Winter driving in Tamworth, NSW, requires careful preparation to ensure your vehicle can handle the season's challenges. With cooler temperatures and increased rain, ensuring your car is in peak condition is vital for your safety and peace of mind. Regular servicing is key to achieving this, helping you avoid unexpected breakdowns and maintaining your vehicle’s performance.

How Regular Service Helps Get Your Car Ready for Winter Driving

Join Uphill Automotive in Tamworth as we take an in-depth look at why regular servicing is crucial for winter driving in Tamworth and the specific tasks involved in getting your car ready...

Regular servicing is like a health check-up for your car. It helps identify and resolve issues before they become major problems, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable and safe throughout winter. Here’s why it’s essential:

Battery Check: Avoiding Winter Breakdowns
Winter can be tough on car batteries. Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions in the battery, reducing its efficiency and making it harder to start your car. During a service, mechanics will test the battery’s charge and overall condition, ensuring it’s strong enough to withstand the demands of winter. A weak or old battery can leave you stranded in the cold, making this check vital.

Lights Check: Ensuring Visibility
With shorter daylight hours and often overcast skies, winter driving demands excellent visibility. Ensuring all your car’s lights are functioning properly is crucial for safety. During a service, mechanics check your headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights, replacing any burnt-out bulbs and cleaning the light covers. Properly functioning lights ensure you can see and be seen, reducing the risk of accidents.

Windshield Wipers Check: Ensuring Clear Vision
Effective windshield wipers are essential for maintaining visibility during rainy winter days. Over time, wiper blades can wear out and become less effective at clearing water from the windshield. Regular servicing includes inspecting and replacing wiper blades if necessary, ensuring you can maintain clear vision in harsh weather.

Brake Check: Ensuring Stopping Power
Brakes are your car’s primary safety feature, especially important in winter when stopping distances can increase due to wet or icy roads. Regular servicing includes a thorough inspection of the brake pads, discs, and fluid levels. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition gives you confidence in your ability to stop safely, even in challenging conditions.

Tyre Check: Ensuring Grip and Traction
Tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, making their condition critical. Proper tread depth and tyre pressure are essential for optimal grip on wet and slippery surfaces. During a service, mechanics inspect your tyres for wear and tear, check the tread depth, and adjust the tyre pressure. This ensures your tyres can handle the demanding winter conditions in Tamworth.

HVAC System Check: Staying Warm and Clear
Your car’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is crucial for comfort and safety during winter. It helps keep your windows clear of fog and frost and maintains a comfortable cabin temperature. Regular servicing checks the HVAC system for any issues, ensuring it’s ready to handle the colder months.

Fluid Levels Check: Keeping Everything Running Smoothly
Various fluids in your car play essential roles, particularly in winter. These include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Low or dirty fluids can affect your car’s performance and reliability. During a service, mechanics check and top up these fluids, ensuring your car runs smoothly and efficiently in winter conditions.

Regular servicing not only prepares your car for winter but also extends its lifespan and enhances its performance. By addressing potential issues before they become serious problems, you ensure your vehicle is reliable and safe throughout the colder months. 

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, a torch, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit

Check the weather forecast before heading out and plan your trips accordingly

Drive cautiously on icy or wet roads, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles

Winter driving in Tamworth requires extra caution and preparedness. By ensuring your car is regularly serviced and in top condition, you can confidently navigate the winter roads, knowing you’ve done everything possible to ensure your safety.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—book your winter service with Uphill Automotive in Tamworth today and drive safely this winter season...

Ensure your car is ready for winter driving in Tamworth with regular servicing. Learn why checking the battery, lights, wipers, brakes, tyres, HVAC system, and fluid levels is crucial for safety and performance…

Get Your Car Winter-Ready in Tamworth NSW: Essential Servicing Tips

Winter Car Servicing: Your Guide to Safe Driving

Located on the corner of Kingsford Smith St and Dampier Street in Tamworth, NSW, Uphill Automotive (MVRL2673) has been providing superior automotive repair and customer service for over 45 years.

All services can be carried out on all car makes and models; this includes four wheel drives, diesel vehicles, trucks plus fleet and commercial vehicles. Some of our expert services include: log book servicing, 150 point checks, auto electrical repairs, EFI and wheel alignments.

