5 Common Car Problems and How a Mechanic Can Fix Them

Your car is one of your most valuable assets, and keeping it in top shape is essential for both your safety and wallet. At Macro Auto Services in Mitcham, we see a wide range of car issues, from minor annoyances to major repairs. The good news? Most common car problems can be fixed easily when addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic. Here are five of the most frequent issues we encounter and how we can help you get back on the road smoothly.

1. Dead or Failing Battery

One of the most common reasons a car won’t start is a dead or failing battery. Batteries naturally lose their charge over time, especially if you leave lights on or electronics running when the car is off. Extreme weather conditions can also cause a battery to drain more quickly.

How We Fix It: At Macro Auto Services, we’ll test your battery to see if it needs charging or replacing. If it’s the latter, we can fit a new one in no time. We’ll also check your alternator and charging system to make sure everything else is in working order to prevent future issues.

2. Brake Problems

Squeaking, grinding, or a soft brake pedal? These are all signs that your braking system needs attention. Worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, or damaged rotors can reduce your car’s stopping power, which is not only dangerous but can also lead to costly repairs if ignored.

How We Fix It: We will inspect your entire brake system, including pads, discs, and brake fluid levels. We’ll replace worn parts and, if necessary, machine your brake rotors to ensure everything is functioning properly. At Macro Auto Services, safety is our priority, so we’ll make sure your brakes are in perfect condition.

3. Engine Overheating

An overheating engine is a serious problem that can lead to engine damage if not addressed quickly. Common causes include a malfunctioning radiator, low coolant levels, or a failing water pump. If you see steam coming from under the bonnet or your temperature gauge is rising into the red zone, it’s time to act fast.

How We Fix It: We’ll diagnose the cause of the overheating, whether it’s a coolant leak, a clogged radiator, or a faulty thermostat. Once we identify the issue, we’ll repair or replace the necessary components to get your engine running at the right temperature again.

4. Worn-Out Tyres

Bald or unevenly worn tyres don’t just affect your car’s handling—they’re a serious safety risk. Worn tyres reduce traction, which can make stopping difficult, especially in wet conditions. Uneven tyre wear is often a sign of alignment or suspension issues.

How We Fix It: At Macro Auto Services, we’ll inspect your tyres for wear and recommend replacements if needed. We’ll also check the alignment and balance of your wheels to ensure even tyre wear in the future, helping your tyres last longer and improving your car’s performance and safety.

5. Check Engine Light

The dreaded check engine light can cause a lot of anxiety, but it doesn’t always signal a major issue. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or something more serious like a faulty oxygen sensor. Either way, it’s important not to ignore it.

How We Fix It: Using advanced diagnostic tools, our team will identify the exact cause of your check engine light. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a more significant repair, we’ll take care of it promptly to avoid further damage and give you peace of mind.

Car problems can be frustrating, but the team at Macro Auto Services in Mitcham is here to help. With our expert diagnostics and quick, reliable service, we’ll fix your car’s issues and get you back on the road in no time. If you’re experiencing any of these common car problems, or if you just want to schedule a maintenance check, give us a call today! Let us keep your car running smoothly and safely.

Call 9874 8744.

Christmas Road Trip

Book early to avoid the rush…..

Traditionally Christmas is a very busy period for Macro Auto. 

So please book early so we can fit around your commitments. 

In December we are usually flat out but we will endeavour to fit in all our regular clients. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Please call Macro Auto on 9874 8744 for any assistance you may require.

How to Boost Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency: Simple Tips for Every Driver

In today’s world, fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s also about reducing your environmental impact. At Macro Auto Services in Mitcham, we understand that rising fuel costs can hit hard, but the good news is there are simple steps every driver can take to improve fuel efficiency. By following these tips, you’ll not only save at the pump but also help extend the life of your vehicle. Let’s dive into some practical advice that can make a real difference.

1. Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure

One of the easiest ways to boost fuel efficiency is by keeping your tyres properly inflated. Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tyre pressure regularly (about once a month) and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If you’re unsure, pop into Macro Auto Services, and we’ll check it for you. A simple adjustment can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%.

