Browns Plains Auto Shop: The Benefits of an Auto Brake Service

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical, Browns Plains auto shop we know the value of a well maintained vehicle. One of the most important maintenance tips we can give you is to have regular auto brake services, because these will help keep your vehicle safe for everyone involved.

Most of us take our brakes for granted, expecting them to work whenever we need them. If a car slows ahead of us, we know exactly when to start braking and don’t tend to question the why’s and how’s. A serious problem exists when our brakes fail, when we press the pedal and nothing happens – then we are in serious trouble.

So what are the real life benefits of an auto brake service?
 

• Safety concerns: Keeping your family, yourself and other road users safe should be of prime importance to all vehicle owners and a well maintained vehicle is important to achieving this outcome. Having your brakes checked and an auto brake service performed at your local Browns Plains auto shop is just common sense. So if you have any concerns at all about your braking system, come in and chat to us and we can set out a regular maintenance schedule for your vehicle – for your peace of mind.

• Cost concerns: If you leave it too late and your brakes fail, you can be up for a lot of money fixing the damage. Yes, brake pads will eventually wear out and rotors need to be replaced as well, but an auto brake service can pick these issues up and let you know when they need replacing, so you can plan your finances. It is much better to know that you need to replace your pads and discs in the next 6 months, rather than having to pay for costly repairs or accident damage, because you ignored the problem.

So if you are concerned about the safety of your vehicle and you want to enquire about an auto brake service or any of our other services, call us on 3809 2711 and let’s keep your family and yourself safe on the roads.

How to avoid automatic transmission failure

One of the biggest reasons to have an auto pre purchase inspection is to avoid unexpected and costly repairs once the car is in your name. Apart from needing to replace the entire engine (you did have an auto pre purchase inspection didn’t you?), one of the most costly problems we encounter at Steve Sorensen Mechanical is an automatic transmission repair job.

Of course, depending on what’s wrong, it might not be too expensive, but transmission problems can set you back quite a bit of change, so avoiding these sorts of problems is always the best course of action. The two best ways to avoid spending money on transmission repairs of course, is to have a pre purchase inspection and a regular transmission service.

Auto pre purchase inspections

Your mechanic will check a long list of items on the car to make sure that it is not only currently safe, but there are no hidden problems that may surface within the near future. Some of the issues that are checked include:

•    Making sure the odometer works and matches any service documents
•    Matching the VIN number and the registration
•    Is there any tampering with the compliance plates and any evidence of major accident damage?
•    Is the car on the written-off register?
•    Do the tyres have a legal tread, are the brakes working and safe?
•    Are there any oil, transmission or radiator leaks?
•    All hoses intact, lights and A/C working?
•    Seatbelts working, doors locking, lights working?
•    Is there any rust and is there evidence of previous rust that has been filled?
•    Are there any computer fault codes?
•    Does the car drive well?


Automatic transmission services

The vast majority of transmission failures are due to a lack of servicing and maintenance, so avoiding costly automatic transmission repairs is actually quite easy – make sure you have regular services on your transmission. Your transmission service includes, replacing the transmission fluid, inspecting the old oil for any residue that may indicate internal damage, replacing the filters, checking for leaks and a road test.

So if you want to prolong the life of your car and avoid expensive automatic transmission repairs, call us at Steve Sorensen Mechanical and book your car in ASAP.

5 maintenance tips to keep your car driving smoothly

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical, we know that the cost of vehicle repairs and servicing can add up over time. The problem is that if you don’t take care of your car, those expenses can sky rocket and you can be out of pocket sooner rather than later.

Vehicle repairs and servicing

 
If you want to save money on costly repairs, then you need to have regular services to keep your car in tiptop shape. In between services, there are also other actions you can take, which will help to keep your car running smoothly. These are fairly inexpensive, when compared to vehicle repairs and servicing and will help to lengthen the life of your car.

So make sure you incorporate the following 5 tips into your maintenance schedule and help reduce your vehicle repairs and servicing costs.

1.    Check your brakes: Brake pads can be inexpensive to replace, but they can cause a lot of additional damage if you ignore the warning signs and end up with metal on metal.

2.    Check your oil: Not many people check their oil as often as they should. If you engine runs dry then you are really in trouble and I don’t want to tell you the cost of replacing an engine. So don’t go there. Check your oil at least monthly and keep it topped up with the correct oil for your engine.

3.   Check your tyres: Underinflated tyres cause your engine to burn more fuel, so check your tyre pressure monthly. Also rotate your tyres regularly to ensure an even wear.

4.   Check your coolant: If your engine overheats, you can be in big trouble so check the level of your coolant monthly and keep it topped up. 

5.   Check your air filters: Clogged filters can reduce the running efficiency of your engine and result in higher fuel costs. So check your filters and replace them when needed.

So if you want to avoid costly vehicle repairs and servicing, make sure that you keep your vehicle in good shape between your regular mechanical services. Call us on 07 3809 2711 for all your servicing and repair needs.

