The holiday season is fast approaching, bringing with it the excitement of road trips to reconnect with loved ones. As you prepare for your adventure, it's crucial to make sure your vehicle is in peak condition to guarantee a smooth, stress-free, and safe journey.

As the festive season draws near, workshops experience a surge in demand, with many shutting down during Christmas. To sidestep any last-minute hassle and guarantee your car is in pristine condition for your holiday adventures, it’s essential to schedule your service well in advance. Reach out to Total Automotive and 4WD in Huonville now to arrange your pre-Christmas car check-up and enjoy a seamless, stress-free holiday journey.

Routine vehicle maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance and safety on the road. At Total Automotive and 4WD, your locally owned and independent car service specialist located in Huonville, we are dedicated to helping you understand the vital components of vehicle upkeep to ensure your car is always prepared for holiday travel and every service comes with a Safetstop to test your Brakes, Shock Absorbers & Wheel Alignment.

1. Brake Upkeep
Ensuring safety is paramount, and having brakes that work correctly is essential. In routine maintenance, mechanics will examine the brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. This guarantees your brakes will respond swiftly and efficiently, offering you confidence as you navigate bustling holiday traffic.

How consistent maintenance prepares you for the holiday season

2. Air Conditioning System
Navigating the scorching summer roads can be quite a hassle, yet an efficiently running air conditioning system can transform the experience. Beyond offering a cool respite, a properly working air conditioning system also helps clear up foggy windows, improving visibility when sudden summer rainstorms hit.

3. Suspension and Steering
Ensuring a smooth ride isn't just about comfort—it's a key factor in your safety. Routine inspections of your vehicle's suspension and steering systems are essential for optimal handling across different terrains. Our skilled technicians will meticulously check for signs of wear and tear, helping you steer clear of potential problems while driving.

4. Inspecting and Replacing Engine Oil
Motor oil is essential for your vehicle's health. It ensures smooth operation by lubricating engine components, minimizing wear, and aiding in temperature control. Consistent oil replacements are vital for sustaining engine efficiency and prolonging its life. Ensure your engine oil is inspected and refreshed before embarking on your Christmas journey.

5. Battery Examination
The last thing you need is for your battery to die during your vacation. Conducting a comprehensive battery examination involves assessing the charge, inspecting the terminals, and evaluating the battery's overall condition. This proactive approach helps avert sudden failures and guarantees that your vehicle will start reliably every time.

6. Tyre Upkeep
Tyres are the crucial link between your vehicle and the road, so keeping them in top shape is essential. Now with the addition of Tyrepower inhouse we can offer a great range at competitive prices. Routine maintenance includes monitoring tire pressure, assessing tread depth, and ensuring proper alignment. Well-maintained tyres can enhance fuel economy, improve handling, and increase safety, particularly during extended journeys.

7. Electrical System
Contemporary automobiles boast intricate electrical networks that manage an array of functions, from illuminating the road ahead with their headlights to orchestrating sophisticated safety mechanisms. Our expert technicians employ cutting-edge tools to meticulously diagnose and rectify any electrical malfunctions, guaranteeing that every component operates flawlessly.

8. Fluid and Filter Replacement
To maintain optimal performance and prolong the life of your vehicle, it's crucial to routinely replace a variety of fluids and filters, such as transmission fluid, coolant, and fuel filters. Ensuring these components are clean enhances engine efficiency and durability.

9. Vehicle Performance
Routine maintenance is essential for maintaining peak vehicle performance. Ensuring engines are finely tuned, tyres are correctly inflated, and filters are kept clean can significantly enhance fuel efficiency. This practice not only reduces your expenses but also allows you to travel further without the need for constant refuelling.

10. Peace of Mind with Expert Maintenance
Entrusting your vehicle to the skilled hands of Total Automotive and 4WD in Huonville offers unparalleled tranquility. Our adept mechanics, supported by a comprehensive Nationwide Warranty, guarantee that every service and repair is dependable. Cruise with confidence, assured that assistance is accessible no matter where your journey takes you across Australia.

