Car Air Conditioning is something many of us enjoy.

As we drive our cars, a great many of us, can enjoy the same comfort levels that we are accustomed to at home and at work. With the push of a button or the slide of a lever, we make the seamless transition from heating to cooling and back again without ever wondering how this change occurs. That is, unless something goes awry.

Should a major problem arise from your car air conditioner, you may encounter new terminology.

Words like “retrofit” and “alternative refrigerant” are now in your mechanics glossary. You may be given an option of “retrofitting”, as opposed to merely repairing and recharging with Freon. Retrofitting involves making the necessary changes to your system, which will allow it to use the new industry accepted, “environmentally friendly” refrigerant, R-134a.

This new refrigerant has a higher operating pressure, therefore, your system, dependant on age, may require larger or more robust parts to counter its inherent high pressure characteristics. This, in some cases, will add significantly to the final cost of the repair. And if not performed properly, may reduce cooling efficiency which equates to higher operating costs and reduced comfort.

Since the your car air conditioning is a sealed system, the refrigerant should last for years without needing a recharge. If the air conditioning system is low on refrigerant, it usually indicates a leak. If a leak cannot be detected visually, a hand held leak detector can be used. Another method for detecting a leak is to insert a florescent dye into the car air conditioning system. A black light is then used to pinpoint the leaking component.

General Maintenance of your Car Air Conditioning System

Typically the most common major component to fail in a car’s AC system is the compressor or clutch. Keeping the compressor free of rust can help to extend its useful life. The most common part to develop a leak is typically the condenser. Leaks can also develop in hoses, dryer, evaporator and the accumulator.

Car Air Conditioning Smalls Musty

A musty smell from the car’s air conditioner is usually not an indication of a component failure. This offending odor is usually caused by condensation in the evaporator core housing. There are ways of getting rid of the musty smell as well as methods to prevent re-occurrence.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Leaving the Car Air Conditioning controls in the open circulation position, when the engines turned off, will allow air to pass through the evaporator housing. This is one method of eliminating and preventing a re occurrence of that musty smell.

In the cooler months we tend not to use the Car Air Conditioning however by directing the vents to the windscreen can reduce fogging and also keeps the Car Air Conditioning active keeping the gases flowing.

Winter is a great time to get your Car Air Conditioning checked by a mechanic and regased if necessary making it ready for the warmer months.

Zecs Castle Hill Mechanic can help with a your Car Air Conditioning so
call today on 02 9680 1691 or use the online form

Driving a car is a luxury that most of us take for granted.

Cars are the primary means of transportation in Australia, with ninety percent of Australian adults owning or previously owning a car or truck. What we don’t realize is that operating a car or truck is a responsibility that can bring serious consequences.

Every year in NSW alone, more than twenty five thousand vehicular injuries and almost 400 deaths occur.   It’s a tragic figure, especially when you consider that many of these accidents could be prevented with proper maintenance and routine check-ups. Keeping your car well-maintained means reducing the risk of mishap or even death, and protecting your loved ones and fellow drivers.

Before hitting the road, be sure to conduct these checkups regularly:

Tires

Most Australians use all-season tires. These tires should carry you safely from season to season, but it is imperative that you check the tires regularly for wear or damage. Ideally, tires should be checked on a weekly basis.

Brakes

The brake system serves one main purposes: to slow down or stop the car when it is needed. If you step on the brake pedal and it goes all the way to the floor, you’ve got trouble.

Late-model automobiles are equipped with a brake warning light. This dashboard indicator will light up if something is wrong with your brake system. If your brake warning light indicates trouble, it is imperative that you check the brake system immediately. Consult your owner’s manual for maintenance advice, and call an experienced mechanic for repairs. Brake repairs or replacements are no job for a weekend or hobby mechanic.

Call the Castle Hill Mechanic today on 02 9680 1691

Headlights

A large number of  pedestrians died or were injured because drivers suffered eye problems or had faulty headlights in the automobiles. Properly maintained vehicle headlights help you drive safely, and see more clearly. Replace your headlight bulbs at least once per year.

Wipers

Many people don’t think of changing their wiper blades until it is too late. This is one of the easiest and most inexpensive parts of the car to maintain. Change your wiper blades at least once a year.

There are 10 common reasons why automobile owners visit the mechanic:

1. Electronic/Ignition control

2. Suspension/steering

3. Electrical problem

4. Brake system

5. Oil change/filters/lube

6. Exhaust system

7. Radiator repairs

8. Fuel system/carburetor

9. Clutch/transmission

10. Air conditioning system

Zecs Castle Hill Mechanic can help with all these so call today on 02 9680 1691

Routine check ups and proper maintenance of a car be expensive, and budget restrictions are often the leading factors in keeping car owners from living up to their responsibilities.

