Spring in Australia spans from 1 September to 30 November, bringing a shift to milder temperatures—typically ranging from around 18 °C to 24 °C—and a period often characterised by increased rainfall and fluctuating patterns across regions…

Get your car ready for spring in Glen Waverley

As the weather settles into its unpredictable stride, ensuring your car is well serviced becomes essential for safety, longevity, and smooth driving. Here’s why a regular car service at Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley is the perfect prescription for seasonal reliability.

1. Weather-Driven Wear Demands Attention 
The transition through spring often follows wet and cold months, during which moisture, debris, and road grime accumulate, especially underneath the vehicle. This build-up can accelerate rust and corrosion, which a thorough spring service helps to halt before damage sets in.

2. Temperature Swings Put Components Under Strain 
Sudden swings from cool to warm days place added stress on tyres, brakes, belts, and hoses. Checking these during a regular service ensures that any signs of wear are dealt with before they become costly failures.

3. Rainfall and Humidity Tests Vital Systems 
Spring often ushers in more rain across eastern and parts of southern Australia, while temperature forecasts lean toward the warmer side. These conditions test wipers, headlights, tyre tread, and braking systems—critical components for visibility and traction. Ensuring these systems are in good condition is central to safe driving.

Enhanced Safety 
Timely inspection and maintenance catch early signs of brake inefficiency, worn tyres, or steering issues—fixing them before springtime storms or summer heat heightens the risks.

Improved Efficiency and Performance 
Properly inflated and rotated tyres, fresh filters, and lubricated components all contribute to better fuel economy and smoother engine function throughout the season.

Prolonged Lifespan 
By preventing corrosion and addressing wear patterns early, you extend the life of costly parts—from brake systems to belts and hoses.

Reliable Comfort on the Road 
Spring often heralds the start of road-trip season. A functioning air‑conditioning system, good battery health, and well‑balanced tyres ensure that every drive is a pleasure.

At Total Car Care Centre, your vehicle undergoes a comprehensive series of checks tailored for the relevant service interval. We also keep in mind the changing seasons:

What to Expect from a Service at Total Car Care Centre

Thorough Underbody Inspection - visual inspection of chassis and suspension components.

Tyre & Brake Assessment - Tyre tread, pressure, and alignment are reviewed, and brakes are examined for pad wear, disc condition, and fluid levels.

Fluid Check and Filter Replacements - Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and washer fluid are topped up or replaced as needed; air, fuel, and cabin filters are replaced to ensure clean airflow and engine efficiency.

Battery & Electrical Systems Evaluation - Battery charge and connections are tested; headlights, indicators, and wipers are checked to guarantee safe operation in both rain and fading dusk.

Belts, Hoses & Suspension Health - Belts and hoses are inspected for cracks or brittleness; suspension and steering linkages are checked for abnormal wear or play.

Air Conditioning Functionality - Cooling performance is assessed to ensure your system stands up to rising temperatures.

An alarming trend in Australia shows that many motorists are deferring services due to cost pressures—choosing DIY fixes, skipping intervals, or relying on roadside assistance.

Why Skipping a Service Isn’t Worth the Risk

This has led to increased call‑outs for safety-critical issues such as worn brakes or steering failure, which can escalate into serious, even life‑threatening situations. A professional service remains the most reliable and cost‑effective safeguard.

Spring is a time of renewal—so give your car a fresh start with a timely and thorough service. At Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley, a service doesn’t just help your car run: it keeps you safe, helps your vehicle perform efficiently, and protects your investment for the months ahead.

To make the most of spring—whether it brings rain, warmth, or both—there’s no substitute for a professional service that understands seasonal conditions and mechanical care.

Your car will reward you in reliability, comfort, and longevity through every journey…

Spring is here! Visit Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley for expert car servicing to keep your vehicle safe, smooth, and road-ready this season…

Spring Car Service in Glen Waverley | Total Car Care Centre

As your local Car Service Mechanic in Glen Waverley, Total Car Care Centre take great pride in offering the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs.

We care about our customers and aim to provide the best service possible provided by the best mechanics. We are are always on the lookout for great mechanics and apprentices, so if you are seeking a change in your environment or are just starting your career in the automotive industry contact us today.

Established in 1991, Total Car Care Centre is a totally independent mechanic workshop, providing quality automotive service and repairs to most main brand motor vehicles, including Air Conditioning (AU38547), Auto Electrical, Carburettor, Cylinder Heads, Licenced Vehicle Testing and other services. Our fully qualified Log Book Servicing with Free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report on request will ensure your new car will remain in top condition and your warranty remains preserved.

