Frequently Asked Questions
This page compiles common enquiries regarding our automotive services, operations, and vehicle maintenance. It is designed to provide clear, informative answers to assist you in making informed decisions. For personalised advice, please contact us at (07) 3448 6868 or [email protected]
General Questions
What services does Ultra Tune Deception Bay provide?
Ultra Tune Deception Bay offers a comprehensive range of automotive services, including logbook servicing, brake repairs, engine diagnostics, transmission maintenance, suspension and steering repairs, exhaust system work, electrical system fixes, air conditioning and heating services, as well as tyre and wheel installations, balancing, and alignments.
How can I book an appointment?
Appointments can be scheduled conveniently through our integrated online booking system on the website, by calling (07) 3448 6868, or via email at [email protected]. We recommend providing details about your vehicle and the required service for accurate scheduling.
Do you offer transparent pricing?
Yes, we prioritise transparency by providing upfront quotes for all services. No additional work is performed without your explicit approval, ensuring you remain informed and in control of costs throughout the process.
What are your operating hours?
We are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays. For added convenience, an early/late key drop box is available for vehicle drop-offs outside regular hours.
How often should I get my car serviced?
As a general guideline for most vehicles in Australia, servicing is recommended every 10,000 kilometres or six months, whichever occurs first. However, consult your vehicle's logbook for manufacturer-specific intervals tailored to your driving conditions.
Logbook Servicing
Does logbook servicing affect my vehicle's warranty?
No, our logbook servicing adheres strictly to manufacturer guidelines, preserving your vehicle's warranty. Our qualified mechanics use approved parts and procedures to maintain compliance and optimal performance.
What’s Included in a Logbook Service?
A logbook service at Ultra Tune Deception Bay follows the manufacturer’s specific guidelines for your vehicle, ensuring warranty compliance and optimal performance. While the exact items vary by make, model, age, and mileage, typical components and procedures include:
What’s Included in a Logbook Service?
Oil and Filter Change: Replacing engine oil and the filter to maintain lubrication and engine health.
Fluid Top-Ups: Checking and replenishing coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windscreen washer fluid to prevent system failures.
Brake Inspection: Examining pads, discs, and fluid levels for safety and responsiveness.
Tyre Inspection: Assessing pressure, tread, and condition (including the spare) to enhance handling and efficiency.
Battery and Charging System Test: Evaluating for wear to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Lights, Wipers, and Horn Check: Verifying functionality to meet road safety standards.
Suspension and Steering Check: Inspecting components for damage or alignment issues to ensure stability.
Computer Diagnostics (if applicable): Scanning for error codes and performing updates as per manufacturer recommendations.
Exhaust System Inspection: Checking for leaks or damage to maintain emissions compliance.
Logbook Stamping: Updating your vehicle’s logbook with a stamp to record the service. This service uses genuine or high-quality parts and helps detect issues early, preserving resale value and warranty validity.
Brake Services
How Do I Know If My Brakes Need Replacing?
Indicators that your vehicle's brakes require replacement include squealing or screeching noises during braking, which often result from wear indicators on the brake pads making contact with the rotors. A grinding sound suggests more advanced wear, potentially involving metal-on-metal contact that could damage the rotors. Additional signs encompass vibrations or pulsing in the brake pedal, a soft or spongy pedal feel, the vehicle pulling to one side when braking, extended stopping distances, or activation of the brake warning light on the dashboard. Visible inspection may reveal thin brake pads or scored rotors, necessitating professional evaluation to confirm the need for replacement.
How Do I Know If My Brakes Need Replacing?
Indicators that your vehicle's brakes require replacement include squealing or screeching noises during braking, which often result from wear indicators on the brake pads making contact with the rotors. A grinding sound suggests more advanced wear, potentially involving metal-on-metal contact that could damage the rotors. Additional signs encompass vibrations or pulsing in the brake pedal, a soft or spongy pedal feel, the vehicle pulling to one side when braking, extended stopping distances, or activation of the brake warning light on the dashboard. Visible inspection may reveal thin brake pads or scored rotors, necessitating professional evaluation to confirm the need for replacement.
How Often Should I Have My Brakes Serviced?
Brakes should be inspected every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometres or during routine logbook services, whichever comes first. Factors such as driving style, road conditions, and vehicle type can accelerate wear, so consult your mechanic for personalised advice.
What Causes Brake Wear?
Common causes include frequent stop-start driving in urban areas, heavy loads, downhill braking, or poor-quality components. Regular inspections help identify and mitigate these factors early.
