Winter in Victoria can be tough on cars. As temperatures drop, ensuring your vehicle is ready to face the colder months becomes crucial for your safety and comfort. Regular servicing plays a significant role in preparing any car for winter driving conditions. But why is it so important, and what tasks are performed during these checks? Let's dive deep into how routine maintenance can make all the difference.

How regular maintenance by experts can keep your vehicle safe and reliable during the colder months.

Cars are complex machines that rely on numerous components working in harmony. Over time, parts wear down, fluids deplete, and minor issues can escalate into major problems. Regular servicing acts as a preventive measure, ensuring that all parts of your vehicle are in top condition, especially vital during Victoria's unpredictable winter weather.

Understanding the Importance of Regular Servicing

During regular car servicing, depending on the service interval the car is at when brought in to our Glen Waverley workshop, the expert mechanics at Total Car Care Centre perform various tasks which are also critical for safe winter driving:

Winter puts extra strain on your car's battery.  Total Car Care Centre's technicians will test your battery's health to ensure it won't let you down on a cold morning. Batteries tend not to like the cold very much and can have trouble starting the vehicle on very cold and frosty mornings.

When Total Car Care Centre undertake any car service they always check the brakes carefully. The brake system is thoroughly inspected for wear and tear and any problems found are provided to the customer. Your Safety is Our Priority and effective braking is important at all times, but becomes particularly crucial on wet and slippery winter roads.

Tyres are your car's only contact with the road. A comprehensive check for wear and correct pressure is essential, as wet and icy conditions demand excellent grip. Regular servicing provides a great opportunity for your Total Car Care Centre mechanic to check your tyres and wheels, especially where the service requires placing the car on a hoist.

The suspensions system works in conjunction with the brakes and tyres to ensure a stable ride and also has an impact on stopping distances, including in the wet. These systems should be thoroughly inspected for wear or potential problems to help ensure the car handles correctly on potentially slippery or even icy roads.

With shorter days, you'll rely more on your car's lights. A check ensures all lights are functional and bright. We will also let you know immediately if we come across any potential problems with your auto electrical system

Visibility is key in adverse weather and all care should be taken to ensure it is good. Wiper blades should be checked and replaced if necessary, and the windscreen inspected for any damage that could impair vision. Having a well functioning HVAC system to demist your windows is pointless if your wipers cannot effectively deal with any rain.

A functioning heater and defroster are also vital for comfort and safety, enabling clear visibility through the windows. Making sure your HVAC system is up to the task of effectively heating and demisting your vehicle is another prime thing to consider come winter time.

The exhaust system should be checked for leaks, which could be hazardous, especially during any times when the car is stationary for extended periods with the heater on.

The coolant should be checked and topped up if necessary, ensuring it's at the correct antifreeze to water ratio to prevent freezing. When liquids freeze they tend to expand, which can cause significant damage to the radiator and its associated parts.

Fresh oil and a new filter ensure your engine runs smoothly, particularly important during the start-up on cold mornings when oil can become thick and sluggish.

Skipping routine maintenance can lead to decreased performance, higher fuel consumption, and even breakdowns. In winter, some issues are magnified due to harsh conditions and the reliability of the vehicle becomes paramount. Regular servicing ensures that minor problems are caught early, avoiding unexpected and often more expensive repairs.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Regular Servicing

Not all vehicles are the same, and as such, their servicing needs can vary. High-performance vehicles, older cars, and those with high mileage might need additional attention for example. Discussing your car’s usage and any concerns with your Total Car Care Centre mechanic can help ensure a tailored approach, keeping your car running smoothly through winter.

Perhaps the most significant benefit of regular servicing is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing that your car has been professionally checked and prepared for winter can make all the difference in your driving experience, ensuring you and your family stay safe on the road.

Regular servicing is not just a box to tick; it's an investment in your vehicle's longevity and your safety. Before winter sets in Victoria, schedule a service to ensure your car is equipped to handle any season, including the cold, wet and sometimes icy conditions winter brings. If we notice anything about your vehicle we think you should be aware of that doesn't come under the current service schedule we will certainly let you know.

Trust the professionals at Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley to keep your vehicle in its best condition, letting you focus on enjoying the journey, regardless of the weather...

Winter in Victoria can be tough on cars. As temperatures drop, ensuring your vehicle is ready to face the colder months becomes crucial for your safety and comfort. Regular servicing plays a significant role in preparing any car for winter driving conditions. But why is it so important, and what tasks are performed during these checks...

Winter Ready Cars in Victoria: 10 ways regular service helps

10 Ways to Get Your Car Winter Ready in Glen Waverly

Planning a road trip and making your vehicle ready for a road trip demands more than packing your essentials and filling the tank. To ensure your car's optimum performance, reliability, and safety on long road journeys, regular servicing becomes crucial. So, why should you carry out regular vehicle service, and how does it keep your car ready for holidays? Let's explore. 

