Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about our mobile mechanic services, key replacement, vehicle maintenance, and pricing
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Mobile Mechanic Services
Questions about our mobile service coverage, capabilities, and what makes us different
We provide comprehensive mobile mechanic services across the entire Canberra region including:
- North Canberra: Gungahlin, Belconnen, Bruce, Lyneham
- South Canberra: Tuggeranong, Woden, Weston Creek
- Central Canberra: Civic, Barton, Kingston, Reid
- Eastern Region: Queanbeyan, Jerrabomberra, Googong
- Western Region: Molonglo Valley, Stromlo, Cotter
- Industrial Areas: Hume, Fyshwick, Mitchell, Majura
No extra travel charges within the Canberra metropolitan area.
Our comprehensive mobile service is unique because:
- 16+ Years Specialization: We’ve focused exclusively on mobile mechanics since 2007
- Complete Workshop Setup: Our vans carry $50,000+ in specialized equipment
- Multi-Skilled Technicians: Each mechanic is trained in mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic work
- Strategic Parts Network: Partnerships with suppliers for same-day parts delivery
- Continuous Training: Regular updates on new vehicle technologies and repair methods
Most workshops can’t match our mobile capabilities because they’re designed for stationary service. We’ve built our entire business around bringing the workshop to you.
We can complete 90% of common repairs on-site, including:
- Fuel system repairs (pumps, injectors)
- Brake system service and replacement
- Electrical and battery issues
- Engine diagnostics and sensor replacement
- Suspension component replacement
- Key cutting and programming
- Air conditioning service
- Routine maintenance (oil, filters, fluids)
- Alternator and starter motor replacement
- Exhaust system repairs
Workshop-only services (5-10% of cases):
- Major engine rebuilds requiring engine removal
- Advanced body and paint work
- Wheel alignment (requires specialized equipment)
- Smash repairs requiring frame straightening
Yes, we offer flexible service hours to accommodate your schedule:
- Standard Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Emergency Service: Available 24/7 for breakdowns and lockouts
- Weekend Appointments: Same rates as weekdays, no weekend surcharge
- Public Holidays: Available with advance booking
We understand that vehicle problems don’t follow a 9-5 schedule, which is why we’ve designed our service to be available when you need us most.
Service Pricing & Costs
Transparent information about our pricing structure and what affects costs
Our mobile service typically saves you 20-30% compared to traditional workshop pricing because:
Mobile Service Savings
- No towing costs (saves $150-$300)
- No workshop overhead fees
- Eliminates your travel time and costs
- No loan car needed
Typical Cost Comparison
- Fuel pump replacement: Workshop $600-$900 vs. Our mobile $400-$650
- Key replacement: Workshop $300-$800 vs. Our mobile $250-$700
- Brake service: Workshop $400-$600 vs. Our mobile $300-$450
Important: We provide upfront pricing after diagnosis, so you know exactly what you’ll pay before we start work.
Several factors influence repair costs:
Vehicle Factors:
- Vehicle Make/Model: Luxury and European vehicles often have more expensive parts
- Vehicle Age: Older vehicles may need additional repairs discovered during service
- Part Availability: Common parts are cheaper than rare or discontinued parts
Service Factors:
- Complexity: Some repairs require more labor time
- Parts Quality: We offer options from economy to premium parts
- Additional Issues: Sometimes we find related problems during diagnosis
- Service Urgency: Emergency/same-day service may have a small premium
Our Promise: We always discuss any cost changes before proceeding and provide itemized quotes.
Yes, we offer several payment options to make vehicle repairs more manageable:
Payment Methods Accepted
- Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- Bank Transfer (Before service)
- Cash (Exact amount preferred)
- Afterpay (For services over $200)
Financing Options
- Split Payments: 50% before, 50% after completion
- Pay Later: Approved customers can pay within 7 days
- Service Packages: Pre-paid maintenance plans available
Note: For first-time customers or large repairs, we may require payment before parts are ordered. Regular customers enjoy more flexible terms.
Car Keys & Security Systems
Questions about key replacement, programming, and vehicle security
Yes, we specialize in “all keys lost” situations. Even with no original keys, we can create new ones by:
- Vehicle Identification: Using your VIN number to determine key specifications
- Lock Decoding: Reading your door and ignition locks to create the correct cut pattern
- ECU Programming: Programming new transponder chips to work with your vehicle’s immobilizer
- System Integration: Programming remote functions and keyless entry if applicable
Success Rate: We can create new keys for 99% of vehicles on the market, including European luxury brands with advanced security systems.
Key replacement costs vary based on vehicle type and key technology:
| Vehicle Type | Key Type | Typical Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cars (Toyota, Honda, etc.) | Basic Transponder Key | $250 – $350 | 1-2 hours |
| Modern Vehicles (2010+) | Remote Flip Key | $350 – $500 | 2-3 hours |
| European Luxury (BMW, Mercedes) | Smart Key / Proximity | $500 – $800 | 2-4 hours |
| All Keys Lost Situation | Complete Service | $400 – $1000+ | 3-5 hours |
Note: These are typical ranges. We provide exact quotes after identifying your specific vehicle and key requirements.