Consistent vehicle maintenance transcends mere upkeep; it's pivotal for your safety and tranquillity, particularly amidst the bustling Christmas season. Comprehensive evaluations, ranging from brake checks to battery assessments, are crucial to your vehicle's overall condition.

Trust the experienced technicians at Total Automotive and 4WD in Huonville to keep your car in perfect condition, backed by a Nationwide Warranty.

Book your service now to avoid disappointment as our books are almost closed for 2024 and get ready to enjoy a memorable and safe Christmas holiday road trip...

Make your Christmas road trip both safe and enjoyable! Discover the importance of regular vehicle maintenance in Huonville and why it's essential for a trouble-free holiday journey. Rely on the expertise of Total Automotive and 4WD for professional servicing and benefit from a comprehensive Nationwide Warranty. Schedule your appointment today!

Get Your Vehicle Holiday-Ready: Key Advice for Motorists in Huonville

Preparing Your Vehicle for the Festive Season

Our aim at Total Automotive and 4WD is to give our customers a professional experience when seeking out a vehicle service or repair needs. We are a locally owned family business with 2 generations working together and have been operating for over 25yrs. 

Total Automotive & 4WD is your local ‘one stop automotive repair shop’ in the heart of the Huon Valley...

We offer a full range of Services and Repairs in our professional and clean workshop consisting of 9 hoists, six service bays, Safe-T-stop, Diagnostic equipment and Dyno Room. The Log Book Servicing of your new vehicle does not void your warranty with our TACC accreditation and saves timely trips to the big city.

Services at Total Automotive and 4WD range from logbook servicing, brakes, tyres, exhausts, air conditioning service/repair and dyno tuning, to the bigger repairs, such as clutch, transmission and engine rebuilds/replacements and more.

Total Automotive and 4WD are the only car service workshop down south that have a Safe-t-stop machine which allows us to accurately test your Brakes, Shock Absorbers and Wheel Alignment with a printout. Total Automotive and 4WD carry this test out on EVERY service undertaken.

Passenger Vehicles, Light SUV and 4WD servicing and repairs to ALL makes & Models are our specialty. We have the Equipment and skills to carry out ALL diagnostic work and solve any issues with your vehicle.  We have the biggest workshop in the Huon and with wide entry to our workshop we can service and repair your work vehicle/s without the need to take your car to several places to get all the jobs needed on your vehicle, we endeavour to get you back on the road quickly.

For vehicles newly arrived in Tasmania needing to be inspected for a change in registration, we have AIS accreditation and as an Approved Inspection Station we can look after all your Tasmanian registration requirements for your car, bike, trailer, or camper/caravan. 

  Urgent repairs and breakdowns are also accommodated. No repair is too big or too small.

Don’t forget our Automotive Diagnostic Dyno facilities, plus we now offer Diesel Tuning which we can tailor a package including Tune, Clutch and Exhaust to get the very best from your 4WD.

We have extended operating hours, Mon – Thurs from 7.30am – 5.30pm. Other times by appointment only.

At Total Automotive and 4WD we love to give a little bit back and appreciate our customers and their continued support, so we created a special inhouse promotion to share the Christmas Cheer 12 months of the year. Every time you have a vehicle serviced or repaired you automatically are entered into our ‘12 Months till Christmas’ Promotion. Every month you have a chance to win a Gift Voucher and be included in the Ultimate draw in December. Visit our Facebook page to learn more.

At Total Automotive and 4WD we strive to provide exceptional service for our customers’ automotive service & repair needs.

Experienced and Skill Technicians with over 80 years combined of extensive experience and training in automotive repair and servicing. They are well equipped to handle a wide range of car models and makes and can diagnosis and fix issues efficiently.

Quality Parts & Equipment to match. We use high quality parts and state of the art equipment, including our SAFETSTOP Brake, Suspension & Wheel Alignment testing carried out on EVERY service, to ensure that the repairs and servicing performed on your vehicle are reliable and trusted.

