Category: Sean Buckley

5 Things You Should Do To Make Sure Your Car is Roadworthy in Winter

To make sure your car is roadworthy for winter driving in Australia (especially in colder regions like the Snowy Mountains, Tasmania, or the Victorian high country), here are five essential things to check:

1. Check Tyres (Tread & Pressure)

  • Why: Wet and icy roads demand better traction.
  • What to do:
    • Ensure tread depth is at least 1.5mm, but ideally 3mm+ for winter conditions.
    • Check tyre pressure regularly — cold weather can reduce pressure.
    • Consider winter tyres or chains if you’re in snow-prone areas (some areas require snow chains).

2. Test the Battery

  • Why: Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, and older batteries may struggle to start the engine.
  • What to do:
    • Have your battery tested for voltage and health.
    • Clean terminals and check for corrosion.
    • If it’s more than 3-4 years old, consider replacing it preemptively.

3. Inspect Wipers and Windscreen Washer Fluid

  • Why: Good visibility is critical in rain, fog, or frost.
  • What to do:
    • Replace worn wiper blades — they often degrade faster in hot Aussie summers.
    • Use washer fluid with antifreeze properties if driving in alpine areas (don’t just use water).

4. Check Lights and Indicators

  • Why: Reduced daylight and foggy conditions mean you need to be seen.
  • What to do:
    • Ensure all headlights, brake lights, fog lights, and indicators are working.
    • Clean light covers to improve brightness.

5. Inspect Brakes and Fluids

  • Why: Wet and slippery roads increase stopping distances.
  • What to do:
    • Have brakes checked by a mechanic — look for wear or soft pedal response.
    • Check and top up brake fluid, engine coolant, and oil — low levels can affect safety and performance.

Bonus Tip: Carry emergency supplies in rural or alpine areas — blanket, water, torch, snow chains, and a phone charger.

If you’re unsure about any of these checks or want peace of mind before hitting the road this winter, get in touch with the experts. Ultra Tune offers reliable, professional car servicing to keep you safe all year round.
👉 Visit www.ultratune.com.au to book your service today.

Ultra Tune Partners with XPENG to Deliver Nationwide EV Servicing in Australia

Ultra Tune Named Official Service Partner for XPENG EVs in Australia

Ultra Tune has teamed up with leading electric vehicle manufacturer XPENG to become the brand’s official service and roadside support partner across Australia. The collaboration, in partnership with XPENG’s local distributor TrueEV, ensures that customers have reliable, expert care available from the moment they take delivery of their vehicle.

🔋 A National EV Service Network Built for the Future

Under the agreement, Ultra Tune’s extensive network—comprising more than 275 service centres across the country—will provide scheduled servicing and repairs for XPENG vehicles. Our technicians are receiving advanced training in EV-specific systems, including battery diagnostics, high-voltage component handling, and regenerative braking systems.

This means XPENG owners will have access to qualified, factory-approved service professionals no matter where they are in Australia—without relying solely on capital city dealerships or limited EV hubs.

🚗 Roadside Assistance Backed by Experience

Ultra Tune, in conjunction with AP Fleet Management, is also offering complimentary 12-month roadside assistance with every new XPENG vehicle. This support renews annually when the vehicle is serviced through Ultra Tune, offering continued peace of mind for drivers.

⚡Supporting the Transition to Electric Mobility

Ultra Tune’s partnership with XPENG reflects our ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive innovation. As electric vehicles become a growing part of Australia’s transport landscape, we’re expanding our capabilities to meet the needs of modern drivers.

This collaboration strengthens our ability to deliver future-ready servicing solutions, ensuring that XPENG customers enjoy the same convenience, reliability, and nationwide coverage that Ultra Tune has long been known for.

Importance of Maintaining Tyres in Summer

Maintaining your tyres during the hot Australian summer is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and prolonging the life of your tyres. Here are some practical tips to keep your tyres in good condition:

1. Check Tyre Pressure Regularly

  • High temperatures can cause tyre pressure to increase, which may lead to overinflation.
  • Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge to check and maintain the pressure according to your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications (usually found in your car manual or door jamb).
  • Check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold (before driving).

2. Inspect Tyres for Damage

  • Look for cracks, cuts, punctures, or bulges, as high heat can exacerbate existing damage.
  • Ensure there are no embedded stones, nails, or other debris in the treads.

3. Monitor Tyre Tread Depth

  • Ensure your tyres have adequate tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm by law, but at least 3 mm is safer).
  • Uneven tread wear might indicate issues like improper alignment or suspension problems.

