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Col Harrison Automotive (LIC# MVRL22716) take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 
		
Conveniently located in West Ryde, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 
		
Col Harrison Automotive have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

If your car’s feeling sluggish on chilly West Ryde mornings, your battery could be trying to tell you something. At Col Harrison Automotive, we know just how common battery issues are during the colder months—and how inconvenient they can be. That’s why we offer quick, professional battery testing and replacements, so you’re not left stranded when you need your car most. Why Your Battery Hates the Cold Winter weather can seriously affect your battery’s performance. As temperatures drop, the internal chemical reactions in the battery slow down, meaning it delivers less power. Meanwhile, your car needs more energy to start a cold engine—and the extra load from heaters, wipers and demisters doesn’t help either. Even a battery that seemed “fine” last week might not make it through a cold snap. Signs Your Battery Might Be Running Out of Juice Before your battery gives up completely, there are usually warning signs. Keep an eye (and ear) out for: Engine slow to crank or struggling to start Headlights dimming when you start the engine Electrical accessories acting up (e.g. power windows or stereo) Dashboard warning lights you haven’t seen before Needing a jump-start more than once Harder to start the car on cold mornings Battery is more than 3 years old When you bring your vehicle in, we’ll carry out a comprehensive battery check using the latest equipment. You can expect accurate voltage and load testing, visual inspection of battery condition and terminals and trusted advice from experienced West Ryde mechanics. If a replacement is required, we can arrange a selection of top quality batteries to suit most vehicles and can install on the spot!  Stop Battery Problems Before They Start Don’t wait for that dreaded silence when you turn the key. Come see the friendly team at Col Harrison Automotive in West Ryde for a battery check today. We’ll get you sorted quickly and make sure your car starts strong—no matter how cold it gets.

If your car’s feeling sluggish on chilly West Ryde mornings, your battery could be trying to tell you something.

Cold Starts and Flat Batteries? 

Planning a road journey can be an exciting experience, whether it's a weekend getaway or a long-awaited holiday. However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to ensure that your car is ready for the journey ahead. A well-prepared vehicle can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. This means taking a bit of time to check over your car and addressing any potential issues. By doing so, you’ll avoid the inconvenience of breakdowns and ensure you travel with peace of mind. Let’s look at the crucial checks you should perform before setting off on your adventure. What to check Tyres: Checking your tyres is important as they are your car's primary contact with the road. Ensure the tyre pressure is correct; under-inflated tyres can lead to poor fuel efficiency and affect handling, while over-inflated tyres might increase the risk of a blowout. Also, inspect the tread depth—worn-out tyres can be dangerous, particularly in wet conditions. Look out for visible damages such as cuts or bulges. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre, as it's your backup plan in case of an emergency. Fluids: Your automotive fluids are vital for the smooth operation of your car. Begin by checking the engine oil level; low oil can lead to engine damage. Next, top up the coolant to prevent the engine from overheating. Also, check the brake fluid and power steering fluid levels, as these are critical for safe vehicle operation. Lastly, inspect the washer fluid and top it up to keep your windscreen clean throughout the journey. Battery: A flat battery is a common cause of breakdowns, so it’s essential to ensure your battery is in good condition. Check the terminals for any corrosion and clean them if necessary. If your battery is more than three years old, it might be worth having it tested to ensure it still holds a charge effectively. Consider carrying a set of jump leads, just in case. Lights and Signals: Your vehicle’s lights are crucial for visibility and communication on the road. Test all the lights, including headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and indicators. Replace any bulbs that are not working. It's also wise to carry spare bulbs with you, especially if you plan to travel at night. Wipers and Windscreen: Clear visibility is key to safe driving, so make sure your wipers are in good condition. Worn-out wipers can leave streaks on the windscreen, reducing visibility. Replace them if they’re not effectively clearing water. Additionally, inspect the windscreen for any cracks or chips, as these can worsen over time and compromise the structural integrity of the glass. Why choose Col Harrison Automotive At Col Harrison Automotive, we understand that while basic checks are essential, a thorough professional inspection can reveal hidden issues that might not be apparent during a quick look over. Our team of experienced mechanics is trained to spot potential problems early, ensuring your car is in top condition for your road trip. Our comprehensive 65 Point Vehicle Inspection includes a detailed examination of all critical components, such as brakes, suspension, and steering systems. We also perform advanced diagnostic tests to check the electronic systems of your car, providing you with a complete health report of your vehicle. Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your car. By scheduling a professional service with us, you are not only preparing your car for your upcoming trip but also investing in its long-term performance and reliability. Our mechanics will check for wear and tear that could lead to more significant problems down the road, helping you avoid unexpected repair costs. Whether you require a full-service check or specific maintenance work, we have options to accommodate your schedule and budget. Our aim is to make car servicing as hassle-free as possible, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey. While basic checks can help identify obvious issues, a professional inspection from Col Harrison Automotive ensures that every aspect of your car is ready for the road. Before you set off on your next adventure, consider visiting Col Harrison Automotive for a comprehensive vehicle check. We’re here to make sure your trip is smooth, safe, and enjoyable.

