Motor oil plays an essential role in keeping your car’s engine running smoothly. Acting as a lubricant, it reduces friction between the many moving parts within your engine. Without motor oil, the metal components in your engine would rub against each other, causing wear and tear and eventually leading to serious damage. Motor oil also helps to regulate engine temperature by absorbing heat and prevents contaminants from building up by trapping dirt and debris. Key parts of your engine, such as the pistons, crankshaft, and camshaft, rely on motor oil to function effectively. At Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore, we understand just how important motor oil is to the health of your engine and offer services to keep it in peak condition.

While motor oil serves the same fundamental purpose in petrol and diesel engines, there are notable differences in their formulations to meet the unique needs of each type. Diesel engines typically operate at higher pressures and temperatures than petrol engines. As a result, motor oil for diesel engines is often thicker and contains additional detergents and dispersants to handle the soot and carbon deposits that are more prevalent in diesel combustion.

In contrast, motor oil for petrol engines is designed to deal with the lighter byproducts of petrol combustion. Petrol motor oils tend to prioritise viscosity at lower temperatures for smooth starts and quick lubrication. It’s essential to use the correct type of motor oil for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and longevity. If you’re unsure which oil is best for your car, the team at Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore can provide expert advice and recommendations tailored to your specific engine type.

Differences Between Motor Oils for Petrol and Diesel Engines

Replacing your engine oil at regular intervals offers numerous benefits that help your vehicle perform at its best. Fresh oil maintains proper lubrication, reducing the friction that can damage engine parts over time. It also helps to keep the engine clean by trapping debris and preventing sludge buildup. Regular oil changes improve fuel efficiency, as a well-lubricated engine operates more smoothly and requires less energy to function.

Another significant benefit is increased engine lifespan. Clean, high-quality oil minimises wear and tear on internal components, allowing your car to run efficiently for many years. Moreover, regular oil replacement can prevent costly repairs caused by engine damage. At Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore, we’ll make sure your oil is replaced with the right type and quality for your vehicle, helping you save money in the long run.

Benefits of Regular Engine Oil and Filter Replacement

Failing to replace motor oil on time can lead to a host of problems for your engine. Over time, motor oil breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate effectively. As it degrades, the oil thickens and can form sludge, which clogs vital engine components. This buildup reduces the oil’s ability to circulate, leading to increased friction and heat within the engine.

Without proper lubrication, the moving parts of your engine, such as the pistons and bearings, may experience excessive wear and even seize up altogether. Additionally, neglected oil can cause poor fuel efficiency, higher emissions, and decreased engine performance. In extreme cases, it can result in catastrophic engine failure, which is not only costly to repair but could also leave you stranded. Regular servicing at Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore ensures your motor oil is fresh and your engine stays in optimal condition.

Consequences of Neglecting Motor Oil Maintenance

When motor oil maintenance has been neglected, repairing the damage can be a complex and expensive process. The first step typically involves draining the old, contaminated oil and thoroughly cleaning the engine to remove sludge and debris. This may require the use of specialised cleaning agents and tools to ensure all residue is removed.

Once the engine is clean, any damaged components, such as pistons, bearings, or gaskets, must be inspected and replaced if necessary. This process can be labour-intensive and costly, particularly if the neglect has caused extensive damage. Finally, fresh, high-quality motor oil is added to ensure the engine can function smoothly moving forward. At Lismore Automotive Service, we have the expertise and tools to assess and repair oil-related engine issues, but regular maintenance is always the best way to avoid such scenarios.

The best way to prevent motor oil problems is by committing to regular servicing. At Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore, we check your oil levels and its condition during every service. This allows us to detect changes in viscosity, contamination, or signs of sludge before they become a bigger problem. If your oil shows signs of deterioration, we’ll recommend cleaning out the old oil and replacing it with fresh oil suited to your engine.