Engine Diagnostics and Repair
What Should I Do If My Check Engine Light Comes On?
Upon illumination of the check engine light, first verify if the fuel cap is securely fastened, as a loose cap can trigger the indicator. If the light remains steady and the vehicle operates normally, reduce speed and load to minimise potential damage, then arrange for a diagnostic scan at a qualified service centre to identify the underlying issue, which may range from minor sensor faults to more significant concerns like a faulty catalytic converter. Should the light flash, indicating a severe problem such as engine misfiring, cease driving immediately and seek towing to prevent further engine harm. Avoid prolonged operation without diagnosis, as it may exacerbate issues or lead to emissions non-compliance.
What Causes Common Engine Faults?
Frequent causes include degraded sensors, contaminated fuel, worn ignition components, or overheating due to coolant deficiencies. Environmental factors like dust or extreme temperatures in Australia can accelerate these issues, making periodic diagnostics essential.
Transmission Services
How Often Should I Service My Transmission?
Transmission services are generally recommended every 40,000 to 100,000 kilometres, or every 2 to 4 years, depending on your vehicle's manufacturer guidelines and driving conditions. Consult your owner's manual or our mechanics for tailored advice, as harsh Australian environments like heat or towing can necessitate more frequent checks.
What Are Signs That My Transmission Needs Service?
Common indicators include delayed or rough gear shifting, slipping gears, unusual noises (such as whining or grinding), leaking fluid under the vehicle, or illumination of the transmission warning light. If you experience overheating or a burning smell, seek immediate professional assessment to prevent further damage.
Is Transmission Fluid the Same as Engine Oil?
No, transmission fluid is a specialised lubricant designed for the unique demands of the transmission system, providing hydraulic pressure, cooling, and friction modification. Using the incorrect type can cause severe damage, so always adhere to manufacturer specifications.
Suspension & Steering
How Do I Know If My Suspension or Steering Needs Repair?
Common signs include the vehicle pulling to one side, excessive bouncing or swaying over bumps, clunking or knocking noises when turning or hitting potholes, uneven tyre wear, vibrations in the steering wheel, or difficulty steering (e.g., stiffness or looseness). These symptoms often indicate worn components like shocks, struts, or bushings, and prompt professional inspection is recommended to ensure safety.
How Often Should I Have My Suspension and Steering Serviced?
Inspections are typically advised annually or every 20,000 kilometres, whichever occurs first, with components like shocks and struts requiring replacement every 80,000 to 160,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions. Australian factors such as rough roads or heavy loads may necessitate more frequent checks; consult your vehicle's manual for specific guidelines.
What Causes Suspension and Steering Wear?
Wear is commonly accelerated by potholes, rough terrain, overloading the vehicle, or age-related deterioration of rubber bushings and hydraulic parts. Neglecting regular maintenance can exacerbate issues, leading to misalignment or component failure.
Wheel Alignment
How Do I Know If I Need a Wheel Alignment?
Symptoms of misalignment include the vehicle drifting or pulling to one side while driving on a straight road, uneven or accelerated tyre wear patterns (such as excessive wear on the inner or outer edges), and a steering wheel that appears off-centre or crooked during straight-line travel. Other indications are squealing tyres during turns, vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel, reduced fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance, or a loose or wandering steering feel. These issues often arise following impacts like hitting potholes or curbs, and prompt alignment checks can prevent further tyre damage and enhance vehicle handling safety.
What’s Included in a Wheel Alignment Service?
A wheel alignment service at Ultra Tune Deception Bay involves a thorough check and adjustment of your vehicle’s wheel angles to manufacturer specifications, improving handling, tyre life, and fuel efficiency. While specifics can vary by vehicle type (e.g., front-wheel or four-wheel alignment), the process typically includes:
Process:
Initial Inspection: A visual and mechanical check of the tyres, steering components, and suspension system for wear, damage, or loose parts.
Measurement of Alignment Angles: Using specialised equipment to assess camber (vertical tilt of the wheels), caster (steering pivot angle), toe (direction the wheels point relative to each other), and thrust angle (for four-wheel alignments).
Adjustments: Correcting any misalignments by adjusting the relevant components, such as tie rods or control arms, to bring them within factory tolerances.
Tyre Pressure Check: Ensuring tyres are inflated to the recommended levels, as incorrect pressure can affect alignment readings.
Test Drive: A post-adjustment drive to verify smooth handling, straight tracking, and absence of pulling or vibrations.
