Your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them one of the most critical safety components. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we help drivers understand how tyres work, why maintenance matters, and how the right tyres can improve safety, fuel efficiency, and driving comfort across Australian conditions.

Tyres generate grip through a combination of rubber compound, tread design, and road contact pressure. As your vehicle moves, the tyre’s rubber slightly deforms and “keys” into the microscopic texture of the road surface. This interaction creates friction, allowing your car to accelerate, brake, and corner safely.

Modern tyres are engineered to balance grip and durability. Softer compounds offer better traction but wear faster, while harder compounds last longer but may sacrifice some grip—particularly in wet or cold conditions. Tread patterns also play a vital role, helping to channel water away and maintain consistent road contact.

Tyre tread is designed to disperse water from beneath the tyre. When tread becomes worn, it loses its ability to move water efficiently. This can lead to aquaplaning, where a layer of water builds between the tyre and the road surface, causing a sudden loss of steering and braking control.

Why Tyre Tread Matters – Preventing Aquaplaning

Once traction returns, you can gradually regain control. Regular tyre inspections at Approved Automotive Services in Newton help reduce the risk of this dangerous situation.

Ignoring these signs can affect not just your tyres, but also your suspension, steering, and braking systems.

As a trusted, independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Approved Automotive Services in Newton offers a complete tyre solution for:

Professional Tyre Services at Approved Automotive Services

We are proud agents for Kumho Tyres, known for their balance of performance and value, and we can also source a wide range of other leading brands to suit your vehicle and budget.

Regular tyre rotations and alignments are essential to extend tyre life and maintain safe handling—especially on Australia’s varied road surfaces.

Check tyre pressure monthly (including the spare)

Avoid harsh braking and aggressive cornering

When it comes to tyre safety, performance, and value, trust the experienced team at Approved Automotive Services. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we combine expert advice, quality products like Kumho Tyres and professional in-house services to keep you safely on the road.

Expert tyre fitting, Kumho tyres, wheel alignments & balancing in Newton. Trust Approved Automotive Services for safer driving, better grip & longer tyre life.

Tyres, Wheel Alignments & Fitting in Newton | Approved Automotive Services

Grip You Can Trust: Understanding Tyre Performance & Safety

Drive Safer this Winter with a 65 Point Written Vehicle Inspection Report from Approved Automotive Services. Book your inspection today!

Our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report is free with every service at Approved Automotive Services in Newton. Our qualified mechanics will visually check over the important components of your vehicle and provide you with a written report on the condition of your vehicle. We can then help you understand any concerns which may need to be attended so that you can drive safe this winter with Approved Automotive Services and Repco Authorised Service.

Don't you hate that moment when you switch on the wipers at the first spot of rain and suddenly remember you haven't checked them in months! Wiper blades don't last forever, especially sitting under the harsh Australian sun all summer. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Approved Automotive Services can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Fluids and other mechanisms in your car can be impacted by cold weather; such as coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. Regular services are important - especially by an expert who understands the correct products and parts to keep your car in peak operating condition. We use high quality NGK glow plugs and Penrite oils and fluids that are designed for Australian conditions.  

Always remember to drive to your conditions. Slow down in wet weather or poor visibility and leave a larger than normal stopping distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Drive on the safe side and book in today for a service or a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report.

Change in Weather - Drive to the Conditions

There are signs that your brakes need inspecting, including vibrating, spongy or slow responding brake pedal, strange sounds or difficult handling when applying pressure to your brakes. If your car is doing any of these it's best to have a qualified mechanic check it out. Brake inspections form part of our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report, so if you have concerns call us today and book in.

Brake Maintenance - Could you stop in time?

It's dangerous to drive on worn or incorrectly inflated tyres. Now is the time to check how worn your tyres are. If you spot uneven tyre wear, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below: 

Driving on tyres that are incorrectly inflated won't just cost you money on additional fuel; it can also impact your braking ability. You can usually find manufacturers recommendations on a panel inside the driver side door.

Approved Automotive Services has a state of the art Safe T Stop machine that can accurately test for shocker and brake wear and tear and provide you with a detailed report on the state of your vehicles ability to stop in an emergency. Call us today to book in for a Safe T Stop test.

Approved Automotive Services suggests to always remember to drive to your conditions. Slow down in wet weather or poor visibility and leave a larger than normal stopping distance...