2. Lighten Your Load

Did you know that carrying extra weight in your car can reduce fuel efficiency? The heavier your vehicle, the harder the engine has to work, especially during acceleration. Clear out any unnecessary items from your boot or backseat, and if you don’t need that roof rack or cargo box, consider removing it. Every 45kg of extra weight can reduce your fuel efficiency by 1-2%, so a lighter car means more savings at the pump.

3. Avoid Aggressive Driving

Fast starts, sudden stops, and speeding might get you where you’re going a little quicker, but they also burn a lot more fuel. In fact, aggressive driving can lower your fuel efficiency by as much as 33% on the highway and 5% around town. Instead, try accelerating smoothly, maintaining a steady speed, and anticipating traffic conditions to avoid hard braking. These small adjustments not only save fuel but also help reduce wear and tear on your car, which means fewer trips to the mechanic.

4. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

A well-maintained car runs more efficiently. At Macro Auto Services, we always recommend sticking to a regular maintenance schedule. This includes changing your oil, replacing air filters, and ensuring your spark plugs are in good condition. Dirty air filters can cause your engine to work harder, while worn spark plugs can reduce fuel efficiency by causing misfires. Regular servicing keeps your engine in top shape, maximising your car’s fuel efficiency.

5. Use Cruise Control on Highways

When driving on the motorway, using cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which improves fuel efficiency. Fluctuating speeds lead to more fuel consumption, but cruise control helps avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Just be mindful to use it in safe conditions—on flat roads and in light traffic, where maintaining a consistent speed is easier.

Drive Smarter, Save More!

Improving your car’s fuel efficiency doesn’t require drastic changes—just a few mindful habits. Whether it’s keeping up with regular maintenance, lightening your load, or simply driving more smoothly, these tips can lead to significant savings. At Macro Auto Services in Mitcham, we’re here to help you get the most out of your vehicle. If you need a tune-up or advice on how to optimise your car’s performance, contact us today or drop by our workshop. Let’s keep your car running efficiently and save you money at the pump!

Call 9874 8744.

Book now for Easter

Bookings are filling fast for servicing before Easter.

Next to Christmas time, this is our busiest time of the year.

So Book early to get the day that suits you. Give us a call 9874 8744.

5 Signs Your Car Needs Immediate Attention: Don’t Ignore These Red Flags!

At Macro Auto Services in Mitcham, we know how important it is to keep your car running smoothly. Regular maintenance is key, but sometimes issues pop up unexpectedly. Ignoring them could lead to expensive repairs or, worse, put you and your passengers at risk. So, if your car starts acting up, it’s essential to take action quickly. Here are five warning signs that your car needs immediate attention.

1. Strange Noises from the Engine

If you’re hearing odd sounds like knocking, grinding, or squealing under the bonnet, don’t brush it off. Unusual noises could indicate anything from a worn-out timing belt to serious engine issues. A knocking sound often means parts inside the engine are malfunctioning, while grinding could be the result of brake problems. Whatever the noise, it’s your car’s way of saying, “I need help!” Let our expert mechanics at Macro Auto Services check it out before a minor issue becomes a costly headache.

2. Dashboard Warning Lights

That little engine light on your dashboard isn’t just decoration. When it lights up, it’s a clear signal your car has detected a problem. The most common lights are the “check engine” or “oil” indicators, but any warning should be addressed immediately. A flashing or solid warning light could mean anything from a simple sensor issue to a more severe problem like low oil pressure, overheating, or failing engine components. Don’t wait until it’s too late – pop into Macro Auto Services for a quick diagnostic to find out what’s wrong.

3. Vibrations While Driving

Feeling your car shake, rattle, or vibrate while driving isn’t normal. If the steering wheel is vibrating or the whole car feels unstable, it’s time to act. Common causes of vibrations include unbalanced tires, worn brake discs, or suspension issues. Left unchecked, this can affect your vehicle’s handling and safety, especially at higher speeds. At Macro Auto Services, we’ll thoroughly inspect your car to ensure everything is working as it should and give you back that smooth ride you deserve.

4. Leaking Fluids

Noticed puddles under your car? Fluid leaks are a big red flag! Cars rely on various fluids, such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, to operate safely. Any leaks can spell trouble for your engine and other key systems. Oil leaks, for example, can lead to engine damage, while brake fluid leaks can severely impact your stopping power. At Macro Auto Services, we’ll identify the source of the leak and fix it before it becomes a serious hazard on the road.