While these checks can help you ensure your car is in good shape for a road trip, there’s no substitute for a professional inspection from Col Harrison Automotive

Preparing for Your Road Trip

Call the experts at Col Harrison Automotive. We can perform fully qualified log book servicing on a wide range of makes and models including: Holden, Ford, Mazda, Toyota, Nissan, BMW, Audi, Hyundai, Honda, Kia - and many more. Sticking to Log Book keeps your vehicle in its safest and most reliable state and helps to maintain your statutory new car warranty.  We don't have to have a physical log book in order to do a Log Book Service - it just means we follow the manufacturers guidelines. We can certainly provide you with a log book to help you record your cars service history, which will be a benefit if you ever decide to sell your vehicle.  Many people believe they must go back to a car dealership for New Car Log Book servicing in order to maintain the warranty. Actually, the ACCC have consistently confirmed that under Australian Law, you are free to have your car service carried out by a mechanic or service centre of your choice provided they are qualified to do so. See our video to learn more.  They say that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! This is especially so with cars and why vehicle manufacturers specify regular log book services.  Whether it involves checking the serpentine belts, replacing the brake pads, inspecting the shock absorbers or simply topping up the brake or transmission fluid, the actual tasks carried out in each individual log book services are carefully designed to be carried out at specific intervals and thereby keep your car running at optimal performance.  Staying on top of log book services also ensures that your vehicle's warranty will be upheld.  The expert team at Col Harrison Automotive are fully qualified to conduct your vehicle's next Log Book Service, so contact us today and book it in. We are conveniently located at 924 Victoria Road and can service customers in West Ryde and the surrounding areas. Have more questions about your log book service? We answer them here: What is a Log Book Service? A log book service is manufacturers recommended procedures and items to be replaced at different intervals. Do I need a log book service? Yes, especially when the vehicle is under manufacturers warranty What happens if I miss a Service? Don't worry. Col Harrison Automotive can combine services if required and help you catch up. Will I lose my New Car Warranty if I don't go back to the dealer? Absolutely not. In fact, manufacturers are not allowed to force you to take the vehicle back to them for servicing although they imply it keeps your vehicle warranty intact. Having your vehicle serviced by an independent workshop like Col Harrison Automotive not only saves you money, but the whole process is more convenient without affecting your new car warranty at all.  I have lost my Log Book, do I need it? No. Col Harrison Automotive don't need your log book to be able to  perform a service. Do you provide Digital reports for the work you have done? Yes. Col Harrison Automotive can supply a digital report of the work performed on request Do you provide Digital reports of what's wrong with my car? Yes. Col Harrison Automotive can supply a digital report any work we think may be needed on request. How long will the service take? Col Harrison Automotive generally require the vehicle for 4-6 hours (depending on work required). How much will my service cost? Every service requires different items to be looked at but we can supply a service quote on request How can I pay for my Service? Col Harrison Automotive accept : eftpos , credit cards, cash, amex and dept cards What is the earliest time I can bring my car in? You can bring your car in from 7:00am onward. Can I drop off my car after hours? You can drop your car off after hours by appointment only. (We do not have a secure key drop off box). Can I collect my car after hours? Yes you can. Just let us know when booking in or dropping your car off for service. Can you pick up my car from home or drop me home when I deliver my car for servicing or repair?? Yes, within a 5 kilometer radius of our West Ryde workshop. What happens if something is not right after my car service? Col Harrison Automotive take great pride in our work, but if something doesn't seem quite right then just let us know. We will drive the vehicle with you and rectify the problem. We are happy to sort out any problems you might have. Plus you have the added assurance of our Repco Nationwide Warranty if you find yourself out of town.  Will you give me reminders when my next sercive is due? Col Harrison Automotive leave a service reminder on your windscreen. Can my car be serviced at the same time it is being repaired and vice versa? Yes your car be serviced at the same time it is being repaired or repaired while it is in for a service.  How often should I really service my car? You should follow the manufacturers recommendations, especially for new cars. At the least we recommend twice a year as a good general rule. I don't drive much, do I still need a service? Yes. Certain items still need maintenance. In fact not driving your car often can cause many problems with parts not being used and properly lubricated and fluids can degrade. What type of oils and parts do you use? Col Harrison Automotive only use quality oils, lubricants and parts for any service or repair we undertake. Do you check my brakes during a service? Yes Col Harrison Automotive check the brakes when you book your car in for a service. Do you bleed the brake system when you change brake fluid? Yes we do. Bleeding the system is an essential part of replacing brake fluid. It is necessary to ensure that no air is left in the system to avoid the reduction of the brake systems performance and to make sure the brake pedal does not feel "Mushy" when brakes are applied. Do you service ac systems (Car Air Conditioning Service)? Yes we do. Col Harrison Automotive have Arctick Authorisation (AU10851) to perform all aspects of Automotive Air Conditioning service and repairs. Do you do a mist bacterial treatment to the vehicle ventilation system? Col Harrison Automotive perform MiST™ service which kills any existing mould or bacteria on contact and prevents new mould growth throughout your vehicles ventilation system. Do you rotate wheels on services? Yes we do. By ensuring even tread wear across all of your tyres you help keep the tread depth on your tires uniform, which can help keep traction and handling consistent across all four tyres and generally increase the expected life span of your tyres. Do you do wheel alignments? Col Harrison Automotive can combine our fully qualified expertise and knowledge with our local understanding of the driving conditions in West Ryde to not only make sure your wheels are aligned correctly, but to confirm there are no underlying issues with the technologies behind the wheel that keep you safe on the roads. How do I book my car in for a service? You can either call us, drop in to our West Ryde workshop or simply Book Online.