This does not need to be a problem.

The key is in knowing how to save on car maintenance and repairs.

If your car is not performing to its full potential, remember the following tips to help you save money on repairs:

Preventive Maintenance

Be your car’s best friend, and you can save a bundle.

By conducting regular preventative maintenance, such as regular oil changes and radiator flushes, you prevent unnecessary damage to the car and save a lot of money in the long run. Regular checkups by a qualified repairperson will keep your car running better, longer.

Conserve

Even cars need to take a break now and then. If you drive your car everyday the miles will add up quickly, and damage can occur prematurely. To avoid this, consider carpooling with friends and coworkers. Ask around to form your own carpool group. You’ll all save on maintenance, and you’ll be able to pool your fuel and parking expenses.

Estimate

Before choosing a mechanic to repair your car, be sure to get a written estimate. If the mechanic wants more than your budget can afford, shop around. Compare estimates to find the best deal. Just be sure that you are paying for quality service.

Zecs Castle Hill Mechanic can help with a competitive quote so call today on 02 9680 1691

As an car owner, you have a responsibility to keep your car properly maintained at all times. Consider it an investment in your car’s future, and remember that it could save a life.

A

Abbotsbury (2176), Abbotsford (2046), Acacia Gardens (2763), Agnes Banks (2753), Airds (2560), Akuna Bay (2084), Alexandria (2015), Alfords Point (2234), Allambie (2100), Allambie Heights (2100), Allawah (2218), Ambarvale (2560), Annandale (2038), Annangrove (2156), Arcadia (2159), Arncliffe (2205), Arndell Park (2148), Artarmon (2064), Ashbury (2193), Ashcroft (2168), Ashfield (2131), Asquith (2077), Auburn (2144), Auburn South (2144), Audley (2232), Austral (2171), Avalon (2107), Avalon Beach (2107)

B

Badgerys Creek (2555), Balgowlah (2093), Balgowlah Heights (2093), Balmain (2041), Balmain East (2041), Balmoral (2088), Bangor (2234), Banksia (2216), Banksmeadow (2019), Bankstown (2200), Bankstown Airport (2200), Bankstown North (2200), Bankstown Square (2200), Barden Ridge (2234), Bardwell Park (2207), Bardwell Valley (2207), Bass Hill (2197), Baulkham Hills (2153), Bayview (2104), Beacon Hill (2100), Beaconsfield (2015), Beaumont Hills (2155), Beauty Point (2088), Beecroft (2119), Belfield (2191), Bella Vista (2153), Bellevue Hill (2023), Belmore (2192), Belrose (2085), Belrose West (2085), Ben Buckler (2026), Berala (2141), Berkshire Park (2765), Berowra (2081), Berowra Heights (2082), Berowra Waters (2082), Berrilee (2159), Beverley Park (2217), Beverly Hills (2209), Bexley (2207), Bexley North (2207), Bexley South (2207), Bickley Vale (2570), Bidwill (2770), Bilgola (2107), Bilgola Beach (2107), Bilgola Plateau (2107), Birchgrove (2041), Birrong (2143), Blackett (2770), Blacktown (2148), Blair Athol (2560), Blairmount (2559), Blakehurst (2221), Blaxcell (2142), Blenheim Road (2113), Bobbin Head (2074), Bondi (2026), Bondi Beach (2026), Bondi Junction (2022), Bonnet Bay (2226), Bonnyrigg (2177), Bonnyrigg Heights (2177), Bossley Park (2176), Botany (2019), Bow Bowing (2566), Box Hill (2765), Bradbury (2560), Breakfast Point (2137), Bringelly (2556), Broadway (2007), Bronte (2024), Brooklyn (2083), Brookvale (2100), Bundeena (2230), Burraneer (2230), Burwood (2134), Burwood Heights (2136), Burwood North (2134), Busby (2168)