Head mechanic Mark and the team at Uphill Automotive strive to give you the best service possible. To further show the dedication to professional mechanical trade, we actively participate in the Repco Auto Tech training program to make sure our mechanics are up to date with industry standards and processes.

Many car service specialists do not provide A/C regas services, which means you have to take more time and money to get the service completed by someone else. Thankfully our team are qualified to carry out your A/C repairs and regas needs along with your main vehicle service.

Uphill Automotive care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU07267). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health.

Authorised vehicle inspections for registration

Mark and the team are fully authorised to carry out all aspects of vehicle inspections for registration in NSW - Pink Slip e-Safety Check Inspection.

The Pink Slip e-Safety Check is for vehicles that need an inspection as they are 5 years or older.

If you need further information on which inspection you need please visit the NSW roads and traffic authority or contact us today!

We are proud sponsors of the Starlight Children's Foundation 

For friendly service from a trusted independent, you can rely on the team at Uphill Automotive.

Uphill Automotive has been providing superior automotive repair and customer service in Tamworth for over 45 years (MVRL2673)...

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Tamworth

Taking a spontaneous road trip can be one of life’s great pleasures, but the enjoyment hinges on one crucial aspect - the reliability and safety of your vehicle. Regular car service is not just a recommendation; it's a necessity for ensuring your car is always road-trip ready, even at the drop of a hat. Let’s delve into why vehicle service should be a regular part of your car care routine and how it supports the safety and condition of vehicles for holiday driving.

Make Every Journey Safe and Worry Less with Regular Car Service

Routine car service is the backbone of automotive care. It’s the preventative measure that catches small issues before they become big, costly problems. Especially for those who love hitting the road on a whim, knowing that your vehicle has been professionally checked and maintained can significantly reduce the worry that comes with long journeys. The peace of mind knowing your car is in tip-top shape allows you to focus on the adventure ahead rather than potential car troubles.

At the heart of reliable car servicing are experienced technicians equipped with state-of-the-art tools. These professionals carry out a range of mechanical tasks during a regular service. They ensure everything from your engine's performance to your air conditioning system operates efficiently and safely. They check the essentials - oil and filter changes, brake inspections, tyre pressure, and fluid levels - and also delve into the vehicle's diagnostics to preempt any electrical or mechanical issues that could impede your journey.

A regular service also includes thorough inspections to verify that each component of your vehicle is functioning correctly. It's crucial for those planning to traverse different terrains, particularly in 4WD or SUVs. The thorough checks and balances ensure that every adventure, be it off-road or on the highway, is conducted with utmost safety.

Apart from the mechanical advantages, regular car servicing ensures your comfort through fully operational systems like air conditioning, which doubles as a safety feature by keeping your windows demisted and improving visibility. Ensuring your vehicle’s electrical systems are functioning correctly is another key aspect of service that enhances both the driving experience and safety on the road

Systematic brake maintenance -  Ensure Your Safety: 
The brake system, being vital for safety, requires regular checks and maintenance. With routine servicing, wear and tear are minimized, and you're less likely to face unexpected brake-related issues, ensuring a safer journey.

Air conditioning system kept in good order -  Comfort is Key: 
A functional air conditioning system is essential for a comfortable trip, especially in extreme weather. Regular servicing ensures your system won't let you down when you need it most. 

Regular inspection of suspension and steering -  Smooth Sailing: 
Effective suspension and steering systems are crucial for control and maneuverability. Regular checks can prevent major breakdowns and ensure a comfortable ride, making every road trip enjoyable.

Checking and Changing Engine Oil Regularly - Keep Your Engine Happy: 
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. Changing it as part of regular servicing keeps your engine running smoothly, preventing overheating and potential damage. 

Systematic battery inspection - Avoid Unexpected Delays: 
Routine battery checks can prevent being stranded due to a dead battery. A simple check can ensure your vehicle starts every time, keeping your trip on schedule.

Disciplined tyre maintenance - Maximise Safety and Efficiency: 
Well-maintained tyres are essential for a smooth ride and fuel efficiency. Regular checks allow for early detection of issues, ensuring your safety and saving you money.

