Burnside Motors roars back to life
Thousands of drivers returned to the streets this month and it seems many went straight to Burnside Motors, which has spent a busy few weeks helping people catch up on servicing and repairs for safe winter motoring.
Burnside Motors relocated to 578 Wairakei Rd last October, and while its new home is just down the road from the former workshop, it provides much easier access to the city’s arterial routes.
This is making the workshop an attractive option for 4WD and racing enthusiasts heading in for the specialist support on offer. They join a growing number of family drivers popping in, and business owners with fleets to be serviced.
Nathan says with icy roads not far off, it is time to make sure tyres are in good condition, lights are working properly and engines have quality antifreeze.
‘‘Anyone can stop by for a free tyre check. If your tread isn’t deep enough, it’s a very good idea to find out before you go skating across a road one morning. Since the 12-month warrants of fitness came into effect, it’s become much more common to see people with frighteningly little tread.
‘‘We can offer a quick fix for tyres, along with any repairs you may need. We’ve also got a good range of snow chains in stock, in both the ladder and diamond styles,’’ Nathan says.
In recent years, Burnside Motors has gained a reputation for its skill working on off-road suspensions and race cars, having already honed its support for the typical A-to-B driver.
Servicing options reflect this balance of in-house expertise and simplicity for drivers.
Nathan says many people understand very little about their vehicles, which is fine; Burnside Motors can handle all the details.
But for people who want a better idea of how their car is faring, a servicing option has been developed that gives a full check and report but only replaces parts and fluids when already agreed. This is the ‘‘standard’’ option.
‘‘Elite’’ servicing automatically changes a variety parts and fluids to ensure performance whether or not the change was absolutely necessary – a peace of mind approach – while the ‘‘economy’’ service focuses on an oil and filter change.
‘‘The options let people choose the support that suits them. We do everything here but this is one way you can get a bit of extra control.
‘‘We’re a friendly bunch, too, so it’s always easy to have a chat and learn more,’’ Nathan says.
He notes that autumn and winter driving pose challenges of their own, particularly around visibility, road grip and battery strength in the cold. But some aspects of a servicing are important in all seasons.
Transmissions, for example, require a periodic flush and refill, or a small job can become a major repair. Coolant is also important year-round for preventing rust.