Benefits of using a local auto mechanic service

Maybe we are biased, but at Steve Sorensen Mechanical in Browns Plains, we believe that a local auto repair shop is a much better investment for vehicle owners, than a large dealership or a large chain. Your vehicle is your pride and joy and needs to be kept running safely with as few costly repairs as possible, so the auto mechanic service you select, must tick all the following boxes:

• Cost: Without a doubt, car dealerships and large chains will charge a lot more to service or repair your car than your local auto repair shop. Cost, however isn’t always the defining factor on who you chose to service or repair your car. However, knowing that the costs are reasonable and you are not being over charged is a good feeling. I am not saying that car dealerships and large chains deceive you, but it is only sensible to compare costs and decide for yourself, how much you want to pay for services and repairs.

•  Experience: Your local auto repair shop relies on the local community for their livelihood, so they are going to be highly experienced in all aspects of vehicle repairs and servicing. Most likely, you will find that the owner works in his own shop and gets his hands dirty every day. Compare this to the large chains who hire people with no real investment in the company or in the customers. At Steve Sorenson, we go out of our way to give you the best service and repairs possible and we even suggest ways you can save money and still keep your car running well. That’s because we have the experience and the desire to engage with our customers, unlike a hired hand in a large chain.

•  Confidence: You need the confidence in knowing that the local auto repair shop you chose, has the experience and the knowledge to do a good job at a reasonable price. Local auto mechanic services remain in business because their customers keep coming back, year after year. They build a solid reputation in their local community and build their customer base via word of mouth and customer referrals. If a local mechanic is not good at his work and is too costly, he will not stay in business for long.

So if you are in the Browns Plains area, pop in and see us at Steve Sorensen Mechanical. We are well known in the local community and very competitively priced.  

How to tell when your car’s automatic transmission needs repairing

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical in Browns Plains, one of the most frequent services we do is an automatic transmission service. This is because our customers know that if they ignore problems and leave it too long, that automatic transmission repairs can be costly.

So it is always wise to have your automatic transmission serviced regularly. In between services however, there are certain signs that all is not well with your transmission and if any of the following occur, you need to book your car in as soon as you can, for at the least a service and at the worst, an auto transmission repair.

• Engine warning light: If this is on, it doesn’t necessarily indicate something is wrong with your transmission, but if the engine light is on and you also have any of the other problems described below, then you need to book your vehicle in for a transmission check immediately. In fact, don’t ignore your engine light even if you don’t have any of these signs, something is wrong in your engine if this light is on and it needs to be investigated.

• Vibrations: When the vehicle changes gears, it should be effortless and there should not be a shaking feeling or any vibrations felt at all. This can mean that your clutch is in trouble and is a clear indication that you need the problem investigated by an expert.

• Leaking fluids: If you notice red oil leaking onto the ground, this could either be from your transmission fluid or your power steering system. So check both levels and keep an eye on them. If the leak is only small and both levels remain within good limits, then you have some time on your hands, but if either level drops below minimum, then it needs to be booked in and checked quickly. 

So there you have it. The best way to avoid costly automatic transmission repairs is to be vigilant, check your levels and if any of the signs above appear, talk to your mechanic and have the problem investigated by an expert.

Expert Auto Repairs: Car Brake Service

Vehicle maintenance services, in particular car brake services, are essential to keeping ourselves, our families and everyone else on the road safe. Too often however, people either forget about having their vehicle serviced or just keep putting it off until a more convenient time.

We all need to find the right balance in life between being too busy and getting things done. It can be hard, especially if you are doing it tough, but sometimes there is no other way than to bite the bullet and book in for a vehicle maintenance service. You know it is the right thing to do, especially if you are due for a car brake service.

CAR BRAKE SERVICE

So how do you know that you need a car brake service? Well one of the best ways is to ask your mechanic – he or she can tell you how often you should have your brakes checked. Failing that, here are 5 reasons why you should definitely book your car in for a car brake service:

• Noisy brakes – this can indicate worn brake pads or linings and you need to have them checked before the situation deteriorates to the point where you need major work done on your brakes.

• Brake pedal sticks – if your brake pedal stays down when you put your foot on it or it is slow to release there may be a problem with the master cylinder – get it checked.

• Vibrations – if your car or steering wheel starts to vibrate when you depress the brake, then it could be a whole host of problems – book it in for a service.

• Pulling to one side – if your car pulls to one side when you depress the brakes you might just need a wheel alignment, but it could also be a problem with the calipers – call your mechanic and get it checked.

• Locked up brakes – if your brakes lock when you depress the pedal, you might just have some grease or oil on the linings which can be easily fixed. Sometimes it can indicate something more sinister is wrong – so book it in for a check-up.

As you can see, there are many indications that something is going wrong before the point of no return. It’s important to not only your wallet that pick up on these signs, but it’s also vital to avoid serious accidents and injuries in the case of your brakes failing. So make sure to book in for a car brake service and head off any major costly in the future.

Call Steve Sorensen Mechanical in Browns Plains on 07 3809 2711 for all your vehicle maintenance services.

Looking For Vehicle Repairs Services In Browns Plains?

If you are looking for vehicle repairs and servicing in the Browns Plains area, then you have come to the right place. Car mechanics services are essential to the safety of your family and at Steve Sorensen Mechanical we love what we do. Steve Sorensen has been an A grade mechanic for more than 30 years and has been in the area for over 20 years. He owes his success to being honest, to being an expert mechanic and to being there for his clients when they need him.

