By getting in early, you avoid the stress of last-minute repairs, long waits, and potentially unsafe journeys.

Sudden heat after cold spells can expose weak or worn components. Addressing these issues as soon as winter eases helps prevent minor problems from becoming breakdowns. It also means your car runs more efficiently, uses less fuel, and is safer for everyone on board.

Cooling system & air conditioning:
As temperatures rise, the cooling system works harder. Ensure coolant is at the correct concentration, radiator is clean, hoses aren’t brittle or leaking. Check air conditioning so you're comfortable on long drives and in summer heat.

Tyres, alignment & tread:
Spring’s fluctuations in temperature and moisture can lead to uneven tyre wear. Inspect tread depth, sidewalls for cracking, ensure tyre pressure matches manufacturer recommendations. Misaligned wheels from winter potholes can lead to rapid tyre wear and unstable handling—alignment and balancing are important.

Battery & electrics:
Cold damp winter mornings are hard on batteries. If your battery is older or showing signs of wear (slow cranking, dim lights), now is the time to test or replace. Also check lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators), fuses, wiring and connectors for corrosion or damage.

Brakes, steering & suspension:
Moisture and road debris can rust brake hardware, cause sticking calipers or degrade brake pads. Steering components and suspension may have been stressed by rough winter roads or cold. A comprehensive inspection ensures responsiveness and safety.

Filters & fluids:
Oil changes, replacing oil filters, air filters and cabin filters all improve engine performance and air quality. Check fluid levels (brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, coolant) and top up or flush as required.

Wiper blades & windscreen visibility:
Spring rain, glare from sun, pollen, bugs – all demand that your windscreen and wipers work well. Replace any wiper blades that streak or skip, ensure windscreen washer fluid is full and that washers work properly.

Exterior maintenance & undercarriage:
Clean off road salt or dirt from winter, especially underneath the car. Rust often begins in hidden places. A good wash, checking for rust, touch-ups on paint damage, and applying protective coatings help preserve appearance and resale value.

• Longer drives: visiting family or holiday destinations

• Greater loads: extra luggage, perhaps towing holiday trailers or boats

• High demand: roads are busier; service centres are often booked solid

Because of that, regular servicing ahead of time helps:

• Spot issues early when they are easier to fix

• Avoid being stuck with a breakdown when everyone else is travelling

• Maintain reliable performance, which is safer and more economical on long trips

Many garages in towns like Yarram see a spike in bookings as December approaches. If you wait until the last minute, you may face delays or even not be able to get a booking at all.

• Use qualified, authorised service centres to maintain log book requirements and to ensure warranty compliance

• Ask for a vehicle condition report during service: this helps you understand any pending work before it becomes urgent

• Keep a seasonal maintenance list or reminder: for example, in your calendar, note when tyres were last rotated, when belts or filters were last replaced etc

• Pack an emergency travel kit ahead of trips: spare tyre with good pressure, torch, first-aid kit, jumper leads, water, snacks etc

With spring upon us in Yarram and Christmas not far off, now is the time to act. Regular servicing now does more than simply keep your car running — it helps protect you, your family and your holiday plans. Starting early means greater peace of mind, fewer surprises, and plenty of time to enjoy festive travel without car concerns.

Schedule your service today and drive confidently into the warmer season and holiday celebrations ahead…