C

Cabarita (2137), Cabramatta (2166), Cabramatta West (2166), Cambridge Gardens (2747), Cambridge Park (2747), Camden (2570), Camden South (2570), Camellia (2142), Cammeray (2062), Campbelltown (2560), Campbelltown North (2560), Camperdown (2050), Campsie (2194), Canada Bay (2046), Canley Heights (2166), Canley Vale (2166), Canoelands (2157), Canterbury (2193), Caravan Head (2225), Careel Bay (2107), Caringbah (2229), Carlingford (2118), Carlingford Court (2118), Carlton (2218), Carramar (2163), Carss Park (2221), Cartwright (2168), Castle Cove (2069), Winston Hills (2153),West Pennant Hills (2125),Kellyville (2155),Castle Hill (2154), Baulkham Hills (2153), Cherrybrook (2126), Glenhaven (2156), Bella Vista (2153),Castlecrag (2068), Castlereagh (2749), Casula (2170), Catherine Field (2557), Cattai (2756), Cawdor (2570), Cecil Hills (2171), Cecil Park (2178), Centennial Park (2021), Charing Cross (2024), Chatswood (2057), Chatswood (2067), Chatswood West (2067), Chatsworth (2469), Chatsworth (2759), Cheltenham (2119), Cherrybrook (2126), Chester Hill (2162), Chifley (2036), Chippendale (2008), Chipping Norton (2170), Chiswick (2046), Chullora (2190), Church Point (2105), Claremont Meadows (2747), Clareville (2107), Claymore (2559), Clemton Park (2206), Clifton Gardens (2088), Clontarf (2093), Clovelly (2031), Clovelly West (2031), Coasters Retreat (2108), Cobbitty (2570), Colebee (2761), Collaroy (2097), Collaroy Beach (2097), Collaroy Plateau (2097), Colyton (2760), Como (2226), Concord (2137), Concord Repatriation Hospital (2139), Concord West (2138), Condell Park (2200), Connells Point (2221), Coogee (2034), Cottage Point (2084), Cowan (2081), Cranebrook (2749), Cremorne (2090), Cremorne Junction (2090), Cremorne Point (2090), Crestwood (2153), Cromer (2099), Cromer Heights (2099), Cronulla (2230), Cross Roads (2850), Crows Nest (2065), Croydon (2132), Croydon Park (2133), Curl Curl (2096), Currans Hill (2567), Currawong Beach (2108)

D

Daceyville (2032), Dangar Island (2083), Darling Harbour (2000), Darling Point (2027), Darlinghurst (2010), Darlington (2008), Darlington (2330), Davidson (2085), Dawes Point (2000), Dean Park (2761), Dee Why (2099), Dee Why Beach (2099), Denham Court (2565), Denistone (2114), Denistone East (2112), Denistone West (2114), Dharruk (2770), Diamond Bay (2030), Dolans Bay (2229), Dolls Point (2219), Doonside (2767), Double Bay (2028), Dover Heights (2030), Drummoyne (2047), Duffys Forest (2084), Dulwich Hill (2203), Dundas (2117), Dundas Valley (2117), Dural (2158), Dural (2330)

E

Eagle Vale (2558), Earlwood (2206), East Hills (2213), East Lindfield (2070), East Ryde (2113), Eastern Creek (2766), Eastgardens (2036), Eastlakes (2018), Eastwood (2122), Edensor Park (2176), Edgecliff (2027), Edmondson Park (2174), Elanora Heights (2101), Elderslie (2570), Elizabeth Bay (2011), Ellis Lane (2570), Elvina Bay (2105), Emerton (2770), Emu Heights (2750), Emu Plains (2750), Enfield (2136), Enfield South (2133), Engadine (2233), Englorie Park (2560), Enmore (2042), Enmore (2350), Enmore (2358), Epping (2121), Ermington (2115), Erskine Park (2759), Erskineville (2043), Eschol Park (2558), Eveleigh (2015)

F

Fairfield (2165), Fairfield East (2165), Fairfield Heights (2165), Fairfield West (2165), Fairlight (2094), Fiddletown (2159), Figtree (2525), Fishermans Bay (2316), Five Dock (2046), Forest Glen (2157), Forest Lodge (2037), Forestville (2087), Frenchs Forest (2086), Frenchs Forest East (2086)

G

Galston (2159), Garie (2232), Georges Hall (2198), Gilead (2560), Girraween (2145), Gladesville (2111), Glebe (2037), Glen Alpine (2560), Glendenning (2761), Glenfield (2167), Glenhaven (2156), Glenmore Park (2745), Glenorie (2157), Glenquarie (2564), Glenwood (2768), Golden Grove (2008), Gordon (2072), Gore Hill (2065), Granville (2142), Grasmere (2570), Grays Point (2232), Great Mackerel Beach (2108), Green Valley (2168), Greenacre (2190), Greendale (2546), Greendale (2745), Greenfield Park (2176), Greenwich (2065), Greystanes (2145), Guildford (2161), Guildford West (2161), Gymea (2227), Gymea Bay (2227)