Comprehensive Services. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including routine maintenance, oil changes, brake repairs, suspension replacement, air conditioning service/repair, DPF clean, Custom Dyno Tunes, Clutch repairs, Exhaust, Engine Diagnostics, and MORE. Whether it’s a small repair or Major Service, we have you covered with TACC accreditation and backed by REPCO.

Honest and Friendly Service. We believe in building long-term relationships with our customers based on trust and transparency. We provide an honest assessment of the condition of your car and provide you with photo evidence of any additional repairs we recommend with a clear explanation.

Convenient and Locally Owned. Our goal is to make the servicing process as convenient and hassle free as possible for our customers. From Scheduling appointments to providing you with estimated costs of your upcoming service requirements, to scheduling your next service in advance to avoid missing out, especially when those Family vacation times are coming up and you need your vehicle in tip top shape with your Family on board.

Overall, at Total Automotive and 4WD we aim to ensure that your experience with us is enjoyable, hassle free and strive to provide top notch automotive services. Why would you expect anything less from your Vehicle Service provider!

We pride ourselves on great & friendly customer service with a smile and our team of experienced technicians with their reliable, clean & guaranteed workmanship. We put your family and safety first and we will look after you and your vehicle.

We cover a full range of Services and Repairs in our 9 hoist, six service bay workshop to all makes and models. New Car Servicing available which doesn’t affect your new car warranty...

Car Servicing and Repair in Huonville by the expereinced team of mechanics at Total Automotive and 4WD.

How Regular Service Helps Get Your Car Ready for Winter Driving in Huonville, Tasmania

Winter driving in Huonville, Tasmania, can be challenging. With the chilly temperatures and potentially hazardous road conditions, ensuring your vehicle is in top shape is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Regular servicing plays a pivotal role in preparing your car for these conditions, addressing everything from tyre health to fluid levels. Here’s a comprehensive guide on why consistent maintenance is essential and how it prepares your vehicle for winter driving in Huonville.

Regular servicing is the backbone of vehicle maintenance, particularly when preparing for the colder months. It involves routine checks and minor repairs that prevent major issues from developing. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Winter roads can be slippery and unpredictable. Ensuring your tyres are up to the task is vital. During a service, your mechanic will check the tyre tread depth, pressure, and overall condition. Adequate tread depth ensures better grip on wet and icy roads, while correct tyre pressure helps maintain optimal contact with the road surface. Worn-out tyres can significantly increase the risk of accidents, making this check indispensable.

1. Tyre Check: Ensuring Grip and Traction  

Brakes are your car’s primary safety feature, especially crucial in winter when stopping distances can increase. Regular servicing includes a thorough brake inspection, checking the brake pads, discs, and fluid levels. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition can mean the difference between a safe stop and an accident on slippery roads.

2. Brake Check: Ensuring Stopping Power  

Total Automotive and 4WD in Huonville are the only workshop down south that have a Safetstop machine which accurately tests your Brakes, Shock Absorbers & Wheel Alignment with a printout, we carry this out on EVERY service undertaken...

Cold weather can be harsh on your car’s battery. Low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery, reducing its efficiency. During a service, mechanics test the battery’s charge and overall health, ensuring it’s capable of withstanding winter’s demands. A weak battery can leave you stranded in the cold, so this check is crucial.

3. Battery Check: Avoiding Winter Breakdowns  

Winter days are shorter, and poor weather can reduce visibility. Ensuring all your car’s lights are working properly is essential for your safety. Regular servicing includes checking headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights. Properly functioning lights ensure you can see and be seen, reducing the risk of accidents.

Your car’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is vital for comfort and safety in winter. A functioning HVAC system keeps your windows clear of fog and frost, ensuring good visibility. It also keeps you warm, making driving more comfortable. Regular servicing checks the HVAC system for any issues, ensuring it’s ready for the cold months.

5. HVAC System Check: Staying Warm and Clear

Various fluids in your car play critical roles, especially 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.

6. Fluid Levels Check: Keeping Everything Running Smoothly

Functional windshield wipers are crucial for maintaining visibility during winter rains and snow. Over time, wipers can wear out and become less effective. Regular servicing includes inspecting and replacing wiper blades if necessary, ensuring you can clear your windshield effectively during harsh weather.