Want some tips to help you drive safe this winter?

Whether you're a new diesel vehicle owner in Newton or a seasoned petrol vehicle driver contemplating a switch, knowing the difference between the maintenance requirements of petrol and diesel engines is crucial. While both types of engines ultimately propel your vehicle forward, the way they do so, and hence their servicing and repair needs, significantly differ. Approved Automotive Services stands ready to assist you with specialised services for diesel engines, but let’s first delve into what sets diesel engine maintenance apart from its petrol counterpart.

Understanding the Differences Between Petrol and Diesel Engine Services and Repairs

Petrol and diesel engines both operate on the internal combustion principle but do so in distinctly different ways. Petrol engines use spark plugs for the ignition of the air-fuel mixture, whereas diesel engines rely on compression ignition—a process that does not require spark plugs. This fundamental difference influences the design, efficiency, and maintenance requirements of the engines.

Generally, diesel engines are built to last longer and are more robust due to their heavy-duty construction, which is necessary to withstand high compression ratios. As a result, they often have longer service intervals compared to petrol engines. However, when diesel engines do require repairs, they can be more complex and, potentially, more expensive. This is partly because diesel engines have additional components like the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems that help reduce emissions but can develop issues or clogs if not properly maintained.

Oil and Filter Changes: While both engine types require regular oil and filter changes, diesel engines can generate more soot and contaminants that end up in the oil. This makes the quality and regular changing of oil and oil filters even more critical in diesel engines.

Air and Fuel Filters: Diesel engines are more sensitive to dirt and debris, which means their air and fuel filters often need more frequent checks and replacements.

Brakes Check: Though checking brakes is standard for any vehicle, diesel vehicles, particularly those used for towing or heavy loads, might see more brake wear due to the additional weight and torque.

DPF and EGR Systems: Exclusive to diesel engines, these emission control systems require regular checks and maintenance to prevent performance issues. The DPF, for example, needs to undergo a process called 'regeneration' to clear built-up soot, which can be managed through regular servicing.

The nuances of diesel engine maintenance underscore the importance of choosing a service provider like Approved Automotive Services that specialises in diesel engines. Technicians with specific training in diesel vehicles understand the intricate differences between diesel and petrol engine management and are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and resolve the unique issues diesel engines can face.

Why Choose Specialists for Diesel Repairs?

Whether you’re needing routine service, such as changing your diesel engine’s oil, air, or fuel filters, or more specialised care for your DPF or EGR systems, opting for specialists in Newton can ensure that your vehicle maintains its performance and longevity.

So now you see that while both petrol and diesel engines serve the same purpose, the differences in their operation and maintenance needs are significant. Owners of diesel vehicles should be mindful of these differences and choose a knowledgeable and experienced service provider for their diesel engine needs. By doing so, they can ensure that their vehicle runs optimally, and potential issues are addressed before they become costly repairs. For residents in Newton and surrounding suburbs, Approved Automotive Services offers comprehensive diesel services tailored to meet these specialised needs.

Discover the key differences in servicing diesel vs petrol engines and why choosing the diesel specialists Approved Automotive Services in Newton can extend your vehicle's lifespan.

Understand Diesel vs Petrol Maintenance - What's the Difference?

Diesel Servicing - What's the difference?

Many people underestimate how important theirs car suspension system really is. The suspension in your vehicle is not just there to make your ride less bumpy like some people believe – it is also a major component in the overall safety of your vehicle, including how well it stops and handles on the road.

The suspension system is basically made up of four components :

Struts - provide structural support for the vehicle's suspension as well as some shock dampening

Shock absorbers – simply put – they control the up-and-down motion of your car and keep your tyres in contact with the ground at all times but really are an important safety feature

Springs – support the weight of your car and allow the body of your car to remain stable while the suspension helps the wheels hug the road.

Tyres – your tyres need to work with the rest of the system correctly to maintain safe driving behaviour of your vehicle

All of these components work in conjunction with each other and are vital for the on road safety of your vehicle.

At 50kmh one single worn shock absorber can add 2 metres of stopping difference to a braking vehicle – and that could mean the difference between life and death in an extreme situation.

Where you drive, how you drive, and the loads you carry can all impact on shock absorber life and the condition of the suspension system - so there is no hard and fast answer to the question “ when should I have my suspension system checked”.  Repco Authorised Service recommend that you have a trained specialist inspect your shock absorbers for signs of wear every 20,000km.