4. Rotate Your Tyres

  • Rotate your tyres every 8,000–10,000 km (or as recommended by your car manufacturer) to ensure even wear.
  • This is especially important during summer when road conditions and heat can increase wear.

5. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

  • Carrying excess weight puts extra strain on your tyres and can increase the risk of a blowout in hot weather.
  • Check your car’s load limit (in the manual or on the tyre placard).

6. Park in the Shade

  • Prolonged exposure to the sun can degrade tyre rubber over time.
  • If possible, park in a shaded area or use a car cover to protect your tyres and vehicle.

7. Drive Mindfully

  • Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, or aggressive driving, as hot roads can reduce grip and increase tyre wear.
  • Stick to well-maintained roads whenever possible to reduce stress on your tyres.

8. Check Wheel Alignment and Balancing

  • Misaligned or imbalanced tyres can cause uneven wear and reduce safety, especially in extreme heat.
  • Have your alignment checked if you notice your vehicle pulling to one side.

9. Keep an Eye on Spare Tyres

  • Don’t forget to check your spare tyre’s pressure and condition, as you may need it in an emergency.

10. Use High-Quality Tyres

  • If you need to replace tyres, consider summer or all-season tyres designed to withstand high temperatures and Australian road conditions.

By following these steps, you can ensure your tyres remain safe and reliable throughout the scorching Australian summer. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key!

Ultra Tune have over 270 centres across Australia and are able to help with all of your car servicing needs whether it be tyre maintenance or a simple service. Visit www.ultratune.com.au to find your nearest one.

Sean Buckley – Ultra Tune – What Makes Us Different?

Sean Buckley discusses Ultra Tune and what makes it different to other car servicing companies. Ultra Tune offer professional and fairly priced car servicing across Australia, keeping the customer at the heart of everything they do.

What makes Ultra Tune different to other car franchises? They have a strong ethos on saving money for the customer on car servicing and delivering on what they promise. #ultratune #seanbuckley #seanbuckleyultratune #ultratune

Key checks for your car in Spring:

Driving in spring in Australia requires some adjustments and maintenance to keep your car in optimal condition as the weather changes. Here are some key steps from Ultra Tune to prepare your vehicle for spring driving:

1. Check and Change Your Tires

  • Tire Condition and Tread Depth: Inspect your tires for any signs of wear or damage and make sure the tread depth is sufficient. Spring can bring heavy rain, and adequate tread depth is essential for good traction on wet roads.
  • Tire Pressure: Temperature changes can affect tire pressure, so ensure they are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

2. Inspect and Top Up Fluids

  • Engine Oil: Make sure your engine oil is at the correct level and consider an oil change if it’s due.
  • Coolant: As the weather warms up, having the right coolant level is crucial to avoid overheating.
  • Windshield Washer Fluid: Spring weather can kick up a lot of dust and pollen, so keep your windshield washer fluid topped up for clear visibility.
  • Brake Fluid and Power Steering Fluid: These should also be checked to ensure they’re at proper levels for safe operation.

3. Check the Battery

  • Battery Health: Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance. Make sure your battery is in good condition and that the terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
  • Charge Level: If your battery is older than three years, have it tested to ensure it holds a charge.

4. Clean and Inspect Wipers

  • Windshield Wipers: Spring can bring rain showers, so replace your windshield wipers if they are worn or leave streaks. Good wiper blades are essential for clear visibility.
  • Rear Wiper (if applicable): Don’t forget to check the rear wiper on hatchbacks or SUVs.

5. Air Conditioning and Cabin Air Filter

  • Air Conditioning Performance: Make sure your A/C is working efficiently as temperatures can rise quickly in spring.
  • Cabin Air Filter: Replace the cabin air filter to ensure clean airflow into the vehicle, especially during allergy season.

6. Brake Inspection

  • Brake Pads and Rotors: Have your brakes inspected for wear and ensure they’re functioning properly. Spring road conditions may include slippery, wet surfaces due to rain.

7. Inspect Belts and Hoses

  • Condition of Belts and Hoses: The changing temperatures can affect rubber components. Look for any signs of cracks, wear, or leaks, and replace them if necessary.

8. Clean and Wax Your Car

  • Exterior Cleaning: Spring is a good time to give your car a thorough wash to remove dirt, road grime, and any salt from coastal areas.
  • Waxing: Applying a coat of wax can protect your car’s paint from harmful UV rays and rain.

9. Check the Lights

  • Headlights, Brake Lights, and Indicators: Make sure all the lights are working correctly. Spring days can still be foggy, and early mornings may require good lighting.