7. Windshield Wipers Check: Ensuring Clear Vision

Join Total Automotive and 4WD as we dive deeper into the specific tasks undertaken during a regular service to prepare your car for winter:

Tyres: Inspect for wear and tear, check tread depth, and ensure proper inflation. Consider switching to winter tyres for better traction.  

Brakes: Inspect brake pads and discs for wear, check brake fluid levels, and ensure the brake system is responsive and effective.  

Battery: Test battery charge and health, clean terminals, and check for corrosion. Replace the battery if it’s weak or old.  

Lights: Test all lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

HVAC System: Test the heater and defroster functions, inspect air filters, and check for any leaks or blockages in the system.  

Fluids: Check and top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. 

Windshield Wipers: Inspect wiper blades for wear and replace them if necessary. Ensure the wiper motor and mechanism are functioning correctly.

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 Huonville 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 today and drive safely this winter season...

Ensure your car is ready for Huonville's winter with regular servicing. Learn why checking tyres, brakes, battery, lights, HVAC system, fluid levels, and wipers is crucial for safe winter driving...

Preparing Your Car for Winter Driving in Huonville, Tasmania: The Importance of Regular Servicing

Our best answer is:
"A "Diesel tuner· is like a "doctor for cars•.
When your car is not feeling good, you take it to a tuner.
Just as we humans do when we are not feeling good, we go to a doctor.

A common question we get is: "How safe is your tune?"

Experience (Usually the longer the better)

Special diagnostics tools (Top level equipment is a plus)

Facilities (A professional facility is a major advantage)

Teamwork (Combined experience can be better than an individual
effort)

References (What happened to previous clients is an important factor)

Tuning is considered "safe" when all of the above are at their best.

Torque is the ability to transform the rotational force of engine power into forward driving motion. The more Torque an engine can reliably produce, the more efficiency there is for us. Diesel engines produce more torque at low engine RPM. Petrol engines produce more Torque at higher engine RPM.

A vehicle with more torque needs less open throttle to maintain the same speed at the same condition, resulting in

With more Torque and Power after tuning, the differences are very noticeable right away

We increase power and torque in safe areas, to ensure maximum reliability.

Our tuning processes typically provide a 20-30% Power increase at the wheels of most vehicles without the need for further supporting modifications.

In most cases, this is the power figure that the manufacturer states, now available to you at the wheels, rather than the engine itself.  We are able to harness the true potential of your Diesel engine within the manufacturer's predetermined safety limitations. 

This is checked with a Dyno test before and after tuning is completed.

With more torque available and improved thermal efficiency of the engine possible after tuning, less throttle input is needed to maintain same cruising speed, which it means that less fuel is required to be burned.

It is common for our clients to report that our ECU Remap has improved fuel economy of 1-2U100km or 10%-20% in a large number of cases.

Our best answer is:

"A "Diesel tuner" is like a "doctor" for cars - When your car is not feeling good, you take it to a tuner. Just as we humans do when we are not feeling good, we go to a doctor...

Is Our Tune Safe

In Oct, 2022 a client came in with his 1999 Nissan Navara to have a turbo kit fitted as it was struggling power wise on steep inclines. And this is what Martin had to say once he received his car back and had put it through it's paces.

"Just thought I’d drop you a quick email to let you know how pleased I am with the performance of the Navara now that it has had the turbo fitted.

The power and torque sit perfectly in the rev range. Fifth gear acceleration from 80km/h is perfect and has made overtaking manoeuvres much safer and easier to achieve.

The steep climb out of Hobart on the Southern Outlet used to end in third gear and revving hard if I was to have any chance of meeting the 8okm/h speed limit. If a slow car interrupted my run I couldn’t even achieve that meagre milestone. The vehicle now easily does 80km/h throughout the climb in fifth gear. It feels like a new vehicle.

Thank you for the great design work on the turbo kit and Scott for the attention you paid to ensuring that the product was well fitted and delivered the expected performance. I am extremely happy with my purchase and the work."

