Planning a road trip? Before you hit the open road, it’s important to ensure your car is in tip-top shape. Here’s a friendly guide to help you with some essential checks to keep your journey smooth and safe.

Your tyres are your car’s contact with the road, so they need to be in excellent condition. Start by checking the tyre pressure to ensure it’s at the recommended level. This helps with fuel efficiency and prevents unnecessary wear. Next, inspect the tyre tread. A good rule of thumb is the penny test—place a 20 cent piece in the tread groove. If the tread doesn't reach the top of the platypus's bill, it’s time for new tyres.

Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle, and it's crucial to check them before any long drive. Make sure the oil is at the correct level and looks clean. Don’t forget the coolant, which keeps your engine from overheating, and the brake fluid, which ensures your brakes function properly. If any fluid is low, top it off or consider a complete change if necessary.

Visibility is key to safety on the road. Test all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers. Replace any burned-out bulbs and ensure that all lights are clean and bright.

A healthy battery is essential for starting your car and powering all electronic components. Check the battery for any signs of corrosion or leaks and make sure the connections are secure. If your battery is over three years old, consider having it tested or replaced.

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. Listen for any unusual noises when braking, such as squeaking or grinding, which can indicate worn pads or rotors. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have a professional check them.

Professional Servicing by Duffy's Automotive Tamworth

While these checks are great for a preliminary inspection, professional servicing offers unmatched peace of mind. At Duffy's Automotive Tamworth, we provide thorough inspections and expert advice that can identify potential issues before they become major problems. Our skilled technicians use the latest tools and technology to ensure your car is ready for any adventure.

As summer approaches, our service slots fill up quickly. Avoid last-minute stress by booking your service appointment early. Our friendly team at Duffy's Automotive Tamworth is here to help, making sure your car is ready for the road and that you have a safe, worry-free trip. So, don't delay—give us a call today and enjoy the confidence that comes with professional care!

Before you hit the open road, it’s important to ensure your car is in tip-top shape. Duffy's Automotive Tamworth is here to help

Road Trip Checks by Duffy's Automotive Tamworth in Taminda

Road Trip Ready: Essential Car Checks for a Safe Journey

Nobody's got time to be "that car" stuck on the side of the road with steam pouring from under the hood.

Hot weather isn't the only reason your car can overheat, your engine radiates a lot of extreme heat and it's the radiator and cooling system that exists to stop your car, and you, from being damaged by all that heat. A coolant fluid in the system also prevents liquids from freezing and protects the system from rust and corrosion as well.

Signs you need a radiator flush or cooling system service:

As well as an overheating car, a temperature gauge that's reading hotter than normal or a car leaving puddles behind means it is time to have your cooling system inspected.

If your car is displaying these symptoms come and see the team at Duffy's Automotive Tamworth.

And we can service your cooling system and flush your radiator. Our expert technicians will perform a proper radiator flush, using a solution which is designed to remove any build up. When the cooling system is clean, the cleansing solution is removed and coolant replaced, your car's cooling system will be running like a dream: a radiator flush might be just what your car needs to bring it back to peak performance.

What are the benefits of a radiator flush?

Your radiator will be more efficient - and it will last a lot longer. Your engine will run more efficiently and have an increased life expectancy. Boost your vehicles performance and power. Your water pump is further protected as it is better lubricated..

How often should I get a coolant system flush?

Your manufacturer's log book will recommend how often to service your cooling system, It is generally advised that you flush your radiator coolant every two years or 40,000 km's whichever comes first. However, your engine size, local weather type, the age of your existing coolant, and the amount of km's driven all affect how often you should replace the coolant in your radiator.

At Duffy's Automotive Tamworth, you can request a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report for free as part of any minor, major or log book service on your vehicle. This includes checking the coolant in your system and the written report will tell you if we feel a radiator flush, coolant replacement or any repairs are required to maintain the performance of your vehicle.

What happens if I don't get a radiator flush or service?

Over time rust and scale deposits build up and the whole system becomes jammed up and not so effective at cooling and protecting your car. This build up of rust and debris can damage components of your cooling system including your water pump, radiator, hoses and thermostat, reducing the life of those parts and leading to expensive repairs or replacements in the future.

