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Westside Mechanical in Graceville provide the very best in car service and combine this with personalised, and friendly service at all times. 
		
Conveniently located in Oxley road Graceville, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 
		
Westside Mechanical Graceville have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

Brake fluid plays a crucial role in the safety of your vehicle by transferring the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to the actual brakes. Without it, your brakes simply wouldn’t function, and as everyone knows, a car without brakes is incredibly dangerous. Even slightly compromised brakes can pose a serious risk. Why Is Brake Fluid Replacement Necessary? Brake fluid has a tendency to absorb moisture over time, which can compromise its effectiveness. Brake systems generate high temperatures, and brake fluid is specifically designed to have a high boiling point to prevent it from evaporating. However, when too much moisture builds up, the boiling point is lowered, making the fluid more prone to boiling under heat. This can lead to reduced brake fluid levels, ultimately affecting your vehicle’s braking performance and increasing stopping distances. In addition to reducing effectiveness, moisture-contaminated brake fluid can lead to corrosion within the braking system. Over time, this can damage components such as the callipers, wheel cylinders, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Regular replacement helps to extend the lifespan of these parts and maintain optimal braking performance. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment, even through microscopic openings in the brake system. This is why regular maintenance is essential to ensure safety. How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced? Your vehicle’s manufacturer will specify how often the brake fluid should be replaced—typically outlined in the logbook service schedule. At Westside Mechanical, we recommend replacing it every two years as a general guideline. However, it’s equally important to have it checked during each routine service. A professional mechanic can assess the moisture content in the fluid and check for any leaks or other signs of wear that might require earlier attention. Is Brake Fluid Checked During a Service? Yes, at Westside Mechanical, we provide a comprehensive 65-point vehicle inspection upon request with every full service. This includes a detailed review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and rear discs and pads, callipers, cylinders, and more. Our expert mechanics will assess the condition of your braking system and notify you if the brake fluid needs replacing or if any additional brake system repairs or maintenance are required. Regular checks can catch problems early, ensuring your safety on the road. Maintaining your brake fluid is an essential part of car ownership, and neglecting it could lead to costly repairs or, worse, compromised safety. If you’re due for a brake fluid replacement or simply want peace of mind, book a service with Westside Mechanical in Graceville. Our team will make sure your braking system is in top condition, so you can drive with confidence.

Learn why brake fluid is essential for your vehicle’s safety, how it works, and why regular maintenance by Westside Mechanical is crucial for optimal braking performance and to prevent costly repairs.

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

At Westside Mechanical, safety is our top priority. That’s why we’re excited to offer the next generation of brake pads – Repco RCT – now available at our Graceville car service centre.   Book a professional brake service in Graceville and experience the exceptional performance of Repco RCT pads, backed by a Nationwide Warranty for your peace of mind. Repco RCT brake pads utilise innovative features like the stop-ready stripe and are the first in Australia to include advanced Radial Chamfer Technology. These pads deliver excellent braking performance from the moment they’re fitted, as the stop-ready stripe eliminates the need for bedding in. Additionally, the advanced ceramic formula and NBR Silent Guard shim ensure a quiet, stable, and dust-free driving experience.   Repco RCT brake pads are available for nearly all vehicle makes and models commonly seen on Australian roads. Contact Westside Mechanical today to schedule the installation of these cutting-edge brake pads for your car. Brake pads should ideally be replaced when they reach a thickness of about 3mm, as this ensures optimal braking efficiency and prevents potential damage to other braking components. When it’s time for your next vehicle service, simply book online with us. As part of our comprehensive 65 Point Vehicle Inspection, our expert mechanics will thoroughly check your car’s brake system to ensure your safety on the road.

Discover advanced Repco RCT brake pads at Westside Mechanical in Graceville. Enjoy quiet, dust-free performance, expert fitting, and a Nationwide Warranty for your peace of mind.

The Next Generation of Braking Technology has Arrived!  

