When it comes to keeping your vehicle reliable, your battery plays a vital role. At Bips Auto Service Centre in Kirwan, we supply, test and replace car batteries for passenger vehicles, SUVs, 4WDs, hybrid and electric vehicles—helping drivers avoid unexpected breakdowns and stay on the road with confidence.

Your vehicle’s battery provides the electrical energy needed to start the engine and power essential systems like lights, air conditioning, infotainment and onboard computers. In modern vehicles, especially hybrids and EVs, batteries also support advanced electronics and energy management systems.

Different vehicles require different battery technologies to suit their power demands:

Standard Lead-Acid Batteries: Common and cost-effective for everyday driving.

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Stop-Start Batteries: Designed for vehicles with stop-start technology, offering improved durability and faster recharge rates.

Deep Cycle Heavy Duty Batteries: Built to deliver sustained power over long periods, ideal for running accessories like fridges, lights and camping gear.

Dual Battery Systems: Often paired with deep cycle batteries to separate starting and accessory power.

Hybrid Starting Batteries: Smaller batteries used to power electronics and assist with system start-up.

Hybrid Drive Batteries (Nickel-Metal Hydride or Lithium-ion): High-voltage batteries that work alongside the petrol engine to improve fuel efficiency.

Lithium-ion Battery Packs: The primary power source, delivering energy to drive the vehicle with zero emissions.

These advanced systems require specialised diagnostics and maintenance.

Swollen battery casing (often from heat exposure)

Ignoring these signs can lead to sudden failure—often at the most inconvenient time.

Australian conditions can be harsh on batteries. While many people think cold weather is the main culprit, both heat and cold impact battery performance:

Hot weather (common across much of Australia) can cause internal battery fluid to evaporate, shortening lifespan.

Cold weather increases the strain on batteries by requiring more power to start the engine.

That’s why regular battery checks are essential for drivers in Kirwan.

At Bips Auto Service Centre, your battery is checked at every service, with a clear report on its condition. Once your battery reaches 3 years or older, annual testing is strongly recommended. 

We also offer:

Same-day battery replacement (subject to availability)

Stock of the most common battery types for quick turnaround

For hybrid and electric vehicles, Bips Auto Service Centre provides advanced Battery Health Checks. This service tests each individual cell within the battery pack to assess overall performance and capacity.

This is especially valuable when:

Specialised Hybrid & EV Battery Health Checks

Selling your vehicle and proving battery condition

Replacing a weak battery early can prevent further mechanical or electrical issues.

Better fuel efficiency (especially in hybrids)

Peace of mind for long trips or remote travel

Did you know that heat is the number one cause of battery failure in Australia? While cold starts get the blame, it’s actually prolonged exposure to high temperatures that does the most damage over time.

As an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Bips Auto Service Centre combines trusted national support with personalised local service. Whether you drive a family car, a rugged 4WD, or a modern hybrid or EV, our team has the expertise and equipment to keep your battery performing at its best.

Need a car battery in Kirwan? Bips Auto Service Centre supplies, tests & replaces batteries for cars, 4WDs, hybrids & EVs. Free battery checks available.

Car Batteries, Testing & Replacement in Kirwan | Bips Auto Service Centre

Power Up Your Drive: A Guide to Car Batteries for Every Vehicle Type

The simple truth is that you are able to choose where your vehicle is serviced, maintained and repaired, at competitive prices.

Looking forward to the potential bargains available at the end of year car sales or want to have your new car serviced for the holidays? Here is some sound advice from Bips Auto Service Centre in Kirwan.

The purchasing of a new car is one of the largest investments people generally make, so it is common sense to make sure to maintain it. Caring for your new car goes beyond detailing the interior and keeping it sparkling with a loving weekly wash, however.

There are a few other things to consider, such as who is the best choice to service your car.

You will want to ensure it is regularly serviced by a qualified professional, to the manufacturers requirements, using high quality parts from a reputable supplier and fluids which meet the manufacturers specifications. This is not just to look after your new car, but because if these four requirements are met you will also preserve the manufacturers warranty.

