As the summer holidays approach, the excitement of planning road trips and vacations fills the air. In Mittagong, this time of year also signals the need to prepare your car for the busy travel season. Regular car servicing is an essential step in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Booking early with Southern Highlands Service Centre not only helps you avoid the Christmas rush but also guarantees your car is in peak condition for the adventures that lie ahead.

Ensure a Stress-Free Summer Holiday with Regular Car Servicing

Many workshops, including Southern Highlands Service Centre, experience high demand as the summer holidays draw near. This increase in demand is due to the number of people wanting their vehicles ready for holiday travels. To make matters more pressing, most workshops close during the Christmas period. Therefore, it's imperative to schedule your car service early. By doing so, you ensure that your vehicle receives the necessary attention before the workshop's calendar fills up and avoid the inconvenience of last-minute arrangements.

In Mittagong, the summer heat can be relentless. Therefore, ensuring your car’s air conditioning system is functioning efficiently is crucial for a comfortable drive. Southern Highlands Service Centre offers comprehensive air conditioning services and is authorized by Arctick (AU42890) to conduct environmentally responsible regas, repairs, servicing, and inspections. By choosing a provider that cares about both your comfort and the environment, you can travel with the peace of mind that your air conditioning system is in expert hands.

The Importance of Air Conditioning Service

Regular car servicing is a key aspect of vehicle maintenance that should not be overlooked. It involves various checks and tasks that keep your car running smoothly and safely. These services address issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. During the holiday season, when long drives and increased use are common, a well-maintained car can make all the difference in avoiding unexpected breakdowns.

When you take your car for regular servicing at Southern Highlands Service Centre, a variety of basic mechanical tasks are carried out. These tasks are essential for ensuring the safety and condition of your vehicle during the busy holiday period. Some of these tasks include:

Basic Mechanical Tasks Included in Regular Servicing

Oil and Filter Change: 
Regular oil changes keep your engine running smoothly, improving performance and fuel efficiency.

Brake Inspection and Service: 
Ensuring your brakes are in top condition is crucial for safety, especially when driving in holiday traffic.

Tyre Check and Rotation: 
Properly inflated and rotated tyres enhance fuel efficiency and provide better traction on the road.

Battery Check: 
A thorough battery inspection can prevent unexpected power failures during your travels.

Fluid Level Checks: 
Ensuring all fluids are at optimal levels helps maintain your vehicle's performance and longevity.

Having a professional mechanic at Southern Highlands Service Centre conduct your car service provides reassurance. With the backing of a nationwide warranty, you can trust that the service performed is of the highest quality. This assurance is particularly comforting when preparing for a long road trip. Knowing that your vehicle has been checked and serviced by skilled professionals allows you to focus on the joy and excitement of your holiday plans rather than worrying about potential car troubles.

Peace of Mind with Professional Mechanics

The summer holidays in Mittagong are a time for relaxation, exploration, and making memories with family and friends. By prioritizing regular car servicing and booking early with Southern Highlands Service Centre, you set the foundation for a worry-free holiday. Whether you're planning a beach getaway, a trip to the countryside, or visiting loved ones, having a well-maintained car ensures you arrive at your destination safely and comfortably.

As the summer season approaches, make the smart choice by booking your car service early with Southern Highlands Service Centre. Regular servicing not only prepares your vehicle for the demands of holiday travel but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your time off without worrying about car troubles. 

Embrace the holiday spirit with confidence, knowing your car is ready for the road ahead in Mittagong. Prioritize your safety and comfort, and ensure your summer holidays are filled with fun and relaxation...

Book early with Southern Highlands Service Centre for your car service to beat the Christmas rush. Learn why regular servicing is crucial for a safe and enjoyable summer holiday in Mittagong…

Maintaining your brakes properly means not waiting until they need repairs or you find they are not up to the task of stopping you safely in an emergency situation. At Southern Highlands Service Centre we provide expert brake maintenance service using quality parts, covered by our Nationwide Warranty.