Car mechanic’s service

If you own a car then vehicle repairs and servicing is just a part of life that we all have to do at some time or another. The good thing about a car mechanic’s service is that it minimises the risk of needing costly repairs. If you make sure to have your car checked and maintained by a reliable and trustworthy mechanic on a regular basis, then you can avoid having to pay for repairs that could have easily been avoided.

Lots of people try and perform their own vehicle repairs and servicing and there is nothing wrong with that – if they know what they are doing. Problems arise when something has been missed that could have been picked up by an experienced mechanic and then they end up emptying their wallets paying for costly repairs, that didn’t need to happen.

Another problem is that we are all so busy in our daily lives and even though we are full of good intentions, we just don’t seem to have the time to get around to servicing the car ourselves. That’s why it is important to know there is an experienced and trustworthy mechanic in the area, that will do the job right and at a reasonable cost.

Vehicle repairs and servicing

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical we provide vehicle repairs and servicing for clients in the Browns Plains and surrounding areas. We strive to excel at everything we do and take great pride in our work. If your vehicle needs a car mechanic’s service, call us and we will fit you in at a time that is suitable for all of us.

Without our clients, we would have no business, so we go out of our way to make sure that we meet your needs. If your car needs repairs, then we will take a look and give you an estimate of the costs involved. We are very reasonably priced and we have clients that have been coming to us for years – because we give value for money, every time.

So if you are searching for vehicle repairs and servicing in the Browns Plains area, call Steve on 3809 2711 and let’s get your car back on the road.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical: Tips on choosing the best vehicle repairs and servicing centre

When it comes to vehicle repairs and servicing, you want to find a car mechanics service that is honest and reliable. That’s really the bottom line when it comes to finding a car mechanic service shop.

So what’s the best way to find a reliable mechanic and how do you really know that you have picked the right one? Many people avoid the warning signs that their car needs a service or that something might be wrong, because they are afraid of being ripped off by unscrupulous mechanics. No-one wants to be charged exorbitant prices and pay for things that don’t need fixing.

Items like brake and clutch repairs can be costly, so you want to be happy with the car mechanics service that you have selected. You want to be sure that if the mechanic says something needs to be fixed, that they are being honest with you and that they charge a fair price.

So here are 5 tips to help you find the right mechanic for you.

1. Ask family and friends: If people you know and trust recommend a mechanical shop to you, then that really helps in making your decision. Ask them what repairs they had done on their car and how much they were charged.

2. Compare prices: Make sure that you get 2 or 3 estimates for your work and compare the prices. Just because a car mechanics service is cheap doesn’t mean that they are competent. Cost should only be one element in your decision, you need to consider other factors as well.

3.   Location: Vehicle repairs and servicing can take anything from a few hours to a couple of days, so think about whether you can you walk from the car mechanics service centre to your work or home. Alternatively, can they drop you off at work or home in your car, and then drive it back to the mechanical shop?

4. Do they listen to you: Be wary of mechanics who appear to dismiss your questions or your concerns. The mechanic needs to explain clearly to you what needs to be done and to know that they need your authorisation to perform extra services. This gives you the opportunity to ask more questions and to take your car to another car mechanics service for a second opinion, if you believe the quotes are too high.

5. Go with your gut feelings: Once you have sorted out the first 4 points above, go with your gut feeling. If their shop is dirty, unkempt and looks disorganised, even if they are cheap, maybe you want to look elsewhere.

For brake and clutch repairs, log book servicing, minor or major servicing or any type of mechanical repairs, call Steve Sorensen Mechanical at Browns Plains on 07 3809 2711. 

Steve Sorensen Mechanical: How car service log book services keep your car in top shape

As Steve Sorensen’s car care centre in Browns Plains, we know the value of regular car maintenance. We see cars coming in all the time that need really expensive repairs, repairs that could have been avoided if the owner had maintained regular services at our Browns Plains auto shop.

Mechanical problems can be picked up really quickly with regular services, avoiding the costly repair bills that come when warning signs are ignored. It just makes sense to prevent a catastrophe, rather than try and cure one.

So one of the things that we get hot under the collar about at Sorensen’s Browns Plains auto shop are car service log books. The log book is a schedule of minor and major services that the manufacturer has said are necessary to maintain your car in tip top shape. It also includes the intervals when these services should be performed.

Lots of people ignore these services and just top up the vehicle’s fluids now and again, kick the tyres and hope for the best. The problem is that ignoring the scheduled services, set out in your car service log book, is just a pathway to disaster. You will end up paying more for repairs down the road, more than the costs of all the missed services put together – and then some more again.

So at Steve Sorensen’s car care centre in Browns Plains, we encourage all of our customers to bring their cars in for regular servicing as a preventative measure against costly repairs, which can blow out your future budget.

Depending on your kilometres, your car service log book will state whether a minor or a major service is required. If you know your way around a car you can do these minor services yourself, however a certified mechanic needs to sign your logbook.