10. Adjust Driving Habits

  • Watch for Wet Roads: Spring showers can make roads slippery. Be cautious on wet surfaces and increase your following distance.
  • Watch for Wildlife: Spring is also a time when animals are more active, so be vigilant, especially in rural or bush areas.

By following these steps, you can ensure your car is ready for the unique conditions that spring in Australia brings, making for a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. Contact Ultra Tune today for a tune up and check before you hit the road!

Ultra Tune Partners – Afterpay

Ultra Tune has partnered with Afterpay at selected centres which is a “buy now, pay later” service that allows customers to make purchases and pay them off over time in four equal, interest-free installments. It’s widely used in Australia and other countries as a flexible payment option for various goods and services, both online and in-store.

How Afterpay Works:

  1. Purchase: When making a purchase, customers can choose Afterpay as their payment method at checkout.
  2. Installments: The total purchase amount is split into four equal payments. The first payment is made at the time of purchase, and the remaining three payments are automatically deducted every two weeks.
  3. No Interest or Fees: As long as the payments are made on time, there are no interest charges or fees. However, if a payment is missed, late fees may apply.
  4. Approval Process: Afterpay conducts a quick approval process at the time of purchase, which typically does not involve a credit check. Approval is based on factors like the purchase amount and the customer’s history with Afterpay.

Using Afterpay at Ultra Tune:

Ultra Tune is a car service and repair franchise in Australia led by Sean Buckley, and many of its locations accept Afterpay as a payment method. Here’s how Ultra Tune customers can use Afterpay:

  1. In-Store or Online: Depending on the Ultra Tune location, customers can use Afterpay either in-store or when booking services online.
  2. Choose Afterpay: At checkout, customers select Afterpay as their payment method.
  3. Pay in Installments: The total cost of the service or repair is split into four equal payments. The first payment is made immediately, with the subsequent payments scheduled every two weeks.
  4. Account Management: Customers can manage their Afterpay account through the Afterpay app or website, where they can view their payment schedule, make additional payments, or update their payment method.

Benefits for Ultra Tune Customers:

  • Flexibility: Allows customers to spread the cost of car repairs or services over time, which can be helpful for managing unexpected expenses.
  • Interest-Free: As long as payments are made on time, there’s no additional cost to using Afterpay.

Important Notes:

  • Not all Ultra Tune locations may accept Afterpay, so it’s recommended to check with the specific location beforehand.
  • If a customer misses a payment, Afterpay may charge late fees, and the customer’s ability to use Afterpay in the future could be affected.

This service provides Ultra Tune customers with a convenient way to manage the costs associated with car maintenance and repairs.

Ultra Tune:

Ultra Tune is an Australian car servicing company that was founded by Sean Buckley in 1979. It began as a small operation in Melbourne, Australia, offering basic car servicing and repairs. Over the years, Ultra Tune expanded its services and locations, becoming one of Australia’s largest independent automotive servicing and roadside assistance companies.

One of the key factors contributing to Ultra Tune’s growth was its successful marketing strategy, which included memorable advertising campaigns featuring provocative imagery and slogans. These campaigns sparked both controversy and attention, and were successful in helping to establish Ultra Tune’s brand identity.

Ultra Tune has continued to expand its services beyond basic car servicing and repairs to include roadside assistance, fleet services, brake and clutch repairs, air conditioning servicing, and more. Today, Ultra Tune operates across Australia with numerous franchised locations, providing automotive services to a wide range of customers.

Ultra Tune offers a comprehensive range of car servicing options to cater to the needs of vehicle owners. Some of the key car servicing options provided by Ultra Tune include:

  1. Log Book Servicing: Ultra Tune offers log book servicing, which involves following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule as outlined in the vehicle’s log book. This ensures that the vehicle receives the necessary maintenance and inspections to maintain its warranty and optimal performance.
  2. General Servicing and Repairs: Ultra Tune provides general servicing and repairs for all makes and models of vehicles. This includes routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, fluid checks, and more.
  3. Brake and Clutch Repairs: Ultra Tune offers brake and clutch repairs, including brake pad replacements, brake fluid flushes, brake rotor resurfacing or replacement, clutch repairs, and clutch fluid replacement.
  4. Air Conditioning Servicing: Ultra Tune provides air conditioning servicing to ensure that vehicle air conditioning systems are operating efficiently and effectively. This may include refrigerant recharging, leak detection, compressor repairs, and system diagnostics.
  5. Suspension and Steering Repairs: Ultra Tune offers suspension and steering repairs to address issues such as worn-out shocks or struts, steering system malfunctions, wheel alignment problems, and more.
  6. Engine Diagnostics and Tune-Ups: Ultra Tune provides engine diagnostics and tune-ups to identify and address engine performance issues. This may include computerized engine diagnostics, spark plug replacements, fuel system cleaning, and other tune-up services.
  7. Battery Replacement and Testing: Ultra Tune offers battery replacement and testing services to ensure that vehicle batteries are in good condition and capable of providing reliable starting power.
  8. Tyre Services: Ultra Tune provides tyre services, including tyre fitting, balancing, rotation, and alignment, to ensure that vehicle tyres are in optimal condition for safe driving.

