Aussie-Specific Car Care Tips
Our country throws unique challenges at your vehicle. Here's how to keep it running smoothly no matter where you're driving.
Outback Driving Prep
Before heading into the red centre, check your cooling system, carry extra water (for you and the car), and consider upgrading to heavy-duty tyres.
"I learned the hard way that the Chicken Road through the outback isn't kind to standard tyres. Upgraded to all-terrains and never looked back." - Mick, NT
Coastal Rust Prevention
Salt air eats cars. Wash weekly, wax monthly, and pay special attention to undercarriage cleaning if you live near the coast.
"My ute lasted 5 years longer than my mate's just by hosing off the salt after beach trips." - Sarah, QLD
Long Distance Road Trips
Service before you go, check spare tyre condition, and pack emergency supplies. Distances between towns can be deceiving.
"Nothing worse than breaking down between towns. My checklist has saved me twice now." - Dave, WA
Expert Advice from Aussie Mechanics
We've asked the pros what they wish every car owner knew.
John Patterson
Master Mechanic, 25 years experience
"Most modern cars don't need oil changes every 5,000km like in the old days, but Aussie conditions are tough. I recommend sticking to 7,500km intervals, especially if you're doing lots of stop-start city driving or towing."
Pro Tip: Check your oil level monthly, especially before long trips. Low oil is the quickest way to kill an engine.
Lisa Nguyen
Auto Electrician Specialist
"Battery issues are the number one cause of breakdown calls I get. In our climate, batteries last 2-3 years max. Get yours tested every service after it hits the 2 year mark."
Pro Tip: If your battery is more than 3 years old, replace it before winter. Cold mornings reveal weak batteries.
Bruce Wilson
4WD Specialist
"Too many city folk head bush unprepared. If you're taking the Chicken Road less travelled, at minimum carry recovery gear, extra fuel, and know how to change a tyre in the dirt. Your fancy SUV might have 4WD, but does the driver have 4WD knowledge?"
Pro Tip: Practice using your recovery gear in a safe environment before you need it for real.
Your Aussie Car Maintenance Checklist
Print this out and stick it on the fridge - your car will thank you.
Weekly Checks
- Tyre pressure (including spare)
- Fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer)
- Lights and indicators
- Wiper blades
Monthly/Seasonal
- Battery terminals (clean if corroded)
- Air filter (tap out dust or replace)
- Tyres for wear and damage
- Underbody wash (especially after beach trips)
- Emergency kit supplies
Before Long Trips Add:
Common Aussie Car Owner Mistakes
We've all been guilty of some of these - time to break the habits!
Ignoring Dashboard Lights
That little orange engine light isn't a suggestion - get it checked ASAP before a small issue becomes a wallet-emptying repair.
Using Cheap Fuel in Modern Cars
Many newer engines are designed for 95 or 98 RON. Using regular can reduce performance and fuel economy.
Skipping Logbook Services
Missing scheduled services can void warranties and lead to premature wear. It's false economy.
Overloading Your Vehicle
Exceeding weight limits stresses suspension, brakes, and can be dangerous. Know your vehicle's limits.
Bonus Tip: Listen to Your Car
Unusual noises are your car's way of saying "help!" That new rattle or squeak won't fix itself - get it checked early.
Reader Questions Answered
Real questions from Aussie drivers like you
"How often should I really wash my car?"
- Darren, Melbourne
In cities, every 2 weeks is ideal to remove pollutants. Near the coast, weekly washes help prevent salt damage. In dusty areas, wash when visibility through windows is affected. Don't forget the undercarriage occasionally!
"My car manual says 15,000km between services but my mechanic says 10,000km. Who's right?"
- Priya, Sydney
Manufacturer intervals assume ideal conditions. Aussie heat, dust, stop-start traffic and often lower quality fuel mean most mechanics recommend more frequent changes. For most drivers, 10,000km is safer, especially if you do lots of short trips.
"What's the one thing I should never skip at service time?"
- Tom, Brisbane
Brake fluid changes! Many people delay this because the car seems to stop fine, but old fluid absorbs moisture which lowers boiling point and can lead to brake failure when you need them most (like coming down a mountain pass). Change every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Got a Car Care Question?
We'll get our panel of experts to answer it in our next update.
What Other Aussie Drivers Say
Real feedback from our community
Steve
Byron Bay
Jenny
Alice Springs
Raj
Adelaide