This is because your logbook is a valuable asset when it comes to selling your vehicle. It is proof that your car has been regularly serviced and is a record of all the repairs undertaken. An up-to-date log book helps you achieve top dollar when you sell your car. So a certified mechanic needs to sign your logbook for every service.

What if you don’t have a car service log book?

Sometimes when you buy a used car it doesn’t have a log book. So if this has happened to you, pop in to our Browns Plains auto shop and ask us how often your car needs to be serviced to keep it in good shape. We can come up with a schedule for you and if you keep records of these services and the receipts, this will be as good as a log book when you come to sell your car.

So pop into Steve Sorensen Mechanical, the car care centre in Browns Plains and let us help you keep your car in tip top shape.

Is it worth paying for an auto pre-purchase inspection?

Most people are aware of the benefits of a car mechanics service but tend to be unaware that the same sort of service can be very beneficial before you buy a car. By this we mean an auto pre-purchase inspection, which most people don’t think about or dismiss because they don’t want to pay for this type of car mechanics service.

There are of course arguments for and against an auto pre-purchase inspection, but if you are buying a car privately then the cost of this service can be extremely beneficial, especially if it prevents you buying a car that needs lots of repair work.

The RACQ and NRMA both offer this service, but any qualified and reputable mechanic can also perform a pre-purchase inspection. They will most probably take a few hours to go over the car and then give you an itemised accounting of any issues they have found on the vehicle.

Some of the issues they check include:

• Is the odometer working?
• Does the odometer agree with any service documents?
• Does the VIN number and the registration match?
• Is there any tampering around the compliance plates?
• Is there any sign of previous accident damage?
• Is there any rust?
• Has previous rust been fixed properly or just filled?
• Bouncy shock absorbers.
• Do all the tyres have a legal tread?
• Do all the lights and windscreen wipers work?
• Do all the gauges work?
• Is the A/C working properly?
• Are the seat belts intact, in good condition and working?
• Are there any radiator or hose problems?
• Are there any oil and transmission fluid leaks?
• Does the engine run smoothly with no problem noises or worrying exhaust smoke?
• Do all the doors lock and seal correctly?
• Are the seats in good order and fitted correctly?
• Any cracks in the windows or light fittings?
• Are there any computer fault codes?

 
Usually, a road test is also performed as part of this auto pre-purchase inspection because some problems only come to light when the engine is warm and has been running for a while.

If you don’t want to pay for an auto pre-purchase inspection, even though it can save you a lot of money in the long run, do make sure that you take someone with you who has a good mechanical knowledge. The last thing you want is to hand over your valuable money and register the car in your name, only to have to pay out thousands of dollars to have the car repaired a short time afterwards.

Tips to make sure your vehicle repairs and servicing goes off without a hitch

What do you do if you have problems with the vehicle repairs or servicing on your car? Well the best way to address these types of problems is to avoid them. So here are some real tips on how to make sure that everything runs smoothly with your vehicle repairs and servicing.

• Find a reputable repairer: Make sure that whoever you choose to service or repair your vehicle is qualified to do the job and has the right equipment.

• Make sure you get at least two different quotes: Make these written and itemised quotes, with quotes for the parts and for the labour. If you think the quotes are too high, question them to make sure that you understand exactly what the costs relate to – and get another quote to be sure.   

• Ask them to explain the problems clearly: There is nothing worse than being confused with jargon. Make sure the mechanic explains all the details clearly to you and you understand exactly what is wrong (and what you are paying for).

• Can you afford the repairs? If you agree to have the repairs done on your vehicle and you can’t afford to pay for them, the mechanic may not release your vehicle to you until you pay. Ask if you can arrange a payment plan with them (but they are not required to offer this service).

• Make sure they know you want to authorise any work not included in the quote: This avoids lots of unpleasantness when work has been performed on your vehicle that was outside of the original quote

• Ask for an itemised final bill: Make sure that all the work has been completed and that you understand the costs of the labour and parts.

• Keep these bills: This helps if you have any further issues that you believe should already have been fixed and also helps when you want to sell your car. A car with a history of services and evidence of repairs undertaken by a reputable mechanic should sell much better than a car with no service history.

If you have a problem with the charges on your bill for the vehicle repairs and servicing or believe that the repairs were not carried out properly, the best course of action is to discuss these issues with the mechanic. Most repairers want to keep their customers happy and value repeat customers – so they will do their best to sort out any problems you may have.

If you can’t come to a reasonable solution then you can ask to see their complaint handing procedures, which must comply with Australian Standards. As a final resort you can make a formal complaint about the vehicle repairs and servicing to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).

Why should I have my car serviced?

Lots of people just fill up their car with fuel and kick the tyres every now and again. They forget that regular vehicle repairs and maintenance is a necessary part of owning a car.

At Steve Sorenson Mechanical – a Logan auto repair shop, we know that regular maintenance is a lot better than costly repairs down the road. Sometimes even the smallest of problems can create havoc if left too long unattended.

It doesn’t matter where you live in South-East Queensland, there are always more cars on the road – especially it seems in Logan. Auto repairs are the one item on our list that we can all do without, but sometimes they are unavoidable. The one thing you can do to reduce these costs is to have your vehicle regularly serviced, so any potential problems can be picked up early.