Your car might be affecting the health and mood of you and your family, leaving everyone feeling sick, tired, stressed, or irritable. Regular servicing and inspections at Westside Mechanical in Graceville could make a significant difference. Does any of this sound familiar? The environment inside your car can have a big impact on how everyone feels while travelling — including you. Did you know that the air inside your car can contain pollutant levels up to 10 times higher than the air outside? Or that bacteria build-up in your vehicle’s vents can create unpleasant odours, making trips uncomfortable and even leading to health issues?   Issues with suspension, steering or wheel alignment can cause fatigue, especially on longer journeys. Even frequent short trips around Graceville can become tiring if your vehicle’s handling isn’t optimal. Steering problems, in particular, often worsen gradually, so you might not realise how much extra effort you’re putting into driving and parking.   There are plenty of factors that could be making your car less than family-friendly. To explore these in more detail, visit our Family Taxi - Family Friendly article.  Shock absorber and suspension testing, wheel alignment and balancing: These services help improve your vehicle’s handling, reduce driver fatigue, and make journeys more comfortable for everyone.   Cabin air filter replacement: Let us check your cabin air filter — it might be dirtier than you expect, even if your logbook doesn’t yet recommend a replacement. A clean cabin air filter ensures you’re breathing in fresher, healthier air by filtering out dust, pollen, and other particles.   MiST™ service: For an extra step in cleanliness, ask about our MiST™ service. It effectively kills existing mould and bacteria while preventing new growth in your vehicle’s ventilation system.   65-point vehicle inspection report: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in good condition. Our thorough inspection identifies maintenance issues before they turn into costly, unexpected breakdowns, saving you stress and protecting your budget.   Wiper blade replacement: Clear visibility is essential, especially on rainy days. Don’t wait until it’s too late — ensure your wipers are in top condition.   Brake testing: Sudden stops happen. By testing your brakes and ensuring they’re in optimal condition, we can give you confidence that your car is ready for quick and effective braking when you need it most.   At Westside Mechanical, we are part of Repco Authorised Service, Australia’s largest network of independent car service workshops, offering the added assurance of a Nationwide Warranty. Book your next service with us today and help keep your family taxi safe, comfortable, and family-friendly.

Learn how regular car maintenance can improve your family’s health, comfort, and safety by addressing air quality, handling, and more for stress-free travel.

Is your family taxi actually family toxic?

Your vehicle is equipped with several different filters, each designed to function within a specific system in your car. At Westside Mechanical, we understand these systems thoroughly and provide expert servicing in Graceville and the surrounding areas. Put simply, filters work to trap particles that could cause damage or don’t belong in the system they’re protecting. However, all filters have a limited lifespan – once they become clogged with the particles they’re designed to capture, they must be replaced. Failing to replace filters when needed can lead to costly damage in critical parts of your vehicle. Types of Filters in Your Car Include: Oil Filter: Ensures the engine oil remains clean and flows efficiently through the engine, preventing wear and tear.
Air Filter: Blocks dirt, debris, and particles from entering the engine that could harm cylinders, pistons and other internal components.
Cabin Air Filter: Protects the car’s ventilation system by filtering out pollen, dust, and bacteria, ensuring clean air inside the vehicle.
Fuel Filter: Prevents contaminants from reaching the carburettor or fuel injectors, helping maintain proper fuel flow and performance.
Transmission Filter: Found in vehicles with automatic transmissions, it removes debris and metal shavings from transmission fluid to protect the gearbox.   Did you know that a clean engine air filter can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10% in some vehicles? Ensuring all filters are in good condition not only safeguards your car’s systems but can also enhance its overall performance.   At Westside Mechanical, we offer a comprehensive 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with every full car service, available upon request. This includes checking your car’s filters to help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Keep your car running smoothly with clean filters. Discover the types, benefits, and expert services offered by Westside Mechanical in Graceville and surrounding areas.

