked.

Regular servicing will keep tabs on your tyre condition and is also a good opportunity to have wheel alignments and wheel balances performed. They are lost cost and can greatly improve your driving experience.

New tyres, a wheel alignment and wheel balance go hand in hand to ensure good handling. Repco Authorised Service are experienced at maintaining tyres and related components and can give you good advice on purchasing the correct tyres for your car.

Need new tyres, a wheel balance or wheel alignment? It is time to visit Pelican Motors to get your wheels in prime condition. Book a service today.

Tyre and wheel servicing – everything you needed to know and more

Get Your Bearings Right

If you want to keep your motor running without heat or friction developing you really need to get your bearings right.

Like all moving parts on a car, wheel bearings are subject wear and tear. So, what are wheel bearings and why are they important?  See our AutoFacts Video and get your bearings.

Brake Service, Repair and Testing

Disc brakes, Drum brakes, Calipers and Rotors, Shoes and Pads – Whatever part of your brakes need a service our Repco Autotech trained technicians can help.

We understand modern braking systems, including ABS brakes, and our workshops are fully qualified to inspect, repair or replace your brake system.

Brake Service and Brake Repair

Brake service and brake repair are generally the same term and can refer to any one of several different tasks that our service centres can perform including:

• Brake Pad Replacement
• Brake Fluid Flush and Replacement
• Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Machining or Resurfacing
• Brake Disc and Drum Replacement
• Brake Caliper Replacement
• Brake Lines/Hose Replacement
• Complete Brake System Replacement

When it comes to brakes you shouldn’t wait until brake repairs are needed. Regular inspections like our 65pt vehicle report included in every full car service, are important to make sure your brake system is well maintained. Our technicians will advise you if they feel that servicing or repairs of your braking system is recommended before it becomes a problem.

Book a brake service today at Pelican Motors.

Brake Testing and Inspections

If you feel your brakes are not performing correctly you shouldn’t wait – have your brakes inspected at Pelican Motors service centre today.

Signs that you need your brakes inspected for repairs include:

• Sticky Brake Pedal
• Noisy Brakes
• Swerving when Braking
• Vibration When Braking
• Brake Warning Light
• Spongy Brake pedals

Find out more about 5 Warning Signs your Brakes need servicing.

Car Batteries

Don’t want to get caught out with a flat battery on a cold and dreary morning. We can help keep you fully charged.

Your car battery is an important element of your car, it is a source of energy to start your ignition and it provides power to car accessories.

Other than your car battery being dead and not being able to start your car, the other signs your battery is on the way out include; corrosion and stains around the battery terminals and age. Short trip driving or infrequent car use, give a battery less time to re-charge, making it more likely to go flat.

Pelican Motors are battery experts and will always give sound advice. We have a large range of batteries to suit any type of vehicle so we are always prepared for that emergency flat battery disaster. When you bring your car in for a service we can also use the latest diagnostic equipment to test your battery.

If you think you car is in need of a re-charge visit us today, we can test and replace batteries.

Clutch and Gearbox replacement

In today’s modern vehicles, the clutch can last much longer than it used to, providing it is properly maintained. Bad driving habits such as being heavy footed on your clutch will wear out the clutch much earlier and leave you with some costly repairs as a result.

When you need your clutch repaired or replaced, look no further than Pelican Motors. We offer a high quality clutch replacement service at affordable rates to get you back on the road in no time.

We know and understand how much of an inconvenience it can be when your car is off the road and in a workshop due to a worn clutch or gearbox issue.

There is no need to worry to much, because your car is in great hands with Pelican Motors. We have been in business for over 14 years and have unmatched experience in gearbox repairs and clutch replacement in all makes and models of passenger and light commercial. Our technicians are highly trained and they will make sure your car is repaired correctly and without delays.

Once the job is done and we understand the reasons of why it happened we will take the time to explain to you preventative and maintenance measures you can incorporate on your own, in order to keep your clutch and gearbox running smoothly and efficiently.

• Clutch installation
• Clutch parts, service and repair
• Flywheel grinding
• Gearbox repairs
• Transfer cases and Differential Assemblies
• CV-Shaft and U-Joint

Pre Purchase Inspection (Repco 150 Check)

Vehicle Condition Report

150 Point Comprehensive Vehicle Condition Report*

At Repco Authorised Service, we can conduct a comprehensive motor vehicle condition report to assess the condition of any motor vehicle.