H

Haberfield (2045), Hammondville (2170), Harbord (2096), Harrington Park (2567), Harris Park (2150), Hassall Grove (2761), Haymarket (2000), Heathcote (2233), Hebersham (2770), Heckenberg (2168), Henley (2111), Hillsdale (2036), Hillside (2157), Hinchinbrook (2168), Hmas Kuttabul (2011), Hmas Penguin (2091), Hmas Platypus (2060), Hmas Rushcutters (2027), Hmas Waterhen (2060), Hmas Watson (2030), Holroyd (2142), Holsworthy (2173), Homebush (2140), Homebush Bay (2127), Homebush South (2140), Homebush West (2140), Horningsea Park (2171), Hornsby (2077), Hornsby Heights (2077), Horsley Park (2175), Hoxton Park (2171), Hunters Hill (2110), Huntingwood (2148), Huntleys Cove (2111), Huntleys Point (2111), Hurlstone Park (2193), Hurstville (2220), Hurstville Grove (2220), Hurstville Westfield (2220)

I

Illawong (2234), Ingleburn (2565), Ingleside (2101)

J

Jamisontown (2750), Jannali (2226)

K

Kangaroo Point (2224), Kareela (2232), Kearns (2558), Kellyville (2155), Kellyville Ridge (2155), Kemps Creek (2178), Kensington (2033), Kenthurst (2156), Kentlyn (2560), Killara (2071), Killarney Heights (2087), Kings Cross (2011), Kings Langley (2147), Kings Park (2148), Kingsdene (2118), Kingsford (2032), Kingsgrove (2208), Kingsway West (2208), Kingswood (2340), Kingswood (2550), Kingswood (2747), Kirkham (2570), Kirrawee (2232), Kirribilli (2061), Kogarah (2217), Kogarah Bay (2217), Kurnell (2231), Kyeemagh (2216), Kyle Bay (2221)

L

La Perouse (2036), Lakemba (2195), Lalor Park (2147), Lane Cove (2066), Lansdowne (2163), Lansdowne (2430), Lansvale (2166), Laughtondale (2775), Lavender Bay (2060), Lefevres Corner (2570), Leichhardt (2040), Leonay (2750), Leppington (2179), Lethbridge Park (2770), Leumeah (2560), Lewisham (2049), Liberty Grove (2138), Lidcombe (2141), Lidcombe North (2141), Lilli Pilli (2229), Lilli Pilli (2536), Lilyfield (2040), Lindfield (2070), Linley Point (2066), Little Bay (2036), Liverpool (2170), Liverpool South (2170), Liverpool Westfield (2170), Llandilo (2747), Loftus (2232), Londonderry (2753), Long Point (2330), Long Point (2564), Long Point (2800), Long Reef (2097), Longueville (2066), Lovett Bay (2105), Lower Hawkesbury (2775), Lower Portland (2756), Lucas Heights (2234), Luddenham (2745), Lugarno (2210), Lurnea (2170)

M

Macarthur Square (2560), Macquarie Centre (2113), Macquarie Fields (2564), Macquarie Links (2565), Macquarie Park (2113), Macquarie University (2109), Maianbar (2230), Malabar (2036), Manahan (2200), Manly (2095), Manly East (2095), Manly Vale (2093), Maraylya (2765), Marayong (2148), Maroota (2756), Maroubra (2035), Maroubra South (2035), Marrickville (2204), Marrickville South (2204), Marsden Park (2765), Marsfield (2122), Mascot (2020), Matraville (2036), Mays Hill (2145), Mcmahons Point (2060), Meadowbank (2114), Melrose Park (2114), Melville (2320), Menai (2234), Menai Central (2234), Menangle Park (2563), Merrylands (2160), Merrylands West (2160), Middle Cove (2068), Middle Dural (2158), Miller (2168), Millers Point (2000), Milperra (2214), Milsons Passage (2083), Milsons Point (2061), Minchinbury (2770), Minto (2566), Minto Heights (2566), Miranda (2228), Mona Vale (2103), Monash Park (2111), Monterey (2217), Moore Park (2021), Moorebank (2170), Morning Bay (2108), Mortdale (2223), Mortlake (2137), Mosman (2088), Mount Annan (2567), Mount Colah (2079), Mount Druitt (2770), Mount Hunter (2570), Mount Lewis (2190), Mount Lewis (2200), Mount Pleasant (2519), Mount Pritchard (2170), Mount Vernon (2178), Mulgoa (2745)

N

Narellan (2567), Narellan Vale (2567), Naremburn (2065), Narrabeen (2101), Narrabeen Peninsula (2101), Narraweena (2099), Narwee (2209), Nelson (2550), Nelson (2765), Neutral Bay (2089), Neutral Bay Junction (2089), Newington (2127), Newport (2106), Newport Beach (2106), Newtown (2042), Normanhurst (2076), North Balgowlah (2093), North Epping (2121), North Manly (2100), North Narrabeen (2101), North Rocks (2151), North Ryde (2113), North Strathfield (2137), North Sydney (2055), North Sydney (2059), North Sydney (2060), North Sydney Shoppingworld (2060), North Turramurra (2074), Northbridge (2063), Northmead (2152), Northwood (2066)