The simple truth is that you are able to choose who will service your new car without voiding either the manufacturers warranty or your rights under the Consumer Guarantee

You do not have to return the vehicle to the dealership where you originally bought it for service or repairs. Provided the work is only done to the manufacturers specifications by a properly trained person and uses acceptable quality parts and fluids, the warranty stands. You have the right to choose who services your car.

With Repco Authorised Service you can tick all the boxes. Every Bips Auto Service Centre mechanic is fully qualified and Auto-Tech trained, giving them access to Australia's leading provider of automotive technical information and training. This means Bips Auto Service Centre mechanics are kept fully up to date with the latest in automotive service techniques and are able to service your new car without voiding the warranty.

Repco branded parts & products are manufactured to stringent Repco quality standards, and are covered by the Repco Nationwide Warranty, giving you added protection. Bips Auto Service Centre will also only ever use fluids and lubricants that meet the specifications of the original carmaker.

If you already own a new car or are thinking of purchasing one, make sure you clearly understand where your statutory rights begin and end

Make sure you are aware of the disparity between statutory, manufacturer and express warranties to help you make the right choices when it comes to servicing your new car. You are automatically covered by a statutory warranty, also known as a Consumer Guarantee, under Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and this statutory protection can never be outweighed by manufacturer or express warranties (which are offered by the car maker and car dealer respectively).

A lack of disclosure requirements on car dealers at the point of sale regarding these contracts can easily lead the consumer into making a choice to be bound by a long term contract without access to all of the details needed to make a properly informed decision. 

So when buying a new car, be wary of new car dealers who may try to factor in “express” or “extended” warranties, often for free. Normally these ‘augmented’ warranties may include quite comprehensive restrictions or provisions, often in a language that is difficult to follow. Many times these special deals provide a small amount, if any additional benefits not already addressed by the consumer’s basic statutory rights and can tie the unwary buyer into a long term agreement with the dealership selling the car.

Such special deals are very unlikely to warn you of the potential negative aspects involved with taking a new car back to the dealer for service or repair. This includes what sort of distance you will be travelling to get your car serviced or longer waiting times due to fewer available service locations or mechanics.

Check out our frequently asked questions below for more information on New Car Service and warranties. If you need to know more, the AAAA website and ACCC website have some great information too.

Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), you are protected by a Consumer Guarantee which takes into account purchase price, realistic expectations of when a failure might occur, advertising claims and the conditions under which a vehicle should operate. Previously known as a Statutory Warranty, the Consumer Guarantee does not have a specific time limit associated with it nor can it ever be replaced by a manufacturers warranty, which is in addition to the Consumer Guarantee.

Manufacturers warranties are essentially a promise to the buyer that the new vehicle will be free from defects for a specific time and that any such defects will entitle buyers to a repair or other compensation. According to the Competition and Consumer Act (2010), such warranties cannot state that a vehicle MUST be returned to an authorised dealer for servicing.

Often new car dealers will try to include "express" or "extended" warranties, sometimes for free, in the purchase of your new vehicle. These ‘extra' warranties are in addition to the manufacturers warranty and may include quite specific restrictions or provisions, usually in unclear or confusing language. Many of these contracts actually provide little or no additional benefits over and above the consumer's basic statutory rights and can tie the unwary buyer into a long term agreement with a specific car dealership. Extended warranties can (and often do) restrict you to a specific dealership, which can have its drawbacks.

Can Bips Auto Service Centre service my new car without voiding the warranty?

There is NO requirement to service your car at a manufacturer’s dealership to preserve;

Any manufacturer’s warranty (that may apply to your vehicle).

Any state or territory based statutory warranty (that may apply to your vehicle).

Your rights to Consumer Guarantees (formerly known as implied statutory warranties).


What steps will Bips Auto Service Centre take to protect my warranty?