Whether you are purchasing a used car, embarking on a long trip, conducting a vehicle safety inspection or audit, or just trying to decide whether to keep or sell your car, our motor vehicle condition report will give you all the information you need*.

The vehicle condition report covers all areas of the vehicle*, right down to measuring the width of the disc rotors. The report can be carried out on all passenger, 4WD and light commercial vehicles.

Every Repco Authorised Service centre is able to carry out the 150 Point vehicle condition report, and with nearly 400 outlets Australia wide, there’s sure to be one near you.

150 point comprehensive vehicle condition report provides:

• Fully itemised condition* report performed by qualified technicians
• Professional test equipment employed
• Testing is completely independent of car dealers

If you’re about to buy a used car, make sure you check out our hints and tips before you buy. OR book today for our 150 Point Vehicle Condition Report for total peace of mind.

*Important. There are certain items that cannot be checked without complete dismantling of components. Please check details  for this and other special conditions of the report.

If you need to be sure about a vehicle, our 150 point Comprehensive vehicle condition Report offers you the most thorough understanding you’ll ever need. As you can see from the following list of items checked*, it’ll ensure that you’re actually getting what you paid for.

150 point Comprehensive Vehicle Condition Report

New Car Warranty Servicing

There is a lot of confusion about new car warranties and consumers rights under the Australian Consumer Laws (ACL).  It’s important to remember that regardless of a warranty offered by a business you have automatic consumer guarantees under the ACL that apply to many products and services you buy regardless of any other warranties suppliers sell or give you.

What is a warranty?

A warranty is a voluntary promise offered by the person or business who sold the product or service to you. A warranty is in addition to any rights you have under the ACL.    You can find out more about warranties in general here.

What is a Manufacturer Warranty?

A Manufacturer or Dealer warranty is a promise to the consumer that a vehicle will be free from defects for a certain period of time and that any defects will entitle the consumer to a repair or other compensation.  These are offered in addition to your consumer guarantees.

Will Servicing at a Non Dealer Workshop Void My Warranty?

No. You do not have to use a Manufacturers Dealership to service your car to protect your new car warranty or your consumer guarantees.

How Does An Independent Workshop Protect My Warranty?

To protect your new car warranty a workshop needs to follow a set of guidelines when servicing your car.  These include using quality spare parts from reputable suppliers plus lubricants and fluids that met manufacturer’s specifications. They must conduct the service in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and be carried out by staff trained, supervised and suitably qualified.

If you have any questions, your local Repco Authorised Service centre will be happy to answer them or you can read more from the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association on new car servicing here.

What if I Have a Warranty Claim?

If you have a warrantable defect it may be a condition of the warranty that any work to rectify is carried out at the Manufacturers Dealer workshop. Your independent mechanical workshop may also be able to guide you through this process.

What should I do if a Manufacturers Dealership Denies my Warranty?

Check your rights under the ACL and remember that often your consumer guarantees will last longer than a warranty issued by a manufacturer.   If a warranty is declined solely on the basis that your car was not serviced by the Manufacturers Dealership or that “non genuine” parts were used please contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.  Your independent mechanical workshop may also be able to guide you.

Radiator and Cooling System Service

Don’t be that car, stuck on the side of the road with steam pouring from under the hood. We will give your radiator and cooling system a well deserved service.

A fully functional and efficient cooling system circulates coolant to reduce heat around your engine. It is essential in preventing overheating, therefore reducing wear and tear of engine components.

If your dashboard shows your car is running hotter than normal or you are leaving puddles of coolant where ever you park, it is time to have your cooling system checked out.  View our AutoFacts Video to learn how your cooling system works.

A regular radiator flush will prevent rust and debris from building up which creates congestion in your cooling system. This congestion will cause your cooling system to run inefficiently, leading to overheating of the engine and ultimately worse issues such as warped or broken engine blocks, corrosion or even engine failure.

When you visit your local Repco Authorised Service centre, trained and experienced mechanics will flush your radiator, using a solution to clean all channels of build up. When the cooling system is clean the solution is drained and the new coolant added. Your car’s cooling system will be running like a dream.