Oil filters play a vital role in maintaining the health of your engine by trapping contaminants such as dirt, metal particles, and sludge that accumulate in motor oil over time. A clogged or worn-out filter can restrict oil flow, reducing lubrication and causing further engine wear. Regularly replacing the oil filter ensures that clean oil circulates freely, protecting the engine’s components and enhancing performance.

Regular servicing also ensures your engine stays clean and well-lubricated, improving overall performance and extending its lifespan. By staying proactive, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running efficiently for years to come. Trust Lismore Automotive Service to keep your car in peak condition with professional and thorough servicing.

Importance of Regular Servicing by Lismore Automotive Service

Some drivers delay servicing as a way to save money, but this can often lead to more harm than good. Neglecting motor oil changes and overall maintenance allows minor issues to escalate into major problems. Over time, dirty or degraded oil can cause irreparable damage to your engine, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for a full engine replacement.

By prioritising regular maintenance with Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore, you can avoid these unnecessary expenses. Regular servicing not only helps you save money in the long term but also gives you peace of mind knowing your vehicle is operating at its best. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your next service with us today and keep your car running smoothly.

Avoiding Delayed Servicing and Costly Repairs

Learn why motor or engine oil is essential, how neglecting it damages your engine, and how Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore ensures your car stays in top shape with expert servicing.

Motor Oil Services in Lismore

How Old Motor Oil Can Damage Your Engine and Wallet

Safety inspections for registration renewals - eSafety checks used to be called Pink Slips.

How do I know if I need an eSafety Check inspection?

You are notified if your vehicle needs a safety inspection on your registration renewal notice. A safety inspection is required in NSW if the vehicle is more than five years old or if it was previously registered in another state or territory. There are different types of inspections according to vehicle weights or if it is powered by LPG.

If a safety check is required and your vehicle runs on LPG, it must be inspected at an Authorised Safety Inspection Station (AIS) which has an authorised LPG examiner; many people still refer to this as an “LPG pink slip”

Lismore Automotive Service is an Authorised Inspection station - accredited to perform safety inspections including:

Roadworthy certificates in NSW used to be called pink slips because that's what colour paper they were printed on - since July 2008 drivers in New South Wales can now get eSafety checks - there is no paper colour anymore because the Authorised Inspection Station is able to submit the vehicles ‘roadworthiness' certificate electronically straight to the transport authority, which means no more waiting in line with your pink slip at the RTA office to register your car.

Lismore Automotive Service is an Authorised Inspection station (AIS) in Lismore. Roadworthy certificates in NSW used to be called pink slips because that's what colour paper they were printed on - since July 2008 drivers in New South Wales can now get e-Safety checks...

eSafety Rego Check Roadworthy Inspections in Lismore

Were you aware of the fact that you are able to choose where your vehicle is serviced, maintained and repaired, at competitive prices.

Figure you might find a bargain in the end of year car sales or have a new years resolution to have your new car serviced? Here is some sound advice from Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore.

Obtaining a new car is one of the most substantial investments many people make, so you need to be sure to take care of it. Caring for your new car goes beyond detailing the interior and keeping it sparkling with a loving weekly wash, however.

There are a few other things to consider, such as who is the best choice to service your car.

You will want to ensure it is regularly serviced by a qualified professional, to the manufacturers requirements, using high quality parts from a reputable supplier and fluids which meet the manufacturers specifications. This is not just to look after your new car, but because if these four requirements are met you will also preserve the manufacturers warranty.

Were you aware of the fact that you are able to choose who can service your new car without voiding either the manufacturers warranty or your rights under the Consumer Guarantee

You cannot be told you must take the car back to the dealership where you originally got it for service or repairs. Provided the work is overseen to the manufacturers specifications by a suitably trained mechanic and uses OEM quality parts and fluids, the warranty stands. You have the right to choose who services your car.

With Repco Authorised Service you can tick all the boxes. Every Lismore Automotive Service mechanic is fully qualified and Auto-Tech trained, giving them access to Australia's leading provider of automotive technical information and training. This means Lismore Automotive Service mechanics are kept fully up to date with the latest in automotive service techniques and are able to service your new car without voiding the warranty.

