Batteries

One should always have one’s battery checked before replacing it. If a battery is dead, it can either be the battery or the alternator that charges the battery. It is even possible to recharge a dead battery in some instances. In our workshop, we will test your battery and give you honest and reliable feedback. We will not change your battery unless it is absolutely necessary.

If you are experiencing issues with your battery, give us a call on 021 386 2411 or you can email info@paceautoservices.co.za and we will find the solution for you!

In order to know the size and shape of your battery, you can either give us the model number, or you can open your bonnet and look on the batter for a size number, this is usually starts with a 6, like 628 or 654.  This information will make it easy for us to quote and let you know if we have stock.

Here are some useful tips to keep your car battery in good health:

• Try and avoid short rides, as this limits the car’s ability to charge the battery fully.
• Make sure that your battery is fastened correctly. If not, it could result in damage to the electrics and to the circuit boards.
• Make sure that you switch your lights off when you are not using them.
• Keep the battery terminals clean.
• Make sure that your radio and other electronic devices are switched off when the car’s engine is not running.

Shock Absorbers and Brakes

Shock Absorbers

Worn shock absorbers can be fixed in one of two ways – the broken part (or parts) can be repaired, or the shock absorber can be reconditioned. These are both cheaper alternatives than having to buy and fit new shocks to your vehicle. Although they can be replaced one at a time, it is good practice to replace them in pairs.

Poor shock absorbers present a multitude of problems:

• Poor road holding means that your tyre is not fully in contact with the road surface
• With the tyre not maintaining proper contact with the road, the resulting bounces mean that your tyres suffer from flat spots, which drastically reduce tyre life
• Poor shocks can cause other components to start to fail – including expensive suspension and steering components
• It is estimated that worn shocks can extend stopping distance by more than 2 metres at 80 km/h in the dry
• Worn shocks also increase the risk of aquaplaning on wet surfaces, even if your tyres are in good conditon
• The extra bouncing around from your vehicle will increase the risk of dazzling fellow road users at night, even if you are using dipped beams, which is exceptionally dangerous
• The driver is more likely to experience fatigue over long distances

Brakes

As with all components on your car, the brakes eventually also get worn out and need to be fixed. Here are the signs that your brakes may be in need of attention:

• Squealing or screeching noises when using the brakes
• Brake pads being less than 3mm thick
• A grinding noise that sounds like metal on metal might mean that the brake pads are worn away and, critically, the brake discs and the calipers are making contact
• Some vehicles have warning lights to indicate when the brake pads are at a level that requires attention

If you suspect that your brakes or shock absorbers may be in need of attention, do not hesitate to contact us on 021 386 2411 or you can email info@paceautoservices.co.za and we will assist with the issue!

Minor and Major Services

A minor service typically involves a change of oil and oil filter, as well as some other smaller components being checked. A major service is much more exhaustive, and involves a thorough checklist. While most manufacturers state that a service should be done every 10,000 or 15,000 kilometres, these are not always major services. Some dealers normally only do a major service every second service.

Whether your service is a minor or major one, Pace Fleet will be able to help you! Our expert team are able to handle all of your service requirements. Give us a call on 021 386 2411 or email info@paceautoservices.co.za.