And if you are still not convinced - here are 3 good reasons to have your car regularly serviced:

1.    Safety: As a road user, you cannot ignore the safety of yourself, your loved ones and of everyone else on the road (including pedestrians and cyclists). It doesn’t take much time to check your tyres and brakes – at the very least. Imagine driving in heavy rain and your brakes don’t work and your tyres are bald - both of these could save your life one day.

2.    Performance: If you keep your car well maintained, it not only runs better but your fuel economy is much better. Old oil gets gluggy and prevents your engine from running smoothly. This increases fuel consumption and costs you money. So make sure you change your oil and filters regularly.

3.    Cost: Ignoring vehicle repairs and maintenance can turn simple problems that could have been fixed easily into very costly repairs. Well maintained cars also last much longer, saving you money on replacing the vehicle sooner than you ever thought possible.  

It doesn’t matter where you live in South-East Queensland, there are always more cars on the road – especially in Logan. Auto repairs can be a very costly expense that can be offset by regular maintenance and repairs of your vehicle.

So drop by and see us at Steve Sorenson Mechanical in Logan. Car services are our speciality - call us on 07 38092711 to book your car in for a service or fill in our enquiry form.

Logan auto service – Do I need a dealer to service my car?

You might have noticed that there are a number of car dealerships and mechanical auto shops in Logan. Auto services are a necessary part of car ownership – it helps keep your car roadworthy and safe.

Quite often though, at Steve Sorenson Mechanical (we are a Browns Plains car service auto shop), a customer asks us whether we can service their car for them - or do they have to return to the dealership.

WHAT THE LAW SAYS ABOUT YOUR WARRANTY
In essence you don’t have to return to the dealership for your car services – any qualified mechanic can service your car.
The law that governs this choice is the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, which in layman’s terms states that a car manufacturer cannot void your warranty if you choose to go to an independent mechanic.

So the choice of where you have your car serviced is up to you. There are a few points that you should consider though, when deciding who to go to.

MAKING THE DECISION

One thing to consider is the use of original equipment (OE) parts. Whilst many non-genuine parts can be cheaper to buy (not all OE parts are more expensive), if your car is still in the new car warranty period and a part fails – then you could have a problem on your hands.

The problem is in deciding who is liable for the part failing and any subsequent damage to the car – the car or the parts manufacturer? If you use genuine parts however, then it is more difficult for the car manufacturer to reject your claim against them.

This is also good practice, even if your car is out of the new service warranty period – as any failures due to genuine parts need to be addressed by the car manufacturer.

At Steve Sorenson Mechanical, we are proud of our reputation in Logan. Auto services are one of core business practices and we take great care ensuring your vehicle is serviced well and correctly.

We are located in the Logan area – right in the heart of Browns Plains. Car services help to keep your car safe and roadworthy – call us on 07 38092711 to book your car in for a service or fill in our enquiry form.
 

7 Signs Your Car Needs an Automatic Transmission Service

The transmission is the gearbox of your car. But a lot of people forget just how important a regular automatic transmission service is – and they suddenly remember when they bring it in for an automatic transmission repair!

At Steve Sorensons Mechanical, we always recommend an auto pre purchase inspection. This is because the last thing you want is to buy a second hand car and have to pay for an automatic transmission repair.

So here are 7 signs that your car (or a car you want to buy) needs an automatic transmission service.

1.    Check engine light: Sounds simple but the check engine light goes on for a number of different reasons, and one of them is a problem with your transmission. So an overall check including an automatic transmission service can save you a lot of money down the road.

2.    Slipping gears: In an automatic, if it feels like the gears are changing at the wrong time or too often this can be a serious safety issue. Slipping gears can be a safety issue.

3.    Slow engagement:  When you put your automatic in Drive and hit the gas, if there is a delay in moving - then there could be a problem with your transmission. Avoid a costly automatic transmission repair bill and have a check up soon.

4.    A burnt smell: This could be your transmission fluid. And means that your transmission is overheating and the fluid is getting very hot. Book it in and get it checked.

5.    Leaking fluid: This is one of the easiest problems to notice. Automatic transmission fluid is bright red so spotting a leak is easy. Another sign of a leak is if you need to top-up your transmission frequently.

6.    Jarring transmission changes: In an automatic, the gear changes are very smooth. If you feel anything other than a smooth transmission – get it checked out.

7.    Car does not move: This is another easy one! If you put your car in Drive or Reverse and hit the gas – if the car stays right where it is (you did take the brake off didn’t you?) – then you might just have a problem with the transmission.

So call us for your next auto pre purchase inspection or automatic transmission service or repair on 07 3809 2711, fill in our online enquiry form or drop in for a chat at Unit 1/7 St Jude Court, Browns Plains, QLD 4118.

The Beginner’s Guide to a Car Brake Service

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical, our clients ask us a lot of good questions. But there tends to be three common themes – leaks, weird noises and brakes. And it is the third topic we are going to take a look at today. Specifically – a car brake service or an auto brake service.

A car brake service comes under the umbrella of vehicle maintenance services and can also be part of a good pre purchase inspection.

