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Ararat Auto & Ag  Services take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times.

Conveniently located in Ararat , 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.

Ararat Auto & Ag  Services 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 ute or tractor is cranking slower than usual on a frosty Ararat morning, chances are your battery’s on the way out. Around here, winter mornings bite hard—and machinery that doesn’t start when you need it is more than just an inconvenience, it’s a setback. Victoria’s Western District isn’t easy on gear. Long drives, cold starts, hot summers, dust, and vibration from rural roads or paddock work can all shorten battery life. By the time winter rolls in, a tired battery might be one frosty morning away from quitting altogether—whether it’s in your daily driver or workhorse. At Ararat Auto & Ag Services, we look after more than just family cars. From paddock to pavement, we keep vehicles and farm equipment running reliably with fast battery testing and heavy-duty replacements you can count on. Common Signs Your Battery’s Struggling: Engine turns over slower than usual Headlights or cabin lights flicker or seem dim Battery warning or check engine light appears Power windows, central locking, or radio playing up Needed a jump-start recently Starting gets harder as temperatures drop Battery is older than 3 years or hasn’t been tested Why Locals Trust Ararat Auto & Ag Services When you bring your vehicle (or farm machine) to us for a battery check, you’ll get honest advice, practical service, and local know-how: Full load testing to check how your battery performs under real stress Terminal and cable inspection for corrosion or wear Straight answers—if the battery’s still good, we won’t upsell you We stock and fit tough batteries that suit passenger vehicles, 4WDs, utes, and agricultural machinery We’re here for working vehicles that need to perform—rain, frost, or shine. Don’t Let a Flat Battery Slow Down Your Day—or Delay the Work Whether you're heading into town, firing up the tractor, or getting ready for an early morning job, you need your gear to start without a fuss. Swing by Ararat Auto & Ag Services for a quick battery check, or book online and get ahead of winter problems before they start. Have more questions about your vehicles battery? How do I know if my battery is getting flat or low? The most obvious sign of a flat battery is when your car won't start, but modern motor vehicles can show symptoms like non-essential functions not operating correctly - things like idle stop-start function not working, or the car's air-conditioning not working effectively.
Other signs you might need a new car battery include: Vehicle is slow to start Engine won't start Dash Lights work, but engine won't start Constantly needing a jump start Film or corrosion on the battery Cracked swollen or leaky battery Rotten egg smell under the hood Do I need a new car battery? The most obvious sign of a flat battery is when your car won't start. Modern motor vehicles can show symptoms like the idle stop-start not working or the car's air-conditioning not working to full capacity.

Other signs include cracked, dirty or leaky batteries, a rotten egg smell under the hood of your car, or regularly needing a jump start or recharge. The best way to know if you need a new battery is to get a car battery test at Ararat Auto & Ag Services Does a flat battery use more fuel? Yes! When your car battery is running flat, the alternator works harder to recharge the battery. This added load on the engine means it burns more fuel. Where can I buy a new car battery? Come in and see us! As a Repco Authorised Service Centre, Ararat Auto & Ag Services have access to the highest quality batteries to suit most vehicles. Who can test my car battery? Ararat Auto & Ag Services can do a battery load test. Phone us or visit the workshop today. Why choose Ararat Auto & Ag Services for a battery test? If you have concerns about your vehicle's performance, it is wise to get your battery tested at a full-service workshop like Ararat Auto & Ag Services rather than at a parts store. That's because we take into consideration the whole vehicle and can diagnose any deeper issues. There is nothing worse than replacing your car battery only to find the problem actually lies elsewhere… except maybe being told your battery test is fine with no explanation for your ongoing issues! Can my car battery be recharged? Yes, in fact the battery is being recharged by the alternator in your car whenever the engine is running. Sometimes this fix isn't enough, and your battery requires an external recharge. It's best to ask the professionals like our team at Ararat Auto & Ag Services about this, as you could void the battery warranty by recharging it yourself. Sometimes external recharging is not the best option because every battery eventually reaches a point in its life where replacement is the only answer to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Can I fit my battery myself? The short answer is yes...But! Modern vehicles are “computers on wheels”, so if you decide to DIY you must follow proper installation procedures to avoid damaging the ECM (Engine Control Module) and TCM (Transmission Control Module). Plus, if the battery gets incorrectly installed, items like the radio, the navigation system and security codes may need to be professionally reset. Talk to Ararat Auto & Ag Services today. We can recommend the right battery for your needs and install it for you. 