Repco branded parts & products are manufactured to stringent Repco quality standards, and are covered by the Repco Nationwide Warranty, giving you added protection. Lismore Automotive Service will also only ever use fluids and lubricants that meet the specifications of the manufacturer of the vehicle.

If you already own a new car or are thinking of purchasing one, make sure you clearly understand where your statutory rights begin and end.

Make sure you are aware of the distinction between statutory, manufacturer and extended warranties to avoid making the wrong selection when it comes to servicing your new car. You are automatically covered by a statutory warranty, also known as a Consumer Guarantee, under Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and this statutory protection can never be invalidated by manufacturer or express warranties (which are offered by the car maker and car dealer respectively).

A lack of disclosure requirements on car dealers at the point of sale regarding these contracts can easily lead the consumer into making a choice to be bound by a long term contract without access to all of the details needed to make a properly informed decision.

So at the time of sale, be vigilant for new car dealers who may try to push the addition of “express” or “extended” warranties, often for free. Much of the time these ‘augmented' warranties may include quite explicit restrictions or provisions, often in a way that is not immediately understood. Many times these deals provide no substantial additional benefits not already accounted for by the consumer's basic statutory rights and can tie the unwary buyer into a long term agreement with a particular car dealership.

Such deals are very unlikely to point out the potential negative aspects involved with taking a new car back to the dealer for service or repair. This includes how far you will need to go to get your car serviced or longer waiting times due to fewer available service locations or mechanics.

Check out our frequently asked questions below for more information on New Car Service and warranties. If you need to know more, the AAAA website and ACCC website have some great information too.

Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), you are protected by a Consumer Guarantee which takes into account purchase price, realistic expectations of when a failure might occur, advertising claims and the conditions under which a vehicle should operate. Previously known as a Statutory Warranty, the Consumer Guarantee does not have a specific time limit associated with it nor can it ever be replaced by a manufacturers warranty, which is in addition to the Consumer Guarantee.

Manufacturers warranties are essentially a promise to the buyer that the new vehicle will be free from defects for a specific time and that any such defects will entitle buyers to a repair or other compensation. According to the Competition and Consumer Act (2010), such warranties cannot state that a vehicle MUST be returned to an authorised dealer for servicing

Often new car dealers will try to include "express" or "extended" warranties, sometimes for free, in the purchase of your new vehicle. These ‘extra' warranties are in addition to the manufacturers warranty and may include quite specific restrictions or provisions, usually in unclear or confusing language. Many of these contracts actually provide little or no additional benefits over and above the consumer's basic statutory rights and can tie the unwary buyer into a long term agreement with a specific car dealership. Extended warranties can (and often do) restrict you to a specific dealership, which can have its drawbacks.

Can Lismore Automotive Service service my new car without voiding the warranty?

There is NO requirement to service your car at a manufacturer's dealership to preserve;

Any manufacturer's warranty (that may apply to your vehicle). 

Any state or territory based statutory warranty (that may apply to your vehicle). 

Your rights to Consumer Guarantees (formerly known as implied statutory warranties). 

What steps will Lismore Automotive Service take to protect my warranty?

Lismore Automotive Service are fully qualified to carry out log book servicing and we ensure all work is performed according to the manufacturer's specifications, using appropriate quality parts, fluids and lubricants where required, meaning the manufacturers warranty remains intact. In addition, all work carried out by Lismore Automotive Service is backed by the Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty.

Can Lismore Automotive Service stamp my logbook ?

Lismore Automotive Service can and WILL stamp your log book to verify the work has been conducted by fully qualified staff according to manufacturer's specifications, using appropriate quality parts, fluids & lubricants.

Will having my car serviced with Lismore Automotive Service help maintain the value?

It goes without saying that a vehicle which has been well taken care of will maintain its value better than a poorly maintained one. Proof of a regular, properly adhered to service schedule will add further supporting evidence the car is in good condition. In addition to maintaining your warranty with correct service procedures, Lismore Automotive Service will stamp your log book, which can prove invaluable should you ever decide to sell the car.