Automotive Filters

Do you feel every bump in the road? Does your car struggle to grip the road properly? Your shock absorbers be worn! Don’t take the risk—bring your vehicle to Westside Mechanical in Graceville for an expert assessment. Shock absorbers are one of the most misunderstood yet critical components of your vehicle. Many drivers don’t realise their primary job is to keep your tyres in firm contact with the road, ensuring both safety and performance. What are Shock Absorbers? Shock absorbers, along with struts, are vital parts of your car’s suspension system. They directly affect your vehicle's steering, stability, handling, braking and ride comfort. Replacing worn or faulty shocks and struts, as well as inspecting the overall suspension system, helps maintain control, safety, and a smoother driving experience.   A lesser-known fact is that shock absorbers also play a key role in reducing wear on other vehicle components, such as tyres, by minimising the vibration and stress that uneven roads place on the car. How can I tell if my shocks are worn? If you notice concerning signs of shock absorber wear, don’t wait. Visit the team at Westside Mechanical in Graceville. Our qualified technicians can conduct a road test and provide professional advice. Below are some of the warning signs to watch for:   Trouble stopping  Worn shock absorbers can increase your stopping distance by up to 20%, which could be life-threatening. Addressing this issue immediately is crucial.   Nose-diving and swerving  Does the front of your car dip down when braking, or does the vehicle swerve when you slow down? These are classic signs of shock absorber problems.   Steering wheel vibrations   If your steering wheel vibrates excessively, even on relatively smooth roads, it could point to faulty shock absorbers. Drifting in side winds  If your car veers or drifts in mild side winds, it’s a strong indicator that your shock absorbers may not be functioning correctly.  Excessive bouncing and rolling  Is your car bouncing excessively over bumps, railway tracks, or uneven surfaces? Or does it feel unsteady around corners? It might be time for a suspension check-up at Westside Mechanical.   Uneven tyre wear   Uneven or patchy tyre wear, especially bald spots, is often a sign of worn shock absorbers. This issue can reduce your tyres’ lifespan and compromise road safety.   Monroe Safety Specialist At Westside Mechanical, we’re proud members of the Monroe Safety Specialist Program. This means our team is fully trained and committed to providing you with the right shock absorber solution tailored to your vehicle, driving habits, and individual needs. You can trust that any product we recommend will be fitted correctly and deliver optimal performance.   Book an inspection with Westside Mechanical in Graceville today, and let us help you keep your car safe, comfortable, and road-ready.

Ensure safety and comfort on the road. Visit Westside Mechanical in Graceville for expert shock absorber inspections, repairs, and tailored solutions. Book your assessment today!

Dangers of Worn Shock Absorbers

Is your car becoming harder to steer? Your vehicle should always respond promptly and turn with ease when you move the steering wheel. If you’ve noticed that it’s become less responsive over time, strange noises are emerging, or steering has suddenly become impossible, it’s likely you’re dealing with an issue in your power steering system. At Westside Mechanical, our team of highly skilled automotive technicians in Graceville can diagnose, repair, or replace components within this crucial system. Power steering fluid plays a key role in your power steering system as it serves as the hydraulic fluid responsible for transmitting power. Over time, wear and tear occur in seals, O-rings, and other internal power steering components. As these parts deteriorate, they break apart, and their particles contaminate the fluid. Contaminated fluid forces the power steering pump to work harder, and if left unaddressed, this added strain can eventually lead to pump failure.  Replacing your power steering fluid involves flushing out the old fluid and refilling the system with fresh fluid. As one of the most cost-effective components of your power steering system, replacing the fluid at the right time can help prolong the lifespan of more expensive parts, such as the power steering pump or the power steering rack. Signs that your power steering fluid may need replacing: A whining or squealing noise when turning the wheels The steering feels heavier or less responsive   Do you check my power steering fluid during a service? Yes, at Westside Mechanical, we offer a comprehensive 65 Point Vehicle Inspection with every full car service, upon request. This includes checking your power steering fluid levels and condition. After the inspection, we’ll provide you with a detailed written report highlighting any concerns, such as leaks, low fluid levels, or potential repair needs.   Power steering services we offer include: Power Steering Repair Hydraulic Fluid Flush Main Shaft Repair Rack and Pinion System Repair Steering Wheel Repair Steering Column Repair   Did you know that power steering was first introduced in passenger cars in the 1950s and has since evolved to include electric power steering, which doesn’t require hydraulic fluid? However, many vehicles on the road still use hydraulic systems, which makes routine fluid maintenance essential for long-term performance.   If you’re having issues with your power steering or it’s time for a routine service, don’t hesitate to visit Westside Mechanical in Graceville. Our team is here to help keep your car steering smoothly and safely.

Keep your car steering smoothly with power steering fluid maintenance. Visit Westside Mechanical in Graceville for expert inspections, repairs, and fluid replacements.

Westside Mechanical

Cars are our passion.

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

The Next Generation of Braking Technology has Arrived!

Is your family taxi actually family toxic?

Automotive Filters

Dangers of Worn Shock Absorbers

Power Steering Fluid