So let’s talk about the common brake jobs we do here at Sorensen’s:

 Replacing brake pads: This is a quick job and many people try this at home. The problem with just replacing the pads is that this can be only half of the problem. That squealing you hear when you put your foot on the brake can be caused by a combination of worm brake pads and rotors. So just replacing the pads might not fix the problem.

 Replacing brake pads and rotors: The brake pads are seated on the rotors and depending on how worn they are, they may also need to be replaced. But sometimes they are too worn and they just have to be replaced as part of your auto brake service.

If you leave it too long to replace your brakes, then they will eventually fail. Here are 5 signs you need a car brake service:

 Your brake light comes on! But quite often this is only for the front brakes – so if your back brakes are the problem you the break light won’t tell you this.

 You are taking longer to stop than usual.

 Your brake pads are less than 6mm thick – you might need to remove the tyre to see this. Check both the inside and the outside pads for wear.

 At first you will hear a high pitched squeal when you touch the brakes, but as they continue to wear you will hear a grinding sound.

 Your car pulls left or right when driving or braking. This could indicate a problem with the brake system, the tyres or your suspension. Best to have an auto brake service to find out for sure.

So give a call for all your pre purchase inspections and vehicle maintenance services or if you think you need a car brake service.

Please Call us on 07 3809 2711, fill in our online enquiry form or drop in for a chat at Unit 1/7 St Jude Court, Browns Plains, QLD 4118.

How To Tell IF You Need Your Car Breaks Repaired

Most of us have been in that dreaded situation where you’re driving your car through town, go to stop at a sign or stop light and hear a loud, sharp screeching sound coming from your breaks. Many people will try to carry on through their day, ignoring the sound that they had heard earlier, as they might think its not a big deal or a hassle to take the car in to be checked. Unfortunately, the longer you go without having a mechanic look at your car, the more damage you may be causing to your breaks and your vehicle.

If you hear a squealing sound coming from your breaks, you may very likely need car brake service. That high-pitched squeal is a warning coming directly from your breaks, which may or may not also be accompanied by the feeling of your breaks grinding. The breaks are the most important part of the vehicle and it is essential that they work for your safety and the safety of others who are on the road. Any changes in the way they are sounding or functioning should cause you to seek out a car mechanics service.  

If you have been putting off those brake and clutch repairs due to lack of funds or time to take it in to shop, don’t delay any further. What may be a simple, quick and inexpensive fix could become an expensive job if left unchecked. You may cause extensive, and expensive, damage to your car and break system by neglecting to have them looked at immediately. 

The best way to keep your vehicle in great shape and working properly is to have regular maintenance completed and to promptly take care of any parts of the car that aren’t working as they should. This is extremely important as it will help you to avoid unnecessary accidents while on the road, keeping yourself and other people around you safe. The next time you happen to hear your breaks squealing as you come to a stop, make sure to get them checked out and repaired immediately. It is simply not worth the risk. 

We’ll Help You Stay on the Road with Professional Transmission Services

Neglecting to take care of your vehicle's transmission can causes problems similar to  the kind of medical issues affecting your health when you neglect to eat right, exercise and drink plenty of water. You start to lose steam,  leak fluids and chug along until you can't function anymore.  Since transmissions can't take care of themselves like we can, it is your responsibility to make sure your vehicle receives regular automatic transmission service upgrades so that it doesn't suffer from "chugging". 

While many car parts (including the engine) usually make alarmingly loud noises when needing repaired or replaced, transmissions could be considered an automobile's "silent killer" because they tend to quietly exhibit mechanical problems before totally giving out.  For example, low transmission fluid due to leaky, worn-out hoses can make your car act like it is in neutral. You press on the gas--and nothing. No movement and no noise --only the sound of your engine revving.

Experiencing gear slippage while driving can be frightening, especially when motoring down the freeway and traffic is bumper to bumper.  Finding the reason behind slipping gears requires that an experienced automatic transmission service technician perform manual and diagnostic tests on your transmission to pinpoint slippage problems associated with mechanical distress, parts degradation or lack of sufficient transmission fluid.

Waiting until your transmission is on the verge of gasping for the last time can result in expensive and sometimes lengthy repairs that will leave you without transportation or force you to rent another vehicle. Avoid future transmission problems by taking your car to a dependable and reputable transmission service in Browns Plains. At Steve Sorenson Mechanical, we treat customers like one of the family and understand how important it is to have reliable transportation when you need to get to work, pick up children or do necessary shopping.

Don't let costly transmission repairs and the stress of getting stranded without transportation ruin your day. Call Steve Sorenson Mechanical today at (07) 3809-2711 to make an appointment or fax Steve at (07) 3800-7171. While on Facebook, you can visit our Facebook page or simply stop in at our Browns Plains Centre at your convenience. 

Simplyfying Car Diagnostics

Most motorists know that car engines are controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU), but how many realise that a modern car has more computing capability than the Apollo spacecraft that travelled to the moon. In fact, many cars have up to fifty microprocessors, which control the different electrical systems in the car linked together by a CANbus communication protocol. 

In many cars, almost every electrical piece of equipment is controlled by an ECU, even interior lights and headlamps. When a component malfunctions, it is no longer a case of tracing the wiring back through the switch to the fuse and to the battery. Sadly, all the average motorist can do is to replace a burnt bulb and check the oil. 

