Do you drive an Automatic vehicle? Then you might not even be aware that there is a clutch in your vehicle. Without it, the gears in your car will not change.

Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre in Ringwood know all about repairing and servicing these systems including clutches, cables and fluids. Learn more below.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation. Your engine is what causes your wheels to spin, but what happens when your car needs to stop? The engine shouldn't stop spinning but the wheels need to. It's the clutch that allows this to happen. The clutch allows the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels to be interrupted while a gear is being changed or while the car is stationary and the engine continues to run.

Some vehicles have hydraulic clutches - when you press the clutch pedal, the clutch fluid moves the pressure from the pedal through to the clutch and disengages the power transmission. Leaking clutch fluid can cause all kinds of problem in your vehicle so it is very important to monitor it regularly. At Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre in Ringwood we check your clutch fluid, hydraulic system or clutch cables for you in the course of our free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection - which you can request as part of every car service.


You should have your clutch inspected if:

What signs to look for if your clutch is not performing

You notice a burnt ‘toast' or ‘burning rubber' smell in your car, or smoke from under vehicle

Your vehicle is slipping out of gear for no reason

Your clutch is not disengaging fully, or your clutch is sticking or shuddering

If your clutch is showing any of the problems above - it could mean any number of faults. Clutch problems are difficult to diagnose by symptoms alone because many issues cause the same symptoms, depending on the vehicle and type of engine. The best way to deal with clutch shuddering, slipping or noise is contact your local mechanics at Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre today.

We can perform clutch diagnostics, service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Ringwood workshop.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation.

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

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.

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.

Why Is Brake Fluid Replacement Necessary?

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.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer will specify how often the brake fluid should be replaced—typically outlined in the logbook service schedule. At Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre, 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.

How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?

Yes, at Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre, 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 Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre in Ringwood. 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 Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is crucial for optimal braking performance and to prevent costly repairs.

Brake Fluid: What It Is and Why It Matters

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

Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is your one-stop-shop for all your brake maintenance and repair needs.

We believe that prevention is better than cure. That's why we encourage our customers to schedule regular brake checks to ensure that their brakes are functioning at their best. Regular brake checks will save you in the long run by preventing more expensive repairs down the road.

If you've noticed any issues with your brakes, such as a squeaking or grinding noise, it's time to bring your vehicle to our Ringwood workshop. We'll assess your brakes and recommend the best course of action. Our repair services include brake pad replacement, brake caliper replacement, and brake rotor replacement.

We know that safety is your top priority when it comes to your vehicle, and it's ours too. That's why we use only high-quality brake parts.

So don't take your brakes for granted – schedule a brake check at Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre in Ringwood today. If you can't stop, you won't stop.

Don't take your brakes for granted – schedule a brake check at Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre in Ringwood today. If you can't stop, you won't stop.

Brake Maintenance and Repairs in Ringwood

Let them stop you! Keep your brakes in check 

With over 110 years of knowledge and experience in mechanics, Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre team in Ringwood are committed to excellence.

The constant investment in the latest automotive repair technologies and car diagnostic equipment by our Ringwood car service will ensure your vehicle is in safe hands - simply book your service online or call us now for a FREE car service estimate!

Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is proud to display the sign of a VACC Accredited Automobile Repairer. We are also a member of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). As a Vic Roads Approved Vehicle Tester we have been certified and approved by the Road Traffic Authority. 

By prior arrangement, we offer a Quick Servicing option with you can book your car with us for repairs or inspection, go shopping at the Eastland Shopping Centre across the road and return to your vehicle checked, serviced and ready to drive

Our highly experienced mechanic staff are all highly experienced, having worked at our Ringwood workshop for 19 years and longer, so our mechanic team has developed a great understanding of what our customer needs are. Our tightly knit technician team reguarly improve their skills in Repco Auto Tech training workshops, plus our mechanics' knowledge and experience allows you to get to talk to the mechanic who is actually working on your car.

Located within 2 minute walk from Ringwood train station, Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is across the Warrandyte Road from Eastland Shopping Centre and Hoyts Cinema and also at the very east end of Bond Street that runs alongside Costco Ringwood. Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is dedicated to providing their customers the best of car service.

Our mechanics specialise in servicing European and Luxury cars, and have experience in maintaining most car models and makes to optimum driving condition. Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre are highly experienced in Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Air Conditioning (AU13481) & Re-gassing and Roadworthy Certificates (RWC) according to VicRoads regulations. Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU13481). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health. 

Our fully qualified service team use the latest diagnostic equipment & service techniques to provide guaranteed log book servicing and repairs to almost any car model and make:

We believe in providing our customers with genuine value-for-money in every way, although we do understand that some people feel more comfortable with a ‘fixed price' negotiated up front. The reality is, however, that so called fixed (or capped) price services are not always what they seem. At Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre, we can happily discuss a fixed price with you at the time of booking, when we can completely ascertain your exact needs and requirements. We prefer to do that in an honest and open manner, rather than have you encounter any nasty surprises! More info on fixed price service in video. 

For friendly car service from a trusted independent, you can rely on Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre.

As your local mechanic in Ringwood, Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre take great pride in offering our clients the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs...

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Ringwood

When it comes to brakes, you should never wait until brake repairs are necessary.  

Proper testing and routine checkups, such as our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection which we provide with all full car services, are important to ensure your vehicle's brake system is in top condition. Our expert team of technicians will be happy to advise you when they suspect that service or repair of your brake system is indicated to stop it becoming a bigger issue.

Brake services we perform at Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Ringwood workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Ringwood

Brake and Clutch

AAAA

VACC

MTAA

Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre mechanics are committed to excellence in customer service, staff training and business management. 

Conveniently located across from Hoyts Cinema and Eastland Shopping Centre (within 2 minute walk from Ringwood train station), Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre is dedicated to providing their customers the best of car service.

We specialise in Road Worthy Certificates, Electronic Fuel Injection, Brake & Clutch, Air Conditioning, Cooling System installation and repairs for almost any vehicle make.

Constant investment in latest automotive repair technologies and car diagnostic equipment by our Ringwood workshop ensure best car service for your vehicle.

Saturday service available by appointment.

Rodney's Mechanical Repair Centre

Brake and clutch

Related articles

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

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

Let them stop you! Keep your brakes in check

Car service in Ringwood