5. Burning Smells

If you detect a burning smell while driving, it’s a sign something’s not right. Whether it’s the smell of burning oil, overheated brakes, or melting plastic, none of these should be ignored. Burning smells can result from problems like a blown gasket, electrical shorts, or worn-out brake pads, all of which can escalate quickly into more serious issues. If your nose tells you something’s wrong, bring your car in for an immediate inspection at our Mitcham workshop.

Don’t Wait – Act Now! When your car starts giving you warning signs, it’s crucial to get things checked out sooner rather than later. At Macro Auto Services in Mitcham, we are here to diagnose and fix any issues before they get worse. If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate – give us a call or book an appointment today to keep your car safe, reliable, and running smoothly! Call 9874 8744.

7 Things to Know Before Buying A Car

Have you done your research?

  • Do as much research as you can. Read consumer guides, get advice from Consumer Affairs Victoria , visit car sale sites, and most importantly, read new and used car reviews.
  • Consider what type of car suits your needs. For example, there’s no point buying a 4WD if you never leave the city.
  • Think about your car financing and budget. Will you buy a new car? Will you be visiting used car dealerships?
  • Always do a vehicle check. Take the prospective vehicle for a test drive.
  •  

Is a new or used car better?

  • New cars are less likely to present complications and can offer peace of mind.
  • New cars usually have improved fuel efficiency but face immediate depreciation.
  • A used car can be more affordable.
  • A well-maintained used car with regular service history can be a good buy.

How much do you really know about a car’s history?

  • Private sales can be risky, so be extra vigilant with car history checks. The online VicRoads registration check is a great place to start. Simply enter the vehicle’s registration and the VicRoads vehicle check will flag any disputes or sanctions associated with the vehicle.
  • Consider having your mechanic independently inspect the vehicle

What are your car finance and insurance options?

  • Consider all the fees and charges you may have to pay including registration fees, TAC charges, number-plate costs, government motor vehicle duty, dealer delivery charges, a registration transfer fee (for used cars) and luxury car tax.
  • Make sure you understand a contract before you sign it.
  • Take out at least third party and preferably comprehensive car insurance.

How safe is the vehicle?

  • Safety is often overlooked, particularly when buying an older vehicle.
  • Used Car Safety Ratings help you find the safest second-hand car for your budget. Consider also how an older car drives. Will you be happy to drive a vehicle that’s less connected to your devices or which doesn’t have a reversing camera?
  • There are 5-star ANCAP safety-rated cars available for every taste and budget.
  • The ANCAP rating will give you valuable information about the safety of new cars.

What are the car running costs?

  • Work out vehicle operating costs, vehicle depreciation, cents per kilometre, or even find out how you compare to the most economical small car.
  • Insurance is typically cheaper for common models, along with servicing, tyres and spare parts.
  • Consider fuel efficiency as a significant contributor to the cost of running a car.
  • Think about regular car servicing costs.

What are your vehicle re-sale prospects?

  • Maintain your vehicle in good condition to maximise its for sale price.
  • Keep up with regular servicing and use your vehicle logbook.
  • Consider neutral-coloured cars over bright ones, as they are easier to resell.

 

At Macro Auto we are happy to answer any questions so please give us a call 9874 8744.

SOURCE: RACV

7 Interesting Car Facts

We have found some interesting car facts. Check out the 7 ones we found most intriguing.

1. Car dashboards were originally designed to prevent mud from splattering the driver of a horse-drawn carriage.

2. The year 1886 is considered to be the birth of the modern car. In that year, German inventor Carl Benz built a modern automobile called the Benz Patent-Motorwagen.

3. Inventor Mary Anderson (1866-1953) invented the first effective windshield wiper. They were initially considered a distraction.

4. In Christopher Nolan’s film Batman, Bruce Wayne drives a Lamborghini Murcielago. In Spanish, Murcielago means, “bat.”

5. For many cars, the “new car smell” is actually toxic. It is composed of over 50 volatile organic compounds.

6. The BMW logo derives from the company’s origin as an airplane manufacturer. The now iconic blue and white “target sign” represents a spinning white propeller against a blue sky.