Report and Recommendations: Providing a detailed report on the before-and-after measurements, along with any advice on related repairs if issues like worn bushings are found. This service helps prevent uneven tyre wear and enhances vehicle safety, typically taking 30 to 60 minutes depending on the complexity.
How Often Should I Have My Wheels Aligned?
Wheel alignment is generally recommended every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometres or annually, whichever occurs first, or whenever new tyres are installed, steering issues arise, or after encountering significant road hazards such as potholes. Factors like driving on rough Australian roads may necessitate more frequent checks; refer to your vehicle's manual for precise guidelines.
Electrical System Repairs
What Are Common Signs of Electrical System Problems?
Indicators include dimming or flickering lights, difficulty starting the engine, frequent battery drain, blown fuses, malfunctioning accessories like power windows or radio, unusual smells such as burning plastic, or dashboard warning lights illuminating. These symptoms often stem from battery issues, alternator failure, or wiring faults, and professional diagnosis is advised to prevent escalation.
How Often Should I Have My Vehicle's Electrical System Serviced?
Electrical systems should be inspected annually or during routine logbook services, with batteries typically lasting 3 to 5 years and requiring checks after 2 years. Factors such as extreme Australian weather or high accessory usage may warrant more frequent evaluations; consult your vehicle's manual for specific recommendations.
What Causes Electrical System Failures?
Common causes include battery corrosion, alternator wear, loose or damaged wiring, moisture ingress, or overloading from accessories. Age-related degradation or exposure to harsh conditions in Australia can accelerate these issues, emphasising the need for regular maintenance.
Air Conditioning and Heating
What Are Signs That My Air Conditioning or Heating Needs Repair?
Common indicators include weak or warm airflow from vents, unusual noises such as rattling or hissing when the system activates, unpleasant odours suggesting mould or contaminants, inconsistent temperatures, or the system failing to engage properly. Additional signs encompass visible refrigerant leaks, reduced defrosting efficiency, or dashboard warning lights related to the HVAC system. These issues often arise from low refrigerant, clogged filters, or component failures, and professional inspection is recommended to prevent escalation.
How Often Should I Have My Vehicle's Air Conditioning and Heating Serviced?
In Australia, it is advisable to service the system every 1 to 2 years, or whenever performance declines, to account for local climate factors such as heat and humidity that accelerate wear. This interval includes re-gassing if needed and aligns with manufacturer recommendations; more frequent checks may be necessary for high-mileage vehicles or those used in dusty environments.
What Causes Common Air Conditioning and Heating Failures?
Failures often result from refrigerant leaks due to worn hoses or seals, clogged filters or drains leading to reduced airflow, electrical faults in sensors or wiring, or compressor wear from infrequent use. In Australian conditions, exposure to extreme heat or infrequent operation during cooler months can exacerbate these problems, emphasising the importance of regular maintenance.
Tyres & Wheels
How Do I Know If My Tyres Need Replacing?
Signs include tread depth below 1.5 mm (the legal minimum in Australia), visible cracks or bulges in the sidewalls, uneven wear patterns, vibrations while driving, or reduced traction in wet conditions. Regular inspections every 10,000 kilometres are recommended to ensure safety and compliance.
How Often Should Tyres Be Rotated and Balanced?
Tyres should be rotated every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres or during routine servicing to promote even wear. Balancing is advised whenever new tyres are installed or if vibrations occur, typically aligning with rotation intervals for comprehensive maintenance.
What Causes Tyre Wear?
Common causes include improper inflation, misalignment, unbalanced wheels, aggressive driving, or road hazards like potholes. In Australian conditions, heat and rough surfaces can accelerate wear, making regular checks essential to maintain performance and safety.
Roadworthy Inspections
What is a Roadworthy Certificate?
A roadworthy certificate, or safety certificate, is an official document confirming that a vehicle meets Queensland's minimum safety standards following a professional inspection. It is required for certain transactions, such as selling an unregistered vehicle or transferring registration to a new owner.
What is a Roadworthy Certificate?
In Queensland, a roadworthy inspection is necessary when selling a vehicle (except for dealer sales), re-registering an unregistered vehicle, or transferring registration interstate. It must be conducted by an approved inspector within 30 days before the transaction.
How Long Does a Roadworthy Certificate Last?
A Queensland roadworthy certificate is valid for 2 months or 2,000 kilometres from the date of issue, whichever comes first, for private sales. For dealer sales, it extends to 3 months or 3,000 kilometres.
If your question is not addressed here, please reach out via our contact page for further assistance.