O

Oakhurst (2761), Oakville (2765), Oatlands (2117), Oatley (2223), Old Guildford (2161), Old Toongabbie (2146), Oran Park (2570), Orchard Hills (2748), Osborne Park (2066), Oxford Falls (2100), Oxley Park (2760), Oyster Bay (2225)

P

Paddington (2021), Padstow (2211), Padstow Heights (2211), Pagewood (2035), Palm Beach (2108), Panania (2213), Paradise Beach (2107), Parklea (2768), Parramatta (2123), Parramatta (2124), Parramatta (2150), Parramatta Westfield (2150), Peakhurst (2210), Peakhurst Heights (2210), Pemulwuy (2145), Pendle Hill (2145), Pennant Hills (2120), Penrith (2750), Penrith (2751), Penrith Plaza (2750), Penrith South (2750), Penshurst (2222), Petersham (2049), Phillip Bay (2036), Picnic Point (2213), Pleasure Point (2172), Plumpton (2761), Point Piper (2027), Port Botany (2036), Port Hacking (2229), Potts Hill (2143), Potts Point (2011), Prairiewood (2176), Prestons (2170), Prospect (2148), Punchbowl (2196), Punchbowl (2460), Putney (2112), Pymble (2073), Pyrmont (2009)

Q

Quakers Hill (2763), Queens Park (2022), Queenscliff (2096)

R

Raby (2566), Ramsgate (2217), Ramsgate Beach (2217), Randwick (2031), Redfern (2016), Regents Park (2143), Regentville (2745), Revesby (2212), Revesby Heights (2212), Revesby North (2212), Rhodes (2138), Riverstone (2765), Riverview (2066), Riverwood (2210), Rockdale (2216), Rodd Point (2046), Rookwood (2141), Rooty Hill (2766), Rose Bay (2029), Rose Bay North (2030), Rosebery (2018), Rosedale (2536), Rosehill (2142), Roselands (2196), Rosemeadow (2560), Roseville (2069), Roseville Chase (2069), Rossmore (2557), Round Corner (2158), Rouse Hill (2155), Royal North Shore Hospital (2065), Rozelle (2039), Ruse (2560), Rushcutters Bay (2011), Russell Lea (2046), Rydalmere (2116), Ryde (2112)

S

Sackville North (2756), Sadleir (2168), Sandringham (2219), Sandy Point (2172), Sans Souci (2219), Schofields (2762), Scotland Island (2105), Seaforth (2092), Sefton (2162), Seven Hills (2147), Seven Hills West (2147), Shalvey (2770), Shanes Park (2747), Silverwater (2128), Silverwater (2264), Smeaton Grange (2567), Smithfield (2164), Smithfield West (2164), South Penrith (2750), South Turramurra (2074), South Wentworthville (2145), Spit Junction (2088), Spring Farm (2570), St Andrews (2566), St Clair (2759), St Helens Park (2560), St Ives (2075), St Ives Chase (2075), St Johns Park (2176), St Leonards (2065), St Marys (2760), St Marys East (2760), St Marys South (2760), St Pauls (2031), St Peters (2044), Stanhope Gardens (2768), Stanmore (2048), Strathfield (2135), Strathfield South (2136), Strawberry Hills (2012), Strawberry Hills (2013), Summer Hill (2130), Summer Hill (2287), Summer Hill (2800), Surry Hills (2010), Sutherland (2232), Sydenham (2044), Sydney (2000), Sydney (2001), Sydney Domestic Airport (2020), Sydney International Airport (2020), Sylvania (2224), Sylvania Southgate (2224), Sylvania Waters (2224)

T

Tamarama (2026), Taren Point (2229), Taylors Point (2107), Telopea (2117), Tempe (2044), Tennyson (2754), Tennyson Point (2111), Terrey Hills (2084), The Basin (2108), The Basin (2365), The Rocks (2000), The Rocks (2795), Thornleigh (2120), Toongabbie (2146), Toongabbie East (2146), Tregear (2770), Turramurra (2074), Turrella (2205)

U

Ultimo (2007), Undercliffe (2206)

V

Varroville (2566), Vaucluse (2030), Villawood (2163), Vineyard (2765), Voyager Point (2172)