While there are a lot of places offering advice on how to flush a radiator yourself - Its not something we recommend. These days, vehicles are much more complex and mistakes like incomplete flushing or changing the coolant in your vehicle without flushing can push more debris around and cause blockages in your thermostat or radiator. It's best to have your systems inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic, and properly flushed before being refilled with the specific type of coolant for your car, the system purged of any air pockets, and then the whole system checked over by an expert again to ensure full working order and to prevent any costly breakdowns in the future. Radiator coolant is toxic and needs to be handled very carefully. It smells sweet which can be enticing to both children and pets so proper storage is very important - having an expert handle this task for you means not handling or having dangerous chemicals around your house. Dangerous coolant also needs to be disposed of in a safe way, professional workshops can have the coolant recycled or properly disposed of to save the environment.

Leave it to the experts. See the professionals at Duffy's Automotive Tamworth for your radiator flush today!

Have more questions about your cooling system?

Radiator Service, Repairs and Flush in Taminda

At Duffy's Automotive Tamworth (MVRL52080) we do more than just car service and repairs - we take great pride in treating all of our customers like "part of our little family". 

Conveniently located in the centre of Taminda, we have a wealth of experience in car servicing for all makes and models, including European car service, commercial fleet servicing and repairs and diesel vehicles. 

We maintain that communication is the best service we can offer you - we are happy to take the time to discuss any of your car service or repairs with you fully so you have a complete understanding of the work being done on your car.

Whether you are looking to lift your 4WD to experience even more adventure, want a better more efficient drive whilst towing a caravan or boat, want to carry more weight in your vehicle or are just looking for a smoother, more comfortable and safer drive, Duffy's Automotive Tamworth have the answer for you. We specialise in suspension service, repairs and upgrades to all types of vehicles and no matter the problem you have we likely have a solution for you.

Suspension and GVM Upgrades, 4WD Lift Kits

Duffy's Automotive Tamworth are so proud of our team for getting us to the No.1 Pedders Suspension and Brakes Authorised dealer in Australia.

We understand there isn't always room in the family budget for car service so we have flexible payment options including Zip Pay and Humm90 to help you ensure this very crucial task is taken care of in a manageable fashion.

Being a Repco Authorised Service centre, we are committed to high quality workmanship, ensuring you and your car receive the very best in automotive care - from bonnet to boot! All of our mechanics are Repco Auto-tech trained which means they get constant training and updates to keep them fully up to date in even the most modern of car service methods. Why not try us out and find out for yourself what it is that makes our loyal customers so satisfied with our service.

Duffy's Automotive Tamworth is a locally owned business that has been serving the Tamworth and surrounding community for over 30 years now. Proprietor, Richard leads a team of professional and fully qualified technicians and the enthusiastic and ever helpful service staff.

We have a BMW Master Technician on site, and we are also a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program - ensuring all of our mechanical staff are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. Rest assured - your car is in good hands.

If you have enjoyed our website and want to know about what is happening in our Tamworth Car Service Workshop you might like to visit our Facebook Page

For friendly, reliable service you can trust, see the team at Duffy's Automotive Tamworth

As your local Mechanic in Tamworth, Duffy's Automotive Tamworth (MVRL52080) take great pride in offering our clients the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs.

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Taminda

From the alternator to the battery to the spark plugs, these small parts must work in sync in order to get everything started. If your car is not starting properly or if it has died, make an appointment with our friendly mechanics today.

Duffy's Automotive Tamworth are experienced at fixing alternators, starter motors, wiring, fuses, radios, car alarms and more. Give us a call or book online and we'll get your car fixed and back on the road in no time.

From the alternator to the battery to the spark plugs, these small parts must work in sync in order to get everything started.

Auto Electrical Services in Taminda

Auto Electrical

Auto electrical service, diagnostics and repairs

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Friday the 22nd of December and reopening on Tuesday the 2nd of January

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

Duffy's Automotive Tamworth (LIC# MVRL52080) is your local car service mechanic in Tamworth. As a family owned and operated business, we take great pride in offering our customers the very best in automotive care and we are committed to providing personalised and friendly service at all times. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we participate in the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring our technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. We have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. For reliable car maintenance, service & repairs in Tamworth and the surrounding areas, please use our online booking form or give us a call.

Duffy's Automotive Tamworth

Auto electrical service, diagnostics and repairs

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