For most vehicles: No, the old keys will no longer work to start the engine.
When we program new keys, we typically:
- Delete all existing keys from the vehicle’s immobilizer memory
- Program only the new keys to work with the system
- Ensure old keys cannot start the vehicle (security measure)
Exception: Some older vehicles without transponder systems may need lock replacement to fully secure the vehicle if keys are lost or stolen.
Vehicle Maintenance & Servicing
Questions about regular maintenance, servicing intervals, and preventative care
Follow this maintenance checklist to prevent common breakdowns:
Every 6 Months or 10,000km
- Oil and filter change
- Check and top up all fluids
- Inspect brakes and tires
- Check battery condition
Every 12 Months or 20,000km
- Replace air filters
- Check suspension components
- Inspect exhaust system
- Test cooling system
Every 2 Years or 40,000km
- Replace fuel filter
- Change transmission fluid
- Replace spark plugs
- Check timing belt (if equipped)
Seasonal Checks
- Summer: Check A/C system
- Winter: Test heating system
- All seasons: Check wipers and lights
Tip: We offer maintenance packages that bundle these services at discounted rates.
Yes, we specialize in European and luxury vehicle servicing. Our technicians have extensive training and equipment for:
Brands We Service
- German: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche
- British: Land Rover, Range Rover, Jaguar, Mini
- Swedish: Volvo, Saab
- Italian: Alfa Romeo, Fiat
- French: Peugeot, Renault, Citroën
Specialized Equipment
- European-specific diagnostic tools
- Factory-level programming software
- Special tool sets for complex repairs
- Access to European parts suppliers
Use this guide to determine repair urgency:
- Engine overheating or temperature warning light
- Brake warning light or poor braking
- Steering problems or loss of control
- Oil pressure warning light
- Battery/alternator warning light
- Complete breakdown or no-start situation
- Check engine light (steady, not flashing)
- Unusual noises from engine or brakes
- Reduced power or performance
- Fluid leaks (oil, coolant, transmission)
- Electrical issues (lights, windows, locks)
- Routine maintenance due
- Minor squeaks or rattles
- Cosmetic issues
- Wiper or light bulb replacement
- Minor surface rust
- Small stone chips in paint
- Wear items at 50-75% life
- Normal maintenance intervals not yet due
Why Choose Advanced Mobile Mechanics
What makes us different and why we’re Canberra’s preferred mobile service
Our mobile service offers significant advantages over traditional workshops:
Convenience Benefits
- No Towing Needed: Save $150-$300 in towing fees
- No Time Off Work: We work around your schedule
- Home/Work Service: We come to your location
- No Loan Car Needed: Keep your daily routine
Quality Benefits
- Same Quality Parts: We use premium components
- Certified Technicians: Factory-trained experts
- Advanced Equipment: $50,000+ in mobile tools
- Warranty Coverage: Same as workshops (12+ months)
Cost Comparison Example
| Service | Traditional Workshop | Our Mobile Service | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Pump Replacement | $750 (inc. $150 tow) | $550 (no tow needed) | $200 (27%) |
| Major Service | $650 + day off work | $550 (at your work) | $100 + no lost wages |
| Key Replacement | $500 + tow to dealer | $400 (on-site) | $100 (20%) |
All our technicians hold comprehensive certifications and undergo continuous training:
Formal Qualifications
- Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
- Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis
- AUR30620 – Automotive Air Conditioning Licensing
- Electrical Systems Certification
- Locksmith and Security System Qualifications
Ongoing Training
- Annual manufacturer-specific training
- Quarterly technical updates on new systems
- Monthly safety and procedure reviews
- Bi-annual diagnostic tool training
- Regular customer service training
Specialized Equipment Training
Our technicians are certified on all major diagnostic platforms including Bosch, Snap-on, Autel, and Launch, as well as specialized key programming and security system tools.
We offer comprehensive warranty coverage that equals or exceeds traditional workshops:
Parts Warranty
- New Genuine Parts: 24 months unlimited km
- New Quality Aftermarket: 12-24 months (brand dependent)
- Reconditioned Parts: 12 months
- Consumables (filters, fluids): 6 months
- Batteries: 24-36 months (pro-rata)
Labor Warranty
- All Repairs: 12 months unlimited km
- Major Engine Work: 24 months/40,000km
- Transmission Repairs: 24 months/40,000km
- Key Programming: Lifetime on programming
- Diagnostic Work: 90-day verification period
Warranty Claim Process
- Contact us within warranty period with issue details
- We arrange mobile inspection (usually within 48 hours)
- If covered, we schedule repair at your convenience
- No-charge repair completed by our team
- Warranty period continues from original repair date
Note: Warranty requires proof of service and may not cover damage from accidents, misuse, or unrelated failures.
Still Have Questions?
Our team of automotive experts is ready to answer any questions you have about our services, pricing, or your specific vehicle needs.