Total Car Care Centre care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU38547). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health.

All our work is backed by the Repco Nationwide Warranty, supported at over 500 Repco Authorised Service Centres Australia wide. Total Car Care Centre  provide specialist car service for Hyundai, Mercedes & BMW, Audi & VW and many other vehicle makes.

Being able to stop quickly, efficiently and in a safe manner definitely matters to your safety and that of your passengers. Total Car Care Centre perform all brake repairs complete in house, including disc machining, on car & off car machining available. We have very competitive prices for Brake Services and Inspections.

No matter how good your brakes are you will not be able to stop safely and efficiently if your tyres and wheels are not properly taken care of. Total Car Care Centre provide a range of tyre and wheel related services to help you maintain your safety triangle of stopping, steering and stability components. Total Car Care Centre offer a FREE Safe-T-Stop Inspection with all wheel related services

The business is operated by Darren Gardiner who prides himself on the personal interest he takes with every customer and their car. You can feel safe in the knowledge that our trained mechanics / technicians are kept up to date with the latest in automotive technology.

The mechanical experience of our friendly staff assures that your family vehicle or your company fleet car will be looked after professionally and diligently. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care, so drop in and see Darren and the Car Service Team at Total Car Care Centre. If you would like to know more about our expert team you can do so here...

 Loan Car available Waiting Lounge Facilities Tea & Coffee Facilities and Internet. Total Car Care Centre also have state-of-the-art programming equipment to replace or repair your car key, regardless of what you drive, including most modern proximity keys.

 For total quality in services and repairs, you can always rely on the team at Total Car Care Centre

As your local Car Service Mechanic in Glen Waverley, Total Car Care Centre take great pride in offering the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs...

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Glen Waverley

Essential Tyre Care Tips to Maximise Vehicle Safety and Improve Performance...

Tyres are the unsung heroes of every journey, providing the vital connection between your vehicle and the road.

Their condition directly impacts your safety, driving performance, and fuel efficiency, making them one of the most critical components of your car. High-quality, well-maintained tyres ensure better grip, precise handling, and shorter braking distances, especially in wet or challenging conditions. They also play a significant role in optimising fuel consumption, reducing the strain on your engine and saving you money in the long run.

Neglecting tyre care can lead to uneven wear, reduced control, and an increased risk of breakdowns or accidents. This is why regular checks and proper maintenance are essential to keep your vehicle performing at its best. By prioritising the condition of your tyres, you’re not just protecting yourself and your passengers but also ensuring your car operates efficiently and reliably, no matter where the road takes you.

Maintaining proper tyre and wheel care is a fundamental aspect of vehicle safety, performance, and efficiency. One key factor is ensuring tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Conversely, overinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear and compromise grip, particularly in wet conditions. Regularly checking and adjusting tyre pressure not only enhances your vehicle’s handling and braking performance but also extends the lifespan of your tyres.

Optimal Tyre Inflation and Wheel Care Practices

Equally important is wheel alignment, which ensures your tyres make consistent contact with the road surface. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear, pulling to one side, and reduced control, particularly during braking or cornering. This not only impacts safety but also accelerates the need for costly replacements. Regular alignment checks are essential to maintain optimal vehicle handling and a smoother ride.

Wheel balancing is another critical component of tyre care. An unbalanced wheel can lead to vibrations at higher speeds, uneven tyre wear, and strain on suspension components. Balancing ensures the weight of the wheel and tyre assembly is evenly distributed, contributing to improved comfort and prolonged tyre life.

By incorporating these practices into your vehicle’s maintenance routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns, improve fuel efficiency, and enjoy a safer driving experience. Prioritising tyre and wheel care is a straightforward yet powerful way to protect your investment and ensure your vehicle operates at its peak.

Routine tyre maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and performance of your vehicle. By regularly inspecting your tyres, you can identify signs of wear and tear before they escalate into more serious problems, such as reduced grip or the risk of a blowout. Tyres in good condition provide better traction, which is essential for safe braking and handling, particularly in challenging weather or road conditions.