When it comes to the safety of yourself and others on the road, taking any risks with the functionality of your brakes is not an option. Brake maintenance is the key to ensuring your brakes are operational when you need them most, in those crucial moments where quick and reliable stopping power is required. Don't wait until you need repairs or your brakes are no longer up to the task, prioritize regular maintenance to maintain peace of mind and confidence in your vehicle's ability to stop on a dime.

Many may initially think of brake repairs as the key to staying safe on the roads, yet it is far more essential to maintain brakes regularly in order to have that peace of mind in knowing they are operational during a crucial moment.

At Southern Highlands Service Centre, we understand the importance of brake maintenance and provide expert service using only high-quality parts that are covered by our Nationwide Warranty. Many may assume that brake repairs are the solution to ensuring safe driving, but in reality, regular brake maintenance is the foundation for road safety. By staying proactive and ensuring your brakes are in optimal condition, you are investing in your own safety and the safety of others.

When it comes to the safety of your vehicle, taking risks is never a wise option. If you are not completely certain that your brakes are in working order, do not hesitate to call Southern Highlands Service Centre for help.

Keeping in mind that brakes do not just naturally make sounds, it is critical to have any strange noises coming from any part of your vehicle examined by an experienced technician.

When it comes to brake maintenance, brake pads are a crucial component that can determine the effectiveness of your stopping power. Depending on driving behaviour, brake pads can last anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 km's. Heavy loads, frequent stops, and other factors can cause increased wear and tear on brake pads, which is why it's important to have them inspected regularly. A qualified technician may recommend heat-resistant or more heavy-duty brake pads that are compatible with your vehicle if they notice they are wearing faster than usual.

The force necessary to halt a moving vehicle is massive and gives off a lot of heat which wears down the brake pads over time. This is why regular inspection and/or replacement of your brake pads is an integral part of good brake maintenance practices.

A high-pitched squealing noise when applying the brakes is often a sign that the brake pads are on their way out. This noise is created by a tiny metal component on the brake pad degrading and scratching against the brake disc. Waiting until you hear this noise is not recommended as it can lead to further damage, instead, make regular brake inspections a priority during every service to catch any potential issues before they escalate.

Brake flushing is another important aspect of brake maintenance that is often overlooked. Keeping the brake fluid level topped up is important, but flushing the entire system to replace old brake fluid and prevent excessive moisture is equally critical. Even if your brake fluid appears to be clean and in good condition, moisture can accumulate and go undetected by visual examination. A brake fluid flush should be performed as part of a scheduled service as recommended by the manufacturer, or if necessary, suggested by your trusted mechanic.

Southern Highlands Service Centre are qualified to perform a wide range of brake services and repairs using quality parts, all covered by our nationwide warranty;

At Southern Highlands Service Centre we offer a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake system and more. This Vehicle Inspection Report lets you know if there is immediate or future need for repairs to your vehicle allowing you to avoid future problems or budget in advance.

Regular brake maintenance is essential for safe driving. Don't wait until it's too late to address potential issues with your brakes. Trust the qualified experts at Southern Highlands Service Centre to provide top-quality brake maintenance services using high-quality parts that are covered by our Nationwide Warranty. 

Prioritise your safety and the safety of others on the road by staying proactive with your brake maintenance.

Some things are best left to the experts and this is one of them. You should never let anyone but a qualified professional like Southern Highlands Service Centre touch something as key to your safety as your cars' braking system...

Brake maintenance in Mittagong

Don't let nothing stop you - think brake maintenance

As Mittagong enters the wettest (June) and coldest (July) months of the year the importance of ensuring your vehicle is ready for the winter conditions becomes paramount.