Around here, winter mornings bite hard—and machinery that doesn’t start when you need it is more than just an inconvenience, it’s a setback.

Why Ararat Conditions Drain Your Battery Faster

Planning a road trip across Australia is one of the most exciting adventures you can have. Whether you’re cruising along the stunning coastline, winding through rugged outback roads, or exploring picturesque countryside, the journey itself is as rewarding as the destinations. But before hitting the open road, it’s essential to make sure your car is up to the task. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe trip, so you can focus on making memories instead of dealing with unexpected breakdowns.  Essential Car Checks Before Your Road Trip Before setting off on your adventure, it’s important to give your car a thorough once-over to ensure everything is in working order. Start by checking the tyre pressure, including the spare. Properly inflated tyres not only improve fuel efficiency but also ensure better handling and safety. Inspect the tyre treads for wear and look out for any visible damage, like cuts or bulges. Next, take a look at your oil levels. Low or dirty oil can cause engine problems, so make sure it’s topped up and clean. If it’s been a while since your last oil change, now is a great time to get it done. While under the hood, check the coolant levels to prevent overheating, especially if you’re traveling through hot or remote areas. Brakes are another critical component to examine. Pay attention to how they feel when you drive; if they seem unresponsive or make unusual noises, it’s best to have them inspected by a professional. Additionally, check all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Proper lighting is essential for safety, particularly during night driving or in low-visibility conditions. Finally, inspect your windshield wipers and top off the washer fluid. Clear visibility is key, especially when encountering rain or dust. These simple checks can save you from a lot of hassle and keep your journey safe and stress-free. Professional Car Servicing for a Safer Journey Ensuring your car is in peak condition before a road trip is not just about convenience; it’s about safety and peace of mind. Log book servicing and professional checks play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle reliable for the journey ahead. These services follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure all essential components of your car are inspected, maintained, and functioning as they should. Seeing the team at Ararat Auto & Ag Services for log book servicing and professional checks is a smart choice. Our expertise in Ararat means you’ll benefit from skilled professionals who know exactly what to look for and how to address potential issues before they become bigger problems. From checking the health of your engine and brakes to inspecting your vehicle’s suspension and electrical systems, they’ve got you covered. Professional servicing can also identify hidden problems that might not be obvious during a quick check at home. Whether it’s a worn-out belt, a failing battery, or a leak in your cooling system, catching these issues early can save you time, money, and stress during your trip. Trusting experienced technicians with your vehicle ensures nothing is overlooked, giving you the confidence to enjoy the open road without worrying about avoidable setbacks. The Importance of Routine Vehicle Maintenance Regular car maintenance is essential for both safety and optimal performance, particularly when preparing for a long road trip. Neglecting routine checks and services can lead to issues that not only disrupt your plans but also put you and your passengers at risk. By keeping your vehicle in top condition, you reduce the likelihood of unexpected problems and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Maintaining your car’s key systems—such as brakes, tyres, engine, and electrical components—helps to avoid sudden failures that could leave you stranded in unfamiliar or remote locations. For instance, worn-out brakes or underinflated tyres can compromise your ability to handle the vehicle safely, while a neglected engine might overheat or lose power when you need it most. Regular maintenance also enhances fuel efficiency, saving you money over the course of your trip. That’s where the team at our Ararat workshop comes in. Our professional expertise ensures every aspect of your car is thoroughly inspected and serviced to meet manufacturer standards. We can identify and fix potential issues before they escalate, from checking your battery health to ensuring your cooling system is functioning properly. With our support, you can drive with confidence, knowing your vehicle is fully prepared to handle the challenges of a long road trip. Investing time in regular maintenance doesn’t just protect your car—it protects your peace of mind. By addressing small problems early, you avoid the inconvenience and cost of major repairs down the line. Trust the team at Ararat Auto & Ag Services to keep your vehicle road-ready so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Ensure Your Car is Road-Trip Ready Preparing for a road trip isn’t just about planning your route or packing your bags—it’s about ensuring your car is ready to take on the journey. By making car checks and maintenance a priority, you not only reduce the risk of unexpected issues but also enhance the safety and comfort of your adventure. Taking these steps gives you the freedom to focus on the road ahead, creating memories without unnecessary interruptions. For peace of mind and expert care, visit the team at Ararat Auto & Ag Services in Ararat. Our professional services ensure your vehicle is in the best condition to tackle your trip, leaving no detail unchecked. Don’t leave your road trip to chance—let the experts handle your car’s preparation so you can enjoy every moment of your journey with confidence. Safe travels!