Bips Auto Service Centre are fully qualified to carry out log book servicing and we ensure all work is performed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, using appropriate quality parts, fluids and lubricants where required, meaning the manufacturers warranty remains intact. In addition, all work carried out by Bips Auto Service Centre is backed by the Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty.

Can Bips Auto Service Centre stamp my logbook ?

Bips Auto Service Centre can and WILL stamp your log book to verify the work has been conducted by fully qualified staff according to manufacturer’s specifications, using appropriate quality parts, fluids & lubricants.

Will having my car serviced with Bips Auto Service Centre help maintain the value?

It goes without saying that a vehicle which has been well taken care of will maintain its value better than a poorly maintained one. Proof of a regular, properly adhered to service schedule will add further supporting evidence the car is in good condition. In addition to maintaining your warranty with correct service procedures, Bips Auto Service Centre will stamp your log book, which can prove invaluable should you ever decide to sell the car.

What about extended warranty or specific ‘service plans’?

Motor vehicle dealers sometimes offer their own extended (or express) warranties on vehicles. These extra warranties often begin after the manufacturer’s warranty and may stipulate that the vehicle must be serviced by the actual dealer offering the warranty. They are generally within their right to impose this condition, but the buyer should beware, such warranties are not always what they seem. Bips Auto Service Centre will be happy to advise you on the conditions and relative value before you commit to any service plan.

The purchasing of a new car is one of the largest investments people generally make, so it is common sense to make sure to maintain it. Choose Bips Auto Service Centre for the best car service in Townsville.

You have the right to choose who services your new car

It's no secret that the climate in Far North Queensland can be harsh. The extreme heat experienced in this region throughout the year means having a fully functioning car air conditioning system isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. 

To help you combat the heat and ensure a pleasant journey, Bips Auto Service Centre, a leading mechanic in Kirwan, Townsville offers top-notch car air conditioning services. Bips Auto Service Centre care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU20705).

With the temperature rising to considerable heights in Far North Queensland, a properly functioning car air conditioning system is essential. The moment your air conditioning fails, the ride can quickly become unbearable, particularly during scorching summer heat. The central components of car air conditioning include the compressor, evaporator, condenser, expansion valve, and refrigerant, each with their specific roles and potential problems. 

As experts in the automotive repair industry, Bips Auto Service Centre's highly experienced team knows all too well the consequences of neglecting this important aspect of your vehicle. They work with the mantra 'Your car, your choice', making sure your individual needs and requirements are met in maintaining your car air conditioning system.

What sets Bips Auto Service Centre apart from other auto service centres? They're not just another mechanic; they are a part of the Australia's largest network of independent car service workshops, the Repco Authorised Service. With Bips Auto Service Centre, you can trust you're receiving the best air conditioning service available in Kirwan, backed by a Nationwide Warranty.

Car Air Conditioning Services You Can Rely On

Servicing all car makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles, their wealth of experience enables them to identify and fix any issues efficiently and effectively. They'll maintain your logbook schedule during the warranty period, ensuring you can enjoy a cool drive even in the heat of Far North Queensland.

It's worth mentioning that the benefits of a fully operational air conditioning system go beyond comfort. Not only does it provide relief from the heat, but it also reduces humidity in your vehicle, which can be particularly helpful during the monsoon season. Proper maintenance of your car air conditioning system can improve your driving experience, keep you comfortable, and ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

When you need a car air conditioning service you know you can trust Bips Auto Service Centre. Their understanding of local weather conditions, combined with their experience and expertise, guarantees the best car air conditioning service. Bips Auto Service Centre is a family-owned business that takes pride in offering personalized service to all their clients. When you bring your car to them, they treat it as if it were their own.

Choose Bips Auto Service Centre for Car Air Conditioning Services in Kirwan

Keep your car's air conditioning system running smoothly with Bips Auto Service Centre – the preferred mechanic in Kirwan. Enjoy the reliability, efficiency, and expertise of the best in the business. Make the right choice, choose Bips Auto Service Centre for all your car air conditioning needs. After all, no other mechanic understands you like they do!