Despite this, advances in automotive engineering mean that cars are more reliable as their electronic systems are robust and self diagnostic capabilities alert drivers to potential problems so that they can be repaired before a breakdown occurs. Engine ECUs are so clever that when they detect an unsafe condition they will cut engine power and allow the motorist to get home safely without ruining the engine. 

Does this level of technology mean that motorists have to have their cars serviced and repaired by appointed dealers? Manufacturers would like them to believe that. 

But the truth is that, thanks to the American EPA, nearly all vehicles have standard OBD-II ECU connectors and manufacturers have defined protocols for their cars. This allows local auto repair centres to use universal diagnostic equipment to perform vehicle diagnostics on all makes of vehicle. 

Steve Sorensen Mechanical, an award winning local car care centre in Brown Plains specialises in vehicle diagnostics, car service, log book service, and other repairs. Their highly trained staff excels in the diagnosis and repair of electrical faults on all makes of cars, while their first class auto mechanic service professionally carries out all other car repairs. 

Contact Steve Sorensen Mechanical now. They are located in Unit #1, 7 St Jude Court, Browns Plains, QLD 4118 or make a booking by phoning on (07) 3809 2711 or through their website.

Surviving Major Car Repairs

It's a sad fact in life that even the most reliable car is going to break down at some point and be in need of major car service. Log book watchers who take their car in for every single scheduled maintenance are not completely immune either. Automobiles are simply not built to last forever, and those major car repairs are something that every car owners dreads. These car repairs may consist of repairs to a vehicle's engine, transmission, and more. These mechanical problems always seem to occur at the worst time, and they can take up a lot of time and money. It is no wonder as to why these events are so stressful in life. However, these events don't have to be as stressful! In fact, getting through a major car repair is much easier thanks to repair shops like Steve Sorensen Mechanical.

When taking a vehicle in for a major repair, one of the biggest fears that car owners have is that something will go wrong with the major car service. Logan Qld has multiple auto repair shops, however, not every repair shop offers the same quality of repair. A repair that is performed poorly can make matters worse, and later lead to additional repairs. Taking a vehicle into the right repair shop like Steve Sorensen is important for peace of mind, as Steve Sorensen Mechanical has been in existence for over 15 years.

In addition to performing the job correctly, the other biggest fear that car owners have with any major repair is the overall cost of the service. And while there is no avoiding the fact that some repairs may be quite costly wherever a vehicle is taken to, Steve Sorensen Mechanical stands out as being an auto repair shop that offers excellent service, with prices that are very reasonable, making this business an excellent car care centre. Browns Plains citizens have themselves an excellent mechanic in town.

To learn more about Steve Sorensen Mechanical, check out www.stevesorensenmechanical.com.au. In addition, this business may be reached via telephone or in person from 7:30AM through 5:00PM on Mondays through Fridays.

Alternatives to Major Car Service in Logan QLD

Cars, an essential part of daily life, are more complex than ever before. Gone are the days when car owners could repair vehicles at the side of the road. A car should be well maintained, which is why it’s necessary to choose a reputable service centre for a major car service in Logan, Qld.

Some new car warranties are as long as five years and, as owners are responsible for all service costs during that period, the cumulative cost of dealer servicing can be very expensive. Independent service centres offer a cheaper, more flexible alternative for Logan car service without invalidating the vehicle’s warranty.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical offers top quality work at a reasonable price. They have a clean, modern workshop equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment. Their professional team services vehicles to manufacturers specifications, while offering an independent 6 month / 10,000 km warranty.  All lubricants and parts supplied meet or exceed OEM standards. Their services include:

·       Major service

·       Minor service

·       Electronic vehicle diagnostics

·       Logbook servicing

·       Timing belt replacement

·       Automatic transmission service

·       Brake and clutch repairs

·       Suspension and steering repairs

·       Cooling system inspection

·       Battery service  

Steve Sorensen Mechanical has won the Quest Business Achiever award for Logan auto repairs five times between 2007 and 2012, demonstrating a commitment to service excellence.

They are one of the Logan car service facilities licensed to issue Safety Certificates. As an added value service they will perform a full pre-purchase inspection on any new or used vehicle, giving an honest opinion of the vehicle's condition.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical has an air conditioned waiting room for customers to while away the time during a major car service in Logan, Qld. Alternatively they can enjoy tea or coffee at the adjacent Village Square, or walk through to the Grand Plaza Shopping Centre to do their shopping.

Make a booking by phoning Steve Sorensen Mechanical on (07) 3809 2711, or visit at Unit 1, 7 St Jude Court, Browns Plains, Queensland 4118. Steve Sorensen Mechanical offers a top quality and reasonably priced Logan auto repair and Logan car service for all cars, 4WD and utility vehicles.

Any Auto Pre-Purchase Inspection Should Include These 3 Steps

When purchasing a vehicle, one of the most important steps that a buyer can take to protect themselves is by performing an auto pre purchase inspection. This inspection is designed to educate a prospective buyer of the vehicle's condition, and inform them of any potential repairs that may be needed such as an automatic transmission repair. A successful pre-purchase inspection should include these three steps.

