Tim Thomas, an engine and gearbox specialist from Rusden Europro Automotive, one of Canberra’s most recommended mechanics. Photo: Rusden Europro Automotive.
While many of us drive cars; few are adept at anything more than a quick refuel or tyre inflation. Indeed, when most of us peer under a bonnet much of the mechanical wizardry is a complete mystery. And now, as we move closer to fully electric cars, the sheer sophistication and level of automation is astounding.
So, when it comes to maintaining our cars a professional service at the hands of skilled technicians is most certainly the way to go. In their simplest form, automotive service centres provide specialised mechanical care to keep your car running in peak condition.
They examine, test, and assess vehicles at regular intervals, adjusting to improve performance as needed. Whether your needs are set servicing linked to timed or clocked kilometres, or a roadworthy issue that has popped up in between, finding a good car service centre is crucial.
With so many makes and models on the market, each requires specialised training and experienced technical know-how.
We’ve done some leg work and have rounded up the best car service centres that Canberra has to offer.
What makes a great car service centre?
Great car service centres make light work of your vehicle repairs and maintenance. They are dependable, professional, and diligent mechanical mavens, that keep your wheels turning safely on the road. To ensure your car is handled by an experienced technician, we suggest you consider the following:
- Qualified, experienced, and specialised. The best mechanics boast years of experience, the right qualifications, and a specialisation or two. At a minimum, your local service centre mechanical team should all hold a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Many centres will also boast additional training specific to certain automotive models. There are many different car varieties – diesel, 4WD, European – so ensure they specialise in your type of car before booking. For added peace of mind look for car service centres that are members of an industry associations such as the Motor Trade Association of the ACT. Finally, check that your mechanic is an Authorised Examiner and that the centre is noted as an Approved Inspection Station as issued by Access Canberra.
- Reputable & recommended. When it comes to cars; we have all heard tales of the proverbial lemon. Finding a reputable and recommended service centre is akin to seeking a credible car. It needs to be trustworthy, have built a reputation worth hearing about, and offer service in spades. Often, one of the best ways to land a good car servicing experience is to choose a centre that comes recommended. A personal or professional recommendation offers valuable peace of mind that they have been trusted by a family or friend.
- Extensive services. Any service centre you choose to work with should be capable of working through your vehicle’s needs from top to bottom. Review all services offered by each centre and consider whether they are extensive enough to address your needs. Finding a centre that can take care of maintenance, repairs, and even upgrades, will be more manageable in the long run. There is a lot to be said for convenience particularly when you consider the length of tenure with your car.
- Guaranteed. The best car service centres will happily provide a guarantee on their service. For most, this guarantee includes both parts, and labour. Indeed, genuine parts will typically carry their own warranty period, but will fall short without quality installation. Always enquire about service guarantees offered; being sure you understand terms and the steps in which to make a claim.
- Customer first. While planned regular maintenance can easily be scheduled, unforeseen issues can require urgent attention with a moment notice. And when unplanned disaster strikes, having a customer centric service centre on your side makes the world of difference. The best car service centres are there when you need them most. They welcome the panicked call, the drop in, and the challenge of the unknown. Not only do they find a way to accommodate your needs; they do so promptly. They clearly outline the issues, provide options, and adhere to timeframes. The best will even offer a complimentary hire cars, so you can run around town whilst your own car is being looked after.
The best car service centres in Canberra.
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Canberra Toyota
Since their establishment in 1988; Canberra Toyota have become as synonymous as the local automotive landscape itself. With four convenient locations in Gungahlin, Fyshwick, Belconnen, and Phillip, they are well regarded as service centres of choice for many Canberrans.
When it comes to servicing capability, Canberra Toyota can handle fuel injectors through to wheel alignments and more. The team can also execute mechanical, electrical, and air conditioning repairs as needed.
What really sets the team apart is the model-by-model knowledge held by their Toyota-trained technicians. They have an innate knowledge of Toyota vehicles, specialist diagnostic equipment, and the latest technical updates direct from the factory.
