Brake fluid plays a crucial role in the safety of your vehicle by transferring the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to the actual brakes. Without it, your brakes simply wouldn’t function, and as everyone knows, a car without brakes is incredibly dangerous. Even slightly compromised brakes can pose a serious risk.

Brake fluid has a tendency to absorb moisture over time, which can compromise its effectiveness. Brake systems generate high temperatures, and brake fluid is specifically designed to have a high boiling point to prevent it from evaporating. However, when too much moisture builds up, the boiling point is lowered, making the fluid more prone to boiling under heat. This can lead to reduced brake fluid levels, ultimately affecting your vehicle’s braking performance and increasing stopping distances.

Why Is Brake Fluid Replacement Necessary?

In addition to reducing effectiveness, moisture-contaminated brake fluid can lead to corrosion within the braking system. Over time, this can damage components such as the callipers, wheel cylinders, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Regular replacement helps to extend the lifespan of these parts and maintain optimal braking performance.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment, even through microscopic openings in the brake system. This is why regular maintenance is essential to ensure safety.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer will specify how often the brake fluid should be replaced—typically outlined in the logbook service schedule. At Star Automotive and Tyres, we recommend replacing it every two years as a general guideline. However, it’s equally important to have it checked during each routine service. A professional mechanic can assess the moisture content in the fluid and check for any leaks or other signs of wear that might require earlier attention.

How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?

Yes, at Star Automotive and Tyres, we provide a comprehensive 65-point vehicle inspection upon request with every full service. This includes a detailed review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and rear discs and pads, callipers, cylinders, and more. Our expert mechanics will assess the condition of your braking system and notify you if the brake fluid needs replacing or if any additional brake system repairs or maintenance are required. Regular checks can catch problems early, ensuring your safety on the road.

Maintaining your brake fluid is an essential part of car ownership, and neglecting it could lead to costly repairs or, worse, compromised safety. If you’re due for a brake fluid replacement or simply want peace of mind, book a service with Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah. Our team will make sure your braking system is in top condition, so you can drive with confidence.

Learn why brake fluid is essential for your vehicle’s safety, how it works, and why regular maintenance by Star Automotive and Tyres is crucial for optimal braking performance and to prevent costly repairs.

Brake Fluid: What It Is and Why It Matters

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Do you drive an Automatic vehicle? Then you might not even be aware that there is a clutch in your vehicle. Without it, the gears in your car will not change.

Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah know all about repairing and servicing these systems including clutches, cables and fluids. Learn more below.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation. Your engine is what causes your wheels to spin, but what happens when your car needs to stop? The engine shouldn't stop spinning but the wheels need to. It's the clutch that allows this to happen. The clutch allows the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels to be interrupted while a gear is being changed or while the car is stationary and the engine continues to run.

Some vehicles have hydraulic clutches - when you press the clutch pedal, the clutch fluid moves the pressure from the pedal through to the clutch and disengages the power transmission. Leaking clutch fluid can cause all kinds of problem in your vehicle so it is very important to monitor it regularly. At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah we check your clutch fluid, hydraulic system or clutch cables for you in the course of our free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection - which you can request as part of every car service.


You should have your clutch inspected if:

What signs to look for if your clutch is not performing

You notice a burnt ‘toast' or ‘burning rubber' smell in your car, or smoke from under vehicle

Your vehicle is slipping out of gear for no reason

Your clutch is not disengaging fully, or your clutch is sticking or shuddering

If your clutch is showing any of the problems above - it could mean any number of faults. Clutch problems are difficult to diagnose by symptoms alone because many issues cause the same symptoms, depending on the vehicle and type of engine. The best way to deal with clutch shuddering, slipping or noise is contact your local mechanics at Star Automotive and Tyres today.

We can perform clutch diagnostics, service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Moonah workshop.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation.

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

Drive Safe this Winter with a 65 Point Written Vehicle Inspection Report

Our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report is free with every service at Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah. Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter.

While half of Australia is enjoying their dry season up North, the Southern half of the country is bracing for a wet winter.

The result of that could be totally different ways to get your vehicle ready for winter; however the fundamentals of safe winter motoring remain the same. So how can you make sure your car is equipped for safe winter motoring? 

Avoid the painful moment when you switch on the wipers at the first drop of rain and realise they're worn out and basically useless! Wiper blades wear out over time, especially in the harsh Australian conditions. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Star Automotive and Tyres can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Be sure that your Heater and Demist / Defrost functions are working so you can have a clear view front and back while driving in cold and wet conditions. You should never drive your vehicle if you can't see where you are going.

Fluids and other workings in your car can be effected by cold weather; including coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. Regular services are important - especially by a professional technician who recognises the best products and parts to keep your car in its best operating condition. We use high quality Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.  