Stay cool in Townsville's extreme heat with Bips Auto Service Centre's professional car air conditioning services (AU20705). We service all car models and back our work with a Nationwide Warranty. Experience personalised, family-owned service with our reliable mechanic services. Keep comfortable with Bips Auto.

Keep Your Cool with Car Air Conditioning Services by Bips Auto in Townsville

Maintain a Cool and Comfortable Drive in Townsville

Diesel engines have the highest thermal efficiency of all internal combustion engines which means they tend to be more efficient than petrol engines. At Bips Auto Service Centre we service diesel vehicles regularly. 

Efficiency aside, there are other factors that make diesel engines different to petrol engines;

How often should a diesel engine be serviced?

Because diesel engines suffer from carbon build up which can cause damage to the engine – it’s important to stick to a regular service schedule, so any problems can be identified early. Neglecting to do so can lead to very expensive repairs.

Diesel vehicles have a different type of plug called a glow plug… What’s a glow plug?

In a diesel engine a glow plug heats the cold fuel ready to be ignited under pressure, diesel engines don’t use a spark to ignite like petrol engines.

What oil should I use in my diesel – do I need special diesel oil?

Yes. Oils that are created for use in diesel engines are different to oils for petrol engines, they have extra additives to help clean the engine and more.

Read more about diesel oils and additives here.


You might have a worn or damaged turbo charger shaft seal, which could lead to bigger problems.

Find out more about why your diesel engine may be using more oil.

While certain models can be initially more expensive than a petrol vehicle and cost slightly more for quality servicing, in the long-term, diesel vehicles usually use up to 30% less fuel and have a longer engine life as well as lower CO2 emissions and greater towing abilities.

Diesel engines have the highest thermal efficiency of all internal combustion engines which means they tend to be more efficient than petrol engines.

Frequently asked questions about Diesel Engines

While the northern half of Australia is enjoying their dry season, the southern half of the country is bracing for a wet winter.

The result of that could be very different ways to get your car ready for winter; however, the fundamentals of safe winter motoring don’t change. So what do you do to make sure your car is prepared for safe winter motoring?

Don't you hate that moment when you switch on the wipers at the first drop of rain and realise they're worn out and basically useless! Wiper blades age and become less effective - especially after a long hot summer. A good quality wiper blade like Trico is essential to help you see your way clear regardless of the weather. Bips Auto Service Centre can recommend a wiper blade or assembly that is right for your car.

Fluids and other mechanisms in your car can be affected by cold weather; especially coolants, oils and items such as glow plugs in diesel vehicles. Getting your car regularly serviced - especially by a qualified mechanic who understands the right parts and products for your particular vehicle make and model. 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 call us for a service or a Vehicle Inspection Report.

Be aware of the symptoms that your brakes need inspecting, like 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.

Driving on worn or incorrectly inflated tyres can be dangerous. Now is the time to check how worn your tyres are. If your tyres are wearing unevenly, this could indicate that your shock absorbers or some other vital part of your steering and suspension systems are due for service or replacement. 

Driving on tyres that are incorrectly inflated won't only 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.

Bips Auto Service Centre 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.

Find out more about the components that affect your tyre wear on the links below:

The fundamentals of safe winter motoring don’t change. So what do you do to make sure your car is prepared for safe winter motoring? Bips Auto Service Centre share some tips...

Be Safe Briving this Winter in Kirwan

Your vehicle's differential bushings might be the culprit if they’re old, worn, or cracked. These essential components help control movement in the joints, absorb bumps on the road, and reduce vibrations and noise whether you’re driving forward or reversing. At Bips Auto Service Centre, your trusted local mechanic in Kirwan, we’re well-equipped to handle this and many other automotive issues.  

The Ford Territory and Falcon are undoubtedly two of the most popular vehicles seen on Australian roads. However, both models are known to experience significant wear in certain rear suspension components, particularly the rear differential bushing. This is most common in vehicles that have covered high mileage, possess high horsepower, or are regularly used for towing.