If you suspect your radiator or cooling system is struggling it is time to pop into Pelican Motors. We ensure your radiator is flushed at least once a year, as recommended, and we use quality products such as Penrite’s radiator flush.

New car? No worries

Pelican Motors is fully qualified to service your in-warranty car and maintain the log book servicing schedule. You’ll enjoy the value for money and friendly service you expect from a local and trusted independent service centre, combined with the reassurance of the nationwide warranty backing provided by Repco Authorised Service.

Radiator and cooling systems – everything you need to know and more

The role of the radiator, cooling system and coolant in a car is to dissipate the heat, therefore reducing the stress placed on the engine. This heat is produced when chemical energy (fuel) is converted into the energy that drives the mechanical elements of the engine to power the car. Unfortunately only approximately 20 – 30% of the energy produced from fuel is used to power the engine, the remaining 70 – 80% is converted to heat. This is why an engine gets so hot.

A car cooling system is made up of five major components;

Radiator: Helps to reduce the heat of coolant. It is made up of a series of tubes designed to catch the wind and dissipate heat before the coolant is pumped back into the cooling system.

Water pump: Think of this as the cooling system’s heart. It pumps coolant all around the engine.

Cooling system hoses: Carrying coolant between the thermostat, engine and heaters, these reinforced synthetic rubber tubes have been built to withstand chemicals, heat, vibration and more.

Thermostat: Regulates the delivery of the coolant to the engine. When the engine is cold the thermostat is closed. As the engine warms up it begins to open until the engine is hot and requires a constant flow of coolant to maintain an optimal temperature.

Fan: Assists the thermostat and coolant to maintain a consistent engine temperature. Controlled by the thermostat or the engines computer, the fan will automatically turn on or off as required.

If you want to know more about radiators and cooling system you might find the following pages useful;

• Radiator flush
• Changing cooling system hoses
• Black flecks in your coolant
• Coolant changes
• Protecting your cooling system

Engine Diagnostic Check

Car problems can be tricky to identify, but at Pelican Motors we have the latest diagnostic equipment to get you back on the road.

The warning light on your dashboard is an indication that the on-board computer system has detected components operating outside their acceptable range. This can be an indication of a minor problem, or one that may require immediate attention.

If the Check Engine Light comes on while driving, or remains on, it is a warning of an emissions, or sensor problem and should be analysed.

If the light flashes, the condition is more severe and must be checked immediately to prevent catalytic converter damage.

Our diagnostic equipment can be used for fault finding resetting the warning light once we have repaired the issue.

Our Diagnostic Services Included

• Check of vehicle’s computer for fault codes
• Visual check to confirm condition of the PCV valve and fuel filter
• Check of engine timing (where applicable)
• Examination of starting and charging system
• Check ‘engine’ or ‘Service soon’ warning light is illuminated
• Check ignition system
• Check electrical and charging electrical
• Poor fuel economy check
• If Engine is running rough

Suspension and Steering Service

Car pulling you in any direction but straight? Pot holes feel like canyons? Your suspension and steering needs some tender loving care.

The key role of well performing car suspension and steering is to provide stability, good handling and ultimately safety.

When driving your car is a better upper body workout than going to the gym or driving to work feels more like going for a four-wheel driving holiday through the Australian outback, it is time to book your vehicle in for a suspension and steering service.

A regular suspension and steering service will ensure the comfort and safety of your passengers. The overall suspension and steering systems will be checked, the shock absorbers will be examined and replaced if required and a wheel alignment will be performed. All these activities will protect the longevity of your tyres and efficiency of your car.

Pelican Motors Service centre have highly trained mechanics who are familiar with all types of suspension systems. They can inspect, diagnose problems, discuss the repairs required with you and then fix your suspension system. This might include repairing steering problems, flush and replacement of steering fluid, replacing shock absorbers and performing a wheel alignment.

If driving your car isn’t a pleasure anymore, get it into Pelican Motors for a steering and suspension service.

Trust, knowledge and expertise

We pride ourselves on second to none servicing with quality parts, complemented by our extensive knowledge and expertise. Trust Pelican Motors to take care of your steering and suspension. All our work and the quality parts we use are covered by a 12 month or 20,000km nationwide warranty.