It is a well known fact that cold temperatures can drastically affect your battery to a point where it will go flat and leave you stranded. Have your battery regularly tested especially if it is over 3 yrs old and replace it in a timely manner. Visit Star Automotive and Tyres for a free battery test.

Always remember to drive to your conditions. If visibility is poor or the weather is wet - slow down and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Drive on the safe side and book in for a service or Vehicle Inspection today.

Be aware of the warning signs that your brakes need to be inspected, like vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If you are experiencing any of these it's best to have a qualified mechanic check it out. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in.

Driving on worn tyres is dangerous. Now is the time to check how worn your tyres are. If you notice spots which are worn unevenly, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. 

Driving on tyres which are not inflated correctly will not only cost you extra fuel money; it can also impact your ability to brake effectively. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

When it comes to your vehicle’s safety, there’s nothing more crucial than ensuring your brakes are in top-notch condition. At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah, we understand the importance of reliable brakes for both everyday commutes and long road trips. Brakes not only help you stop effectively but also play a significant role in maintaining control of your car in unexpected situations. Ignoring regular maintenance or early warning signs of wear can lead to costly repairs—or worse, put your safety at risk.

That’s where our expertise comes in. At Star Automotive and Tyres, we provide comprehensive brake maintenance and repair services tailored to your needs. Whether it’s a simple brake pad replacement or a more complex issue, our skilled team is equipped to handle it all. Your safety is our priority, so let us help keep you and your passengers protected on the road with reliable, professional brake care.

Maintaining your vehicle’s brakes is essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road. Regular brake maintenance goes beyond just replacing worn-out parts—it’s about preserving the overall performance and reliability of your vehicle. Brakes are your car’s most important safety feature, responsible for stopping your vehicle in time to avoid collisions or other dangerous situations. When your braking system is neglected, it can result in longer stopping distances, reduced control, and even complete brake failure, putting lives at risk.

The Importance of Regular Brake Maintenance

Adhering to your regular car servicing schedule can help identify minor issues before they turn into costly or hazardous problems. For example, worn brake pads, thinning brake discs, or low brake fluid can all impact your vehicle’s braking efficiency. By addressing these concerns early, you’re not only improving safety but also potentially saving money in the long run by avoiding expensive repairs or part replacements.

Properly maintained brakes also enhance your driving experience. Smooth and responsive braking allows for better control, particularly in unpredictable conditions like wet or uneven roads. This is especially critical for drivers in Moonah, where varying road conditions may demand extra caution.

Moreover, regular brake inspections ensure that your vehicle complies with road safety standards, giving you peace of mind every time you drive. At Star Automotive and Tyres, our team is here to help keep your brakes in excellent condition, ensuring you can navigate the roads of Moonah with confidence and security. Your safety is too important to leave to chance.

If you’re noticing changes in your vehicle’s braking performance, it’s crucial not to ignore them. Your brakes are a key component of your car’s safety system, and recognising the warning signs can prevent costly repairs and potential accidents.

Signs Your Brakes Need Immediate Attention

One of the most common indicators of brake issues is unusual noises. Squealing or screeching when applying the brakes often suggests worn brake pads. A grinding sound, on the other hand, could indicate that the brake pads are completely worn down, causing metal-on-metal contact that can damage the brake discs.

Changes in how the brake pedal feels can also point to problems. If the pedal feels spongy or sinks to the floor, it might indicate air in the brake lines or low brake fluid. A vibrating or pulsating pedal, especially during braking, can signal warped brake discs.

A noticeable reduction in stopping performance or increased stopping distances is another red flag. If your car doesn’t respond as quickly as it should when braking, it’s vital to get the system checked immediately.

Other signs include a burning smell after heavy braking or the car pulling to one side when slowing down. At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah, our team is here to diagnose and resolve these issues promptly, keeping you safe on the road.

At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of brake services designed to keep your vehicle safe and reliable on the road. Our thorough brake inspections are the first step in identifying any issues, ensuring that every component of your braking system is functioning correctly.

If your brake pads are worn, our team provides efficient replacements using high-quality parts to maintain optimal performance. We also offer rotor resurfacing, which smooths out uneven surfaces on your brake discs, improving their contact with the pads and enhancing braking efficiency.

Brake fluid plays a vital role in transferring the force from your pedal to the brakes themselves. That’s why we include fluid level checks and replacements as part of our services. This helps to prevent issues such as air in the brake lines or corrosion within the system, both of which can compromise performance.

For more extensive issues, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle complete brake system repairs. Whether it’s a faulty calliper, worn-out hardware, or other components needing attention, we ensure every repair is carried out to the highest standard. At Star Automotive and Tyres, your safety is always our top priority, and we’re here to help keep your brakes in peak condition.

Prioritising brake safety is essential for your peace of mind and the protection of everyone on the road. At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah, we’re dedicated to keeping your vehicle in top condition. Don’t wait until it’s too late—visit us today for professional brake maintenance and repairs tailored to your needs.