The highly skilled team at Canberra Toyota can also provide a range of ancillary services including safety vehicle inspections, registration inspections, and express maintenance. They also stock an extensive range of genuine parts and accessories.
To schedule your next service with Canberra Toyota, contact one of their stores or book online.
Vikki Lawrence shared her experience with the team on Facebook, “Staff are always very polite. The mechanics are very thorough with going over the car. And I always get it back sparkly clean, vacuumed and smelling sweet.”
Subaru Canberra
Conveniently and centrally located in Phillip, Subaru Canberra have been the number one choice for servicing Subaru vehicles for over twenty years.
Their consistent levels of superior service are testament to their high standards, with all technicians trained for strict adherence to factory maintenance schedules. Each scheduled service includes a top-up of oil, fluids, and coolant, along with a check on hoses, belts, tyres, and brake pads to monitor for deterioration and ensure safety on the road.
Subaru Canberra’s service workshop boasts the most up to date equipment and has been purpose built to support the Subaru maintenance program. This combination of product expertise and market leading facilities allows customers to extract the best performance from their Subaru vehicles.
What’s more, Subaru Canberra also guarantees the quality of their workmanship, and supports their ethos on quality by fitting genuine Subaru parts. And, for new vehicle purchases their 5-year servicing program ensures customers receive set prices for each service under the program.
To make the service experience even more seamless, Subaru Canberra welcome customers to enjoy their lounge area and complimentary tea and coffee while vehicles are being serviced. For those who prefer, their courtesy transportation service can pick up or drop off to nearby locations as needed.
Craig Harvey shared this review on Google, “Great service department with good communication.”
Phillip ACT 2606
Rusden Europro Automotive
The motor vehicle specialists and transmission specialists at Rusden Europro Automotive have been operating for more than 30 years. Its suite of services include mechanic repairs, automotive services, vehicle inspections, vehicle upgrades, tyres, and plasti dip paint. Located centrally in Fyshwick, this car service centre provides courtesy, pick-up and delivery services. Mechanics and technicians are fully qualified and the team includes an ACT Roadworthy Authority Inspector, engine and gearbox specialist, and a gas and electrician specialist. Rusden Europro Automotive is open six days a week and offers free quotes.
As Tony Zhong wrote on Google, “Always get my cars serviced or repaired there. Fair price and detailed explanation on the items done. I have recommended the team to many friends and they never disappoint me.”
Fyshwick ACT 2609
Lexus of Canberra
After first opening their doors over thirty years ago, Lexus of Canberra is home to a beautiful automotive showroom and maintenance facility, making it the service centre of choice for many astute Lexus owners.
Boasting a team of specialised Lexus-trained technicians, the centre carries the full suite of diagnostic equipment designed to read and manage in-car computing and automation systems.
Importantly, technicians are kept abreast of the latest advances in Lexus technology, ensuring a comprehensive model-by-model knowledge base. And should the need arise to replace a component or two, Lexus of Canberra stocks genuine Lexus parts that integrate into existing motors with ease.
As for service, Lexus of Canberra embodies their heritage by embracing omotenashi; the spirit of Japanese hospitality; with pride. Applications of this are the Lexus Encore and DriveCare programs, which valued client benefits including capped price servicing, breakdown assistance and towing.
Lexus of Canberra also offers a Lexus loan car or convenient pick-up and drop-off for each service. Serviced vehicles are returned with a complimentary exterior wash and vacuumed interior.
Ruth Swinton shared this review on Google, “I put my car in for service for the first time at Lexus Canberra and was blown away by the professionalism and standard of service.”
Phillip ACT 2606
Phillip Mitsubishi
As South Canberra’s home of Mitsubishi, Phillip Mitsubishi house a showroom and service centre conveniently located under the one roof. Their expertly trained factory technicians maintain Mitsubishi’s legendary reliability, making them the first choice for Mitsubishi owners.