Approved Automotive Services are experts at suspension systems for all makes and models, and can diagnose and fix problems of all kinds, from the well documented motion sickness caused by the rear suspension problems in VE commodores through to elusive rattles and shakes that other mechanics just can’t seem to find.

Call us at Approved Automotive Services today to discuss your Car suspension needs or issues and our friendly staff will be happy to help.

What is a Suspension System? Approved Automotive Services explains it parts and importance in your car for a smooth ride.

Suspension Service and Repairs in Newton

Approved Automotive Services are proud to be a Repco Authorised Service centre, confirming our dedication to professionalism, customer service and high quality workmanship.

Approved Automotive Services has been operating in Newton and is independently owned by Auto Technician Sam Covino, who has been in the Industry since 1998 and has extensive experience in the Automotive Service and Repairs. The car repair business has been established in the same location since 1998 and employs 4 full time mechanics with collective staff experience for over 50 years. 

Our Newton car service workshop exceeds industry standards required to service and maintain modern motor vehicles. We are equipped to perform all repairs on every make and model of motor vehicle including brakes, clutches, gearboxes, differentials, auto electrical systems, scratch and dent repairs and more.

We provide reliable no obligation, free estimates on your air-con, car maintenance, log book service and new car service.

We also offer the following car services and automotive repairs:

Future Servicing Today - Hybrid Car Service

Future servicing today is what we are all about at Approved Automotive Services and have been for many years. In fact, for almost fifty years Approved Automotive technicians have been servicing new cars in Newton, consistently the newest models with the latest innovations.

Approved Automotive Services have always expertly serviced these new cars, using the latest equipment and with constant training to keep in front of advancing technology. We regularly update our diagnostic and maintenance tools to modern engineering instruments and our team of mechanics have more than sixty years of experience servicing and repairing vehicles.

Our continuous training through Repco Auto Tech, e-training and in house training has enabled us to be ahead of the rest. Our technicians are accredited for Hybrid and modern Diesel servicing. Click here to find out more about hybrid service.

With our own in-house training and company Hybrid vehicles we have gained first hand knowledge and experience for future servicing. Our technicians are eager to tackle any modern car issue and are backed by the knowledge and experience of the Nationwide Repco network.

Approved Automotive Services care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU49833). ARC Approved Car Air Conditioning Servicing reduces Fuel Costs and protects your health. The ARC Tick of approval helps ensure technicians have the skills and knowledge to correctly undertake service and repairs of refrigerated air conditioning to minimise environmental impact. Call to find out more about car air conditioning or Book a service now.

We are proud to be a Kumho Tyre Dealer and have a dedicated Tyre Bay to assist you will all your tyre and wheel needs. Wheel alignments, balancing, rotation, fitting and repairs.

Approved Automotive Services workshop mechanics specialise in servicing European auto brands and repairs for BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen, Audi and all luxury and premium vehicles. Our technicians have access to the latest diagnostic equipment for European, modern and classic vehicles, including your car! Approved Automotive Services has a commitment to high quality workmanship, providing the very best in auto repairs in Adelaide.

If you are concerned about preserving your new car's statutory warranty but also want to obtain expert service at competitive rates, Approved Automotive Services is the car service workshop for you. You can rely on us to use quality Repco parts, fitted in accordance with correct industry standards. We will validate your logbook and provide you with a full inspection report. Now, that's peace of mind.

As a Repco Authorised Car Service centre, Approved Automotive Services have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care. Being a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program our business ensures each mechanic is kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. Our fully qualified log book servicing ensures your car is in safe hands, and we provide quality car service and repairs on all models, including Four Wheel Drive, Hybrid, European and Diesel vehicles. You can be sure that your car is in safe hands with Approved Automotive Services Professionals.

Our mechanic workshop in Newton, South Australia, is open 5 days a week. For your convenience we offer a Free pick-up and delivery service for you or your vehicle from home or work. Courtesy cars are also available with prior booking. Our 5 Star Customer care includes a car wash, vac and fragrance and 6 months roadside assist. We provide personalised, friendly and informative customer service and quality automotive repairs for every car, every day.