Get expert brake maintenance and repairs in Moonah with Star Automotive and Tyres. Ensure safety and performance with professional services tailored to your needs. Book today for reliable, quality care!

Brake Maintenance and Repairs in Moonah | Star Automotive and Tyres Experts

Expert Brake Maintenance and Repairs in Moonah

Star Automotive and Tyres care about your tyres and your safety.

Keeping your tyres properly inflated is essential to ensuring your safety on the road. Underinflated tyres are more prone to punctures, blowouts, and uneven wear. Overinflated tyres, on the other hand, can lead to reduced traction and a rough ride. Be sure to check your tyre pressure at least once a month, or before embarking on a long trip.

Tip 1: Regularly check your tyre pressure

To prevent uneven wear on your tyres, it's important to rotate them regularly. This means moving them from one position on your car to another. Front tyres wear faster than rear tyres, so rotating them helps to balance the wear and tear. Check your car manual for specific recommendations on how often to rotate your tyres.

Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tyres are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road. This prevents them from wearing unevenly, and also helps you maintain control of your car while driving. Misaligned wheels can cause your car to drift or pull to one side, which can be dangerous. Have your alignment checked by a professional mechanic at least once a year.

By following these three simple tyre care tips, you can extend the life of your tyres and ensure your safety on the road. Regular maintenance not only prevents accidents but also saves you money in the long run. Stay safe, and happy driving!

Why get tyres from Star Automotive and Tyres?

Star Automotive and Tyres are independently owned and operated and known locally for our honest service, years of experience and knowledge. We have a range of tyres and specialist equipment to perform your new tyre fitting or wheel alignment and balance. All our work is backed by the Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty.

While checking your tyres is something you can do yourself, as professionals Star Automotive and Tyres can check out the internal condition of your tyres as well as the entire outside surface and they are well aware of the correct methods of disassembly, repair and reassembly, along with any manufacturer or legal requirements involved.

Star Automotive and Tyres can also advise you if there are any problems with your tyres, your wheel alignment, tyre balance or other areas of your car affecting your tyres such as brakes or suspension which you should be aware of to protect you and your vehicle, including the tyres themselves.

Over time, tyres will inevitably experience wear and tear, which can be accelerated by frequent hard braking, high-speed driving, and bumpy road surfaces. If there are no underlying issues such as uneven wear or bald spots, the best way to determine whether or not your tyres require replacement is to assess their tread depth. 

In Australia, the legal minimum tread depth for tyres is 1.5mm across the entire surface of the tyre. Maintaining adequate tread depth is essential for ensuring your vehicle's safety, as it directly impacts grip, braking, and handling, particularly in wet conditions. Tyres with insufficient tread depth are less effective at channelling water away from the contact surface, increasing the risk of aquaplaning and losing control. Regularly checking your tyres and replacing them when necessary ensures compliance with legal requirements and enhances road safety. At Star Automotive and Tyres in Moonah, we can help inspect your tyres and advise on the best course of action for optimal safety.

No matter how well you care for your tyres there will come a time when the only option for maintaining safety, comfort and fuel economy of your car is to have the tyres replaced, such as when they have reached the minimum tread depth. Star Automotive and Tyres supply and fit a range of tyres suitable for most vehicle types in our Moonah car service workshop

Follow these expert tyre care tips from Star Automotive and Tyres to prevent blowouts and extend the lifespan of your car tyres. Keep your wheels secure on the road for a smooth driving experience.

Tyre Care Tips to Keep Your Wheels Safe and Secure

Tyre Care Tips: 3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Tyres Safe and Secure

The phrase 'wheel alignment' refers to how parallel your car's wheels are and their positioning in relation to the vehicle. Every car, no matter the make or model, is engineered to provide accurate steering and braking capabilities, provided the angles of the wheel alignment are correct.

A wheel alignment, a vital maintenance task for vehicles, ensures that the angles of the wheels are adjusted according to the manufacturer's specifications. This procedure has several benefits: 

Firstly, it significantly enhances driving safety by improving vehicle handling and preventing the steering from pulling to one side, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. 

Secondly, a proper alignment minimises tyre wear, which not only prolongs the life of the tyres but also leads to financial savings by reducing the frequency of tyre replacements. 

Additionally, an aligned vehicle experiences better fuel efficiency as the tyres face less resistance from the road, meaning the engine doesn't have to work as hard to move the vehicle forward. Overall, wheel alignment is essential for ensuring a smoother, safer driving experience, extending tyre life, and improving fuel economy, which together contribute to the long-term health and efficiency of the vehicle.

A wheel alignment might be necessary when you start experiencing symptoms such as uneven tyre wear, the steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight, the vehicle pulls to one side, or there's noticeable steering wheel vibration. 