To keep each Mitsubishi running at its peak Phillip Mitsubishi provides bonnet to boot servicing; offering the peace of mind that comes with knowing each service has been completed to exacting standards.
Utilising Mitsubishi diagnostic tools any guesswork is removed, with efficient tracing and correct identification. Direct access to factory literature, repair methods, and procedures, ensures technicians resolve issues swiftly.
Notably, the centre utilises genuine parts, ensuring safety, performance, and appearance are never compromised. And all fitted genuine parts are covered by a 12 month or 20,000 kilometre warranty.
To make light work of scheduled maintenance, they also offer complimentary loan vehicles. And should the need arise, their accident assistance and towing service are but a phone call away.
Elise Mullans shared this review on Google, “The team at Phillip Mitsubishi are friendly, attentive and went above and beyond to get my Mitsubishi back on the road. The service centre staff are efficient and professional and work to a high standard.”
Phillip ACT 2606
Euro Speciality Automotive
If you’re unable to take your car straight to the dealership for services and repairs, the team of highly qualified technicians and mechanics at Euro Speciality Automotive has you covered. Specialising in servicing state-of-the-art European cars, such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, MINI, Volkswagen, Peugeot and Citroen, and many more, ESA can get your car up and running again without voiding your manufacturer warranty.
As Google reviewer David Kim writes, “Great customer service. Highly knowledgeable. Punctual. Would highly recommend to anyone.”
Haig Park Service Centre
Haig Park Service Centre has been servicing cars for more than 10 years. Locally owned and operated, the experienced team of technicians works out of the mechanical workshop in Mitchell, with state-of-the-art equipment. The team handles simple oil changes through to full car servicing needs — wheels, clutches, brakes, suspension, engine overhauls, and more.
On Google, Cameron Beresford wrote, “Great experience … had my WRX serviced here after years of dealer servicing. Like a whole new car. Best service it’s ever had. Really friendly staff and a good price. Definitely recommend.”
For additional car maintenance services check out our articles on the best mechanics and the best mobile car battery repair services in Canberra. And, to maintain that showroom finish check out our articles on the best car washes and the best car detailers Canberra has to offer. Should a new set of wheels be on the cards, be sure to check out this article on the best car dealerships in the region.
Your experience with car service centres in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the car service centres listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
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I reckon you can’t go past Gordon at Mechanical Care in Belconnen. I have limped my car in to them and they have fixed tiny things on the spot for me. They understood when my partner left his car dead on their doorstep at night, to be dealt with in the morning.
The quality of their work is consistently good, they don’t treat customers like idiots, and they don’t overcharge.
This thread is two years old but taking the advice I couldn’t be happier with JAWS in Phillip, they are straight up with their advice and are great communicators , can not recommend highly enough
Hi
I stumbled across Lonsdale Auto Electrical and had a really great experience. Initially I drove out to them in Braddon with a dodgy battery / alternator. Parked a street away. Couldn’t get the truck started when I turned it off. I walked to them and Gordon walked back down with me, and between trying a battery and then his car, he got mine started again. He also gave me an approximate quote for what I needed. No obligation at all.
When I got the opportunity to go back and book in with them, their service was prompt, professional and helpful – they explained what they would do, and why. They never tried to oversell. I have no idea if they are the cheapest for electrical work, but their customer service and professionalism are stellar.
Hey friend! Thanks for asking for responses. I am also a Toyata user and I know better how the servicing costs for it. Really it’s too expensive to maintain such brands. It’s true that certified service centers would charge a lot for it but that doesn’t mean that you need to go for an ordinary repair center. You can find cheaper care centers that provide good service. I prefer: http://www.upscaleauto.com/vehicles/toyota/
You may visit it but remember always for a reputed care center rather an ordinary one.
Hi Ringer ,
Would certainly recommend getting the car serviced from a local mechanic instead of one of those fancy franchisee model repair mob.
We get our cars repaird from Adrain at Ultimate Tunes.
Good mob, honest advise and has been kind to accomadate even at the last min.