As the crisp air of autumn gives way to the chill of winter in Mittagong, it's crucial to ensure your car is prepared for the wetter and colder months ahead. Regular servicing plays a vital role in maintaining your vehicle's performance, safety, and reliability, especially when winter driving conditions can be more demanding

Here's a few more reasons regular service is essential and how it helps keep your car in top shape for winter driving in the greater Sydney area and NSW.

Regular car servicing is not just about keeping your vehicle running smoothly; it's about safety, reliability, and peace of mind. During winter, the mechanical demands on your car increase due to colder temperatures, wet conditions, and potentially hazardous roads. Ensuring your car is in optimal condition can prevent breakdowns, accidents, and costly repairs down the line.

Regular servicing allows the identification minor issues before they become significant problems and is a proactive approach which may save you from costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns, especially when the weather conditions are less forgiving. Some of the areas that should be given particular attention in winter include;

Essential Winter-Readiness Checks During Regular Servicing

Winter mornings can be particularly harsh on car batteries. Cold weather reduces the battery's efficiency, making it harder to start your car. During a regular service, mechanics check the battery's charge and condition to ensure it's up to the task. A well-maintained battery means your car will start reliably even on the coldest mornings, helping you avoid inconvenient and potentially dangerous situations.

Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle, and maintaining their levels is critical during winter. Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid all play vital roles in your car's performance and safety. For instance, coolant (antifreeze) prevents the engine from freezing in low temperatures, while windshield washer fluid ensures visibility by keeping the windshield clear of ice and grime. Regular service ensures all these fluids are topped up and at the correct concentration, safeguarding your car against the elements.

Brakes are your primary safety mechanism, and their importance cannot be overstated, especially in winter when roads can be wet and slippery. Regular servicing includes checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure the system is functioning optimally. Properly maintained brakes reduce stopping distances and improve overall vehicle control, crucial for avoiding accidents in winter conditions.

Good visibility is essential for safe driving, and functioning windshield wipers are a key component. Winter weather can bring rain, frost, and even sleet, all of which can impair your view. During a regular service, mechanics inspect the wipers for wear and tear and replace them if necessary. Ensuring your wipers are in good condition helps maintain clear visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Regular service also helps ensure all exterior lights are working correctly, as overall visibility can be significantly reduced during winter.

Your tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making their condition critical for safe winter driving. Regular servicing includes checking the tyre tread, pressure, and overall condition. Adequate tread depth is essential for good traction on wet and slippery roads, while correct tyre pressure ensures optimal performance and handling. Well-maintained tyres help prevent skidding and improve braking efficiency, enhancing your car's safety during winter.

A well-functioning HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is not just about comfort; it's also about safety. The heating component ensures a warm interior, which helps keep the driver alert and comfortable. More importantly, the defrosting function clears the windshield and windows of frost and condensation, ensuring clear visibility. Regular service checks the HVAC system to ensure it's operating efficiently, providing you with both comfort and safety during winter drives.

Regular servicing is an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance, especially when preparing for winter driving in Mittagong. From ensuring your battery is in good condition to checking fluid levels, brakes, windshield wipers, tyres, and the HVAC system, these checks help keep your car safe and reliable.

So, as winter approaches, make sure to schedule a service with your trusted mechanic at Southern Highlands Service Centre in Mittagong to ensure your car is ready to tackle the colder months with confidence...

Get your car winter ready with regular service

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 Southern Highlands Service Centre 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? 

Does your car rock and roll when you corner or is simply not stopping the way it used to

Your car's braking and suspension play a vital role in making sure your car stops quickly and safely, so why would you stop at a simple road test when a Safe-T-Stop test can soon have your braking back on track? 

Here at Southern Highlands Service Centre in Mittagong we take your safety very seriously, which is why we have invested in a state of the art Safe-T-Stop testing machine and are an approved Safe-T-Stop Testing Centre. A Safe-T-Stop inspection provides a detailed and accurate check of your cars' braking and suspension systems that goes well beyond a basic check and road test to scientifically test your braking capacity and ensure maximum stopping performance.