The Importance of Timely Tyre Maintenance

Timely tyre checks and replacements help maintain even tread wear, ensuring consistent performance and extending the lifespan of your tyres. Overlooking maintenance can result in uneven wear, which not only affects driving stability but also increases fuel consumption as the engine works harder to compensate for rolling resistance. Keeping an eye on tread depth and ensuring proper inflation are simple yet effective measures to enhance road safety and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Regular maintenance also involves assessing the tyres for damage such as cuts, punctures, or bulges, which could compromise their integrity. Replacing tyres when they are no longer safe is a proactive step to avoid breakdowns and costly repairs. By committing to a routine tyre care schedule, you’ll not only safeguard your journey but also improve overall driving comfort and confidence on the road.

Taking good care of your tyres doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a bit of attention. Start by regularly checking tyre pressure—aim to do this at least once a month and before long journeys. Properly inflated tyres not only improve fuel efficiency but also provide better handling and braking performance. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels, which can typically be found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.

Practical Tyre Care Tips for Safe Driving

Inspect your tyres for signs of wear and tear, such as uneven tread wear, cracks, cuts, or bulges. Uneven wear could indicate alignment issues, while any visible damage might compromise safety and call for professional inspection. Don’t forget to check tread depth as well; tyres with shallow tread struggle to grip the road, especially in wet conditions. If the tread is close to the legal minimum, it’s time for a replacement.

Rotating your tyres regularly helps ensure even wear, as front and rear tyres often wear differently due to varying load and driving dynamics. Additionally, ensure your wheels are properly aligned to prevent unnecessary tyre wear and improve driving stability. A little time spent caring for your tyres can save money, improve safety, and keep your vehicle performing at its best.

Caring for your tyres is not just a responsibility—it’s a vital investment in your safety, performance, and peace of mind. From maintaining proper inflation to regular checks for wear, alignment, and balancing, each step plays a critical role in ensuring your vehicle performs at its best.

High-quality tyres in top condition improve grip, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns. Don’t compromise on safety or efficiency—take the necessary steps today. Total Car Care Centre offer a range of Tyre and Wheel Related services to help you take better care of your tyres, including a FREE Safe-T-Stop inspection with all tyre and wheel related services.

Safe-T-Stop - Committed to Safer Motoring

Visit Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley for professional tyre services and expert advice to keep your vehicle safe, efficient, and ready for the road ahead...

High-quality tyres in top condition improve grip, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns. Don’t compromise on safety or efficiency—take the necessary steps today. Total Car Care Centre offer a range of Tyre and Wheel Related services to help you take better care of your tyres, including a FREE Safe-T-Stop inspection with all tyre and wheel related services...

Good Tyres: Boost Safety, Performance & Avoid Costly Repairs

Easter is just around the corner, and whether you're planning a long getaway or simply enjoying the vibrant community of Glen Waverley, ensuring your vehicle is in top condition ahead of time is a must.

And get the jump on the traditional Easter rush...

Regular car servicing is crucial for the safety and performance of your vehicle, especially during the bustling holiday period. So, let's explore why you should consider booking your car service ahead of time and what benefits it brings.﻿

While Easter might seem a little while away, there's no better time than now to book your car in for a service. The Easter holiday season is notorious for its busy schedules at mechanical workshops. Waiting until the last minute might leave you scrambling for an appointment, or worse, hitting the road with a less-than-perfect vehicle.

By scheduling your service early with Total Car Care Centre, you can relax knowing your car will be ready for the Easter fun.﻿

Regular car servicing is more than just a tick on your maintenance checklist; it's an essential part of vehicle ownership that keeps your car safe and efficient. Here’s why regular servicing is indispensable:﻿

1. Safety First: Routine servicing helps ensure that all critical components of your car are in good working order. Mechanics at Total Car Care Centre will inspect brakes, tyres, and suspension systems to guarantee safe driving conditions. This thorough checkup can prevent potential accidents caused by unforeseen mechanical failures.﻿

2. Improved Performance: A well-maintained car runs more efficiently, saving you money on fuel in the long run. Services often include oil changes, filter replacements, and engine diagnostics, which keep your car running smoothly and help avoid costly repairs down the road.﻿

3. Longevity: Just like regular check-ups are important for your health, routine maintenance prolongs the life of your car. Keeping up with regular servicing means your vehicle can serve you reliably for years to come.﻿

4. Resale Value: A well-documented service history adds value to your car when it’s time to sell or trade in. Prospective buyers are more likely to invest in a vehicle that has been consistently maintained.