First, it's important for potential buyers to take a close look at the body of the vehicle. Is there rust on the body of the vehicle? Are there otherwise unnatural bulges along the body of the vehicle? These two observations can be a sign of bigger issues with the body of the vehicle. In addition, panels that don't line up correctly, and paint that doesn't appear to be perfect may hint of a history of accidents.

Second, it's important that a pre-purchase vehicle inspection includes a look under the hood by a trusted mechanic. There are all sorts of mechanical issues which may affect a used vehicle, and these issues can be a very good reason as to why the seller is so eager to get rid of their vehicle. In addition to looking under the hood, a trusted mechanic should also check the tyres, the lights, and even the air conditioning.

Finally, no pre-purchase inspection is complete without a test drive of the vehicle. There are some mechanical issues that even the most skilled mechanic will likely miss without test-driving the vehicle. Through this test-drive, the buyer or the mechanic can listen to the engine, learn about the state of the car's suspension, and determine the wear that has been put on the vehicle's brakes. If a seller refuses to offer a test-drive, avoid the vehicle at all costs!

For a mechanic that can be trusted for a pre purchase inspection, check out www.stevesorensenmechanical.com.au. Steve Sorensen Mechanical can perform all sorts of vehicle diagnostics and repair. From a simple oil change to an automatic transmission service, Steve Sorensen is the one to trust in Browns Plains QLD.

Take The Old Henry Down to Steve Sorensen Mechanical

Finding a good mechanic who does great vehicle repairs and maintenance is no easy business. Usually it is trial and error and finding the right place that you can trust to do your repairs without worry. Once you find the right place you stay with them faithfully until something goes wrong and that is usually when the best mechanic leaves for another place of employment.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical understands this dilemma and is there to take up where your old shop left off and do even better than your old shop on your vehicle repairs and servicing. With you the customer in mind, you will get the great service you need and while you wait. While you are waiting help yourself to some tea or coffee in their air conditioned waiting room.

At Steve Sorensen Mechanical they do all the vehicle repairs and servicing for you including general repairs and services such as maintenance and oil changes and log book servicing to tune ups and major repairs. These are just a few of the vehicle maintenance services they provide.

They also provide flush and change services for automatic transmission fluid and manual transmission fluid and clutch and brake fluids, power steering fluid and coolant. This great mechanical service does your wiper blades and bulbs up to major repairs like timing belt replacement.If you are looking for a great shop this is it. They do all your vehicle repairs and maintenance.

If you need your anchors done or electronic vehicle diagnostics they do it all and with professional workmanship and dependability. One of the best parts is how the customers rave about how great they are and even better they are reasonably priced.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical has been in business since 1996 and they also take care of your vehicle so that you can maintain your new car warranty. They are hands down award winners and have won the Quest Business Achiever award for five years. If you are ready to get reliable vehicle repairs and servicing mechanic look no further than Steve Sorensen Mechanical.

Contact us today to book your appointment

How To Maximise Performance and Reliability Of Your Car

Regular maintenance of your car is essential to ensure proper safety of you, your friends, and family members. Despite of high fuel and gas costs, we rarely found a day when we don’t use our car. No matter how often you use your vehicle, understanding the value and safety of your vehicle is extremely important. Here are just a few valuable tips to ensure proper maintenance of your car.

Check Engine Oil

There is no doubt that the engine is the heart and soul of almost every vehicle on earth. The experienced car care experts at Steve Sorensen Mechanical's car care centre, Brown plains, highly recommend frequently checking your car engine's oil levels. The lifespan of your vehicle’s engine is limited because of the fact that lubrication gets lost at a certain point and this leads to oil carbonisation. Once oil begins to carbonise, it can result in permanent damage to your car. Regular oil changes keeps your car engine clean and consistently lubricated. You can easily check the condition of your auto oil just by removing dipstick. If the oil is black in colour, then you must change your oil as quickly as possible. If you’re residing in Browns Plains and in need of a quick oil change, then Steve Sorensen Mechanical is highly recommended.

Importance of Coolant

Coolant, which is made from glycol and water, is extremely important for your car. Coolant is viewed as an essential element because it helps to maintain stable temperatures around the engine of your vehicle in harsh weather and extreme driving situations. Low coolant levels will lead to overheating of your car’s engine during summer and over-cooling during winter. Thus, maintaining appropriate coolant levels is essential for your car’s engine and life.

Inflate Your Tyres Properly

This will help you maximise your vehicle’s mileage. To determine the recommended most appropriate pressure for your tyres, you should look your owner’s manual. Surprisingly, a properly inflated tyre can increase your vehicle’s mileage by three to four percent. It also ensures a smoother ride. While getting your tyres inflated, make sure to consider about tyre rotation and proper alignment, which adds to the overall safety and longevity of your vehicle.

Steve Sorensen Mechanical's industry-leading car care centre, Browns Plains, offers vehicle servicing and repairs for all makes and models. This includes general servicing, repair and maintenance service and even a car service log book to maintain the warranty of your car. Find out more at www.stevensorensenmechanical.com.au