W

Wahroonga (2076), Waitara (2077), Wakeley (2176), Wallacia (2745), Wareemba (2046), Warrawee (2074), Warriewood (2102), Warrimoo (2774), Warringah Mall (2100), Warumbul (2229), Warwick Farm (2170), Waterfall (2233), Waterloo (2017), Watsons Bay (2030), Wattle Grove (2173), Waverley (2024), Waverton (2060), Wedderburn (2560), Wentworthville (2145), Werrington (2747), Werrington County (2747), Werrington Downs (2747), West Hoxton (2171), West Pennant Hills (2125), West Pymble (2073), West Ryde (2114), Westgate (2048), Westleigh (2120), Westmead (2145), Wetherill Park (2164), Whalan (2770), Whale Beach (2107), Wheeler Heights (2097), Wiley Park (2195), Willmot (2770), Willoughby (2068), Willoughby North (2068), Wingala (2099), Winston Hills (2153), Wisemans Ferry (2775), Wolli Creek (2205), Wollstonecraft (2065), Woodbine (2560), Woodcroft (2767), Woodpark (2164), Woollahra (2025), Woolloomooloo (2011), Woolooware (2230), Woolwich (2110), Woronora (2232), Woronora Heights (2233)

Y

Yagoona (2199), Yagoona West (2199), Yarrawarrah (2233), Yennora (2161), Yowie Bay (2228)

Z

Zetland (2017)

As you know looking after your car and getting it regularly serviced can save you a lot of time and expense.

Quite often, a visit to the car repair shop can be even more painful than a visit to your dentist. Perhaps physical pain is involved, but some car repairs can leave your wallet feeling pretty empty and you with a bad taste in your mouth.

The best way to avoid costly repairs is to take preventative steps that will keep your car in the best condition possible.

The first thing to do is to follow the maintenance schedule as outlined in your owner’s manual. The best one is always that recommended by the manufacturer and if you fail to follow those guidelines, your warranty may be voided for future repairs. Always be sure to change fluids, filters and spark plugs as the car’s manufacturer recommends.

Upgrade your motor oil to a high performance synthetic oil, which can help to prevent certain problems and can also improve your car’s performance.

Always be sure that your tires are properly inflated. This is especially important because tires with too little air, or too much, can result in excessive wear and may cause a blow out. It is often recommended that tire pressure be checked during every visit to the gas pump. While this may seem like a lot, you won’t be sorry that you have kept your tires in the best shape possible. For reasons of both safety and the expense of new tires, this exercise is well worth it.

If you notice unusual noises on your car, check with your owner’s manual for information. Quite often, noises are perfectly normal and there is no need for concern. Your owner’s manual will let you know whether or not a visit to the car repair shop is necessary.

If you do have to take your car in for repairs, be sure that you are dealing with a reputable company. Check with the local Better Business Bureau and ask your family or friends for recommendations.

When it comes time to begin the repairs, get an estimate in writing. A quality repair shop will be able to provide this information and should also be able to assure you that the repairs will not exceed 10% of a specific dollar amount as outlined in the estimate.

The aforementioned steps will help to keep your car running smoothly and may also keep some extra bucks in your wallet. With the cost of gasoline prices these days, a few extra dollars can go along way.

Castle Hill Auto Repairs have many years of experience and are trusted by many motorists in Castle Hill and the surrounding areas so why not give them a call today for a quote on 02 9680 1691.

Water circulates through passages around the cylinders and then travels through the radiator to cool it off. In a few cars (most notably Volkswagen Beetles), as well as most motorcycles and lawn mowers, the engine is air-cooled instead (You can tell an air-cooled engine by the fins adorning the outside of each cylinder to help dissipate heat.).

Air-cooling makes the engine lighter but hotter, generally decreasing engine life and overall performance.

Although petrol engines have improved a lot, they are still not very efficient at turning chemical energy into mechanical power. Most of the energy in the petrol (perhaps 7 0%) is converted into heat, and it is the job of the cooling system to take care of that heat.

In fact, the cooling system on a car driving down the freeway dissipates enough heat to heat two average-sized houses! The primary job of the cooling system is to keep the engine from overheating by transferring this heat to the air, but the cooling system also has several other important jobs.

The engine in your car runs best at a fairly high temperature. When the engine is cold, components wear out faster, and the engine is less efficient and emits more pollution. So another important job of the cooling system is to allow the engine to heat up as quickly as possible, and then to keep the engine at a constant temperature.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Plumbing

The cooling system in your car has a lot of plumbing. We’ll start at the pump and work our way through the system.

The pump sends the fluid into the engine block, where it makes its way through passages in the engine around the cylinders. Then it returns through the cylinder head of the engine. The thermostat is located where the fluid leaves the engine. The plumbing around the thermostat sends the fluid back to the pump directly if the thermostat is closed. If it is open, the fluid goes through the radiator first and then back to the pump.

There is also a separate circuit for the heating system. This circuit takes fluid from the cylinder head and passes it through a heater core and then back to the pump.

With all these different parts it is important to get them checked periodically so before summer is really upon us be sure to call Zecks Mechanical repair at Castle Hill call 02 9680 1691 to get your cooling system checked.

So what exactly does the oil do?