What about extended warranty or specific ‘service plans'?

Motor vehicle dealers sometimes offer their own extended (or express) warranties on vehicles. These extra warranties often begin after the manufacturer's warranty and may stipulate that the vehicle must be serviced by the actual dealer offering the warranty. They are generally within their right to impose this condition, but the buyer should beware, such warranties are not always what they seem. Lismore Automotive Service will be happy to advise you on the conditions and relative value before you commit to any service plan.

The simple truth is that you are able to choose where your vehicle is serviced, maintained and repaired, at competitive prices. Lismore Automotive Service can service your new car using quality parts and fluids, preserving your warranty…

Lismore Automotive Service are the right choice for New Car Log Book Servicing

Lismore Automotive Service - The Right Choice for New Car Service

Lismore Automotive Service your local Authorised Vehicle Inspection Station for Northern NSW provides Blue Slips and Pink Slips for your car, ute or van.

The Pink Slip is a Roadworthy Inspection to renew your registration or to obtain a new registration in cases where the car has been unregistered for less than 90 days. The Pink Slip is also called an eSafety check.

If your car doesn't pass the inspection and repairs a required, we can assist quickly with those repairs. You have a maximum 14 days to have the repairs completed. Then we can perform a follow up check and submit your report to the Transport NSW.

Unregistered vehicle inspections (blue slips)

The Blue Slip is an eSafety Roadworthy Inspection, Vehicle Identification check and Engine inspection you need for new registration if the car has been unregistered for more than 90 days, or if the car does not have NSW license plates (i.e. - bought interstate and will be used in NSW) and is valid for 42 days. This includes Vehicles:

whose registration has expired more than 3 months ago

that have been brought into NSW from interstate or overseas

that were written-off, but have now been approved for re-registration

that require adjustments in their registration records because something about the vehicle has changed significantly, such as a new engine

registration renewal notice tells you that an inspection is required 

you want to renew the registration on your vehicle that is more than 5 years old 

you want to register a light vehicle not currently registered in NSW 

It's easy to organise a roadworthy certificate with Lismore Automotive Service - simply call us now or book a RWC check online!

Lismore Automotive Service are an Authorised Vehicle Inspection Station and provides Blue Slips and Pink Slips for your car, 4WD, ute or van

eSafety Check - RWC - Blue Slip, Pink Slip in Lismore

eSafety Check - Blue Slip, Pink Slip, NSW RWC

Lismore Automotive Service (MVRL61693) specialise in friendly expert car service to make your life easier.

As your local trusted mechanic in Lismore, we take great pride in providing you with the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs. 

We are proud of our enthusiastic team of professionals who specialise in looking after your car for more than 30 years from the convenient McLennan Lane location close to Lismore CBD, behind Farmer Charlies - providing quality servicing to local vehicle owners, tourists and motorists from Goonellabah, Coraki, Bangalow, Alstonville, Casino, Banilla and surrounding suburbs.

The team at Lismore Automotive Service are here to assist you with your car servicing needs.

One Stop Car Servicing and Repairs in Lismore

We are a “One Stop Shop” making car care easier for you. As a Repco Authorised Service centre we uphold a commitment to provide you with the very best in car service and repairs and can provide warranty in more places in Australia than any other service network. Drop in and see our helpful, friendly team for a personal customer service and book your car in today!

Lismore Automotive Service care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU62406). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health.

Our workshop is equipped with computerised engine scan tools for most latest makes and models. We fit only quality OEM parts and provide you with a condition report with each service to prevent nasty surprises and to assist you to develop a plan for your vehicle needs. Our technicians are qualified in a wide variety of trade skills including air conditioning, wheel alignment and LPG servicing.

A range of services Lismore Automotive Service perform:

150 point Check, 
4WD Service, 
Air Filtration Services, 
Belts and Hoses, 
Car Heating, 
Carbon Clean, 
CV Joints & Boots, 
Drive-train Services, 
Ignition System, 
Lubrication Service, 
Safety Inspections, 
Shock Absorber replacement, 
Timing Belts, 
Wheel Bearings and more. 

