Three Things the Media Hasn’t Told You About Car Servicing
There’s a lot of noise out there when it comes to car servicing, but not all of it is accurate—or helpful. If you want to make informed decisions, it’s worth understanding the real things to know about car servicing that often go unmentioned by mainstream media.
1. Oils Ain’t Just Oils
You’ve probably heard terms like semi-synthetic, fully synthetic, or 5W-30 thrown around. But did you know that not all oils with the same label are created equal?
Modern cars need specific oils that meet multiple technical standards:
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SAE viscosity grades (e.g. 5W-30, 0W-20)
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ACEA classifications (European performance benchmarks)
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Manufacturer approvals (e.g. VW 504 00, MB 229.51)
At The Torque Team, we stock four different 5W-30 fully synthetic engine oils—each suited to specific makes and models:
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Mobil Super 3000 Formula V – ideal for late-model Toyota Hilux
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Mobil Super 3000 Formula FE – tailored for Ford Ranger
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Mobil 1 5W-30 – suitable for most Japanese cars, GM and Ford
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Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 – made for European models and some Mitsubishis, with approvals from VW, Mercedes-Benz, GM, and Porsche
Using the wrong oil can reduce performance, increase wear, and even void your warranty. That’s why getting this right is essential.
2. You Don’t Have to Go to the Dealer to Protect Your Warranty
Many people still believe their new car warranty is only valid if they service their vehicle at the dealership. But under Australian Consumer Law, that’s simply not true.
You can have your car serviced by:
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Independent workshops (like us)
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Brand-neutral service centres
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Any licensed mechanic
As long as the service is performed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, your warranty is protected. That includes:
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Using approved oils and fluids
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Following the correct service schedule
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Keeping accurate service records
We go above and beyond to ensure your service meets these standards, so you can have peace of mind while saving money on dealership prices.
3. Electric Vehicles Aren’t Off-Limits to Local Mechanics
Media stories often suggest electric vehicle (EV) servicing is too advanced for local mechanics, but that’s misleading. EVs still use:
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Braking and suspension systems
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A/C and 12V electronics
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Tyres, lights, and safety systems
These are all things qualified mechanics work on every day.
And since 1 July 2022, car manufacturers are legally required to provide independent workshops with access to EV service information and software updates.
Training programs are also in place, ensuring all licensed mechanics can stay up to date with the latest EV technologies—so you don’t have to rely solely on dealerships.
Final Thoughts
From oil quality to warranty protection and EV servicing, there are several key things to know about car servicing that often go unreported. The good news? You have more choice, flexibility, and access to expert care than ever before.
Want expert servicing without the dealership price tag? Get in touch with The Torque Team today.
