Service Essentials Checklist for the New Year

The New Year is one of the easiest times to knock over a full 4WD check-up. You’ve usually got a few extra days off, life hasn’t hit full speed yet, and workshops are often quieter before everyone gets back into routine. It’s also prime timing before the summer camping season kicks into gear – getting your rig sorted now means fewer last-minute dramas when you’re itching to get away.

And the best part is, a full service doesn’t always mean handing your keys over to a workshop. Plenty of the core checks are simple enough to tackle yourself, especially if you’ve got the right parts and basic tools.

If you’re gearing up for new campsites, long drives, or just dependable daily use, now’s the perfect time to run through these essentials.

Time and Cost

A standard 4WD service at a workshop usually takes 1.5–3 hours and can cost anywhere from $250–$500 for a basic service, or $600+ for major intervals.

Doing the basic items yourself – oil, filters, fluids, wipers, bulbs – is often a fraction of the cost, and you know exactly what’s been fitted.

Regular maintenance also helps catch small issues early, which is especially important if your rig sees beach work, corrugations, or touring loads.

6 Things to Check for Service Essentials

1. Brakes

Brakes sit at the top of the list since they’re your most critical safety system. Before anything else, check your pads, rotors, lines, and brake fluid levels to make sure everything is performing as it should. Spongy pedal feel, longer stopping distances, or low fluid are clear signs something needs attention, and sorting it early keeps you safer on every trip.

2. Fluids

Check coolant, clutch fluid, and power steering fluid to keep everything running smoothly. Low or dirty fluids are a common cause of mid-trip issues, especially in summer heat or on long hauls. If you’re topping things up yourself, we stock a wide range of engine oils, service fluids, and additives to help keep your 4WD running at its best.

3. Battery Health

Summer heat can knock a battery around, and nothing kills a trip quicker than a flat one. Check your terminals for corrosion, test the charge, and make sure your dual battery setup (if you run one) is still holding up.

4. Tyres & Alignment

Look for uneven wear, sidewall cracks, or low tread. Rotate your tyres and get an alignment if your steering feels off. Don’t forget the spare – it’s often the one people forget until they really need it.

5. Suspension & Underbody

From shocks to bushings, the underbody does the hard work. Inspect your suspension for leaks or damage, check your recovery points, and tighten up any loose bolts from last year’s adventures. A quick look underneath can prevent costly issues later.

6. Lights, Wipers & Electrical

Test all lights – headlights, indicators, brake lights, and any aftermarket bars. Replace worn wiper blades and check your washer jets for blockages. If you run accessories like fridges, winches, or UHF radios, make sure all wiring is tidy and secure.

Get Your 4WD Set for the Year Ahead

Kicking off the year with a proper check-up – whether you DIY it or use a workshop – means fewer headaches and more time out exploring. If you’re gearing up for a home service, we’ve got you covered with a huge range of car service essentials, from oils and filters to additives, batteries, and replacement components. You’ll find everything you need at our four-wheel drive parts store, built for Aussies who want their 4WD running strong all year long.