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.

Sean Buckley – Gold Coast entrepreneur

Sean Buckley is an Australian entrepreneur now based on the Gold Coast with vast experience in many areas of business. Sean is Executive Chairman at The Ultra Group of Companies which includes (among others) Ultra Tune and Ultra Thoroughbreds – one of Australia’s largest and most successful Thoroughbred Racing and Breeding enterprises. Sean is a skilled entrepreneur with a diverse range of interests including sports, business and new technologies. He went about building Ultra Tune at the expense of his own comfort. He famously took $100 a week in wages so that he could invest back into the business, specifically the franchisees, because these were the people who were driving his long-term vision and the business model.

“Entrepreneurs need to “think outside the box”.

In 2016 Sean Buckley appeared on behalf of Ultra Tune and other independent after sales service providers at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (the industry’s professional lobby group where he now sits on the board) enquiry into the monopoly that new car manufacturers were attempting to sustain on after sales servicing, Sean’s appearance and the background work completed by Ultra Tune proved decisive in opening up the market to greater competition in the industry with legislative changes resulting.

Charlie Sheen films new ad with Ultra Tune in Melbourne

Hollywood superstar Charlie Sheen has been filming the new Ultra Tune ad in Williamstown, Melbourne, for the next installment of the Unexpected Situations series! It has been fantastic working with Charlie to make this advert the best yet!

He is in Australia to film the ad as well as go on tour for ‘An Evening with Charlie Sheen’ in Melbourne on the 3rd of November and in Sydney on the 4th of November.  Tickets for the evening are available at https://www.charliesheenlive.com.au/

Read more on Charlie’s visit to Australia here https://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/charlie-sheen-arrives-in-melbourne-ahead-of-speaking-tour/news-story/1c52f86d145e5c696d98ad011144ab87?fbclid=IwAR14itc0wQbSdBFvQ-bzKxZ8wSCRN7morbU1fvXgeB4ZHPGTvibZzEGNC7s

Charlie Sheen stars alongside our rubbergirls Parnia Porsche, Laura Lydall, Tyana Hansen and Imogen Lovell.

laura lydall charlie sheen Google Search

Advertising Standards Board dismisses complaints about Mike Tyson Ad

Numerous complaints to the ad watchdog about sexism, sexualisation and the promotion of convicted rapist Mike Tyson in Ultra Tune’s latest ad have been dismissed.

In a detailed response to the complaints, the brand said: “The advertisements do not promote nor endorse any sexual harassment, or assault. He [Tyson] has been punished for his crime committed over 25 years ago in accordance with the law.”

A majority of the complaints featured in the Advertising Standards Board’s ruling focussed on the inclusion of Tyson, who was convicted of rape in 1992.

In response, Ultra Tune said it takes its responsibilities – including the AANA Code of Ethics – very seriously and noted the brand “agrees sexual harassment, assault and rape has no place in our society”.

“However, we note that Mr Tyson served his punishment, publicly acknowledged his deep regret and remorse for that period in his life, and has re-joined society. Since that time, he has rebuilt his career as a celebrity personality.”

It also noted: “Our use of Mr Tyson does not promote his convictions nor condone sexual harassment in any way.”

The advertiser went on to detail its view that the ad could not be found to vilify, humiliate or ridicule women because “the advertisements are clearly designed to be hyper-realisatic and comedic”, noting “a road incident can happen to any person, regardless of gender.”

Ultra Tune also refuted the claim the ad exploits or degrades women, arguing: “At all times the female actors are fully clothed in fancy dress clothing. The fancy dress clothing was used to reinforce the comedic aspect of the advertisement. Their clothing is clearly not the focus of the advertisement.”

The Board also didn’t take issue with the women’s attire, saying it is consistent with Hen’s parties or costume parties. It said the women’s appearance was “sexy, [but] their behaviour is not sexualised”.

It also again noted the “hyper-real” nature of the advertisements, which in its view, ensured the community would not take safety pointers from the women’s actions: “The Board considered that the fantasy nature of the advertisement, the likelihood of a tiger appearing in the street, and the fact the vehicle was shown to crash all amounted to an overall impression that would be unlikely to suggest or condone swerving to avoid an animal on the road.”

The Board thus dismissed all the complaints against Ultra Tune’s ad.

Watch the full Mike Tyson ad here:


Read more on the story here: https://mumbrella.com.au/ad-watchdog-dismisses-numerous-complaints-mike-tyson-ultra-tune-ad-499026