Tag: Ultra Tune

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!

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.

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.

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.

Top 5 iconic road trips in Australia!

Here at Ultra Tune, we can’t get enough of a roadie! Whether it be a quick weekend trip, or a longer holiday, there is something so special about hitting the road and finding some space. In the current climate it’s not possible to travel so freely, but we thought it would be fun to highlight some of our favourite roadies to inspire you once we can all travel safely again.

Australia is known for it’s unreal landscape and this makes a driving holiday all the more amazing. Whether you want the coast or mountains or desert, there is something for everyone!

Here are our top 5 iconic and thrilling car journeys in Australia:

The Great Ocean Road – this is such an iconic drive and for good reason – the coastline in Victoria is just spectacular and awe inspiring. This roadie is perfect for a shorter trip; as you can drive it in a day. But a weekend would give you more time to explore the local beaches and towns. At the start of the road is Bells Beach which is popular with surfers for its beauty and dramatic surf. This stretch of road is famous for the 12 Apostles, huge limestone rocks which rise out of the sea and are located in Port Campbell National Park. Perfect for an all year round roadie, but especially great off season, as Summer is much more busy with tourists. At the end of the drive is Cape Otway Lighthouse – Australia’s oldest mainland lighthouse, and visit the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre where you can learn about ancient aboriginal life.

The 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road

East Coast of Tasmania – This stretch of coastline is just beautiful, including the famous Bay of Fires where the beaches have some of the whitest and finest sand in the world. Binalong Bay is a must see – it was voted the best beach in the world by Lonely Planet and for good reason. Another stunning beach here is Jeanneret Beach, framed by the orange linchen-coloured boulders which are famous in this conservation area. Another great stop on this trip would be Freycinet National Park which features the infamous Wineglass Bay. Starting in Hobart, you could easily drive up to the Bay of Fires in a long weekend but we recommend give yourself 5 days in order to really explore. You won’t want to leave!

Bay of Fires, TAS

Gibb River Road WA – This is an iconic 660km adventure and one for a longer trip, encompassing some of the most spectacular scenery Australia has to offer! It is only open outside of the wet season, and a 4WD is a must through this rugged Kimberley wilderness. Must sees on this trip are the Windjana National Park where there is a brilliant camping spot and swimming at Lennard Gorge. Also the El Questro Wilderness Park which takes you past the popular swimming spot at Durack River crossing, Jack’s Waterhole, the Cockburn Ranges and the outstanding Pentecost River. One for a longer trip, we recommend taking 2 weeks to really explore and relax.

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Alice Springs to Uluru – This trip takes you to the red centre of Australia, with the magical Uluru taking centre stage. Alice Springs is the at the epicentre of the Explorers Way (a 3000-kilometre route from Adelaide to Darwin), and is the main hub for anyone looking to explore the Northern Territory’s outback. The beautiful landscape here is simply breathtaking, with indigenous dream trails and many places to camp under the stars. Our favourite spots include swimming at Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge as well as hiking Mt Sonder.

Ellery Creek Big Hole, NT

Melbourne to Daylesford – This is a short day or weekend trip which is perfect for city dwellers to escape to the country. Driving out of Melbourne into this part of Victoria is so relaxing and when you get to Daylesford there are so many things to do. At it’s heart is Hepburn Springs, home to the largest concentration of mineral springs in Australia with Hepburn Bathouse a calming oasis and a great place for a weekend retreat. Visit the Daylesford Lake for a walk around the jetty or you could hike a trail nearby such as the Goldfields Track. A short roadtrip out of the city but well worth it. 

Lake Daylesford, VIC

Ultra Tune keeps you safe on the road! From car tuning, to roadside assist, we are never far away! Download our app, available on iTunes and Microsoft.