General Vehicle Servicing

Why does the cost of a service vary from vehicle to vehicle?

Every vehicle requires different quantities and specifications of oil, filters, and parts. Some
vehicles are also more time-consuming to service because of engine design, accessibility, or manufacturer requirements. A small petrol hatchback will generally cost less to service than a late-model diesel 4-wheel drive ute or European vehicle.

What's included in a standard oil service?

A typical oil service includes:

• Draining and replacing engine oil
• Replacing the engine oil filter
• Checking fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, gearbox oil
  and differential oil (where applicable)
• Checking tyres and tyre pressures including the spare tyre
• Brake visual inspection
• Suspension and steering visual inspection
• Inspection for fluid leaks
• Cleaning or replacing air and cabin filters if required
• Check all lights and wipers for operation
• General vehicle safety check

What is NOT included in a standard oil service?

Unless specifically requested or quoted, an oil service generally does not include:

• Wheel alignments
• Brake repairs
  
• WOF inspections
• Diagnostic fault finding
  
• Transmission servicing
  
• Differential servicing
  
• Air conditioning servicing
  
• Replacement of worn parts
• Battery testing or battery replacement

If we find something that requires attention, we'll contact you before carrying out additional work.

How often should I service my vehicle?

Most vehicles should be serviced every 10,000 to 15,000km or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. However, diesel vehicles, towing vehicles, and vehicles operating in harsh
conditions may require more frequent servicing.

Can you service vehicles still under manufacturer warranty?

Yes. We can carry out servicing according to manufacturer specifications using quality parts and lubricants, while helping maintain your vehicle's service history.

How do I know if my vehicle is due for a service?

You may already have a service reminder sticker on your windscreen showing when your
last service was completed and when your next service is due. These are based on your
odometer reading. If you do not have a sticker and you're unsure, give us a call with your
registration number or current odometer reading and we'll help determine what's due.

Warrant of Fitness (WOF)

What is a WOF?

A Warrant of Fitness is a safety inspection that checks whether your vehicle meets New
Zealand's minimum road safety requirements at the time of inspection.

What does a WOF inspection include?

A WOF typically covers:

• Road test to test brakes, steering and suspension
  
• Lights and indicators for operation and condition
  
• Steering and suspension
  
• Tyres and wheels including spare tyre security
  
• Windscreen and wipers and other glazing for chips/cracks/clarity
  
• Seatbelts
  
• Vehicle structure and body condition
  
• Mirrors and interior fittings
  
• Doors and latches for operation
  
• Exhaust condition
  
• Fuel system and drive train
  

What does a WOF NOT cover?

A WOF is not a comprehensive mechanical inspection. It does not assess:

• Engine condition
  
• Transmission condition
  
• Engine oil quality or quantity
  
• Future reliability
  
• Fuel economy
  
• Internal wear and tear
  
• General servicing requirements

It's possible for a vehicle to pass a WOF but still require mechanical repairs or servicing.

My vehicle failed its WOF. What happens next?

We'll explain exactly what has failed, provide an estimate where possible, and discuss repair options. Once the repairs are completed, the vehicle can be rechecked and a WOF issued.

Does a WOF mean my car is mechanically perfect?

No. A WOF confirms that the vehicle has met minimum safety standards on the day it was
inspected. Regular servicing remains essential to promote longevity and reliability.

Repairs & Maintenance

Why do I need to replace my cambelt?

Cambelts are a scheduled maintenance item. If a cambelt fails, it can cause serious engine
damage and very expensive repairs. Following manufacturer replacement intervals is crucial.

How do I know if my brakes need attention?

Common signs include:

• Squealing or grinding noises
  
• Vehicle pulling during braking
  
• Brake warning lights showing
• Vibrations when braking in the steering wheel or brake pedal
  
• Spongey brake pedal
  

Why is my check engine light on?

A check engine light can indicate anything from a minor sensor fault to a more serious
engine or emissions-related issue. A diagnostic scan allows us to identify the fault and
recommend any necessary repairs.

Do you perform diagnostic scans?

Yes. We use diagnostic equipment to read fault codes and help identify issues with engine
management systems, sensors, ABS systems, transmission controls, and more.

Why is my vehicle using more fuel than normal?

Possible causes include:

• Dirty air filters
  
• Underinflated tyres
  
• Faulty or dirty sensors
  
• Injector issues
  
• Engine management faults
  
• Poor servicing history

A diagnostic inspection can help identify the cause and we can recommend repairs.

Diesel Vehicles & Diesel Tune

What are the benefits of a Diesel Tune upgrade?

Depending on the vehicle and application, benefits may include:

• Improved power and torque
  
• Better towing performance
  
• Improved drivability
  
• Potential fuel economy improvements depending on driving habits and vehicle use

Will tuning damage my engine?

Professional tuning performed within safe operating parameters is designed to work with
your vehicle's capabilities. We can discuss the most suitable tune for your vehicle and
intended use.

Is diesel tuning suitable for towing?

Many customers choose tuning to improve towing performance by increasing low-down
torque and making the vehicle much more responsive to drive.

Ironman 4x4 & Accessories

Can you supply and fit Ironman 4x4 accessories?

Yes. We can supply and professionally install a range of Ironman 4x4 products including
suspension kits, bull bars, winches, roof racks and accessories.

Will a suspension upgrade affect my WOF?

All modifications must comply with NZ regulations. We can advise whether certification or
other compliance requirements may apply. A suspension lift up to 50mm does not require
certification to comply with NZ regulations.

What's the advantage of upgrading my suspension?

Benefits can include:

• Improved load carrying and handling
  
• Better off-road capability
  
• Increased ground clearance

Booking & Pricing for general repairs

When I need a repair, why can't you give an exact cost over the phone?

Many vehicle problems require inspection and diagnosis before an estimate can be
provided. Similar symptoms can have several different causes, and it's often impossible to
identify the exact issue without seeing the vehicle. In some cases, the cause of the problem
isn't visible until components are removed. Rather than guessing, we prefer to properly
diagnose the fault first so we can provide the most accurate estimate possible.

Do you contact customers before carrying out additional work?

Absolutely. If we discover additional repairs are required, we'll discuss the findings and
obtain approval before proceeding.

Can I provide my own parts?

In some cases, yes. However, we generally recommend supplying quality parts ourselves so we can stand behind both the parts warranty and workmanship.

How long will my vehicle be off the road?

Once we've assessed the job, we'll provide the most suitable timeframe possible and keep
you updated if anything changes.