Helpful Tips

Motoring Information

You can avoid costly repairs by carrying out simple checks yourself. Always refer to the owner’s manual provided with your vehicle for correct fluids to use and clarification on anything you read below. If you are still unsure, refer to your mechanic as they are there to help.

  • Start and run the vehicle briefly, then shut it down. (Make sure the vehicle is definitely turned off otherwise damage can occur)
  • In the engine bay you will find an engine oil dip stick
  • Remove dip stick and wipe clean leaving no oil, dirt or lint on the stick.
  • Notice that the dip stick has a maximum line and minimum line
  • Reinsert the dipstick fully and remove again
  • Check the oil is below the maximum line and above the minimum line
  • If the engine oil requires topping up, be sure not to overfill.
  • To avoid injury, NEVER remove a radiator cap or overflow cap when the vehicle is warm. It is best to leave the vehicle for 5 hours to ensure it is completely cold before you check the level on your radiator overflow. All vehicles will have a different overflow tank position. If you are unsure, refer to your owner’s manual or a mechanic.
  • Most vehicles have a minimum and maximum line on the radiator overflow tank – Ensure the level is within this range.
    N.B. If you’re having to top up the overflow tank regularly, you may have a leak and it should be checked out ASAP.
  • It’s always good to ensure your windscreen is clean inside and out at all times to avoid poor vision while driving
  • Check to make sure the windscreen is free from chips and cracks – when you get a chip in the windscreen, take it straight to a windscreen repairer to have the chip filled in so as to prolong the lifespan of your windscreen and avoid early replacement
  • Check that the wiper blades are in good condition and the window washer jets work
  • Check your window washer reservoir is full

Check to ensure all lights are working on your vehicle

i.e. Indicators, Park lights, Low beam, High beam, Number plate lamps, Brake lights and Reverse lights.

  • Check your tyres have correct pressures at least once a month
  • Pressures that are too high or too low will cause tyre damage and uneven wear
  • Check that you have good tread on your tyres. If you suspect they are low, it is always recommended to have them checked by a professional.
  • When checking the tread,
  • Don’t limit your checks to the tyres on the vehicle. Always include the spare as well to ensure that it is fully usable whenever you may require it.
  • Be sure to pay special attention to your tyres before going on a trip to avoid any mishaps.  There are different off-road to on-road recommend tyre pressures. It’s best to consult a professional before leaving on your trip as recommendations vary from vehicle to vehicle.

The following listed, but not limited to, occurrences with vehicle drivability should be referred to a mechanic as soon as possible;

  • Wandering on the road i.e. won’t just stay in a straight line on a flat surface and you’re always having to correct the steering input
  • Bouncing & vibrating
  • Noticeably pulls off to one side
  • Clunks, Bumps & Clicks
  • Bad smells
  • Low on power
  • Warning lights on the dash

Local Pilbara Area Information

The Pilbara has some amazing scenery and camping areas. From the reasonably accessible 40 Mile beach, Cossack and Miaree Pool to the more challenging Karijini and Burrup Peninsula, there is a lot of beauty in this area of Australia on offer. N.B. you will require a fully equipped Four Wheel Drive in order to enjoy these areas

You must be sure to follow the law and rules when exploring these areas. Always stick to the designated tracks. If you are unsure, contact the local tourist centre as there are some tracks that require a permit before you are allowed to access them otherwise you may incur a fine, there are also many tracks that are privately owned.

Never leave any of your rubbish behind as it has a negative impact on this beautiful land and we all want to enjoy these areas for a long time to come.

You must also be wary of the summer months and the heat that it brings as well as the winter months if you are used to cooler climates. Be sure to always be carrying an adequate water supply for every occupant of the vehicle as well as spare waste water for emergency’s such as an overheating vehicle etc. Always make sure there is someone who knows where you are headed and for how long. As it is a very vast space with long distances between towns, you should never differ from the arranged plans as accidents happen and things can go wrong.

  • Basic tools e.g. tyre changing equipment, etc
  • Tyre Puncture Repair Kit
  • UHF Radio
  • Water
  • First Aid Kit (4WD version which you can get from your local St John Ambulance Supply Shop)
  • Extra fuel (Jerry Cans)
  • Rubbish bags
  • Lights
  • Recovery Kit (Snatch Strap, Shackles, Gloves etc)
  • Fire Extinguisher

What is in your “Grab and Go” pack should be thought out and planned based on your personal needs.

As long as everyone is courteous to the land, sticks to the designated tracks, takes their rubbish home and leaves nothing behind that could negatively impact the environment then we can all ensure that the Pilbara will be well looked after for generations to come

Get in Touch

Address

Karratha Mechanical
2 Sherlock Crescent
Karratha, Western Australia 6714

P: (08) 9185 2044
E: admin@karrathamechanical.com.au

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