Regular maintenance may seem like an expense but think of it as an investment. It's far cheaper to replace worn-out parts during a service than to call for a tow truck from the middle of nowhere. Simply put, having a vehicle serviced regularly with a reputable workshop like Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley will help make sure your vehicle is safe and efficient at all times, not just when planning a road trip. This is because any problems can be directly addressed through service schedules or your Total Car Care Centre mechanic can alert you to any issues that become apparent through the course of a regular service.

Below are ten things that are either covered by regular servicing or will become apparent during regular servicing and which you can rest assured Total Car Care Centre will alert you to if they might present a potential problem.

10 ways regular servicing can help address or identify problems

Good brake maintenance
Brake Maintenance is of utmost importance in regular vehicle servicing. No matter how great a car's performance might be, if its braking system is compromised, it's a recipe for potential disaster. Technicians will inspect the brake pads, lines, and fluids to ensure the system operates seamlessly when you need it most.

Properly functioning air conditioner
An air conditioning system doesn't merely add to your comfort but plays an essential role in window demisting, providing safety. Keeping it fully functional is vital, and the servicing technicians perform thorough checks, repairing any detected problems for an efficient air conditioning system.

Safe Suspension system
Suspension and steering significantly influence the car's handling, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Regular servicing examines any potential wear and tear on your shock absorbers and suspensions, and any issues in steering components. This inspection helps in diagnosing problems early, promoting safer and easier driving. 

Engine in top condition
Your car's engine is its heart. Thus, regular checking and changing engine oil is vital for keeping it running smoothly. Over time, the oil can become dirty and lose its efficiency, making regular changes crucial for maintaining a healthy engine.

A battery you can rely on
Batteries can run flat with no prior warning, creating unpleasant and sometimes risky situations. During a routine service, technicians conduct battery inspections, testing its voltage, checking for any leakages, and ensuring its hold-down clamps are secure.

Good Condition Tyres
Tyre maintenance ensures that your tyres are not worn out or underinflated, preventing poor handling, punctures, blowouts, and accidents. Regular tyre rotation and wheel alignment also increase their life span.

A dependable Electrical system
An electrical system of a car comprises many elements, from the ignition system, lights to power systems. A glitch in any of these could mean inconvenience at best, and a serious risk at worst. Regular servicing aims at efficiently diagnosing and fixing these problems.

Fluids and filters are OK
Replacement of vehicle fluids and filters is another aspect of regular car servicing. It includes engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant, preventing potential issues that can degrade your car's performance.

A more efficient Vehicle
With regular vehicle servicing, your car will run more efficiently, leading to a smoother driving experience, reduced emissions, and fewer running costs. Ultimately, it leads to peace of mind during your journey, ensuring the safety of all passengers on board. 

Peace of Mind is assured
Above all, regular vehicle servicing offers peace of mind. Knowing your car is in peak condition lets you focus on the adventure ahead, making memories rather than worrying about mechanical mishaps.

Keeping your car in top shape requires routine and comprehensive servicing. Expert technicians, top-notch equipment, and unmatched pricing ensure your car's readiness for any road trip. So when the time comes for your next holiday drive, be assured your vehicle is in peak condition with the reliability and safety that regular car servicing guarantees. 

After all, it's your car, and you have the right to make the best choice for it.

Regular servicing of your car plays an instrumental role in keeping it ready for holiday drives. Explore the various aspects of mechanical tasks carried out during regular servicing, ensuring a safe and reliable vehicle.

Regular car service makes it easier to get ready for road trips

Regular servicing goes a long way towards getting ready for a road trip

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 Total Car Care Centre 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? 

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 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 Ford, Holden, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Toyota 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.

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

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. 

We care about our customers and are always on the lookout for great mechanics and apprentices, so if you are seeking employment in the automotive service industry be sure to contact us today about joining our fantastic team...

Since 2015, Darren has been the proud owner of Total Car Care Centre, having begun his apprenticeship in the automotive industry back in 1984. Despite his many responsibilities as a business owner, Darren relishes the challenges of running his enterprise and still enjoys getting his hands dirty while keeping up with the latest advancements in car technology. Apart from his love for all things automotive, Darren also enjoys sports such as motor racing, Australian football, and water skiing.

Damien has been Darren's right hand man since Darren took over TCCC in 2015. Damien also worked for Ron (Darrens Dad) at TCCC before Darren bought the business. Damien is meticulous with his work and strives to be the best. Damien enjoys motor sports, music & plays guitar.

James came to TCCC through the school VCAL system, Once James finished school, he started full time at TCCC (late 2022). James is learning fast that being a Technician is not as simple as first thought & he is picking up the massive information load very quickly. James enjoys his sports, playing both local cricket & AFL. 