Suspension and steering – everything you need to know and more

Suspension

A car’s suspension is built to take care of road isolation, handling and cornering. These principles ensure your car maintains contact with the road at all times, handles well, travels a curved path as expected and is a comfortable ride.

Steering

A car’s steering system works in such a way that a turn of the steering wheel will result in a relatively small correction of wheel direction to maneouver the vehicle. Steering effort is passed to the wheels through a series of pivot joints, allowing the wheels to move up and down with the suspension system without hindering the steering angle.

When a steering wheel is turned, not all wheels are turned at the same angle. When cornering, the inner front wheel of a car becomes more tightly angled because it has to perform a sharper turn. This precise angling requires steering systems to be maintained to ensure the appropriate repsonse is returned as a result of steering wheel movement.

You can read more about steering below;

• Power steering maintenance
• The importance of steering and CV boots
• Power steering – auto facts

Shock absorbers and struts

Both shock absorbers and struts work with the car’s suspension to absorb the effects of imperfections on the road. They work in two cyles, compression and extension. They are velocity senstive, meaning the faster a car drives the more reactive your shocks and struts will be, to ensure a smooth ride.

The terms shocks and struts are often used interchangeably but they are in fact two seperate components and they never replace one another. Struts are typically more expensive but their role in maintaining a cars suspension is greater because they also act as a pivot point for steering.

You can read more about shocks and struts below;

• Shock absorber replacement
• The dangers of worn shock absorbers
• Shock absorbers – auto facts

Lights, Wipers and Accessories

Can you see clearly now the rain has gone? Wiper blades, lights and accessories are our bag.

Modern cars are complete with a myriad of accessories, from headlights and windscreen wipers through to automatic mirrors and reverse parking cameras. All of these measures are in place for your safety and convenience so although needing a repair on your car accessories can be inconvenient, the situations not fixing them lead to, can be life threatening.

You may not know you have a blown light or a broken indicator but you will know if any of the other accessories on your car are broken or malfunctioning.

If you notice your wiper blades are less than optimal or your headlight is blown, it is important to get them replaced because visibility in bad weather or bad light is essential to safe driving.

If you bring your car into Pelican Motors for a minor fix to an accessory, we will also check over your vehicle to ensure there are no other issues. No matter what part you are after, we can source it and repair your car.

For hassle free accessory repair and replacement drop into Pelican Motors, we will get you on the road again in no time.

Lights, wipers and accessories – everything you need to know and more

Before you head off on a big driving trip it is important to check over your car to make sure all the basics are under control. Something as small as dim headlights or ineffective wiper blades can make driving harder and much more dangerous. At Pelican Motors we can provide a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection on your vehicle before you go. This safety check is a thorough and rigorous test of a vehicle’s condition before you embark on your next long trip. It is worth it for peace of mind and the safety of your passengers.

Here are some tips for keeping your car accessories in top condition;

• How to get a cleaner windscreen.
• How to clean discoloured headlights.

Timing Belt Replacement

Don’t waste time worrying about a broken timing belt. We will keep your timing belt on track.

A properly functioning timing belt does just that, keeps time. A damaged timing belt puts the synchronisation of the engine at risk, which could lead to piston damage and worse.

Diagnosis of a timing belt problem requires inspection of the belt, which is usually protected by a cover under the hood of your car. The most obvious signs of a problem are damage such as cracking, elongation, the edges wearing down or the teeth stripping.

Regular servicing and checks to the timing belt will ensure problems are detected before disaster occurs and the timing belt breaks completely. This would cause severe damage to your car.

Most manufacturers recommend replacement of the timing belt between 60,000 to 100,000km but we will always keep an eye on the condition of your timing belt because replacing it is a lot more cost effective than having to repair the damage caused by a broken timing belt.

Do you suspect your timing belt needs some attention? It is time to visit Pelican Motors today.

Timing belts – everything you need to know and more

The timing belt is generally located at the front of a vehicle’s engine. Also known as a camshaft drive belt or cam belt, timing belts are toothed rubber belts used in the majority of vehicles on the road today. Propelled by the rotation of the crankshaft, the timing belt drives the camshaft, moving the valves of the engine. Synchronisation of these parts ensures the engine valves open and close at the appropriate times, maintaining the internal combustion of the engine.