At Total Car Care Centre, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive car services that cover all the bases. Here's what you can expect from a standard service:﻿

Fluid Checks and Replenishment: We ensure all fluids, including brake fluid, coolant, and oil, are at optimal levels.﻿

Brake and Tyre Inspection: Your brakes and tyres are crucial for safety. We conduct thorough inspections to ensure they're in peak condition.﻿

Battery Test: Avoid the inconvenience of a flat battery. Our team checks your battery to ensure it’s charging correctly and has sufficient power.

Air Conditioning Check: A fully functioning AC system isn’t just a comfort; it's a necessity for long drives. We make sure your AC is ready for those Easter road trips.﻿

Log Book Servicing: Preserve your vehicle’s warranty and performance with our log book services, which include a detailed 65-point vehicle inspection on request.﻿

When it comes to reliable and thorough car service in Glen Waverley, Total Car Care Centre is your go-to option. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service with a personal touch. We understand the importance of a dependable vehicle, especially during busy holiday seasons like Easter.﻿

Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert technicians ensure your car gets the best possible care. Plus, with our Nationwide Warranty, you can drive with peace of mind, knowing you're covered across Australia.﻿

Whether you're heading out for a grand Easter adventure or staying local, regular car servicing at Total Car Care Centre is your key to a worry-free holiday.

Don't wait until the last minute—schedule your service today and enjoy a smooth, safe ride this Easter season...

Get your car ready for Easter travel in Glen Waverley with regular maintenance. Avoid the holiday rush and ensure a safe, smooth journey with expert servicing at Total Car Care Centre...

Getting Ready for Easter Driving in Glen Waverley: Ensuring Your Car is Holiday-Ready

Most modern cars consist of disc brakes on all four wheels. As you push  the brake pedal, pressure is transferred through the hydraulic fluid to a  set of heat resistant pads that are then forced to grip the rotating  disc brake rotor, thus creating friction which then slows and eventually  stops the car.

Over time, brake pads become worn out and reduce the car’s ability to  reduce speed. The Disc Rotor can also wear. The importance of changing  brake pads the minute you notice these signs cannot be understated. Worn  pads are not only dangerous, but can also cause expensive collateral  damage to other brake system components.

Brake pads are an important safety system in every car. The brake system  must be checked regularly and preferably by a qualified mechanic.  Depending on the car type and driving conditions, brake pads should be  replaced every 15,000 kilometres. We are located in Glen Waverley and we  also serve many customers in the surrounding areas as well.

For a high quality Brake Pad Replacement Service at a competitive price,  contact Total Car Care Centre today using our contact form or make a booking now with our form below. 

Top Quality: As a part of the Repco Authorised Service Centre  network all of the work we perform is backed by the Repco Nationwide  Guarantee.

Fully Trained: Our mechanics are kept up to date on latest vehicle  repair methods thanks to Repco Auto-tech service bulletins.  Additionally, we have access to the Repco spare parts network which  means we can find you the right part at the right price.

The Best Team: Our mechanics are well versed in different makes and  models. From a fleet of vehicles to the family car, we are here for you.

Want to know more about brakes and brake service?

Brake pads are an important safety system in every car. The brake system must be checked regularly and preferably by a qualified mechanic...

How car brakes wear out

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of festive gatherings, gift exchanges, and cherished moments with loved ones fills the air. But before you hit the road to join in the celebrations, there's a crucial step you shouldn't overlook—making sure your car is ready for the journey ahead. While the holiday season is a time for joy and relaxation, it can also be a stressful period for your vehicle if it's not properly serviced.

Ensure your car is holiday-ready with regular service

Come on a journey with the team from Total Car Care Centre as we delve into why regular servicing is essential and how it helps ensure your car is ready for the Christmas holidays...

As the year draws to a close, many automotive workshops experience a surge in demand. With most workshops closing over the Christmas period, it's vital to schedule your car service well in advance to beat the holiday rush. Waiting until the last minute might mean you're left without a spot, or worse, heading into the holidays with an unreliable vehicle. Booking early ensures that you secure a slot at your trusted mechanic's workshop, giving you peace of mind knowing that your car is in expert hands.

When it comes to car maintenance, a regular service involves a series of checks and tasks designed to keep your vehicle in top condition. Here are some key mechanical tasks typically undertaken during a regular service:

1. Oil and Filter Change: 
Fresh oil and a new filter ensure that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. This is critical for long holiday drives where your engine might be under more stress than usual. Fresh oil reduces friction, prevents overheating, and ensures efficient fuel consumption. Mechanics also check other vital fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, to ensure everything is topped up and functioning correctly.

