Experienced mechanics servicing Albury, Lavington

FAQ

Speak to the knowledgeable team at Hume Motors with any mechanical or automotive questions you have. With more than 35 years in the industry, you can trust us to give you the answers you need.

Browse through some of our most commonly asked questions below, or phone our workshop.

The function of a vehicle’s drive shaft is simply to transmit the power created by the engine into the wheels to get you moving. Drive shafts can be damaged on rough roads, in accidents or by general wear and tear. If you notice any of the following symptoms, your drive shaft may need replacing:

  • Excess vibration while driving
  • Clunking noise when shifting between drive & reverse
  • Squeaking noises from the underbody

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, contact us for a full, expert diagnosis from one of our mechanics.

In NSW you aren’t required to submit your vehicle to a roadworthy check in order to transfer the registration to a new owner. However, all new owners must have a pink slip roadworthy inspection when they receive their renewal notice. The seller must also provide proof of purchase documentation.

In Victoria, all sellers must provide a roadworthy certificate which is less than 30 days old when transferring a registered vehicle.

When a mechanic talks about a heater core, they are referring to the part of your engine cooling system. As hot coolant leaves the engine, it passes through the heater core, heating up surrounding air. Using the fans of your air conditioning system, this air can then be used to defrost the windshield, or just warm the car interior.

If you smell coolant, see signs of a leak or aren’t receiving any warm air from your air conditioner vents, you heater core may need replacing.

No matter how you use your vehicle, eventually you will need to replace your brake pads. The friction from brake pads pressing down on the rotors are the main force that slows down your vehicle, so they are an incredibly important component. How often you need to replace them depends on your driving habits and the local environment. There are a few signs you can look out for that indicate a wearing or failure or the brake pads:

  • High-pitched squealing or grinding noises when braking
  • Shuddering or vibration as the vehicle comes to a stop
  • Steering pulls to one side when braking
  • Brake pedal has too much, or too little resistance underfoot

Some vehicles may also have a brake pad wear indicator light, which will illuminate. Be sure to contact your local mechanic as soon as you notice any of these problems.

The most important step to make, if you realise the mistake early enough, is to not start your car. You will then have to get your vehicle towed to a workshop, as a fuel drain is required to correct the misfuelling. Mixing petrol creates a solvent and causes huge problems for every internal component that it touches. You may even have to replace the whole engine if you don’t fix the problem fast enough!