Tag: Sean Buckley Ultra Tune

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.

What are the Benefits of Regular Car Servicing?

Regular car servicing offers several benefits, including:

1. Improved Safety

  • Regular servicing ensures that critical components like brakes, tires, and suspension are in good working order, reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Early detection of potential issues like worn-out brake pads or leaking fluid can prevent dangerous situations.

2. Better Fuel Efficiency

  • A well-maintained engine and properly inflated tires help maximize fuel efficiency, saving you money on gas.
  • Cleaning or replacing air filters and spark plugs during service improves engine performance and reduces fuel consumption.

3. Increased Vehicle Lifespan

  • Routine servicing helps prevent wear and tear from escalating into major problems, extending the life of your car.
  • Proper lubrication, timely replacement of parts, and fluid changes ensure that the car runs smoothly for years.

4. Reduced Repair Costs

  • Addressing minor issues during servicing can prevent them from becoming costly repairs later.
  • Regular inspections help detect problems early, saving money in the long run.

5. Higher Resale Value

  • A car with a consistent service record is more attractive to potential buyers and retains a higher resale value.
  • Buyers are often willing to pay more for a vehicle with a documented history of maintenance.

6. Environmental Benefits

  • Regular maintenance ensures that the car’s engine is running efficiently, reducing harmful emissions.
  • Keeping filters and exhaust systems in good condition minimizes the vehicle’s environmental impact.

7. Enhanced Reliability

  • A regularly serviced car is less likely to break down unexpectedly, providing peace of mind.
  • Maintenance reduces the chances of roadside emergencies, like overheating or a dead battery.

8. Compliance with Warranty Requirements

  • Many car warranties require regular servicing to remain valid.
  • Following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule ensures you’re covered for repairs under warranty.

9. Better Driving Experience

  • Regular servicing keeps your car running smoothly, improving overall performance and ride quality.
  • Proper alignment, suspension, and brake maintenance make for a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.

Ultra Tune firmly believes that sticking to a regular servicing schedule is an investment in your car’s safety, efficiency, and longevity.

Visit www.ultratune.com.au for more information.

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

Car servicing at Ultra Tune after winter:

Servicing your car with Ultra Tune after winter has several important benefits, as the colder months can take a toll on various components of your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of why a post-winter car service is beneficial:

1. Ensures Safety

  • Brakes and tires: Cold weather can affect brake performance, and roads may have more debris or wear from winter conditions. Checking brake pads, discs, and tires (including tread depth and pressure) ensures your vehicle is safe and responsive.
  • Suspension: Driving on icy or uneven winter roads can stress your suspension. A service can detect any damage early, ensuring safety.

2. Prevents Long-Term Damage

  • Fluid levels: Cold temperatures can affect engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant. A service will check these fluids for consistency and levels, as well as replace any that have degraded over the winter.
  • Battery health: Winter can drain a car’s battery faster, especially in cold starts. Testing and potentially replacing a weak battery can prevent breakdowns.

3. Improves Fuel Efficiency

  • Oil and filters: Winter driving can cause oil to become thicker and filters to clog. Replacing oil and air filters will allow your engine to run more smoothly, improving fuel economy.
  • Tire pressure: Cold weather lowers tire pressure, increasing rolling resistance. Restoring the correct pressure can enhance fuel efficiency and reduce wear on tires.

4. Restores Performance and Comfort

  • Heating and air conditioning: After heavy use of the heating system in winter, a service can ensure the A/C is working properly for the warmer months ahead.
  • Windshield wipers and washer fluid: Winter use can wear out wipers or deplete washer fluid, essential for clear visibility during spring rains.

5. Identifies Hidden Issues

  • Exhaust system: Salt and moisture from winter roads can cause corrosion in the exhaust system. A post-winter check can identify any rust or damage.
  • Rust prevention: Salt and road grit can cause rust on exposed metal parts. A service can inspect for any early signs of rust and apply treatments to prevent further damage.

6. Boosts Longevity

  • General maintenance: Regular servicing extends the life of your vehicle by addressing wear and tear caused by winter conditions. Catching small problems early helps avoid larger, more expensive repairs later.

A post-winter car service not only improves the performance and safety of your vehicle but also helps maintain its value over time. Visit Ultra Tune for your nearest service centre.

Ultra Tune – Roadworthy Inspection

A rego inspection, also known as a roadworthy inspection or safety inspection, is an assessment conducted to ensure that a vehicle meets the safety standards required for registration in Australia. The inspection is often a prerequisite for registering or renewing the registration of a vehicle, especially under certain conditions.