If you want to learn more about timing belts; watch our auto facts video about timing belts or read up on timing belt maintenance.

Caravan and Trailer Service

Is your caravan or trailer towing the line? Bring it into Pelican Motors for a service.

Just like your car, every caravan, trailer or horse float needs regular servicing and maintenance.

Trailer and caravan manufacturers recommend that wheel bearings and brakes are serviced every 10,000km or 12 months. At Pelican Motors, we will also check many other items such as; couplings, lights, bushes, wiring, springs, chassis mounts, cables, latches and the list goes on.

Have your next comprehensive caravan or trailer service done at Pelican Motors.

Friendly local service – backed by Repco

Pelican Motors is backed by Repco with training, technical equipment, and top quality spare parts. We will explain all of our work in a straight forward manner, and advise you of any extra work that may be required on your trailer or caravan. Plus our nationwide warranty has you covered wherever you may be towing that caravan or trailer.

Caravan and trailer service – everything you need to know and more

Setting off on a holiday with your caravan or trailer? Here are a few holiday motoring tips to help you stay safe and destination bound.

We conduct specialised caravan and trailer services. They are comprehensive and ensure that your caravan or trailer will hit the road running.  View our Auto Facts caravaning video.

Diesel Repairs

Do you need a diesel car service specialist?

The Australian car park is changing with a higher concentration of diesel vehicles on our roads than ever before.

Diesel vehicles produce more oil contaminants and place greater pressure on the internal filtration systems than petrol engines.  So it is strongly recommended that you adhere to the scheduled servicing to keep them in peak operating condition.

Pelican Motors Service centre has the expertise and technology needed to service and repair a full range of vehicles, including the latest european diesel models.

Learn about carbon build up in diesel engines  

Pelican Motors are members of the Repco Auto-tech training program, Australia’s leading aftermarket provider of automotive technical training and information.

Auto Electrical Service

Cars these days are as much electronics as they are mechanics. That is why we are skilled at both.

As cars and their engines become more modern, more of the systems are computer controlled. This results in more efficient cars with improved performance but it also means cars are more complex than ever.

The good thing about auto electrical problems is that they are usually indicated by a light or error message on your dash, making it easy for the driver to know something is amiss. There are more sinister issues though, such as your car not starting at all or cutting out unexpectedly.

When you have a problem with your car’s auto electrical system your local Repco Authorised Service centre has the technology to diagnose the problem and trained, skilled technicians to service and repair any auto electrical components.

For all your auto electrical servicing and repairs, Pelican Motors Service centres have the latest training and expert knowledge.

Auto electrical services – everything you need to know and more

Here is a look at the parts of your car which might need the attention of an auto electrician.

Engine and engine component based services:

Engine tuning: Tuning the engine to optimal performance using the latest equipment will deliver a more responsive drive, by restoring lost power and increasing fuel economy, helping to lower overall emissions.

Engine carbon clean: With everyday driving and the use of lesser quality fuel your engine starts to accumulate carbon on fuel injectors and other engine components. This accumulated carbon causes poor fuel economy, a decrease in power and responsiveness plus rough idling and emissions.

Alternator: The alternator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy to help power electrical parts within your vehicle and to recharge your battery.

Starter motor: Starter motors turn your engine over by drawing electricity from your car battery to get the crankshaft going.

Fuel injection system: If your fuel injection system isn’t working properly your car’s performance will be directly affected. By utilising the appropriate diagnostic equipment we can locate the issue and prevent it from occurring in the future.

Fuel injectors: If your fuel injectors are clogged or dirty your vehicle will be experiencing limited acceleration, decreased power, lacklustre fuel efficiency, irregular idling along with possible increased emissions.

Electronic fuel pumps: The fuel pump pumps fuel from the tank to the vehicle’s engine. Fuel is delivered constantly to make sure the engine is performing properly and constantly.

Automatic transmission diagnostics: Your automatic transmission needs to be in optimal working order to make sure gear shift transitions are performed smoothly. If your transmission isn’t running smoothly it will jump through gears and ultimately wear out gears and plates.