Scott & the team at Total Automotive and 4WD couldn't be more pleased with this outcome. We strive to deliver the best performance possible for every vehicle that comes through our Huonville workshop.

Another satisfied customer of Total Automotive and 4WD

Total Automotive and 4WD are experts in fitting Tubo kits to 4X4 vehicles. If you are having concerns about your vehicle performance call us today to discuss the issue...

4X4 Turbo Kits fitted in Huonville

Differential bushings could be the issue if they are aged, worn or cracked.  They control movement in the joints, absorb road bumps and reduce vibrations and noise while driving or reversing. These are one of many automotive issue we can handle at Total Automotive and 4WD, your trusted local mechanic in Huonville.

It is fair to say that the Ford Territory and Falcon are two of the most popular vehicles on Australian roads. Both of these models are prone to high rates of wear in some rear suspension components, such as the rear differential bushing. This is particularly apparent on vehicles that have travelled high kilometres, have high horsepower or vehicles towing loads regularly.

A tell-tale sign that this bushing is no longer performing as intended is hearing a clunking noise or feeling a jolt under acceleration or when shifting gears from drive to reverse. The primary function of the rear differential bushing is to provide a smooth and quiet transfer of power from the engine to the rear wheels of your vehicle under acceleration.

Should this issue go unresolved it may result in excessive wear on surrounding drive train and suspension components so it is wise and economical to act swiftly should you be experiencing any of these symptoms.

Your local Repco Authorised Service Centre Total Automotive and 4WD in Huonville is experienced in diagnosing and fixing this problem. We can replace your worn rubber differential bushing with a highly durable Nolathane differential bushing specifically designed and manufactured to address this problem and return your vehicle back to its optimum performance.

So, if “clunking” goes with your Territory or Falcon, contact the team at Total Automotive and 4WD today.

It is fair to say that the Ford Territory and Falcon are two of the most popular vehicles on Australian roads. Both of these models are prone to high rates of wear in some rear suspension components, such as the rear differential bushing.

At Total Automotive and 4WD in  Huonville we believe the transmission is an important part of your vehicle.

Without the transmission, your vehicle would not be able to move between gears. The transmission fluid allows you to do this smoothly and also protects the working parts inside your transmission. The transmission fluid doesn't diminish through use. Yet the level should still be checked periodically because if there is a leak, or the fluid level is low, it will harm the internal parts of your transmission.

Transmission fluid can become dirty over time with metal shavings and other particles which will shorten the life of your transmission. Replacing a transmission is a costly exercise and so checking the fluid and replacing it when necessary is a good investment in the long run.

At Total Automotive and 4WD we provide a full 65 Point Vehicle Condition Report upon request with every full car service - This includes a check of your transmission fluid and we will advise you if we think your fluid needs to be replaced or if a transmission service might be needed.

Call Total Automotive and 4WD for all your diesel 4WD and diesel passenger vehicle repairs, inspections and services. We are conveniently located in Huonville.

A diesel engine can be more efficient, better for the environment and cheaper to run than its petrol-powered counterpart. However, it still needs regular servicing to keep it running at an ultimate level and to help make sure nothing goes wrong. 

Our technicians at Total Automotive and 4WD are fully qualified to service diesel SUV, AWD, 4WD and Passenger diesel vehicles. Contact us today.

Call Total Automotive and 4WD for all your diesel 4WD and diesel passenger vehicle repairs, inspections and services.

Diesel Engine Service and Repairs in Huonville

Diesel Repairs

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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Wednesday the 18th of December and reopening on Monday the 13th of January

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

Total Automotive and 4WD take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Huonville, TAS, 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. 

Total Automotive and 4WD 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.


Total Automotive and 4WD

Diesel Repairs

Related articles

Preparing Your Vehicle for the Festive Season

About Us - Total Automotive and 4WD

Preparing a Car for Winter in Huonville

Is Our Tune Safe?

Turbo fitted to a Nissan Navara

Does clunking go with your territory?

Get into gear!