Methodical inspection of electrical system - Keep Everything Running: 
The electrical system affects many aspects of your car's performance. Regular inspections ensure everything from your lights to control functions works as it should.

Consistent Fluid and Filter Replacement - Essential for Vehicle Health: 
Fluids and filters play a crucial role in your car's performance. Regular replacements keep everything running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Vehicle Efficiency through Regular Service - Minimise Pit Stops: 
Regular servicing can improve your vehicle's efficiency, reducing the need for frequent stops and ensuring a smoother, faster journey.

Being Proactive Saves Time and Worry - Plan Ahead: 
Regular servicing might seem like a chore, but it's a vital step in road trip preparation. Being proactive saves you time, money, and stress, letting you focus on the adventure ahead.

Peace of Mind through Regular Service - Reliable Rides: 
Knowing your car has been professionally serviced means you can trust it to get you to your destination without issues. It's the ultimate peace of mind for any road tripper.

The benefits of regular car service when preparing for a road trip

In essence, regular car service is not just about maintaining the value and efficiency of your vehicle but is a critical element in ensuring every road trip is safe, enjoyable, and free from unexpected hitches. It's about having confidence in your car's reliability, whether you're driving across town or crossing into uncharted territories. With the extensive range of car servicing offered by workshops like Uphill Automotive in Tamworth you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands, helping guarantee peace of mind wherever your journey takes you. 

Make the wise choice of incorporating regular vehicle servicing  with Uphill Automotive in Tamworth into your schedule and take some worry out of road trips, even those you decide upon at the drop of a hat...

Discover how regular car servicing at Uphill Automotive can ease your travel worries. From diagnostics to maintenance, ensure your car's safety and reliability for any spontaneous road trip adventure.

Hats off to regular servicing: Road trips with less worry

Hats off to regular servicing - Road trips with less worry

Brake fluid transfers the pressure you put on the brake pedal through to the actual brakes.
Without the brake fluid your brakes quite simply would not work. As everyone knows - not having brakes is a huge problem! In fact even slightly affected brakes are very dangerous.


Brake fluid absorbs moisture very easily. Brake fluids are also subject to very high temperatures and so they are designed to have a high boiling point to stop them from boiling and evaporating- when brake fluid has accumulated too much moisture- this lowers its boiling point and it can boil off more easily causing low levels. Low levels of brake fluid affect your braking performance and could mean your car will fail to stop.
Brake Fluid that has absorbed too much moisture will also shorten the life of your braking system including damaging the callipers, wheel cylinders and anti-lock braking systems.

Why is brake fluid replacement necessary?

Your manufacturer's log book will advise how regularly your brake fluid should be changed or flushed, we recommend a drain and replacement every two years however it is wise to have it regularly checked by an expert at every service to make sure the levels are not reducing too fast (a sign of a leak) or that the moisture levels have not reached a point that could be damaging your system.

How often should I replace my brake fluid?

At Uphill Automotive we offer a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and back discs and pads, callipers and cylinders and more. This inspection helps to identify any issues in your vehicle which should be addressed and our mechanics will certainly advise you if they feel your vehicle might need a brake fluid replacement, or an out of schedule brake system service or repairs.

Do you check the brake fluids during a car service?

Without the brake fluid your brakes quite simply would not work.

Brake fluid - what is it and why do I need it? 

As a vehicle owner in Tamworth, you understand the importance of having a car that is in top working condition. One of the most critical components of your car's performance and safety is the braking system. Brakes play a vital role in your car's ability to come to a stop safely, making it crucial to ensure they are in good working condition at all times. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to know if your brakes are up to the task.

The first sign that your brakes may be wearing out is a squealing or grinding sound. This sound may come from your wheels, and it may be caused by worn brake pads or shoes. This noise can be heard while applying the brakes or when driving, and it's essential to get your brakes inspected as soon as possible if you hear this sound.

Another sign that your brakes may be in trouble is if they are slow to respond or feel "soft" when you press the brake pedal. This issue may be caused by a leak in the brake line or low brake fluid. In such cases, it is best to take your vehicle to a mechanic right away to avoid further damage and risk your safety.