Safe-T-Stop test lanes measure and simulate a vehicle's brake performance in real-life conditions without the technician having to drive the vehicle at all. A simple road test, no matter how good the examiner, could never produce a report as accurate and comprehensive as a Safe-T-Stop inspection can.

Along with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car will stop straight and in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, having your braking and suspension system in peak operating condition save you money by minimising tyre drag and tyre wear which can increase fuel consumption.

Once your car has gone through the Safe-T-Stop inspection at Southern Highlands Service Centre, a detailed printed report is generated which our qualified technicians can then use to recommend any critical adjustments or repairs to your suspension and brake systems that should be made. 

So, why settle for a simple road test when a Safe-T-Stop test can have your brakes back on track?

Safe-T-Stop - Committed to Safer Motoring

Want to know more about safe braking and suspension?

Find out more about Safe-T-Stop Testing at http://www.safetstop.com.au  or visit www.repcoservice.com for more about Shock Absorbers or Brake Service.

Book your safe-t-stop test online or call Southern Highlands Service Centre today.

Your car's braking and suspension play a vital role in making sure your car stops quickly and safely, so why would you stop at a simple road test when a Safe-T-Stop test can soon have your braking back on track? Here at Southern Highlands Service Centre we take your safety very seriously. This is why we have invested in a state of the art Safe-T-Stop testing machine and are an approved Safe-T-Stop Testing Centre...

Safe-T-Stop testing in Mittagong

Safe-t-stop brake testing beats a simple road test...

Drive Safer this Winter with a 65 Point Written Vehicle Inspection Report

Our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report is free with every service at Southern Highlands Service Centre in Mittagong. Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important safety components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any safety concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Southern Highlands Service Centre and Repco Authorised Service.

While half of Australia is enjoying their dry season up north, the southern half of the country is bracing for a wet winter.

You might think this means very different approaches to have your car ready for winter driving; however the essentials of safe winter motoring stay unchanged. So what ways can you make sure your car is ready for safe winter motoring? 

Who hasn't had that moment when you turn on the wipers during that first rainstorm and realise they're worn out and basically useless! Wiper blades don't last forever, especially sitting under the harsh Australian sun all summer. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Southern Highlands Service Centre can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Fluids and other parts in your car can be impacted by cold weather; especially coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. It's important to have your car serviced regularly by an expert who recognises the best products and parts to maintain your vehicle in top condition. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.  

Conditions change - and your driving style should too. In wet weather or poor visibility, slow down and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Drive on the safe side and book in today for a service or a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report.

Be aware of the warning signs that your brakes need to be looked at, including vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If your car is doing any of these it's best to have a qualified mechanic check it out. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in.

It's dangerous to drive on worn or incorrectly inflated tyres. Now is the time to check that your tyres have plenty of tread left. If you spot uneven tyre wear, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below: 

Driving on tyres that are incorrectly inflated won't just cost you money on additional fuel; it can also impact your stopping distance. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

Southern Highlands Service Centre has a state of the art Safe T Stop machine that can accurately test for shocker and brake wear and tear and provide you with a detailed report on the state of your vehicles ability to stop in an emergency. Call us today to book in for a Safe T Stop test.

We've all experienced that moment where you turn on the wipers at the first spot of rain and realise they haven't been replaced in years! Constant exposure to the Australian conditions means your wipers will...

Safe winter driving with Southern Highlands Service Centre

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 Southern Highlands Service Centre 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 Mittagong workshop today.

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

Brake and Clutch Service in Mittagong

Brake and Clutch

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Tuesday 24th December 2024 and Reopening Friday 27th December 2024

We advise that we will be closed for the Easter long weekend from Friday 29th of March, reopening Tuesday 2nd of April

Southern Highlands Service Centre (LIC# MVRL54068) take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. Conveniently located in Mittagong, 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. Southern Highlands Service Centre 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.

Southern Highlands Service Centre

Brake and clutch

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