2. Brake Inspection: Safety comes first, especially when you're traveling with family. A thorough brake inspection will identify any issues that need addressing to ensure your vehicle can stop safely in an emergency.

3. Tyre Check: The condition of your tyres is vital for safety and fuel efficiency. Your mechanic will routinely check for tread depth, wear, and proper inflation. Good tyres become crucial on longer drives and help reduce driver fatigue as well as helping to ensure safety through proper grip and stopping capabilities.

4. Battery Test: 
A good mechanic will check your battery to test whether it is in good condition and properly holding a charge to determine if it’s in good health or needs replacing. Batteries have become increasingly important in modern cars as the number of electrical components has increased, including some that are “always on” such as security systems.

5. Fluid Levels: 
Ensuring all fluid levels are topped up is essential. This includes coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Reputable mechanics routinely check vital fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, to ensure everything is topped up and functioning correctly.

6. Belt and Hose Inspection: 
Belts and hoses can wear out over time and cause significant issues if they fail during a long drive. The last thing you need on a trip away is to have a significant breakdown that may require the vehicle to be towed to a mechanic for expensive repairs, especially if you plan to be a long way from a town or city.

Opting for a professional mechanic such as Total Car Care Centre to service your car means you're backed by our nationwide warranty. This assurance is invaluable, particularly when embarking on a road trip. If any issues arise, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the holiday road takes you. Professional mechanics are equipped with the knowledge and tools to detect and address potential problems before they become major concerns.

The best gift you can give yourself and your family this Christmas is the assurance of a safe and reliable vehicle. Regular servicing not only maintains your car's condition but also enhances its longevity and performance. By addressing minor issues before they escalate, you prevent breakdowns that could disrupt your holiday plans.

Smoother Driving Experience
A well-maintained car provides a smoother driving experience, reducing the stress and fatigue that often accompany long holiday journeys. With everything in check, you can focus on enjoying the scenic views, listening to your favorite holiday tunes, and making memories with loved ones.

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
In addition to safety and reliability, regular servicing can improve your car's fuel efficiency. This means fewer stops at the gas station and more money to spend on holiday festivities. Ensuring your tyres are properly inflated, and your engine is running optimally are just a few ways maintenance can help reduce fuel consumption.

Environmentally Friendly
A properly serviced car is not only better for you but also for the environment. An engine running at its best emits fewer pollutants, contributing to cleaner air. By maintaining your vehicle, you're playing a part in protecting our planet for future generations.

The Christmas holidays are a time for joy, relaxation, and connection. The last thing you want is car trouble putting a damper on your celebrations. Regular car servicing with a reputable mechanic like Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley is your best ticket to a worry-free holiday season, ensuring your vehicle is in peak condition for safe travels.

Remember to book early to secure your spot, and gift yourself the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained car. Enjoy the holidays, and drive safely!

Ensure your car is holiday-ready with regular service. Discover the importance of timely car maintenance for safe and smooth Christmas travels…

Preparing Your Car for the Christmas Holidays: Why Regular Service is Essential

Getting Your Car Ready for the Christmas Holidays

Roadworthy certificates are something we are used to dealing with when it's time to sell or re-register a vehicle, but have you ever stopped to consider, is your vehicle is actually roadworthy?

The dictionary definition of roadworthy is: (of a motor vehicle or bicycle) fit to be used on the road. Wikipedia defines roadworthiness as the ability of a car, bus, truck or any kind of automobile to be in a suitable operating condition or meeting acceptable standards for safe driving and transport of people. The most important part of this statement is "safe driving"

The roadworthiness scheme in Victoria aims to improve road safety for everyone, as well as minimize the damage caused by vehicles to roads and related structures, and they do this by requiring vehicle owners to get roadworthy certificates before they can register a vehicle that has had its registration run out, or before selling a vehicle. But if your vehicle has maintained its registration, and is not being sold - are you sure it's still safe if you haven't had to get a roadworthy certificate?

Certificate of Roadworthiness and Roadworthy tests in Victoria, or RWC.

In Victoria obtaining certificate of roadworthiness is mandatory before a vehicle can be sold - the vehicles seller must provide a current roadworthy certificate to the buyer, unless the buyer is their spouse or a licensed motor vehicle trader.