Additionally, if you notice that your car takes longer to come to a complete stop or pulls to one side when braking, these are clear signs that something is wrong with your brake system. It may be caused by unevenly worn brake pads or rotors or misaligned wheels. Addressing these issues will not only improve your braking performance but also prevent further wear and tear on your vehicle.

It's vital to keep your brakes in good condition to ensure your safety while driving. Don't hesitate to get your brake system checked at the first sign of trouble. It's also recommended to have your brakes checked by a professional every six months to a year to prevent unexpected brake issues.

Keeping your brakes in good condition is essential for your safety and vehicle performance. Pay attention to the warning signs mentioned above, and get your brakes inspected as soon as possible. Trust your brakes, and they will keep you safe on the roads of Tamworth and beyond!

Brakes play a vital role in your car's ability to come to a stop safely, making it crucial to ensure they are in good working condition at all times. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to know if your brakes are up to the task.

Stop right there - Are your brakes up to the task?

Moisture can build up in the fluid which reduces braking efficiency, increases the corrosion of brake system components and can possibly lead to total brake failure. So your vehicle must have clean brake fluid.

Clean brake fluid not only protects your safety - it also prolongs the life of your braking system components by preventing corrosion.

Uphill Automotive are qualified to perform a wide range of brake services and repairs using quality parts, all covered by our Nationwide Warranty.

The cost of a brake fluid flush depends on vehicle type, and if there are any other repairs, maintenance or parts needed to complete the task. While we have the wheels off, for your safety we will also check the calipers, wheel cylinders, brake hoses, brake lines, and master cylinder for any faults or signs of wear that need to be addressed and advise you if necessary.

If you would like to know the costs, give our friendly staff a call to discuss your car and get a quote. If during the procedure we do notice something that needs extra attention that will affect our quote we will always call you to confirm before proceeding.

We put the car up on the hoist and take off the wheels, we begin the brake system flush by removing the present fluid from the master cylinder. We fill it back up with fresh new, quality brake fluid of the correct type. Following this, each brake is "bled" and the clean fluid flushes through the system, completely replacing the old. We will also check over the brake system for any signs of damage or wear that needs attention and advise you, if necessary.

A brake fluid flush can be done as part of a scheduled service - but sometimes we may recommend it outside of a regular schedule if we feel it's necessary. We are always happy to discuss the reasons why with you.

My brake fluid looks clean - why are you suggesting a flush?

Checking your brake fluid colour is good, but don't rely on it, just because it looks clean - that doesn't mean it's in good condition. When water has absorbed into the brake fluid, you might not see it, but it still could make the fluid boil. If the fluid boils, it can cause loss of braking pressure or even sudden and unexpected brake failure. A visual inspection won't necessarily highlight if there are dangerous amounts of water in your brake fluid - only a professional boiling point test can tell you this.

The standard recommendation is every two years - your vehicle's manufacturer log book may have a different schedule set out - but remember these are guidelines, so it is necessary to evaluate the condition of your brake fluid on a regular basis.

When it comes to brake safety - we don't stop - so you will when you need to.

At Uphill Automotive we offer a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, free with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and back discs and pads, calipers and cylinders and more. This report lets you know if there is an immediate or a future need for repairs to your vehicle, allowing you to be safe or budget in advance.

Brake fluid flush in Tamworth

Specialist Braking & Suspension Testing in Tamworth.

Is your car unsteady when you corner? Not stopping the way it used to? A Safe-T-Stop test will soon identify all your braking issues.

Your car's braking and suspension play an important part in making sure that your car stops quickly and safely. Here at Uphill Automotive in Tamworth we take your safety very seriously. This is why we have invested in a state of the art Safe-T-Stop testing machine and we are an approved Safe-T-Stop Testing Centre.

You can trust a Safe-T-Stop test with your family's safety. It provides an added safety inspection that goes well beyond a basic check and road test to scientifically test your braking capacity and ensure maximum stopping performance.

A Safe-T-Stop test is carried out on the electronically accurate PlateTronic test equipment. Safe-T-Stop test lanes measure and simulate a vehicle's brake performance in real-life conditions, exactly as it would happen in an emergency stop on the road!