Adrain
4 Bellona Ct, Phillip ACT
(02) 6281 1821
http://www.ultimatetunes.com.au/
My 2 cents.
Looks like I am revising an old thread!
I have a very strong recommendation for International Car Repairs in Dundas Court, Phillip (6282 5868). I have used them for a number of car services (2 different cars). They provide old-fashioned careful, meticulous, polite and good-value service. They are solidly busy for good reason.
I also have used the following with good results:
TechWorkz Automotive in Tuggeranong ( a clutch replacement on a 2006 Subaru Liberty)
Lonsdale Auto Electrics, now located in Fyshwick.
MD-Automotive in Monash
EvanJames said :
The quality of the service, basically. They’re conscientious, always helpful and do a good job. I’ve got confidence in them. 🙂
Deref said :
Hmmm. I’m trying to be enthusiastic too but casting around for other options, again. What is it about them that you’re really happy about?
Ben_Dover said :
Herin lies the danger of labelling all franchises with the same brush. Just because one doesn’t measure up doesn’t mean they all will as Ben Dover points out from his own experience.
Especially as many of the Shell servos the garage portion are separate small business people who just happen to rent space in what Shell in their wisdom have called Kmart Tyre and Auto, due to their co-branding exercise with Coles.
Will be interesting to see if the co-branding exits after shell offloads their retail assets.
I’ve been using Repco City Car Care in Braddon for years. They’re excellent.
Call me Mr Contrary, but I have used the Kmart garage in Hawker for servicing my cars for many years, and am more than happy with the service.
Add me to the list of people who’ll tell you never to go to Kmart for a car service. I used the mob in Manuka twice, the second time I knew I was making a mistake. Their upselling is pathetic, the service on both occasions was poor, second time the car came out with a squeak that it has to this day. They’re the one Braddon outfit I won’t be trying.
Postalgeek said :
You are under NO obligation to go the dealer for servicing. You can go anywhere you want and they are not allowed to void your warranty.
Rollersk8r said :
Fair enough, but two points, most Toyotas are actually 10,000 service intervals but they, the dealers suggest getting the oil changed every 5,000. The Camry and Aurion (since at least the mid 2010 facelif) and maybe now some of the newer model imports are 15,000.
Where it is a big deal as I mentioned is where the fools cannot even get their computer systems to recognise what their OWN maintenance schedules are and then send out reminder sms’s that are incorrectly timed and borderline threatening and against trade practices laws.
As for warranty clearly this will surprise you as you know what one is apparently, but if the manufacturer finds a fault that can be traced to a manufacturing or design issue, regardless of their advertised warranty they are actually obliged to fix it at their cost no matter how old or how many KM’s the car has been driven.
The advertised warranty covers abnormal/premature wear to parts where the wear or fault is not an inherent design or manufacturing issue.
So if your fault was a known issue, then clearly it was a design or manufacturing problem so even if
your car was “out of warranty” then they are still obliged to repair it for free. They then simply bill Toyota Australia. So don’t think that in itself is a sign of good service.
The same applies to more or less everything you buy actually.
dtc said :
I did go to Kmart for new tyres once and had a very bumpy ride. I connected the pressure gauge and found they had been blown up to 41 PSI (recommended pressure 29PSI). The name is a giveaway. Going to Kmart and expecting a good service for your car is like going to Maccas and expecting fine dining.
Ringer said :
Hey that’s great, I am sure you will be really happy with their service. Any issues just always speak to Jay – he is the best one to deal with there (his other mechanics are great mechanics but he has the best customer service being the boss – hey not every mechanic can be great with customers too lol – it’s a skill to learn). Do let us know what you think afterwards, I am very confident you will be very satisfied with them though.
Just to add to what i said before, this is my sad car story:
My mum gave me her old Ford Festive Trio which had always been serviced by Kmart tyre and auto in wanniassa and always passed services no issues. In order to change the rego, I had to spend 1 grand on replacing the muffler/exhaust due to leaks in it, replacing all four tires with new, and replacing the windscreen to repair a crack on the drivers side. I thought this was a reasonable investment at the time.