It is possible to sell a vehicle without a roadworthy certificate if it is un-registered, however before that vehicle can be re-registered an RWC does need to be obtained. In some cases a roadworthiness certificate is also needed to clear a vehicle defect notice in Victoria.

How do I obtain a roadworthy certificate in victoria?

The vehicle must first pass a roadworthy inspection test before a certificate is issued. An RWC can only be issued by a licensed vehicle tester - Total Car Care Centre is a licensed vehicle testing station - we are a Vic Roads licensed Roadworthy tester for passenger vehicles, 4 wheel drives and small trucks.

A roadworthy inspection covers the major safety related items, including:

Windscreen, and windows including front windscreen wipers and washers

Safety related items on the body, chassis or engine

In Melbourne and the rest of Victoria a Roadworthy certificate will be valid for 30 days from the date of its issue.

Remember, a roadworthiness inspection test is not a check of the overall reliability or condition of a vehicle. If you require a comprehensive check on the overall condition and reliability of the vehicle then contact us at to ask about a fully comprehensive 150 point vehicle inspection.

How much does a Roadworthy Certificate Cost in Victoria?

Because a roadworthy certificate covers so many different parts of a vehicle, and vehicles vary greatly in type, size, style and age the total cost of a roadworthy certificate can vary - especially depending on whether there are faults discovered and what those faults are.

Simply fill in our handy Contact Form and one of our friendly staff will contact you to talk about getting a roadworthy for your vehicle - or give us a call today.

Giving a Quote for roadworthy certificates without knowing more about the vehicle is difficult and its best that you speak with us directly or drop in with your vehicle to discuss your needs, or simply use our handy contact form and we will contact you to talk about how much a roadworthy will cost for your particular vehicle.

Although some service centres might quote one low price for roadworthies to get you in the door, they aren't taking all the factors into consideration and so the price might suddenly change - after you've booked in your vehicle for that cheap roadworthy, or they'll find a way to make their money back by claiming un-needed extras. For an honest quote on a roadworthy price call Total Car Care Centre today.

If there are defects or faults found in your car they will need to be fixed before a new roadworthy inspection is performed and a certificate provided. The cost associated with fixing the defaults depends, again, on the type of fault, the type of vehicle, the condition of the vehicle and many other factors. You will be provided with a quote for the repairs needed before any work is performed on your vehicle. 

What happens if my car fails the roadworthy test ?

One of the things you can do before you get a Roadworthy is to inspect some of the items that will be checked in a roadworthy yourself to help you get an idea of what might need to be replaced or adjusted before your car is approved as being 'roadworthy'. The only way to be completely sure is to have a roadworthy test done by a licensed vehicle tester, so come in and see us at Total Car Care Centre.

Roadworthy checklist - want to know what your vehicle will need before your get an RWC test ?

Wheel and tyre roadworthy test requirements

Wheels, rims and tyres must be free of cracks or any other damage that could cause failure of the tyre, wheel or rim. 

The wheel/rim must not be dented, buckled or out of balance. 

You cannot have a "temporary use" spare tyre fitted as a road wheel. 

If you have spoke wheels, all spokes must be intact, straight, fitted and laced or tensioned correctly. 

When facing in the straight ahead position -the wheels and tyres must not project beyond the width of the mudguards or contact any part of the vehicle during any combination of steering or suspension.

Wheels must be securely attached with the correct type and number of studs, nuts or both. Tyres must have a MINIMUM tread depth of 1.5mm at any point on the tread which will be in normal contact with the road (other than at tyre tread indicators) If tread wear indicators are present the tyre cannot be so worn that the indicators contact the road surface. Tyre size must be compatible with the rim size. Retreaded tyres must be must be marked with the Id of the retreader and the word "retreaded" along with any relevant markings required by the Australian standard 

Steering and suspension roadworthy test requirements

The vehicle must drive straight without wandering or pulling left or right when driving straight ahead. 

All steering components must be securely and correctly mounted and free from damage or excessive wear, including dust and grease seals.

Power steering fittings should be free of oil leaks. 

There must be adequate clearance between suspension components and the vehicles body. 

All joints, bushes, pivots, dust and grease seals, wheel bearings and mounts must be in good condition. 

Shock absorbers and struts must be securely mounted and free from leaks.

All brake components must be functioning correctly be mounted securely and appropriately located.

All brake components must be free from visible wear, distortion or damage. 

Vehicle parking and emergency brakes must be functioning correctly.