Along with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your vehicle will stop straight and in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, having your braking and suspension system in peak operating condition also saves you money by reducing tyre drag and wear which can increase fuel costs. Read more here: http://www.repcoservice.com/our-services/tyres-and-wheel-service

A Safe-T-Stop check will give you a precise and detailed printed report that will enable the qualified technicians at Uphill Automotive to advise you on any critical adjustments that should be made.

Safe-T-Stop - Committed to Safer Motoring

Find out more about Safe-T-Stop Testing at http://www.safetstop.com.au/

Book your Safe-T-Stop test online or call Uphill Automotive today.

Safe -T -Stop brake tesing in Tamworth

Working brakes save lives and property. Don't ignore this important safety feature of your car.

Brake repairs are what many people discuss when it comes to being safe, but considering brake maintenance is much more vital to your safety. Maintaining your brakes means not waiting until they need repairs.

Badly maintained brakes reduce your ability to stop swiftly and safely, putting lives at risk.

Regular brake maintenance allows you to feel confident knowing that your brakes will be in good working order when you need it most; in an emergency!

Your brake pads are a key factor of your braking system and they are a part that you you shouldn't ignore. Friction is caused when the brake pads compress against the brake rotors in order for your car to stop. So your brake pads work really hard, really often. The force they have to exert to stop a moving vehicle is extreme and creates a lot of heat which slowly degrades the brake pads.

Worn brake pads means impaired braking which is dangerous on the roads. This is why consistent testing and assessments of your brake pad's condition is necessary.

Are there signs a brake pad replacement is due?

Squealing brakes are a warning that your brake pads are worn down; many pads have a small metal piece implanted in them which will scratch on the disc when your brake pads are getting thin, causing that high pitch noise. However, this doesn't indicate that you should wait until you hear noises to get your pads inspected, we inspect your brakes at every service.

It is important to remember that unusual brake sounds are not always caused by normal wear and any unusual noises anywhere in your car should always be investigated by a qualified professional mechanic, like Uphill Automotive mechanics.

At Uphill Automotive we offer a free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection Report we inspect the brake pads for wear and advise you if they call for replacing. We can also advise the right pad for your local conditions and driving style.

How regularly should my brake pads be replaced?

Brake Pads can live anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 km's. This can change because of a number of causes such as; driving conditions, driving style, if you are carrying heavy loads or towing. If your brake pads are wearing out prematurely your mechanic might advise using a special heavy duty brake pad more suited to your vehicle.

Some things are best left to experienced mechanics and this is one of them. You should never let anyone but a qualified professional touch something as essential to your safety as your braking system.

Uphill Automotive are qualified to perform a wide range of brake services and repairs using quality parts, all covered by our nationwide warranty.

We can provide inspection, repair or replacement of many brake components such as:

When it comes to Brake Maintenance, you should never take a risk. If you're not sure if your brake maintenance is 100% - call a professional. Speak with Uphill Automotive or book online today.

When it comes to your vehicle being safe, brake maintenance is vital!

Brake pad replacement service in Tamworth

When it comes to brakes, you should never wait until brake repairs are necessary.  

Proper testing and routine checkups, such as our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection which we provide with all full car services, are important to ensure your vehicle's brake system is in top condition. Our expert team of technicians will be happy to advise you when they suspect that service or repair of your brake system is indicated to stop it becoming a bigger issue.

Brake services we perform at Uphill Automotive include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Tamworth workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Tamworth

Brake and Clutch

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Tuesday the 24th of December and reopening on Monday the 6th of January

Uphill Automotive (LIC# MVRL2673) take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 
		
Conveniently located in Tamworth, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program , ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. Uphill Automotive is along standing member of the MTA Association. 
		
Uphill Automotive have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care for over the last 45 years plus.

Uphill Automotive

Brake and clutch

Related articles

Winter Car Servicing: Your Guide to Safe Driving

Car service in Tamworth

Hats off to regular servicing - Road trips with less worry

Brake fluid - what is it and why do I need it?

Stop right there - Are your brakes up to the task?

Brake Fluid Flush - Things to know

Safe-T-Stop Brake Testing

Brake pad replacement