Jodie works part time in the office, Jodie started with TCCC late 2022 and is enjoying the challenges that have come with the job & learning about the automotive industry. Jodie loves her kids, dogs & cat(that thinks it’s a dog). Jodie is looking forward to meeting everyone and assisting you with your requirements.

Loraine has been with Total Car Care Centre since 1996, in the position of account manager 

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. We care about our customers and are always on the lookout for great mechanics and apprentices, so if you are seeking employment in the automotive service industry be sure to contact us today about joining our fantastic team...

Meet The Total Car Care Centre Service Team

If your tyres are not roadworthy they are possibly unsafe, probably illegal and almost certainly costing you money.

The braking system cannot work to its maximum performance if the tyres are worn or otherwise unsuitable for the car or type of driving you undertake.

If you are experiencing unusual vibrations, poor handling of the vehicle, have problems keeping tyres at the correct pressure, have low tyre tread or can see obvious damage to your tyres, you should probably have your tyres checked by experts such as the service team from Total Car Care Centre. Having your tyres checked by a professional on a regular basis to ensure the safety, comfort and reliability of your vehicle in addition to the life span of your tyres.

Total Car Care Centre are the professionals in Glen Waverley when it comes to the supply, fitting, repair and maintenance of tyres for a range of vehicle types. 

New tyres, a wheel alignment and wheel balancing go hand in hand to ensure good handling and maximising the expected lifespan of your new tyres. Total Car Care Centre are experts at inspecting and maintaining tyres and related components and can give you good advice on purchasing the correct tyres for your car.

So if you need new tyres, a wheel balance or wheel alignment or just a simple bit of wheel related advice, perhaps it is time to pop in to our Glen Waverley workshop for some expert advice.

High quality, good condition tyres are an important part of the ‘Safety Triangle' of Shock absorbers, brakes and tyres. As their main role is keeping your car in contact with the road they play a vital role in the stopping power of your car. Total Car Care Centre are tyre & wheel professionals…

Tyre and wheel services in Glen Waverley

There should never be a rumbling, groan or grinding sound coming from the wheels of your car, nor any vibration through the steering wheel (unless of course you are driving over corrugated roads!).

Wheel bearing issues usually come about due to poorly sealed bearings or lack of lubrication. Worn bearings are very dangerous as they can collapse and cause the wheel to detach from the car. They can also cause uneven wear on the tyres, loud noises and vibration in the car.

For emergency repairs or regular maintenance, visit us in Glen Waverley.

Peace of mind: Not only are we a Repco Authorised Service Centre, but we have a combined 20 years of experience on our team. From large jobs to small, you know you are in good hands with our mechanics.

Ongoing Training: As part of the Repco family, our mechanics are offered training seminars and received service bulletins about the latest diagnostic equipment and vehicle upgrades.

Friendly Service: We are not just a shop, but a locally owned and operated community of mechanics who are looking out for our neighbours.

Repacking and adjustment of wheel bearings (where applicable)

Wheel bearing failure: symptoms and causes

The wheels on your vehicle need to operate in a smooth manner, regardless of surfaces and speeds. When there is damage to the wheel bearings, the drive is no longer smooth as friction will build up. This friction can then break down the wheel bearings and cause wear and tear on the axle.

Total Car Care Centre can give you peace of mind by advising you what is causing the loud noise or vibration in your vehicle. It may be time to come in and see our mechanics if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Damaged or leaking seal on the wheel bearings

For wheel bearing replacements and routine maintenance in and around Glen Waverley contact our team at Total Car Care Centre.

Wheel bearing issues usually come about due to poorly sealed bearings or lack of lubrication. Worn bearings are very dangerous as they can collapse and cause the wheel to detach from the car. They can also cause uneven wear on the tyres, loud noises and vibration in the car...

Wheel beaing service in Glen Waverley

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 Total Car Care Centre include:

If you notice symptoms that your car's braking system could  possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have your vehicle assessed through our Glen Waverley workshop  today.

Brake and Clutch service in Glen Waverley

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VACC

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

Total Car Care is your local car service mechanic and has been operating in the Glen Waverley area for over 33 years. As a family owned and operated business for over 29 of those years, we take great pride in offering our customers the very best in automotive care and we are committed to providing personalised and friendly service at all times. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we participate in the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring our technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. We have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. For reliable car maintenance, service & repairs in Glen Waverley and the surrounding areas

Total Car Care Centre

Brake Servicing & Repairs

Brake services we perform at Total Car Care Centre include:

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10 Ways to Get Your Car Winter Ready in Glen Waverly

Regular servicing goes a long way towards getting ready for a road trip

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

How Brakes Wear Out

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Meet The Total Car Care Centre Service Team

Are your tyres safe ?

Wheel bearing inspection & replacement