7. Approximately 5 months of a person’s life is spent waiting in a car at red lights.

 

SOURCE: Fact Retreiver

‘P’ Plate Driver Rules You Might Not Know

Playing music through your phone is off limits for probationary drivers. 

There’s nothing quite like that first Maccas run when you get your driver’s licence. The thrill of swapping over the ‘L’ for a bright red ‘P’, the quick burst of that bubble when you realise your petrol tank is empty and this time you’re the one who has to fill it.

However, when you transition from a learner to a probationary driver, you go from being the safest person on the road to the most at risk. Drivers aged 18 to 25 years old are overrepresented in road deaths, making up 19 percent of fatalities despite only accounting for roughly 10 percent of Victorian licence holders.

It’s well understood that phone use, including making phone calls, messaging and scrolling on social media is strictly banned, but the increased accessibility of cars and devices with Bluetooth and USB capability means that what is considered ‘using’ your phone can become confusing.

P-plate phone rules explained

Can I play music if my phone is connected by USB or via Bluetooth?

While you may not feel as though you are using your phone, under Victorian rules you are. Both P1 and P2 probationary drivers must never use any hands-free or hand-held device while driving, which includes listening to music. This applies even if you are able to change tracks or adjust volume from your steering wheel or car stereo or store your phone in a commercially designed holder.

So, Maps is also a no-go?

Correct. Using Maps on your phone, even via USB, is prohibited for both P1 and P2 drivers.

In terms of GPS, a unit can be in operation, but it must be inbuilt into the vehicle design, or secured in a commercially designed holder which is fixed on the vehicle. The navigation device cannot be a part of, or a functionality of, a mobile phone. Also, the address information should only be entered while a vehicle is pulled over and parked.

RACV encourages probationary drivers to plan their trip ahead, including looking up the route and for new or unfamiliar trips allowing extra time in case of the need to pull over and check directions.

What about if I have someone in the car with me? Can they put their phone on speaker?

Even if it is someone else’s phone, you’re technically the one using it and so it is still not allowed while on a probationary licence.

What classifies as being ‘parked’?

You must be stopped at a place where you can legally stop and leave the vehicle without it being a hazard. RACV advises to ensure the vehicle is in park and the handbrake is on. Being stationary, such as stopped at traffic lights, does not automatically mean parked.

For the purpose of using your mobile phone, a driver can be considered as legally parked with their keys in the ignition or the vehicle running. However, the vehicle must still be legally parked or pulled off the road before a hand-held mobile can be used.

Where do smartwatches fit into this?

A smartwatch is a watch that is able to be linked to the wearer’s mobile phone and enables them to access many of the functions of said phone so it should not be used by probationary drivers while driving.

They cannot be used for social media, emailing, making or receiving calls, text or video messages, when worn by the driver.

What are the repercussions of using your phone?

Loss of four demerit points and a fine.

Probationary drivers who reach five demerit points may incur a licence suspension.
 

SOURCE: RACV – Author Megan Whitfield MAY 2019

Teach Your Kids To Drive

From learner drivers to safe P platers, these are our top tips for teaching kids to drive.

Kids grow up so fast. One minute you’re showing them how to tie shoelaces, and the next you’re teaching them to parallel park. While the thought of your child driving solo might be sickening it’s a key milestone for any young person. A shiny new P-plate will give them freedom and independence, but it also puts them at huge risk. Over the past 10 years, more than 300 drivers aged 18 to 25 have died on the state’s roads.

RACV driving instructor Jeremy Azzopardi shares his tips for creating safe, secure P-platers.

How can we make our young people safer on the roads?

“We need to train them properly,” says Jeremy, a passionate advocate for raising safe young drivers. “Start by finding a good instructor and make sure you help your child gain plenty of practice in all conditions.”

Do I really need a professional instructor to teach my child to drive?

“No, parents can teach, as long as they do it in the right way,” explains Jeremy. “Some parents are good teachers, and their kids just need a few lessons to put the finishing touches on their skills before their final test. The majority of kids who do really well have parents who join us in the car for a few lessons and pick up some good teaching techniques. It helps them learn what to do, and also reduces stress for everyone.”

What makes a good driving instructor?

“It’s important to have someone who’s calm and relaxed, not someone who gets angry if the learner does something wrong. Mistakes will happen – that’s all part of learning. The last thing you want is someone stressed.”