Oil lubricates your car’s engine and helps protect the moving parts, especially when you first start-up the engine. As you drive, water vapour, un-burnt petrol and gases from the engine’s combustion process all end up contaminating your oil. If you don’t change your oil at the recommended intervals, it can thicken, and lose its protective ability, as it can’t reach and protect the moving parts. When this happens your oil has lost its protective qualities and it’s time for an oil change.

What does the oil filter do?

The oil filter strains dirt and other particles out of the oil as it circulates. When changing oil, it’s best to replace the filter as well, as you don’t want a dirty filter contaminating new oil.

How often should I change my oil?

Most mechanics advocate oil changes should be carried out in accordance with the service schedule set by the vehicle manufacturer. Often this recommends an oil change every 10,000km or 6 months.

However, motorist’s should take care. Most manufacturers say that the frequency of an oil change is largely dependant on your driving habits. When you travel over 20km the oil in your engine has time to fully heat up, allowing it to flow freely and vaporise the water and unburned fuel that build up in the oil.

However if you rarely travel more than 20km after each cold start, your oil can become saturated with contaminants, failing to lubricate the engine properly and, over time, lose its protective abilities. This applies no matter what quality of oil you are using. If this sounds like you, most manufacturers recommend an oil change every 5,000km or every three months.

It’s also worth remembering that simply topping up an engine that’s low on oil is not the same as giving it an oil change. Contaminants left behind increase in concentration each time the oil levels drops which accelerates engine wear. In addition to this, the mixing of oil brands and viscosities can harm you engine, and is not recommended.

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What kind of oil should I be using?

Today if you walk into an automotive shop you will be faced with many choices of oil, so which one do you need?

There are many brands of oil available, and different engines require oil of different levels of thickness or viscosity. Zecs mechanics will know best what to put into your car based on the manufacturer’s recommendation and your driving habits.

Most mechanics use a conventional motor oil that is a product of the crude oil refining process. This is the most basic oil grade recommended by most manufacturers to keep your car in good working order.

The next step up is a synthetic fortified oil like the Valvoline ProBlend that NRMA MotorServe uses. This is a synthetic blend that combines the properties of conventional and synthetic oil to help it burn cleaner and withstand greater temperatures, giving your engine greater protection than a conventional oil.

Synthetic oils are developed from chemical compounds such as polyalphaolefins. Their entire structure is different, and more stable than conventional motor oil. It is able to maintain viscosity, or flow, across a wider temperature range and under more severe demands. The best quality motor oil is therefore fully synthetic, although because it is costly to manufacture this comes with a significant price tag. It’s also not suitable for all cars.

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All our auto mechanics are knowledgeable in working on all parts of a variety of car makes or may specialize either in a specific area or in a specific make of car. In repairing cars, their main role is to diagnose the problem accurately and quickly.  Our mechanics use both electronic means of gathering data as well as their senses. Their job may involve the repair of a specific part or the replacement of one or more parts as assemblies.

With the rapid advancement in technology, the mechanic’s job has evolved from purely mechanical, to include electronic technology. Because vehicles today possess complex computer and electronic systems, mechanics need to have a broader base of knowledge than in the past.

Lately, the term “auto mechanic” is being used less and less frequently and is being replaced by the euphemistic title “automotive service technician”. Fading quickly is the day of the ‘shade tree mechanic’, who needed little knowledge of today’s computerized systems.

Due to the increasingly labyrinthine nature of the technology that is now incorporated into automobiles, most automobile dealerships now provide sophisticated diagnostic computers to each technician, without which they may be unable to diagnose or repair electronic issues in modern vehicles.

If you find anything that need repairing then be sure to call Zecs Mechanical repair at Castle Hillfor any trucks under 8 tonn call 02 9680 1691

Maintaining the health and well-being of your truck between regular recommended tune-ups is up to you.

The manufacturers and the designers of your truck, created the best possible truck for your needs, with the belief that you depend on your vehicle, which you do. In return for providing you with safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation and probably aids you in making a living, your truck only asks in return to be taken care of and treated with respect.

This means that you need to keep an eye and an ear open for any problems or concerns that arise with any and all of the gadgets, thingies, and doo-dads that make your truck go. 

The list below will give you an idea of what to be aware of and to watch out for that may indicate a potential repair issue. In addition to the other topics we have already discussed in the previous articles.

Important items to check every month

1.    Inspect the battery, for any corrosion or leakage. If there is any, then replace the battery immediately.

2.    Open the hood and have a listen for any noises that just don’t sound quite right. After you have owned your truck for a little while, you will become familiar with the normal sounds that your engine makes when the truck is running as it should. If you do hear any unusual sounds, and cannot determine what is causing the noise, take the truck in to be serviced.

