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

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

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? 

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 minimise 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? 

steering, suspension and braking systems 

windscreen, and windows including front windscreen wipers and washers 

other safety related items on the body, chassis or engine. 

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

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

Is my car roadworthy 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.

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'. We have provided a handy list for you on our Roadworthy Requirements page.
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 ?

Roadworthy Certificate Costs

Total Car Care Centre in Glen Waverley is a licensed roadworthy inspection station and can issue roadworthy certificates for vehicles that pass the roadworthy  assessment test.  				

A roadworthy inspection includes checking:

A roadworthy inspection is not a comprehensive full vehicle inspection. Talk to us today about the different types of inspections available at Total Car Care Centre and which one will best suit your needs. 

Book a roadworthy inspection at Total Car Care Centre today.

Roadworthy Inspections in Glen Waverley

Roadworthy Inspections

VACC

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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

Roadworthy Inspections

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Getting Your Car Ready for the Christmas Holidays

Car service in Glen Waverley

Roadworthy Requirements

Makes and models we service in Glen Waverley

Is my car roadworthy in Victoria?

Roadworthy Certificate Cost