If you’ve noticed a clunking noise or felt a jolt when accelerating or shifting between drive and reverse, it may indicate that your differential bushing is no longer functioning as it should. The rear differential bushing is designed to ensure a smooth and quiet transfer of power from the engine to the rear wheels, making it a vital part of your vehicle’s performance.  

Ignoring this issue can lead to additional wear and tear on other drivetrain and suspension components, potentially resulting in more costly repairs. Acting promptly when symptoms arise is both practical and cost-effective.

At Bips Auto Service Centre, your local Repco Authorised Service centre in Kirwan, our skilled team has extensive experience diagnosing and resolving this problem. We can replace your worn rubber differential bushing with a durable Nolathane alternative, which is specifically engineered to address these concerns and restore your vehicle to peak performance.  

Did you know? Upgraded differential bushings, like Nolathane, not only improve durability but can also enhance handling and stability during cornering or heavy towing—offering additional benefits for your vehicle.

If clunking has become a regular part of your Territory or Falcon experience, don’t wait—get in touch with the team at Bips Auto Service Centre today.

Diagnose and repair differential bushing issues at Bips Auto Service Centre. Enhance performance, reduce noise, and improve handling with durable Nolathane upgrades. Book your service today!

Smooth Out Clunking in Your Territory or Falcon

At Bips Auto Service Centre in Kirwan, we understand how crucial the transmission is to your vehicle’s performance.  

Your transmission enables your car to shift smoothly between gears, and transmission fluid plays a vital role in making this possible. Not only does it ensure seamless gear changes, but it also protects the internal components of your transmission. While transmission fluid doesn’t naturally decrease with use, it’s still important to check its level regularly. 

Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated with metal particles and debris, which can reduce the lifespan of your transmission. Replacing a transmission is a costly repair, so maintaining clean, adequate transmission fluid is a smart way to protect your vehicle and avoid unnecessary expenses in the long term. 

Additionally, it’s worth noting that transmissions can suffer from overheating if fluid levels are too low, as the fluid also helps regulate temperature within the system.

At Bips Auto Service Centre, we offer a comprehensive 65 Point Vehicle Condition Report with every full car service upon request. This includes inspecting your transmission fluid, and we’ll let you know if it needs replacing or if your vehicle could benefit from a transmission service.

Ensure smooth gear changes with Bips Auto Service Centre. We check and maintain transmission fluid as part of our services to keep your vehicle performing at its best. Book a service today!

Expert Vehicle Transmission Services

Call Bips Auto Service Centre for all your diesel 4WD and diesel passenger vehicle repairs, inspections and services. We are conveniently located in Kirwan.

A diesel engine can be more efficient, better for the environment and cheaper to run than its petrol-powered counterpart. However, it still needs regular servicing to keep it running at an ultimate level and to help make sure nothing goes wrong. 

Our technicians at Bips Auto Service Centre are fully qualified to service diesel SUV, AWD, 4WD and Passenger diesel vehicles. Contact us today.

Call Bips Auto Service Centre for all your diesel 4WD and diesel passenger vehicle repairs, inspections and services.

Diesel Engine Service and Repairs in Kirwan

Diesel Repairs

AAAA

IAME

MTAQ

Bips Automotive Service Centre take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times.

Conveniently located in Kirwan, 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.

Bips Automotive Service Centre have a wealth of experience in servicing most 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.

Please note our new trading hours - We are Closed permanently on Fridays. 

Our new trading hours are: Monday to Thursday 7AM to 5.30PM.

Bips Auto Service Centre

Diesel Repairs

Let's get started with your booking.

Related articles

Power Up Your Drive: A Guide to Car Batteries for Every Vehicle Type

Your car, your choice!

Maintain a Cool and Comfortable Drive in Townsville

Diesel FAQs

Be Safe Driving This Winter

Does Clunking Go With Your Territory?

Get Your Vehicle In Top Gear!