“The most important thing to remember when teaching young people to drive is to ask questions, not tell them what to do. A good instructor will form instructions by using questions. For example, ‘Is it safe to move away from the kerb?’, ‘What’s the speed limit on this road?’ or ‘What’s coming up in the mirror?’ Most parents tell kids what to do, which leads to problems when making decisions for themselves. Then they get to a roundabout with five exits instead of four, they panic and make the wrong move. Learning to drive is more than just passing the test, it’s about being able to make good decisions.”

What else do parents need to be aware of?

“Many people pass on some really bad driving habits without even knowing that they’re doing it. I see young people who’ve copied Mum or Dad and are driving with one hand, or they’re leaning on the centre console or the car door. Some even drive – and teach their kids to drive – with two feet, one on the accelerator and one on the brake. It’s just so dangerous.” 

 I ask kids to imagine they’re driving their best friend in the car and how they’d feel if they hurt them.

How can I help my child find a good instructor?

“Make sure any instructor you choose has a Working with Children Check and a valid Police Check. They must also have their Driving Instructor Authority displayed in the car for them to conduct the lesson. If they’re missing any of these things, I wouldn’t even get in the car.”

How many lessons will my child need?

“The average is usually between five and 10 lessons but it really varies, some people need many more than that. Learners need as many lessons as it takes to become a safe and confident driver, not just to pass the test.”

“Learners need to complete 120 hours of supervised driving before their test. That’s a lot of driving. But sometimes, families make the time up on the same route every day. Practising in all conditions and on country roads and freeways is crucial, even if you think you’ll just be driving to the same place every day. And as we know, Melbourne weather is crazy! You really need to be prepared for anything.”

Any other tips to improve driving safety? 

“Every day I lose count of the people I see on their phone or speeding. I ask kids to imagine they’re driving their best friend in the car and how they’d feel if they hurt them. Get them to think about worst-case scenarios. It’s important to understand that if you make a bad decision you could end someone’s life.”

SOURCE: RACV – Author:  LUCY CLEEVE  June 2019

Tips for Safe Winter Driving

There’s something about wet, wintry weather that affects even the most cautious of drivers. As the winter months bite, weather conditions can make driving difficult and, in extreme condition, even hazardous. Roads become slippery when wet, hail and heavy rain can make it hard to see and even harder to stop, and foggy mornings and dark afternoons decrease visibility. Here are our top tips for staying safe on our roads during winter.

Six tips for safe driving in winter conditions 

Service your car

Checking your car’s safety equipment, tyres, windscreen wipers, batteries, lights, and brakes is always important, especially so in winter when cold and wet conditions are particularly hard on cars.

Tread carefully

Tyres are incredibly important to safety – they’re all that connects your vehicle to the road. Tyres must have plenty of tread depth (no less than 1.5 millimetres) and no damage. They should also be inflated to the correct pressure. But be aware this can vary from car to car. The recommended minimum tyre pressures are usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or glove box.

Maintain a safe braking distance

Remember it takes much longer to stop in the wet, so don’t follow other cars too closely when it’s raining, or if the roads are wet. Increase the gap between you and the car in front to at least four seconds.

Slow down

Travel just a little slower, even on roads you know well, and take off from lights and intersections a little slower as greasy roads can cause vehicles to lose traction.

Don’t rush to get going either. Before taking off on a long road trip, be sure you know how to use all the features of your car’s fog lights, high-beam lights, front and rear demisters and front and rear windscreen wipers. Clear your windscreen and windows before you start driving to ensure good visibility.

Weather the storm

Be aware of changed conditions and heed any weather warnings particularly when travelling in areas where extreme weather is more common, such as the high country and ski fields. Wet roads, black ice and snow reduce grip, sometimes without warning, while fog and heavy rain can bring drastically decreased visibility. Avoid using cruise control in icy road conditions. Extra caution is needed in these conditions, including knowing when to use fog lights, especially if you are used to driving in milder conditions.

When in doubt, pull over

In wet weather use your air conditioner to prevent your windscreen from fogging up. However, if visibility is so limited that you can’t see the edges of the road or other vehicles at a safe distance, it’s time to pull over and wait for the conditions to ease.

SOURCE: RACV  Author – Nicholas Platt  MAY 2019