You will find the best level of customer service from the friendly specialists at Approved Automotive Services in Newton SA. We specialise in wheel alignments and emission / performance maintenance as well as Hybrid and modern Diesel car maintenance. We can also service your 4x4 vehicle or your brand new car, at the same time we will make sure the manufacturer's requirements are adhered to. Your warranty is preserved while we carry out your car maker's scheduled services and stamp your service book.

Every vehicle that enters the workshop has a Safe-T-Stop Platetronic test, a drive on modern test platform which allows us to test for potentially unsafe conditions of your vehicle's brakes, suspension and shockers. We can also perform live wheel alignment conditions, measuring the drag of your vehicles tyre's while driving on the road. A printed result reporting your vehicles crucial components is supplied and clearly explained to give you full confidence when driving your family and friends in your car.

Servicing your car at Approved Automotive Services regularly will help identify potentially dangerous wear on the vital suspension, steering and braking elements in your vehicle, preventing mechanic failure and protecting yourself and your family. Approved Automotive Services will have your car serviced and back on the road safely and promptly.

Approved Automotive Services is a member of lnstitute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers,  Motor Trade Association of South Australia and are an RAA Approved Mechanical Repairer and a RAA Approved Wheel Alignment Specialist. Our Newton workshop meets the high standards set by these motoring organisations in terms of equipment, competency and quality of service.

Approved Automotive Services offer a very competitive automotive maintenance and repair service plus a Nationwide Warranty.

Visit your local Mechanic in Newton, Approved Automotive Services for personalised, friendly and informative car service and automotive repairs.

As your local Mechanic in Newton, we take great pride in offering our clients the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs. We also offer an Automotive Scratch & Dent Repair service.

Automotive Servicing and Repairs in Newton

Your trusted local Automotive Technicians in Newton

At Approved Automotive Services in Newton we take your safety very seriously. 

Find your car rocking and rolling when you corner or not braking the way it used to? 

Your car's braking and suspension play a vital role in making sure that your car stops quickly and safely. Here at Approved Automotive Services in Newton we take your safety very seriously. This is why we have invested in a state of the art Safe-T-Stop testing machine and we are an approved Safe-T-Stop Testing Centre.

You can trust your family's safety to a Safe-T-Stop test.. It provides an added safety inspection that goes well beyond a standard check and road test to scientifically test your braking capacity and ensure maximum stopping performance.

A Safe-T-Stop test is carried out on the electronically accurate PlateTronic test equipment. Safe-T-Stop test lanes measure and simulate a vehicle's brake performance in real-life conditions, without even leaving the workshop.

Along with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your car will stop straight and in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, having your braking and suspension system in peak operating condition will also save you money by minimising tyre drag and tyre wear which can increase fuel costs.

A Safe-T-Stop check will give you a precise and detailed printed report that will enable the qualified technicians at Approved Automotive Services to advise you on any critical adjustments that should be made.

Book your Safe-T-Stop test online or call Approved Automotive Services today.

Safe-T-Stop - Committed to Safer Motoring

 Find out more about Safe-T-Stop Testing at http://www.safetstop.com.au

At Approved Automotive Services in Newton we take your safety very seriously so if you find your car rocking and rolling when you corner or not braking the way it used to call us straight away to book in a test.

Safe-T-Stop Brake tesing in Newton

Proper brake upkeep is essential; it entails more than waiting until repairs are necessary or discovering they are inadequate for safely halting your vehicle during an emergency.

Approved Automotive Services is certified to carry out an extensive array of brake services and repairs using high-quality components, all backed by our nationwide warranty. 

While many people think of brake repairs as the key to road safety, focusing on regular brake maintenance is crucial for your overall protection. Ensuring your brakes are maintained means not waiting until they need fixing but having them checked consistently to avoid unforeseen issues that could compromise your ability to stop safely and efficiently when required.

Neglected brakes may develop problems that impair your capacity to stop quickly and securely, especially during emergencies—endangering lives. Routine brake maintenance enables you to be confident that your brakes will function properly when you need them most.

When it comes to Brake Maintenance, taking risks is never advisable. If you are unsure whether your brake maintenance is impeccable, contact a professional like Approved Automotive Services without hesitation. After all, what could be more important than ensuring your safety?

It is crucial to note that unusual brake noises are not merely a result of normal wear and tear; any strange sounds in your car should always be examined by a qualified professional mechanic.

