If you are heading off on a long drive in the coming months or, you are looking for general car advice, Phil from RM Autohaus shares his knowledge and experience in this article. Big thanks to Phil and his team; they have been valued clients of McPhail and Partners for many, many years.
- Some drivers don’t realise that even though they have a fairly new car there are still things that need checking before they take a long drive anywhere. What would be the top 7 things drivers need to have checked on their cars at this time to year?
Heading into the holiday season it is important to check that your tyres are in good condition and that the pressures are correct, it is important also to check engine oil and coolant levels, lights, windscreen wipers and washer fluid. For a visual inspection of tyres and all levels RM Autohaus offers this free of charge exclusively to McPhails clients for the month of November and December.
- If someone is looking at buying a second-hand car, whether for their children or themselves, what are the top 7 things they should be aware of?
When buying a second-hand vehicle, the first thing to do is check that it is not listed on the stolen vehicle or “written off ” register- click here.
It is also important to see evidence of a thorough and consistent service history and that the vehicle has a current roadworthy certificate. A visual inspection of the vehicle condition inside and out is often a good indicator of how well it has been cared for by the owner and what wear and tear it might have seen, particularly for those that are not mechanically minded. A pre-purchase inspection from a reputable provider is a great idea. RM Autohaus offers this service.
- There seems to be so many choices nowadays when purchasing tyres – what are some good tips to know before making that sort of investment and how often should tyres be replaced?
Tyres generally last between 40,000 and 60,000 km’s, and should be replaced every 6 years regardless of km’s travelled. There is a lot of choice of tyres these days but a high profile brand with a good range of tyres is always a good place to start. Every vehicle is labelled with a tyre placard (refer to your owners manual) this will indicate the correct size, speed and load ratings required for your vehicle. Cheap tyres are not always a good deal; generally you get what you pay for.
- You have an extremely well-established business that has a fabulous reputation, why do you think clients keep coming back to your business?
I have been in business 27 years. My team prides itself on customer satisfaction, honest, reliable service that people feel confident about and are happy to pay for. We’ve just had one of our favourite customers reach the magical 500,000 km’s in his vehicle, which had been maintained faultlessly by us for the last 15 years. Our business has grown by word of mouth. We have lots of people come to us dissatisfied with dealer service and often they end up bringing us vehicles for the whole family.
- You’ve been a long time client of McPhail and Partners, what do you value about them and why do you remain a client?
It is very comforting to know that McPhails are looking after our financial obligations so that we can continue to work on our businesses success. We know that they have our best interests at the top of their minds. But it’s more than just ticking the accounting box, they partner with us on our business journey, working through business strategy from time to time and seem to get satisfaction from our continued growth and development.
6. What do you think about these hybrid cars? Are they the future of driving in Australia?
Being a European car specialist the hybrid cars have been slow to come through. This seems to be the future given the legal problems that occurred with VW‘s diesel range. I think hybrid technology is the way of the future as soon as they get more environmentally friendly and longer lasting batteries that can be disposed of safely.
- I’m about to take the family on a long trip from Melbourne to Queensland, do I take the kids or leave them with their grandparents?
There’s nothing wrong with a road trip, it’s a great way to see the country and spend time together, especially when you also get great satisfaction out of driving a comfortable and well-performing car. There’s no excuse not to take the littlies along for the ride now that portable digital devices are available to help break up the journey.
Rmautohaus is a European service specialist located conveniently in Hawthorn. They also have a workshop in Richmond. They offer log book service and all mechanical repairs to the European car range. They have the latest diagnostic equipment and courtesy cars available on request.
Go to www.rmautohaus.com.au or call Phil on 9819 2777
Thanks Phil, they are great tips and a wonderful offer exclusive to McPhail clients only, thanks!