When a Rego Inspection is Required:

  1. New Registrations: When a vehicle is being registered for the first time in a state or territory.
  2. Transfer of Ownership: When a vehicle changes ownership, particularly for used vehicles.
  3. Interstate Transfers: When a vehicle is being registered in a different state or territory from where it was previously registered.
  4. Lapsed Registration: If the vehicle’s registration has expired for a certain period, a roadworthy inspection may be required to renew it.
  5. Periodic Checks: In some states or territories, older vehicles may require periodic inspections to maintain registration.
Sean Buckley_UltraTune

What a Rego Inspection Covers:

A rego inspection typically covers a range of safety and mechanical checks to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy. These checks may include:

  • Brakes: Condition and effectiveness of the braking system.
  • Tyres: Tread depth and overall condition of the tyres.
  • Lights: Functionality of all lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and reflectors.
  • Suspension: Condition of the suspension system and shock absorbers.
  • Steering: Steering functionality and condition.
  • Seat Belts: Integrity and proper functioning of all seat belts.
  • Exhaust and Emissions: Exhaust system condition and adherence to emission standards.
  • Windows and Windscreens: Condition of glass, visibility, and functionality of windscreen wipers.
  • Body and Chassis: Structural integrity, no significant rust, and no loose panels.
  • Fluid Leaks: Checks for any leaks from the engine, transmission, or other components.

Who Conducts the Inspection:

All Ultra Tune stores across Australia are authorised to conduct these inspections, depending on the state’s regulations, as an Approved Inspection Station, Authorised Inspection Station (AIS), or Licenced Vehicle Tester. This authorisation allows us to issue Roadworthy Certificates (RWC) upon completion.

Outcomes of a Rego Inspection:

  1. Pass: If the vehicle passes the inspection, a certificate of roadworthiness (or equivalent document) is issued. This certificate is necessary to proceed with registration or renewal.
  2. Fail: If the vehicle fails the inspection, the issues identified must be repaired before the vehicle can be re-inspected and approved for registration.

Importance of Rego Inspections:

  • Safety: Ensures that vehicles on the road meet minimum safety standards, reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Legal Compliance: A valid rego inspection is often required by law for registration, making it a critical step in the vehicle registration process.
  • Peace of Mind: Provides vehicle owners and buyers with confidence that the vehicle is in a safe, roadworthy condition.

Different states and territories may have specific rules and procedures for rego inspections, so it’s important to check local regulations.

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.

Sean Buckley – Ultra Tune – exclusive interviews:

Sean Buckley Ultra Tune

Exclusive interview with Sean Buckley – Ultra Tune Executive Director, discussing life at Ultra Tune, exclusive behind the scenes and plans for the future. How did Sean Buckley get Mike Tyson to shoot an ad with Ultra Tune? How did losing everything in the 1980s effect Sean Buckley? How did he start the business? Find out in this exclusive interview.

A really interesting look at Ultra Tune and discussion with Sean Buckley about the company and the notorious television campaigns. Lots of fun clips from advertising campaigns, interviews with close friends and business partners.

Filmed by Industry Leaders in 2019

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.

Sean Buckley answers: What has been the biggest challenge of franchising your brand? How did you overcome it?

Ultra Tune has faced various challenges over the years, not the least of which being an adverse legal finding after a court case with the ACCC. I was overseas at the time for an extended period of time and unfortunately (my own fault), didn’t take an active enough role in the pending case. As a consequence the company was issued with a hefty fine. This was an operational issue, that, once I returned to Australia was immediately rectified and, thankfully our clientele has seen it for what it was – a glitch in an overwise stellar 40 years of operation. What it did show me was the need to keep my finger on the pulse of the organization at all time. The implications could have been catastrophic, however, being such a well-established and credible company allowed us to ride this setback out and thereafter the company has comeback stronger and more effective than ever before.

Obviously the current COVID climate has been an enormous challenge for the business. I’ve been forced to make a series very tough business decisions in the first six months. A combination of a sound management team, great network of franchisees and thinking and adapting to changed circumstances have allowed Ultra Tune to survive better than many other comparable companies. We’re clearly not out of the woods yet, but by maintaining an adaptive and proactive approach, I’m confident, 5 years from now Ultra Tune will continue to be the leading independently owned auto-service company in Australia.