Park brakes must be capable of keeping the vehicle stationary on any grade of hill up or down.

Brake lights (warning signs) must be fitted correctly and functioning.

Car horn must be working correctly (warning signs).

Brake linings must not be worn down to the wear indicators.

Seats and seatbelts roadworthy test requirements

All seats must be secure and structurally sound with no jagged edges or protrusions sticking out.

The drivers seat in particular should be free from any defect that could impede driving ability.

Seat sliders must be functioning correctly and free of any looseness.

If present head restraint must be secure and in a sound condition.

Seatbelt webbing must be firmly secured and free from cuts, damage, wear, knots or fraying.

Any seatbelt component cannot be modified.

General vehicle roadworthy test requirements

Steering wheel covers must be securely fitted.

All steering and control wheel knobs and pedals must function correctly and cannot be deteriorated to an extent which affects performance.

Vehicles manufactured after 1 July 1988 must have a functioning speedometer calibrated in km/h.

All motor vehicles must have rear vision mirror capable of providing a clear view to the rear of the vehicle.

All vehicles must be fitted with one or more effective horns or warning devices capable of producing a steady sound of constant pitch.

Fuel filler caps must be present, secure and seal properly. Plastic emergency caps are not acceptable

Lights, signals and reflectors roadworthy test requirements

Light requirements vary greatly with vehicle type, but as a general rule all vehicles must be fitted with headlamps, stop lamps (brake lights), front and rear position lamps and number plate lamp and turn signal lamps (blinkers) and they must be in reasonable working order. 

All lenses or light covers must be of the correct colour, clean , free of damage and not faded.

Headlamp reflectors must be in good condition.

All lamps and lights must be securely fitted and facing correctly.

Windscreen and windows roadworthy test requirements

All glass that is necessary for the driver to see the road and other road users must be free of damage and cannot be altered to the extent that it prevent safe use of the vehicle.

Chips, scratches or cracks in the windshield to the extent that the drivers vision is impaired is not acceptable although minor wear and tear can sometimes be approved, this also applies to side windows.

Windscreens primary vision area cannot be tinted to more than 70% in vehicles made after 1971.

Tinting in the primary vision area of the windscreen must have been manufactured not via coating or tint films added after manufacture.

Windscreen wipers must be fitted correctly and working effectively.

Windscreen washer jets must be positioned correctly

Vehicle body and chassis roadworthy test requirements

The structural components of the vehicle must be free from damage, cracks, faulty repairs or modifications, rust or any other condition which could cause structural failure or affect safety related issues.

The floor of vehicle must be sound and free of any loose material, objects or tears which could be likely to impede the drivers ability to safely operate the vehicle.

All door, boot, lid, bonnet, hatch and tailgate latches and latch mechanisms need to be in correct working order.

Mudflaps are required on vehicles with a tray type body.

Bumper bars must be securely fitted and designed to eliminate any sharp corners or protrusions.

Remember: This is not the full list of requirements for a roadworthy test it is just a short list of some things which could be faulted on your vehicle. For a more comprehensive rundown visit VicRoads. The only way to know is to have a roadworthy test done by a licensed tester. Call us today to book in a roadworthy or discuss your needs.

For More information about Roadworthiness certificates in Melbourne, Vic visit VicRoads.

Roadworthy Testing requirements in Victoria

At Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley we provide Log Book Service that protects your statutory warranty for a wide range of makes and models including:

You have the right to choose a mechanic for car service. Simply book a service for your car or contact Total Car Care Centre, tell us about your car and your last service and we can give you a quote today.

Worried about your your statutory warranty? You shouldn't be. As a Car owner you are allowed to decide which mechanic performs your log book service without worrying about losing your right to a statutory warranty. You don't have to travel across town to get to a dealership or pay inflated prices. 

Total Car Care Centre regularly engage in log book service and more on a wide range of makes and models right here in Glen Waverley - simply come in and see us and tell us about your car and your last service and we can give you a quote today.

Total Car Care Centre CAN service your vehicle as per the manufacturers specifications, protecting your statutory warranty….

Makes and models Total Car Care Centre can service in Glen Waverley

Makes and models we service in Glen Waverley

Roadworthy certificates are something we are used to dealing with when  it's time to sell or re-register a vehicle, but have you ever stopped to  consider, is your vehicle is actually roadworthy? 

Have you ever stopped to  consider, is your vehicle is actually roadworthy?

Total Car Care Centre

Roadworthy Inspections

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