Fast forward a few months and car starts conking out all the time. Due to a faulty oil light and my inferior engine knowledge at the time, I thought it was completely out of oil and ended up over filling it with oil, which resulted in all the gaskets and seals bursting and oil pouring out all over the place. I took it to kmart tyre and auto in wanniassa where it had always been serviced, $300 later they replaced all seals and gaskets, oil filter, air filter, and the oil and tested it and told me all was fine. They couldn’t do the rego check though (i got pinged by roads inspector with oil leaking all over engine and got yellow slipped – truly bad luck) so I took it kmart tyre and auto in phillip who charged me $120 for the rego (they claimed there was still oil on the underside of the car and that had to be cleaned as well to pass rego meh) and I drove it away thinking all was fine, only to have it start conking out on me again about 5KM out from woden.
Drove it home and rang kmart tyre and auto in phillip again, who told me they couldn’t get it back in for a week but recommended Jaws in phillip, which is how I first heard of them. Went in there after calling them and being told to bring in right in straight away (no waiting! this was the first of good experiences with jaws) and told Jay @ Jaws my sorry story. He told me he would get to the bottom of it, and true to his word, called me 24hrs later to tell me I had what i’ve heard termed “major blowback / major blowby” or in laymans terms, a major blockage in the engine that keeps forcing oil up and out where it shoudn’t go causing the pressure in the engine to go too high and making it conk it.
Now at this point Jay could have charged me good money to tell me my car engine was f****d and I needed a new engine, instead he turned around and said: I can’t fix it, and you’ve already sunk a lot of wasted money into the car, so I won’t charge you anything. That blew me away, could this be an honest mechanic I thought? So a few days later I went hunting for a new 2nd hand car from the dealerships around the place, and found what is now my current car at sale in a dealership in phillip. Took it into Jay and he gave me 25% off the full inspection check on the car then gave me a very honest report on the condition inc. taking time to explain some things in laymans terms for me so I understood properly being not a big car person to start with which I really appreciated.
I ended up buying that car and have been very happy with it since. Paid Jaws for a full service on it as it was needing one, and compared to the other quotes I got at the time Jaws was among the better prices and faster service than the others even though I was going to go with them anyway. On top of that, I have had had 2 minor situations, one where I closed the boot too hard and it got stuck shut, and he fixed it for me for free even though it took them almost ten minutes to do it, the other being a flat tyre I took in to have repaired, it couldn’t be repaired so he gave me 10% off a replacement he had in stock which happened to be identical to my other tires which was nice.
Since getting my new car I have educated myself a bit better on engine stuff through some net reading and long chats with friends who are more experienced, and I have come to see how rare it is to find a good mechanic like Jaws, and my mates who are car-heads agree with me. I hope you have such a pleasant experience with them as I did, the one thing I learnt as Jay told me is that Kmart Tyre and Auto will just take your money and not tell you your car is actually f****d whereas Jay told me that for free even though he’d just spent hours working out what was wrong with the car, that’s really good service in my book any day of the week.
dtc said :
yeh, I wrote a really long post that for someone even though submitted twice kept dissapearing from the pending post queue, I emailed admin about it and he is going to manually post it for me, it will make sense once you read it, it was originally posted before that comment I made about see post above because it *should* have posted before that comment but yeh….
Mordd said :
Why?
Your post doesnt say anything other than you have found someone else is good. Who is no where near where I live or work.
dtc said :
Never ever go to Kmart tyre and auto – see my post above – they are the worst possible option for a good mechanic ever.
JC said :
Well I have nothing to gain by defending them. However, I know what a warranty is and the car was out of warranty when I had the $1100 steering issue fixed.
Plus 15,000km is the standard service interval for most Toyotas – but of course the logbook and Toyota themselves recommend you go in every 7500. It’s not that big a deal.