Mechanic's Guide to Car Care

Most batteries last three to five years and give weeks of warning before failing. The signs to watch for, and when to have yours tested.

The recirculation button reduces the load on your air conditioning and can lower fuel consumption. When to use it, and when to switch it off.

Worn wiper blades streak, judder and reduce visibility exactly when you need it most. Why replacing them matters more than most drivers realise.

A clogged air filter chokes the engine, reduces fuel economy and leaves your car sluggish. What a dirty filter really looks like, and when to replace it.

Headlights drift out of alignment over time. Here is the simple wall test to check yours, and why correct aim matters for night driving.

Hard last-second braking wears pads and rotors significantly faster. The difference smooth, progressive braking makes to your car and your costs.

Running low does more than risk an empty tank. How it affects your fuel pump, and the quarter-tank rule worth following.

Today's vehicles store fault codes that speed up diagnosis, but a code does not always mean a failed part. How dealer-level diagnostics separate the signal from the noise.

Traditional rentals vs. car share, discover which option makes errands, trips, or city life easier in Sydney.

From walking paths to horse tracks, Sydney’s streets tell a story of history, hills, and hidden laneways.

From sparkling clean to great photos and all the right listings, these tips make selling your car easier, faster, and stress-free.

Discover Sydney’s hidden gem, Milk Beach, and the fascinating history of Vaucluse’s waterfront suburbs.

A brand-new tunnel is coming! More routes, less traffic, and a huge shift in how we move across the city.

From avoiding hazards to finding cheap fuel and your perfect playlist, these apps make every road trip smoother.

Panoramic cliffs, ocean views, and migrating whales, Dover Heights is Sydney’s secret coastal gem.

Those green lights aren’t luck! Discover the smart system that adjusts traffic in real time.

Affordable, feature-packed, and catching up fast, here’s what to know before buying your next EV.

From “smelly place” to “place of thunder,” the Eastern beaches are full of history, beauty, and coastal charm.

One city, countless rules! From heritage streets to surprise parking zones, navigating Sydney is full of twists.

Want to lead, grow, and be part of something bigger? Our Senior Technician role is built for driven mechanics ready to step up. Apply via our careers page - https://leondisautomotive.com.au/careers/.

We reacted to a smart bit of problem-solving where a blocked ventilation valve was causing crankcase pressure to build up. By releasing the pressure, the whistling noise disappeared instantly. In this video, we share our thoughts on the issue and why this simple fix worked so well.

Speed bumps are designed to slow you down, but driving over them too quickly can do more damage than you might think. In this video, we show what happened when a car hit a bump too hard and cracked its oil pan, causing a major leak. It’s a reminder that slowing down to the right speed isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your car from costly repairs.

We reacted to a car that lost a wheel while on the road. Luckily, no one was injured, but it’s a stark reminder of how dangerous it can be to ignore early warning signs. In this video, we talk about what can cause a wheel to come off, the noises you should never ignore, and why stopping straight away can make all the difference.

“Warm up the car” is a phrase many of us grew up hearing, but it no longer applies to modern vehicles. Before fuel injection became standard in the late 1980s, carburettors struggled with the fuel-air mix in cold weather and idling was necessary. Today, electronic engine management systems automatically make those adjustments from the first crank. In this video, we explain why warming up your car is outdated advice and why driving gently is the best way to bring your engine to temperature without wasting fuel.

We reacted to a mechanic’s worst discovery — an engine with no oil. It doesn’t matter who worked on it last, running a car without oil can cause catastrophic damage and leave the owner facing a very expensive repair. In this video, we share our thoughts on why this mistake happens and why checking oil levels before starting a car is so important.

Ever wondered how mechanics make lifting a two-tonne car look effortless? In this video, we show how a two-post hoist works, why it can hold more than double the average vehicle weight, and how built-in safety locks protect both the car and the people working beneath it. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the equipment that makes servicing possible every day.

We reacted to a situation no mechanic wants to face — an oil filter that’s been overtightened. It might seem like a small detail, but when it’s cranked on too tight it can turn a simple job into a time-consuming nightmare. In this video, we explain why it happens, why it’s such a headache, and the simple rule that helps avoid the problem in the first place.

A foggy windscreen can be frustrating and dangerous, but clearing it doesn’t need to be complicated. In this video, we show the quickest and most effective way to defog your windscreen using the right air conditioning settings, airflow and a few simple habits. These small adjustments can make a big difference to your visibility and safety on the road.