Log book servicing ensures that your vehicle's warranty will be upheld. The expert team at Col Harrison Automotive in West Ryde are fully qualified to conduct your vehicle's next Log Book Service...

Log book servicing in West Ryde

European Car Specialists Col Harrison Automotive have the expertise and knowledge to provide repairs, diagnostics and service on all European and Luxury vehicles including Alfa Romeo - Audi - BMW - Citroen - Ferrari - Fiat - Land Rover - Mercedes Benz - Mini Cooper - Peugeot - Lexus - Porsche - Volvo and many more locally in our West Ryde workshop. Why do I need to see a European car specialist? European cars are designed and built with distinctive craftsmanship and finely tuned engines, requiring a high level of specialised knowledge to service or maintain them to the standards they deserve. Luxury and Euro vehicles often have unique or cutting edge technologies that require cutting edge expertise. As members of the Repco Auto-Tech training programme - Australia's leading provider of automotive technical training and information, you can be certain that Col Harrison Automotive are fully aware of all modern vehicle servicing techniques. Through the Auto-Tech encyclopaedia and SmartQuote programs Col Harrison Automotive have fast access to the newest service schedules for all Luxury makes and models. Our highly skilled technicians know exactly how to undertake the care of all European and Luxury Vehicles, from using European car specific software for diagnosis through to choosing the right quality parts. If you're looking for an Audi service, an experienced BMW mechanic or someone to help protect your Luxury investment with qualified European car expertise contact us or book a service today.

Col Harrison Automotive have the expertise and knowledge to provide repairs, diagnostics and service on all European and Luxury vehicles...

European and luxury car service

Keep your cool, without global warming. A proactive car air conditioning approach to protecting our environment.  As Australia begins phasing down HFC use (from January 2018), many new vehicle manufacturers may be switching to new air conditioning systems using the more environmentally friendly refrigerant R-1234yf, instead of R-134a. The benefits of using R-1234yf "Twelve Thirty Four", as R-1234yf is sometimes known, is an HFO type refrigerant delivering high performance, resulting in a more efficient air-conditioning system, fewer emissions and reduced fuel consumption. Hydrofluoroolefins (HFO's) have a double carbon bond meaning they trap less heat in the atmosphere than Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC's) and break down faster. Importantly, R-1234yf systems are specifically engineered to prevent refrigerant leakage and loss, including into the interior of the vehicle. The leakage of refrigerants contributes considerably to greenhouse gases. Why the switch? Older type refrigerants accumulate in the upper atmosphere as greenhouse gases and contribute significantly to Global Warming for a considerable time. In the mid-'90s, the old R-12 (or Freon), which takes a long time to break down into a non-greenhouse gas, was replaced with R134a, which breaks down much quicker. R-1234yf takes that improvement to the next level, breaking down in less than half the time of R-134a (and a fraction of the time R-12 can take). R-134a will remain in use for some time and a licensed mechanic can still service R-134a air con systems, but new vehicles will likely use the new systems with R-1234yf. Some already are. Irrespective of what type of refrigerant your car air conditioner uses, a car service workshop undertaking air conditioner service must have the right knowledge and equipment to handle these gases responsibly. You should always take your car to a mechanic with the skills and specialist equipment to undertake air conditioning service safely and correctly.

There's a new gas in town

Trust, experience & knowledge ... You can rely on your Local and Independent Repco Authorised Service centre, Col Harrison Automotive to service and repair your vehicle. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, Col Harrison Automotive use quality parts and lubricants and employ state of the art diagnostic equipment and repair methods. What’s more, our fully qualified technicians have access to the latest service information, bulletins and training through the Australia wide Repco Auto Tech program. We provide a full range of automotive services right here in West Ryde and surrounding areas, all backed by our Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty and fully supported at over 500 Service Centres right across Australia. So rest assured - your car is in safe hands.

As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we use quality parts and lubricants and employ state of the art diagnostic equipment and repair methods.

Col Harrison Automotive

Cars are our passion.

Cold Starts and Flat Batteries?

Preparing for Your Road Trip

Log book servicing in West Ryde

European and luxury car service

There's a new gas in town

Col Harrison Automotive - Our expertise & knowledge