These symptoms indicate that the wheels are not aligned properly, affecting the vehicle's handling and potentially leading to faster tyre wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and extra strain on suspension components. It's also wise to get an alignment after purchasing new tyres, after a collision or hitting a significant pothole, or when suspension parts that affect the tyre positions have been replaced. Regular alignments, as recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer, help ensure optimal tyre life and vehicle performance.

Rotating your tyres is a crucial maintenance task that can significantly extend their life and improve your vehicle's performance. Tyre rotation involves changing the position of the tyres on the vehicle — for example, moving the front tyres to the rear and vice versa. This process ensures even tyre wear since each position on the vehicle causes tyres to wear differently due to factors like weight distribution and turning patterns. Manufacturers recommend rotating tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometres, but it's wise to consult your vehicle's manual or a professional for specific guidance. By regularly rotating your tyres, you maintain balanced handling and traction, prevent uneven tread wear, and maximise the lifespan of your tyres, ultimately saving you money and enhancing road safety.

Star Automotive and Tyres is your go-to place for a wheel alignment service and any tyre related matters. Our team of experts will ensure that your car's wheels are aligned correctly, giving you the best performance, safety, and economy. Don't neglect this essential service, and schedule your wheel alignment service with us today!

Ensure optimal vehicle performance with Star Automotive's wheel alignment service. Extend tyre life, boost fuel efficiency & enjoy safer driving. Book now!

Professional Wheel Alignment Services at Star Automotive and Tyres Improve Safety & Save Money

As your local Mechanic in Moonah, Star Automotive and Tyres take great pride in offering our clients the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs

Star Automotive and Tyres specialise in car servicing for all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. We only use quality parts and fluids in every car service and our mechanics are fully qualified, meaning the job is done right and your warranty remains intact.

At Star Automotive and Tyres we have In Stock a large comprehensive range of tyres for many makes and models of cars and light commercial vehicles. Should you require something different to our range, we welcome special orders. Talk to our expert team to find the best tyres for your vehicle.

Replacing tyres, along with wheel alignment and balancing, are essential for optimal vehicle control. Star Automotive and Tyres specialises in tyre maintenance and related services, offering expert guidance on selecting the appropriate tyres for your vehicle.

Star Automotive and Tyres care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU62040). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health. The ARC Tick of approval helps ensure technicians have the skills and knowledge to correctly undertake service and repairs of refrigerated air conditioning to minimise environmental impact. Call to find out more about car air conditioning or Book a service online now. 

Our fully qualified log book servicing ensures your car is in safe hands, and we provide quality car service and repairs on all models, including four wheel drive and Diesel vehicles. We can service new cars and Star Automotive and Tyres mechanics are more than happy to validate your log book when we service your car protecting you further.

Star Automotive and Tyres are licensed to perform Roadworthy Inspections and Pre-Registration inspections for interstate registration transfers. We can inspect all cars and light commercial vehicles up to 4.5 tonne.

Star Automotive and Tyres are experts when it comes to your car battery. We can perform a driveway test to check the charge level. We can also supply and replace your car battery when you start experiences problems like poor starting and issues with the electrical system.

Here at Star Automotive and Tyres we are proud to be an Australian owned and operated workshop servicing our local community of Moonah. We believe that motorists in Moonah deserve the very best in customer service and technical expertise, that's why we choose to be a part of Australia's largest independent network of mechanical workshops, Repco Authorised Service.

As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care. Our Business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring each mechanic is kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods.

We have access to the best parts and training in the country and offer a Nationwide Warranty honoured at over 500 workshops across Australia.

So, wherever you go, you can rely on the experience and knowledge of Star Automotive and Tyres and Repco Authorised Service.

The team at Star Automotive and Tyres are committed to excellence.

As a Repco Authorised Service Centre we provide high quality customer service and superior workmanship, ensuring our customers receive the very best in automotive care.

Our workshop is widely acknowledged as one of the best equipped and most professional independent operations in Australia.  We offer secure free car parking onsite.

You wont find a better level of customer service than from the friendly team at Star Automotive and Tyres.

You can rely on us to do the little things that really make a difference.

For friendly car service from a trusted independent mechanic you can rely on the team at Star Automotive and Tyres

Car service in Moonah by Star Automotive and Tyres

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 Star Automotive and Tyres include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Moonah workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Moonah

Brake and Clutch

TACC

Star Automotive and Tyres take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Moonah, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 

Star Automotive and Tyres have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.


Star Automotive and Tyres

Brake and clutch

Related articles

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

Drive Safe This Winter

Expert Brake Maintenance and Repairs in Moonah

Tyre Care Tips: 3 Easy Ways to Keep Your Tyres Safe and Secure

What is a Wheel Alignment?

Car Service & Repairs in Moonah