Other electrical component services:

Batteries: The battery supplies electricity to the starter motor and ignition system that starts your car.

Air bags: To keep you and your passangers safe, it is good to know your air bags are in working order. Our auto electricians can check and repair any compromised electrical work that has an impact on your air bags.

Sound and vision: Looking to add a better entertainment, rear vision or parking system? No worries. We can install, wire and setup sound systems, DVD players, flip down & headrest screens and rear parking cameras and sensors.

Power windows and central locking: Central locking and your power windows issues are often caused by an electronics issue that can be easily repaired after a system wide diagnostic scan is performed.

Car Air Conditioning Service

Don’t melt in your car this summer.

In Australia a properly working air conditioner is vital to keeping your car comfortable all year round.

While a regular car service will check for obvious faults which may be associated with the air conditioning system, such as drive belt tension, visible signs of refrigerant leaks and loose or faulty compressor or equipment mounting brackets,  it is good practice to have a comprehensive air conditioning service.

Car air conditioners not only keep you cool during Summer, they also remove humidity from the cabin, which can be handy in the winter to counteract a foggy windscreen.

Running your AC during winter also helps to maintain the system in good working order. Air conditioning systems contain a myriad of hoses and seals that can dry out or crack, which could lead to coolant leaks and poor performance.  View our Air conditioning AutoFacts video to learn more.

When you visit Pelican Motors, trained mechanics will perform a series of checks, balances, repairs and replacements to get your air conditioner in top condition.

If your car air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, needs a regas, or you haven’t had it serviced for a long time, now is your moment. Go ahead, book today a car air conditioning service from just $99* plus parts and gas.

*Price may vary depending on vehicle type and workshop location. 

Car air conditioning systems – everything you need to know and more

Want to know exactly what is undertaken when your car air conditioner is serviced?

• Inspection of drive belts and pulleys
• Check operation of valves and thermostats
• Inspection of hoses and components
• Evacuate system and recover refrigerant (weigh amount and record)
• Add required amount of refrigerant oil
• Charge system with recommended refrigerant type and capacity (if required)
• Condenser temperature check
• Suction line temperature reading
• Leak test system lines and components with an electronic leak detector
• Run vehicle to check air vent temperature and report

What’s that smell?

Dealing with a nasty smell coming from your vents?  This is caused by a build up of bacteria that can cause health issues. A Prostream Mist treatment will kill the bacteria and that smell!  Learn more here.

Protecting the environment

Refrigerant gas is extremely damaging to the ozone layer and any gas that is irresponsibly released into the atmosphere harms the environment and contributes to global warming. By law, all refrigerant gas must be recycled and Repco Authorised Service applauds the work and efforts of bodies such as Refrigerant Reclaim Australia and who help to ensure refrigerant gas is recycled or if contaminated, destroyed using specific methods.

If you want to know more about your car’s air conditioner or maintaining it you may be interested in the following;

• Here is some information on maintaining your air conditioner between services.
• Watch our educational video about car cabin air filters.

Electronic Fuel Injection

Inject your car with energy, visit us to make sure your electronic fuel injection is in sharp shape.

The electronic fuel injection (EFI) system combines sophisticated computer controls with a high pressure fuel delivery system to provide optimum power and fuel efficiency.

EFI problems can be caused by dirty fuel or a blocked injector or a fault within the EFI system. These faults must be identified using advanced diagnostic testers. Common symptoms include; poor fuel economy, backfiring and rough idling.

Regular system cleans will ensure your car’s electronic fuel injection system is operating at peak efficiency.

Advise us if you are experiencing any particular fault or problem, as they are fully trained to carry out a complete EFI service and restore your engine to its peak running condition using quality components from leading manufacturers.

We are happy to answer any more questions you may have regarding EFI engine management or fuel systems. Book your next electronic fuel injection service with Pelican Motors.

Electronic fuel injection, EFI – everything you need to know and more

The electronic fuel injection (EFI) system is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). These systems often have anything in excess of thirty different engine and emission sensors all sending information continually to the ECU.

The ECU then monitors the information from the sensors and ensures the correct amount of fuel and air is used to provide optimum fuel efficiency and performance and also minimise exhaust emissions.