Overall, Ultra Tune offers a comprehensive range of car servicing options designed to keep vehicles running smoothly and safely on the road. Specific services may vary depending on the individual Ultra Tune location and the needs of the customer.

Ultra Tune is highly rated in the Australian automotive servicing industry, known for its extensive network of locations and comprehensive range of services.

What are the benefits of regular tyre checks?

Performing regular tyre checks on your vehicle offers several benefits:

Safety: Ensuring your tyres are in good condition is essential for road safety. Regular tyre checks can help identify issues such as tread wear, punctures, or damage that could compromise your vehicle’s traction and handling, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.

Improved Handling: Properly inflated tyres with adequate tread depth provide better grip and handling, enhancing your vehicle’s stability and responsiveness on the road. Regular tyre checks allow you to maintain optimal tire pressure and tread depth, ensuring optimal handling and control.

Fuel Efficiency: Underinflated tyres can increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and higher fuel consumption. By keeping your tyres properly inflated, you can improve fuel efficiency and reduce fuel costs over time

Extended Tyre Life: Monitoring tyre wear and addressing issues promptly can help extend the lifespan of your tyres. Regular tire rotations and alignments, which are often part of a tyre check service, can also promote more even tyre wear, maximizing tyre longevity and saving you money on premature replacements.

Prevent Blowouts: Tyre blowouts can be dangerous, especially at high speeds. Regular tyre checks allow you to detect signs of wear, damage, or aging tyres that may be at risk of failure, reducing the likelihood of experiencing a blowout while driving.

Comfortable Ride: Properly maintained tyres contribute to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. By ensuring your tyres are in good condition and properly inflated, you can minimize vibrations and noise, leading to a more enjoyable ride for you and your passengers.

Legal Compliance: In many jurisdictions, there are legal requirements regarding tyre tread depth and condition. Regular tyre checks help ensure your tyres meet these standards, reducing the risk of fines or penalties for non-compliance.

Overall, regular tyre checks are essential for maintaining safety, performance, and efficiency in your vehicle. By monitoring tyre condition and addressing any issues promptly, you can enjoy a smoother, safer, and more cost-effective driving experience.

UltraTune offers a wide range of services, including routine maintenance such as oil changes, brake repairs, and tyre replacements, as well as more complex repairs and diagnostics. They cater to both private vehicle owners and fleet customers, providing reliable and professional automotive services across their network of service centers throughout Australia.

Ultra Racing – win for Poison Chalice and Captain Envious at Murtoa

More than 1200 racegoers were on course to see race favourite Captain Envious take out this year’s $50,000 Murtoa Cup (2050m).

The Paul Preusker-trained gelding drifted late in betting, but ended up recording a soft win on the line carrying 60kg to victory.

Winning jockey Will Gordon said it would be a confidence-boosting victory for the son of Savabeel, who will now likely head back to town for the spring.

The Horsham-trained galloper also previously finished third in last November’s Group 3 Queen’s Cup (2600m) at Flemington behind Soulcombe.

Adding another country cup to his resume, Gordon said despite the eventual result, mid-race he thought he’d stuffed up the ride.

“We jumped from barrier two and Paul’s only instructions were stay off the fence, but that’s exactly where we ended up,” he said.

“It panned out for the first 600m how I’d thought it would but then we ended up taking the run up the inside and I thought, ‘oh no I’ve really stuffed this up’.

“Luckily it ended up working out okay, and he’s a nice horse who should go on with it and win a race in town again soon.”

The in-form Preusker stable recorded a double on the eight-race card, also taking out a heat of the Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series (1600m) with classy galloper, Poison Chalice.

Poison Chalice (NZ) was ridden by Ryan Houston and won the Horsham Doors & Glass Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series at Murtoa Racecourse on October 07, 2023 in Murtoa, Australia.