How often do i need to service my car?

It’s important to regularly service your vehicle either every 10,000 kilometers or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Our cars take a beating for us, and they need a little love to.

We offer a range of car servicing options in Cairns to suit your needs. Whether you need a general service, log book service or 4WD service, we do the lot.

What is involved in a car service?

Essentially, a service is a regular check up of your vehicle, which includes an oil and filter
change.  This is done by one of our qualified mechanics to keep your engine healthy and running in tip top shape.

During your service we will also check key things on your vehicle such as all your lights, wipers, fluids and tyres.

Most importantly our experienced mechanics will do a thorough safety check on your vehicle. This helps us to identify any issues that require attention either now or in the near future.

Once we have finished our inspection, one of our team members will let you know exactly whats going on with your car and any recommended work that is required to keep you safe.

For more info on the importance of servicing your car, check out this article from www.carsguide.com.au

Why should i get my car or 4WD serviced with you?

Monypenny Mechanical have been serving the Cairns community for 20 years now and the name has become associated with honesty, trust and reliability.

With a genuine concern for your best interests, we will always contact you before doing any extra work. We can then explain the situation and find the best solution to suit your needs.

By doing thorough safety checks we can find problems early on, before any serious damage is done. Conducting proper maintenance on your car through regular car servicing is actually one of the best ways we can save you money.

Our Cairns based workshop can do any of the maintenance and repairs identified in the safety check at the time of service, or at another time more suited to you.

We care about your convenience, which is why we pride ourselves on being your one-stop shop in Cairns for all things mechanical.

We continue to invest in the latest scantool technology which is required to properly perform comprehensive maintenance on modern vehicles.

This technology also allows us to reset those annoying reminders and lights that may pop up on your dash.

So, for all your car servicing needs in Cairns, look no further than Monypenny Mechanical. We’re here to help, so why not give us a call today to plan your next car service!

What does a logbook service involve?

Logbook servicing involves performing a specific set of tasks set out by the manufacturer at certain service intervals. These tasks are outlined in the vehicle manufacturers logbook which comes with a car from new. The logbook can usually be located in the dash of your car with your user handbook. For more information about servicing in general, check out our page on car and 4WD servicing.

Benefits of logbook servicing?

There several benefits to doing regular logbook servicing on your vehicles including;

• Maintaining your cars warranty. For new car owners that still have warranty, this can be voided without proper logbook servicing
• As this relates to the manufacturers specifications, you know that the right work is being completed at the right time. This can also help you to avoid any mechanics trying to do unnecessary work
• Your car will be more attractive to prospective buyers if you ever want to sell
• You will have a detailed service history of your vehicle all in the one spot

As you can see, there are many benefits for everyone. This type of servicing becomes even more important when you have a new car.

Don’t I need to go to a dealer for my logbook service?

Unfortunately, this is a common myth that the car dealerships would like to have you believe.

Car dealerships don’t make much money from the car sale, its the extras and other services where they make a killing.

Generally, dealerships have highly inflated pricing that is much more expensive than your smaller local mechanics.

The only reason you would willingly pay a significantly higher price is because of a better service or if you thought you had to.

The dealers want you to continue coming back and pay exorbitant prices, but it’s not necessary. You can generally get a better service elsewhere for a far better price and it does not void your warranty.

Here at Monypenny Mechanical we can perform every aspect of your logbook servicing. We have complete logbook service information required to comply with your new car warranty. We will give you a report of any warranty issues that need to be addressed and refer you to the dealer to carry out the repairs.

Just to be clear, our service will not void your warranty!

Let us take care of all your servicing needs, and give you the quality treatment you deserve from a locally owned, family run business. Call us today on 07 4033 0832 or contact us

Refridgeration Trading Authorisation (RTA): AU03275

Cairns is a beautiful city, but we all know how hot it can get. Especially after your car has been sitting out on the sun all day. In this situation, the windows just won’t cut it. Your car’s air conditioning is not a luxury, its a necessity in this kind of weather. No one likes hot air blowing on their face and that’s where we come in.

What’s wrong with my air conditioning?

The air conditioning in your car has a few key components that need to work together in order to keep your car cool. We won’t bore you with the details, but it’s important to know that your air conditioning may require servicing.

There’s two reasons why your car’s air conditioning may not be working properly.

1. There are some damaged components that need repairing
2. The system requires servicing

Your car’s A/C has a special kind of gas running through it which allows for the cooling process to occur.

One of the main reasons that your car may not be as cool as it should be is because there’s not enough gas in the system. This gas may dissipate over time due to leaks in your system.

By servicing your air conditioning we can find these leaks and replace any seals that may be leaking. After this we can regas your system, making your air-con icy cold again.

If your car has a more serious issue that needs repairing we can also take care of this for you.

Why choose us?