Your brake pads are a fundamental component of your braking system and should never be neglected. Brake pads press against your brake rotors to generate friction, which is what brings your car to a stop. This means that every time you stop, your brake pads undergo significant stress. The immense force needed to halt a moving vehicle generates a considerable amount of heat, gradually wearing down the brake pads. Therefore, regular inspection and replacement of your brake pads are essential aspects of good brake maintenance practices.

Squealing brakes typically signal that your brake pads are wearing thin. High-quality brake pads often include a small metal piece embedded within them, designed to scratch the disc when the pads are worn, causing that high-pitched noise. However, it is not advisable to wait until you hear these noises to get your pads checked. We recommend having your brakes inspected during every service.

Brake pads can last anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 kilometres, depending on various factors such as driving conditions, style, and the regularity of carrying heavy loads. If your brake pads are wearing out prematurely, your mechanic might recommend using a heat-resistant or more durable brake pad suited to your vehicle.

At Approved Automotive Services we provide a complimentary 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection Report, we assess the brake pads for wear and inform you if they need replacing. We can also advise on the most suitable pad for your environment and driving habits.

Brake fluid is crucial as it supplies the pressure needed by the brake pads to stop your car. It also helps extend the lifespan of various brake components by preventing corrosion. While most people are aware that it is vital to keep the brake fluid level topped up, many do not realise that the entire system should also be flushed regularly to replace old brake fluid and prevent excessive moisture accumulation.

Regularly checking your brake fluid's colour is sensible, but do not rely solely on it to determine the fluid's condition. Clean-looking fluid does not necessarily mean it is in good shape. Moisture can accumulate in the brake fluid and is not always apparent through visual inspection. Moisture in the fluid increases the risk of it boiling, which could result in a loss of braking pressure. Only a professional boiling point test can accurately determine the moisture content in your brake fluid.

A brake fluid flush can be conducted as part of a scheduled service, but occasionally, we may recommend one outside of the regular schedule if we deem it necessary. We are always willing to discuss our reasons with you.

We provide a Free Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection Report, we examine the brake pads for wear and inform you if they need replacement. We can also recommend the most suitable pad for your driving style and conditions.

We service various brake components, including:

Some things are best left to the experts like Approved Automotive Services and this is one of them. You should never let anyone but a qualified professional like Approved Automotive Services touch something as key to your safety as your braking system...

Brake pad replacements and servicing in Newton

Kumho Tyre Dealer with a dedicated Tyre Bay

Get your tyres and wheels balanced, fitted, inspected and replaced by the professionals at Approved Automotive Services. Keep your car running safe and smooth!

If you're heading out on a road trip to and from Adelaide, then keeping an eye on your tyres should be top of your list! Make sure you give them a check over regularly, as they take a bit of a battering on long trips. That way, you can make sure they're in tip top condition and ready to perform at their best.

At Approved Automotive Services, we get great pleasure from offering our customers a wide selection of tyre services. From a simple visual check to fitting new tyres and making sure the wheel alignment is exact, we guarantee that you're all set and safe for whatever trip you have planned. Plus, when you bring your car to us, we can tell you what needs fixing and make sure your tyres are in line with the law.

Regular servicing will keep tabs on your tyre condition and is also a good opportunity to have wheel alignments and wheel balances performed. They are relatively low cost and can greatly improve your driving experience. 

Approved Automotive Services has expertise in taking care of tyres and its related parts, and can help you make an informed decision on which tyres best fit your car. To maintain proper handling, new tyres, wheel alignment, and wheel balance all have to work in tandem.

For all your Tyre needs - fitting, rotation, repairs, alignment and balancing contact Approved Automotive Services for the best tyre service in town.

Tyres Sales & Service in Newton

AAAA

Approved Automotive Services take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Newton, 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. 

Approved Automotive 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.

Approved Automotive Services

Tyres Sales & Service

Kumho Tyre Dealer with a dedicated Tyre Bay

Get your tyres and wheels balanced, fitted, inspected and replaced by the professionals at Approved Automotive Services. Keep your car running safe and smooth!

Let's get started with your booking.

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Grip You Can Trust: Understanding Tyre Performance & Safety

Drive Safely This Winter

Diesel Servicing - What's the difference?

What is a Suspension System?

Your trusted local Automotive Technicians in Newton

Safe-T-Stop Brake testing

What is stopping you in an emergency?