Before hitting the open road, it’s essential to make sure your car is up to the task. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe trip, so you can focus on making memories instead of dealing with unexpected breakdowns.

Preparing Your Car for the Ultimate Adventure

Ararat Auto & Ag Services (AU36847) are the smart choice to take charge of all your Automotive Air Conditioning Regas, Servicing, Repair or Inspection needs in Ararat and the surrounding areas. Todays cars can be very complex and just like the engine a vehicle's air conditioner has components that need to be serviced or replaced on a regular basis to ensure continued reliable and efficient operation. Is keeping your cool costing you fuel? Leaks and evaporation may reduce the refrigerant levels over time meaning your air con system will begin to deteriorate and will have to work harder, which in turn means more fuel is being burned. Therefore it is important that the rubber seals are regularly examined for any signs of leaks or weakness which may point to a loss of refrigerant. Having your car's air conditioning serviced every 12 months means you generally assist protection from costly breakdowns now and in the future, keep passengers safe by helping to prevent the build-up of potentially harmful substances and a well serviced vehicle air conditioning system actually saves you money because it expends less fuel. Ararat Auto & Ag Services care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation (AU36847) to reliably and responsibly conduct vehicle air conditioning regas, servicing, repair or inspection. Book your car air conditioning service today! Car Air Conditioning FAQ How do air conditioners work? A car air conditioner system is composed of four essential parts : A belt-driven pump known as a compressor to compress and circulate gas. A radiator like unit called a condenser to redistribute heat and condense gas to a liquid. An expansion device, which could be a thermal expansion valve (TXV) or an orifice tube (subject to the kind of air-con system used). Some systems have an accumulator before the compressor to remove moisture from the refrigerant while TXV systems have a receiver-dryer before the evaporator performs the same crucial task. Both of these parts also store refrigerant. Car air conditioning is designed to pull the heat from the air within the car's interior area and transfer it outside, leaving only cooled or 'conditioned' air to be redistributed. Hot air is passed across a gas-filled evaporator, where the heat is easily absorbed by the refrigerant (in gas form), effectively removing the heat from the air in the car. The now heated gas is pulled through the compressor where it is further heated (via compression). The next stage involves the refrigerant being forced through the condenser to extract the refrigerant's heat quickly. The refrigerant, now condensed to a liquid, then moves through the expansion device (either a TXV or Orifice tube), which regulates the refrigerant's flow to the evaporator, changing the high-pressure liquid to a low-pressure mist (gas). A fan blowing over the evaporator's cold fins produces the cold air being blown into the car, and the entire process then begins all over again. Does the car air conditioner use more fuel? Yes! Your car air conditioning is using fuel. However, it's actually more fuel efficient to run car air conditioning than it is to have your windows down due to aerodynamic drag. If your air conditioning isn't performing its best, it may use more fuel to run. To avoid this, it's important that you have your air conditioning serviced regularly by professionals, like the ones at Ararat Auto & Ag Services.  What's the cause of the bad smell in car air conditioning? The damp environment can promote microbes, bacteria and even fungus growth inside the evaporator core. This can lead to nasty smells and possibly even be bad for the health of any vehicle occupants. Although modern evaporator units tend to be more efficient, they have more fins, meaning an increased capability to trap moisture and allow for micro-organism development. How do I know my car air conditioning is due for a service? If you cannot remember when your air conditioning was last serviced, perhaps it's time to book in with the team at Ararat Auto & Ag Services. You should also book in if: Your air conditioning system is blowing warm air There are damp patches or water stains under your dashboard Your car air conditioning system smells funny Your car air conditioning system is making strange noises There is weak air flow from the car air conditioning system Why does the car air conditioner need to be serviced? Car air conditioning is designed to pull the heat from the air within the interior area of the car outside, leaving only cooled or 'conditioned' air to be redistributed. This is achieved using a special compound called refrigerant, capable of readily absorbing heat as a gas and quickly losing heat as a liquid. The compressor needs the right amount of oil in the refrigerant to prevent it from seizing up. Should the air filters be jammed with dirt and bacteria, it will affect the entire system's performance, and it can even cause it to stop working altogether. On top of inhibiting air conditioner efficiency, dirty air filters can cause health problems. Being exposed to the elements and very diverse operating conditions and being used intermittently rather than being 'Always On' can cause decay of the hoses, connections and seals. A vehicle air conditioning system should be examined regularly to ensure there are no problems or refrigerant loss due to failure or leakage from these points. Simply by cooling the air in your car under normal running conditions, the air filters get dirty and intermittent use can cause seals to dry and crack, allowing them to leak. Even without leaks, the gas in a car air conditioning system will eventually begin to degrade or evaporate over time. It should be recharged as required to keep the air con system in peak running condition. How often should a car air conditioner be serviced? Your automotive air conditioning system needs to be examined once a year for any signs of problems with the seals, hoses and connections and confirm there is no refrigerant reduction over time. Regularly servicing your automotive air conditioner system keeps refrigerant at optimum levels meaning the system does not need to work as hard. This, in turn, protects the system from damage and minimises fuel expenditure. Can I service my own car air conditioner? Only qualified mechanics with the appropriate training, like the ones at Ararat Auto & Ag Services, should attempt to service a car air conditioner. Specific licences are required to service or repair some types of car air conditioning systems, especially where re-gas (recharging of the refrigerant) is concerned. Strict guidelines and procedures must be adhered to when handling certain refrigerants, which must always be fully recovered and not allowed to escape into the atmosphere during servicing. Refrigerant can also pose serious health risks if mishandled. Specialist equipment is also required as the air conditioning system is under extreme pressure and must be pulled into a deep vacuum to remove any moisture, to avoid seriously damaging the system. You can find out more about licensing on the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) Website.

ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing Reduces Fuel Costs and Protects Your Health. So keep your cool with less fuel this summer with an Air Conditioning Service in Ararat from Ararat Auto & Ag Services (AU36847)…

Car air conditioning service in Ararat

Whether it’s a breakdown or the need for vehicle relocation, Ararat Auto & Ag Services is ready to respond with professionalism and speed. Operating a 12-tonne, 6.8-metre tilt tray, they are well-equipped to handle a broad array of vehicles, machinery, and other items that require secure and efficient transportation. This capability is especially crucial in an area like Victoria's mid-west, where access to reliable tilt tray services can mean the difference between timely project progress or unwelcome delays. Recognising the stress and inconvenience that can accompany vehicle transportation needs, our team is committed to providing a smooth, transparent, and friendly service from start to finish. Quick to respond and eager to assist, we encourage potential customers to reach out with any queries or to discuss specific requirements. Ararat Auto & Ag Services stands out as a premier provider of tilt tray services in Victoria. Our combination of powerful equipment, regional knowledge, and commitment to customer satisfaction positions them as an ideal partner for all your vehicle transportation needs.  If you’re in the Ararat district or Victoria’s mid-west and find yourself in need of tilt tray services, consider Ararat Auto & Ag Services as your first port of call!

Whether it’s a breakdown or the need for vehicle relocation, Ararat Auto & Ag Services is ready to respond with professionalism and speed.

Premium Tilt Tray Services in Ararat

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, Ararat Auto & Ag Services to service and repair your vehicle. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, Ararat Auto & Ag Services 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 Ararat 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.

Ararat Auto & Ag Services

Cars are our passion.

Why Ararat Conditions Drain Your Battery Faster

Preparing Your Car for the Ultimate Adventure

Car air conditioning service in Ararat

Premium Tilt Tray Services in Ararat

There's a new gas in town

Ararat Auto & Ag Services - Our expertise & knowledge