For your convenience, a loan car is available as emergency transportation, and we can also pick up your car for service and deliver it back to you once the repairs are complete.

A testament to Lismore Automotive Service's care for our customers is the recent win as Repco Authorised Service National Customer Service Award, as well as RAS Dealer of the Year, where we competed against 400 other service centres right across Australia. Lismore Automotive Service are committed to excellence and superior workmanship. Together with our professional, experienced and skilled team, we ensure our customers receive the very best in automotive care.

Family owned since 1988, our friendly expert service makes looking after your car easy. Over the last 30 years we have been on four locations, starting from Rural Street, then two addresses in Dawson Street and now behind Farmer Charlies in McLennan Lane. To book your car in for service, please call us and use our online form. 

For excellent service from a trusted independent, you can rely on the mechanical team at Lismore Automotive!

As your local trusted mechanic, Lismore Automotive Service (MVRL61693) take great pride in providing you with only the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs.

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Lismore

Ensure a Safer Driving Experience with a Written Vehicle Inspection Report to Diagnose Any Existing or Potential Issues.

Our Vehicle Inspection Report is free with every service at Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore. Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Lismore Automotive Service and Repco Authorised Service.

Here are important Safe Winter/Spring Driving Tips

So what steps can you take to make sure your car is set for safe winter/spring motoring? 

Everyone can relate to the moment of realising you've neglected to check your car's wipers when rain begins to fall. Living in Australia exposes wipers to intense sunshine all year round, thus resulting in frequent deterioration. Investing in a quality wiper blade such as Trico can help to keep you safe on the roads regardless of the weather conditions. Lismore Automotive Service can advise you on which wiper blade or assembly best suits your vehicle.

During cold weather, the fluids and components of your car may be adversely affected, especially coolants, oils, and items such as glow plugs for diesel vehicles. Having your car routinely serviced by a knowledgeable technician who is aware of the proper components and items for preserving optimal performance is recommended. We utilise top-grade NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids designed for use in Australia.

As seasons come and go, your driving habits should adapt. During rainy days or moments of low visibility, slow your speed and ensure that you keep a safe amount of space between yourself and the car ahead. Be smart and secure a service appointment or get a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report to ensure that you remain on the safe side.

Pay attention to any suspicious indicators that your brakes require maintenance, including a shaky, spongy, or sluggish brake pedal, abnormal noises, or difficulty maneuvering when pushing on the brakes. To be safe, it is best to have a specialist evaluate the condition of your brakes. 

Driving with bald tyres is perilous; thus, you should inspect your tyres now to make sure they possess enough tread. If you recognise lopsided tyre deterioration, it could point to the fact that your shock absorbers or some other fundamental element of your steering and suspension systems are requiring servicing or repair.

Driving on tyres which are not inflated correctly will not only cost you extra fuel money; it can also impact your stopping distance. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

Ensure a Safer Driving Experience with a Comprehensive Written Vehicle Inspection Report from Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore to Diagnose Any Existing or Potential Issues.

Important Winter/Spring safety tips for driving

How safe will you drive this winter/spring?

Lismore Automotive Service in Lismore is a licensed roadworthy inspection station and can issue roadworthy certificates for vehicles that pass the roadworthy  assessment test.  				

A roadworthy inspection includes checking:

A roadworthy inspection is not a comprehensive full vehicle inspection. Talk to us today about the different types of inspections available at Lismore Automotive Service and which one will best suit your needs. 

Book a roadworthy inspection at Lismore Automotive Service today.

Roadworthy Inspections in Lismore

Roadworthy Inspections

AAAA

AUVIS

IAME

MVRIC

MTAA

Lismore Automotive Service (MVRL61693) take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Lismore, 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. 

Lismore Automotive Service 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.


Lismore Automotive Service

Roadworthy Inspections

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How safe will you drive this winter/spring?