We have been repairing automotive air conditioning systems for many years and have a lot of experience. Modern vehicles are becoming less mechanical and more reliant on electrical systems. In order to work on a wide range of systems, we carry a range of diagnostic equipment and mechanical tools for air-conditioning repairs.

Rest assure, that your vehicle is in good hands as we are fully licensed and qualified. We are competitive with our prices and prefer to diagnose faults before we start in order to give our customers peace of mind.

Don’t put up with a hot car any longer, call us today on 07 4033 0832 or contact us to make your car icy cold again.

Our Cairns based auto repair shop has a long standing reputation for our strong problem-solving skills, regularly receiving vehicles from other mechanics around town. The team of highly trained, experienced mechanics take pride in their ability to take on a challenge and regularly deliver a solution to our customers, even after they have lost all hope. Problem solving requires an in-depth understanding of how cars work and draws together multiple skill-sets. 

Auto Electrics Problem Solving

They just don’t make car’s like they used to anymore. The vehicles of today work together with sophisticated on-board computers. This means that mechanics now need to have a good understanding of electronics to identify problems. Our auto repair shop contains several state of the art scan tools that allows us to easily communicate with these on-board computers. While this is not enough, it gives our mechanics an edge when fault finding.

Standard Installations and Repairs

We also offer a wide range of general auto electrics services including but not limited to;

• Wiring repairs
• Alternators
• Starter Motors.
• Air-conditioning
• Fuel Injection
• Fitting new batteries
• Dual battery systems
• Spotlights and LED Lighting
• 4WD, campers and trailer accessories
• Central Locking
• Sound systems
• Auto accessories

With a variety of auto electrics services available to suit your needs, you can rest assure that your car will be in good hands. We aim to be your one-stop-shop for all things mechanical who better to diagnose any electrical problems than the specialists at Monypenny Mechanical.

We’ve been doing this for a while now and have gotten pretty good at solving any problems our customers can throw at us. Even if it has been to several other workshops before ours.

So if you have a problem that needs solving, please don’t wait any longer. Contact us now to book your car in on 07 4033 0832

What is a mod plate?

A mod plate is a blue plate that is riveted onto a vehicle to signify that modifications have occurred. The plate indicates that the owner has sought out approval from an approved person and ensure safety and compliance. This plate contains a few key details about the vehicle along with who did the modification.

The Queensland Transport department has strict regulations along with Australian Design Rules Legislation. By seeking out an approved person you can ensure your vehicle abides by these laws and is safe. Be aware that there are penalties in place for not having the appropriate mod plates after any modifications have occurred. Due to the nature of this, police will notice these things and will start asking questions. Getting a mod plate is a small investment when compared to the penalties you may face if caught without one.

Do I need a mod plate?

If the modifications done to your vehicle are minor, you may not require a mod plate with modification approval. These minor modifications include things such as tow bars, bull bars, lights, dual batteries, larger wheels/tyres or custom steering wheels. These types of modifications could be done personally or by a mechanic without the need for approval. Provided they are properly fitted and meet relevant standards of course.

It’s important to note that your vehicle must still comply with relevant rules and regulations set by the Australian Design Rules and Roadworthy Regulations. If you have any questions regarding roadworthiness, we also offer this service in Cairns and can help answer any questions.

We would also advise you to notify your insurance company of any modifications. This is because they can use these things against you during a claim if it has not been declared.

 What kind of modifications can you approve?

Our Cairns based workshop are able to approve a wide range of common light vehicle modifications. We can provide mod plates for the following;

LA1 – Equivalent Engine Substitution

LA2 – Performance Engine Installation

LA3 – Supercharger/Turbocharger Installation

LA4 – Engine Modifications

LB1 – Transmission Substitution

LB2 – Rear Axle Substitution

LG2 – Brake System Conversion

LH2 – Roof Conversion

LH4 – Modified Wheelbase Conversion

LH6 – Vehicle Construction

LH7 – Body Chassis Variants ConversionLH11 – Campervan and Motor Home Conversion

LK1 – Seat & Seat Belt Installation

LK6 – Child Restraint Anchorage Installation

LK8 – Roll Bar and Roll Cage Installation

LK10 – Aftermarket Roll Cage and Roll Over Protection Systems Installation

LM1 – Fuel Tank Alteration

LS4 – Front suspension and Steering Conversion

LS6 – Rear Suspension Conversion

LS10 – High Lift – 50mm to 125mm (Modification)

LT4 – Noise Test

What is a roadworthy?

A roadworthy certificate is a piece of paper issued by the Queensland Government that states your car is safe to be registered on the road. A roadworthy inspection is undertaken by an authorised inspection station, with an approved mechanic. Other terms for a roadworthy certificate include safety certificate and the abbreviated version, RWC.

The cost of inspection is issued by the QLD Government and is constantly changing. For more info check out the QLD government website.