Sydney is Australia’s most congested city, with hundreds of thousands of cars on the road during peak hour. For many commuters, that means spending more than 70 hours a year stuck in traffic. But the cost isn’t just in lost time. Heavy congestion puts extra strain on your engine, brakes and transmission, leading to higher servicing and repair bills. In this video, we look at the impact of Sydney’s traffic on your car and share a few simple habits that can help reduce wear, save money and make the daily grind a little easier.

Sydney’s potholes are causing millions of dollars in damage each year, with thousands of motorists caught out by tyre and wheel failures. Extreme weather and rising rainfall have left our roads in poor condition, while council budgets struggle to keep up with repairs. In this video, we explain why potholes have become such a major issue in Greater Sydney and share practical steps you can take as a driver to minimise the risk of damage to your car.

Worn tyres contribute to thousands of accidents in Australia each year, yet many drivers aren’t aware of how easy it is to check tyre safety at home. In this video, we show you how a simple 20 cent coin can reveal if your tread depth is within the safe limit. It’s a quick, reliable test that anyone can do in seconds and it could make all the difference when it comes to staying safe on the road.

In this video, we react to a builder known for creating unique Porsche customisations. His approach might be a little unconventional, but the demand for his work is undeniable. With long waitlists, high resale value and eye-catching designs, these builds are turning plenty of heads. Here’s what we think about his style and why so many people are lining up for it.

Is premium fuel just marketing hype, or does it actually make a difference?

In this quick video, we explain why using 98 octane can be better for your car — especially if that’s what the manufacturer recommends. From improved fuel economy to cleaner engine performance, premium fuel can offer real benefits in the long run. But it’s not always about “better” — it’s about using the right fuel for your engine.

When it comes to engine coolant, more isn’t always better.

In this video, we explain why overfilling a sealed cooling system can cause long-term damage. Most vehicles have clearly marked minimum and maximum levels — and it’s important to keep the coolant right between them. Too much coolant can lead to pressure issues and cooling system failure down the track.

Pulled up to the bowser on the wrong side again? There’s a simple way to avoid the guesswork.

In this quick tip, we show you how your car’s fuel gauge can tell you exactly where the fuel cap is — just look for the little arrow or icon next to the pump symbol. A handy hint for anyone jumping between cars or driving something new!

Your logbook isn’t just paperwork — it helps protect your warranty and keep your car running its best.

In this video, we explain why following the manufacturer’s service schedule is so important. Using a Toyota as an example, we walk through what’s required at key intervals and how proper logbook servicing helps extend the life of your vehicle.

Brake repairs might seem like a doable DIY task, but when it comes to safety, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Stopping a two-tonne vehicle in busy Sydney traffic demands precision — and using the wrong tools or techniques can lead to serious risks or expensive damage. This video breaks down why expert brake servicing is essential for both your safety and your wallet.

Thinking of buying a new or used car? Before you decide, it’s important to look beyond the badge. Key factors like part availability, maintenance costs, and resale value can significantly impact your ownership experience over time. This video covers what to check before making a purchase, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make a smarter, more informed decision.

Tired of rising petrol prices? A hybrid vehicle might be a smarter alternative. We recently took a Corolla Hybrid out for a test drive and found that 72% of the journey was powered by the battery alone — a real boost for fuel efficiency. Hybrids offer a practical mix of petrol engine range and electric motor savings, making them a strong option for drivers looking to cut fuel costs without sacrificing convenience.

We take a closer look at the real maintenance costs of electric vehicles compared to petrol-powered cars. While EVs have fewer moving parts and can be cheaper to service in some areas, they’re not entirely maintenance-free — tyres, brakes, suspension, and even costly battery replacements still come into play. On the other hand, petrol cars may require more regular servicing but often offer better range and resale value. If you're weighing up which type of vehicle suits your lifestyle and budget, this breakdown will help clarify the key differences.

Family cars get messy fast — we get it. Here are 5 quick and practical tips for keeping your vehicle clean, safe and organised when you’ve got kids in tow.

Hearing strange noises and hoping they go away? From squealing brakes to hissing under the bonnet, we run through 5 sounds you shouldn’t ignore — and what they could mean for your car.

Is your car pulling to one side? It could be more than just annoying — it might be costing you tyre life (and money). Learn how wheel alignment affects handling, wear, and when it’s time to get yours checked.

Cold mornings can mean flat batteries, streaky wipers, and fogged-up windscreens. In this quick guide, we cover the basics of winter vehicle prep to keep you safe and your car running smoothly.

Letting your oil change slide? It’s more serious than you might think. In this video, we explain how infrequent oil changes can lead to sludge build-up, engine strain, and even failure. Plus, we walk through what’s included in a standard Leondis Automotive oil service.