3.    While the engine is running, check to be sure that each of the lights is working properly. Head lights, taillights, turn signals, back-up lights, and the dashboard (instrument panel) lights. If one or more is not working, check the wiring, and the bulbs, to determine if any need to be replaced.

4.    Turn on the windshield wipers, if they are not in good contact with the windshield; push them down just a touch. If the blades are damaged, replace them.

5.    Check the pressure level on all four tires, and the spare. If any are low, take them to a gas station, and fill them up.

6.    Also inspect the tread on the tires, if the wear seems uneven, you should consider having the tires rotated.

7.    Take a look under the truck, if you see any spots on the ground, find out what is leaking. If you cannot repair the leak yourself, take the truck in for an early check up. 

Items you may want to have on hand

It is a good idea to keep in your garage, a few of the more important necessities for minor repair issues. Just in case you need them immediately. There isn’t always a service station or a hardware store open when you need one. 

•    Motor oil
•    Brake fluid
•    Transmission fluid
•    Tire gauge
•    Spark plugs
•    Coolant and purified water
•    Hoses, vacuum and basic
•    Belts, for the important parts such as the clutch
•    Filters, air, and oil
•    Fuses, in a variety of sizes and for various needs
•    Windshield washer fluid
•    Bulbs for the lights

If you find anything that need repairing then be sure to call Zecks Mechanical repair at Castle Hill for any trucks under 8 tonn call 02 9680 1691

Buying or selling a used car?

Don’t end up with a car that has mechanical problems and body faults. Have the car inspected by Zec’s Automotive before you purchase.

Purchasing a used vehicle can be risky.

When excited buyers get emotionally caught up in the vehicle purchase, they often miss mechanical, cosmetic, and safety issues during visual inspections and test drives.

To eliminate much of the anxiety and get an accurate picture of the condition of the vehicle, many buyers choose to have a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) done before the sale is final.

A pre-purchase inspection is a detailed assessment by our qualified individual to determine the cosmetic, mechanical, and safety condition of a vehicle before completing the purchase.

All pre-purchase inspections are done by a certified mechanic or automotive technician who is knowledgeable in the make and model of the vehicle being inspected. The intent of the PPI is to uncover existing conditions or to reveal maintenance shortcomings that may become potential safety or financial issues for the buyer in the future.

Did you know:

Worn or leaking shock absorbers will affect the stopping distance of your car

We perform a comprehensive mechanical, body and interior inspection so that you can buy a used car with confidence.

Selling a used car?

Get an Zec’s Pre-Sale Inspection to give buyers confidence, support your asking price and sell quicker.

To oganize your pre sales or pre purchase inspection call 02 9680 1691.

Call 02 9680 1691 to book your car in today and ask about our loan cars on booking.

Quality Parts

Quality products are fitted with confidence that meet Australian standards. They are covered by a manufacturer warranty so that your new vehicle warranty is protected.

Technicians

Fully qualified motor vehicle technicians with all senior staff. Established business over 25 years and recent winner & finalist numerous service and small business awards.

Some more facts provided by Zec’s

What the ACCC says about new car statutory warranties

Can you get your car serviced by someone other than the business or an authorised agent of the business that sold the car without voiding the warranty? The short answer is ‘yes’. Though there are some conditions:

New vehicle warranty

Where a problem arises with the vehicle that is covered under the warranty, the vehicle should be taken to the dealer for repair. Those repairs should be done for free of charge under the warranty.

New and used vehicle servicing

In relation to general servicing, motor vehicle dealers are entitled to insist that any servicing performed on cars they sell is carried out by qualified staff, according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and using genuine or appropriate quality parts where required. Provided these conditions are met, regardless of where you choose to get your car serviced, your warranty will remain intact. So shop around.

Qualified staff

Qualified staff is a party or parties, other than an ‘authorised dealer’, who is capable of performing car servicing. Some servicing venues display qualification certificates, but if you’re not sure the staff are qualified, just ask.

Automotive electrical systems provide power for the lighting system, instrumentation, safety devices such as airbags, and many other accessories. The recent advances made in the auto electronics field have allowed the efficiency of the vehicle to increase greatly.

It is this new technology that allows greater fuel economy at the same time that it increases horsepower and torque. Both professional technicians and do-it-yourself auto mechanics need to be able to diagnose and service both electrical and electronic automotive systems.

Electrical automotive systems refer to the wiring and the electrical car parts such as generators and alternators, lights, voltage regulators and starter motors.

Automotive electronics is a reference to computer control modules and other black box type items used to control engine operation as well as vehicle systems.

Keeping your electrical components in good condition is critical for maximum performance. If you need an auto electrician in the Castle Hill area Zec Automotives on 02 96801691.