 When do I need a roadworthy certificate?

There are four different circumstances when a roadworthy certificate is required. (QLD Government site)

1. When offering your registered vehicle for sale
2. Transferring rego to a new owner
3. If transferring rego from another state
4. When registering an unregistered vehicle

 What is covered during a roadworthy inspection?

During the inspection, a qualified mechanic will do a thorough safety check of your vehicle, inside and out. As a general rule, a car is deemed roadworthy than it is considered to be in decent condition. On the other hand, don’t let this fool you when buying a car. Just because a car comes with a safety certificate does not mean it is in good condition. A car may still require costly servicing and maintenance tasks such as changing oils, fluids or even a timing belt.

The inspection covers checking some basics for a safe vehicle including:

• Brakes
• Suspension
• Tyres
• Any oil/fluid leaks
• Rust
• Windscreen integrity
• Lights
• Seatbelts
• Any modifications
• Road driving and handling

A roadworthy inspection includes a first inspection, followed by a final inspection for your vehicle. If the vehicle does not pass the first inspection, we will explain why and look to fix the issues. These repairs will bring the car up to standard for the final inspection, in order to receive the safety certificate. We can do these repairs for you straight after doing the inspection, getting you back on the road.

If any modifications have been done to your vehicle we also offer mod plates in order to comply with the transport department. 

Whatever your reason may be for needing a safety certificate, we can help. Call us on 07 4033 0832 or contact us to get your RWC done quickly and easily.

Monypenny Mechanical – Inspection Station 8477.

The importance of fleet maintenance

Fleet maintenance is an important aspect of any business, especially when vehicles are part of your day to day business.

There are a few reasons why proper fleet maintenance is so important.

1. Regular servicing is the #1 way to keep your vehicles reliable
2. It helps avoid any unnecessary and unexpected repair costs down the track
3. The resale value of your vehicle increases when it comes time to upgrade your fleet.

Why should you trust us with your fleet maintenance?

Your cars are an important part of your business, and we appreciate that.

We take your fleets maintenance seriously and provide a priority service for our fleet customers.

If your vehicle is not on the road, its not making money. This is why we stock most serviceable parts and provide a premium priority service for a fast turnaround.

Our business has supported a range of fleets in Cairns over the years including tour companies, traffic controllers and driving schools. These are just a few of the many types of Cairns-based businesses we service and provide fleet maintenance for.

We can carry out all aspects of servicing, steering, suspension, brakes, air conditioning, electrical and anything else you can think of. We can also fit & repair warning lamps and reverse alarms as your fleet requires.

If your fleet has any special requirements we also offer approved light vehicle modifications with mod plates. This means you can make legal modifications to your vehicles and avoid any unnecessary fines and breaking the law.

We are currently associated with Custom Fleet, Fleetcare and Lease Plan. This list will continue to expand and we would also love to hear any suggestions.

What are you waiting for?

There’s no room for error when it comes to your business vehicles. You need a mechanic you can trust, who does quality maintenance and repairs.

While this is good it’s not enough, we also offer great customer service and reliability when you need it most. Combining all of this with competitive pricing, we are proud to offer the best fleet maintenance service in Cairns.

We care about our community and love to work together with our small businesses within Cairns. Let us help you, give us a call on 07 4033 0832 or contact us

Key Cutting and Programming Solutions

The cars of today aren’t what they used to be, and neither are the keys that go with them. On the older makes and models the keys are quite simple, similar to a regular house key.

Over time these keys have slowly evolved and have become much more complex. Keys now have transponder chips in them that communicate with the vehicles on-board computers. These chips tell the computer that the key is linked to that specific car and increases security significantly. Some of the modern cars even operate without a key altogether, because it works solely off of a remote.

These modern keys require high tech equipment in order to correctly program these keys. Most people end up going to the car dealerships directly to get automotive keys cut and programmed. This is by far the most expensive route to getting your key fixed or programming a new key.

What do we offer?

As it turns out, with today’s technology if your key doesn’t work, or the micro chip is damaged your car will not start or run. We see cars towed in because the customer went for a swim, spilt there drink or just got wet in the rain.

To solve this problem we stock a large range of programmable keys and remotes for modern vehicles.We can cut most car keys and also stock house keys and keys for older vehicles as well. Our equipment is capable of programming a wide range of keys covering many different makes and models.

If you go to a dealership, most new keys and remotes can cost you hundreds of dollars to replace.

We have a large range of new cases (shells) to repair your old or broken remote’s. This makes your key look and work like new again at a fraction of the cost.

We proudly offer this service in order to save our customers money and provide the best value possible.

Battery replacements are also available for a large range of remotes.

Look no further than Monypenny Mechanical for all your key cutting and programming needs at competitive prices.

Call us today to discuss what we can do for you on 07 4033 0832 or contact us