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Launnie Automotive take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times.

Conveniently located in Invermay, 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.

Launnie Automotive 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.


Drive belt hydraulic tensioners are critical components of modern vehicles, ensuring smooth operation of essential engine systems. Understanding their role, recognising the warning signs of failure, and addressing issues promptly can save you from unexpected breakdowns. At Launnie Automotive in Invermay, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing drive belt hydraulic tensioner issues among other mechanical issues to keep your vehicle running smoothly. What is a Drive Belt Hydraulic Tensioner? A drive belt hydraulic tensioner is a vital part of your car’s engine system, designed to maintain the correct tension in the drive belt. The drive belt powers several key components, including the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. The hydraulic tensioner ensures that the belt operates smoothly and efficiently by automatically adjusting tension to compensate for wear and engine vibrations. Without this component functioning correctly, your vehicle’s performance and reliability could be compromised. Signs of Drive Belt Hydraulic Tensioner Failure Recognising the early signs of a failing drive belt hydraulic tensioner is essential to avoid costly repairs or breakdowns. Here are some common warning signs to watch out for: Squeaking or chirping noises coming from the engine. Visible wear or cracks on the drive belt. Difficulty steering or inconsistent power delivery. Overheating caused by reduced alternator or water pump function. Unusual vibrations or a loose drive belt. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by the experts at Launnie Automotive in Invermay to prevent further damage. What Happens When a Drive Belt Hydraulic Tensioner Fails? When a drive belt hydraulic tensioner fails, it can lead to several serious problems. A slack or misaligned drive belt may lose its grip, causing the engine’s vital systems to stop functioning properly. This could result in a loss of power steering, electrical system failure, or even engine overheating due to reduced cooling efficiency. In severe cases, the drive belt may snap entirely, leaving you stranded with a breakdown. If you suspect an issue, it’s important to address it immediately with professional assistance. Recent Repair Example: Honda Accord At Launnie Automotive in Invermay, we recently serviced a Honda Accord experiencing issues due to a failing drive belt hydraulic tensioner. The owner reported a squeaking noise and difficulty steering. Upon inspection, we identified a worn tensioner and replaced it with a high-quality component, ensuring the vehicle’s systems operated correctly. The repair was completed promptly, restoring the Honda Accord to peak performance and giving the owner peace of mind. How to Book an Appointment with Launnie Automotive Booking an appointment with Launnie Automotive in Invermay is simple. You can call us directly to speak with our friendly team or book online through our online booking form below at your convenience. Whether you need a routine inspection or urgent repairs, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to keep your vehicle in top condition!

Learn what a drive belt hydraulic tensioner does, signs of failure, and how Launnie Automotive can help with expert repairs. Stay safe on the road—call us today!

What Happens When a Drive Belt Hydraulic Tensioner Fails?

Do you drive an Automatic vehicle? Then you might not even know there is a clutch in your vehicle. But without it, the gears in your car will not change. Launnie Automotive in Invermay know all about repairing and servicing these systems including clutches, cables and fluids. Learn more below. What is a clutch? The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation. Your engine is what causes your wheels to spin, but what happens when your car needs to stop? The engine shouldn't stop spinning but the wheels need to. It's the clutch that allows this to happen. The clutch allows the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels to be interrupted while a gear is being changed or while the car is stationary and the engine continues to run. What is clutch fluid? Some vehicles have hydraulic clutches - when you press the clutch pedal, the clutch fluid moves the pressure from the pedal through to the clutch and disengages the power transmission. Leaking clutch fluid can cause all kinds of problem in your vehicle so it is very important to monitor it regularly. At Launnie Automotive in Invermay we check your clutch fluid, hydraulic system or clutch cables for you in the course of our free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection - which you can request as part of every car service.
 What signs to look for if your clutch is not performing You should have your clutch looked at if: You notice a burnt ‘toast' or ‘burning rubber' smell in your car, or smoke from under vehicle Your vehicle is slipping out of gear for no reason There is jerky or sticky gear operation Your clutch is not disengaging fully, or your clutch is sticking or shuddering If your clutch is showing any of the problems above - it could mean any number of faults. Clutch problems are difficult to diagnose by symptoms alone because many issues cause the same symptoms, depending on the vehicle and type of engine. The best way to deal with clutch shuddering, slipping or noise is contact us at Launnie Automotive today. We can perform clutch service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Invermay workshop.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation.

Grinding gears? - It could be your clutch fluid

Launnie Automotive can conduct a vehicle Inspection with your next car service and provide you with a free Vehicle Condition report.  Mention this web page when you book your car for any service, and we will happily provide you with a fully itemised written report. During this visual inspection (carried out by a qualified mechanic) we will check 65 important areas of your car.
The Vehicle Condition Report can alert you to any issues before they impact you or your family and before they cost you extra time and money. The Repco Auto-Tech trained mechanics at Launnie Automotive are fully qualified to advise you on every aspect of car service and repair, across most makes and models of vehicles.
The Repco Authorised Service 65 point Vehicle Condition Report offers you additional peace of mind. Book a car service in Invermay with Launnie Automotive to ensure you are inspected and protected, because safety matters.

Ask about a 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with your next car service.

Inspected & protected

Win a share of over $8,000 in prizes with Launnie Automotive and Repco Authorised Service From 1 June to 30 September 2025, service your vehicle at Launnie Automotive and you can enter the Love Your Car promotion and win from a pool of exciting prizes. Prizes to Be Won 5 x $1,000 Repco Authorised Service vouchers
Redeemable at any participating Repco Authorised Service centre nationwide. 25 x $100 fuel gift cards
Perfect for your next road trip or daily drive. 5 x Supercars merchandise packs
Valued at $100 each.

Total prize pool valued at up to $8,100 including GST. How to Enter To participate: Book and complete a vehicle service at any Repco Authorised Service centre during the promotional period. Visit repcoservice.com  Tell us in 25 words or less why you deserve to win a Love Your Car prize. Upload your receipt Submit your entry online before 11:59pm AEST on 30 September 2025.

From 1 June to 30 September 2025, service your vehicle at a Repco Authorised Service centre and YOU could win big in the Love Your Car promotion

Love Your Car & Win

During the chillier months, the reliability of your vehicle is paramount. A crucial yet often overlooked component is your car battery. At Launnie Automotive in Invermay, we highlight the importance of routine battery check-ups to avert unexpected failures and keep your vehicle running smoothly. We service a variety of vehicles including passenger cars, 4x4s, Utes, Vans, and SUVs, in and around Launceston. Complimentary Battery Testing If you're uncertain about your battery's condition, visit our workshop during business hours for a Battery Test without a booking. Our team at Launnie Automotive are here to assist. Using tools like a Battery Load Tester, we quickly evaluate your battery’s health. This assessment provides peace of mind, and if needed, we can replace your battery promptly, ensuring your vehicle stays operational with minimal inconvenience. Complimentary Battery ReCharging We offer specialised car battery charging services that ensure the longevity and efficiency of your vehicle's battery. Utilising advanced diagnostic tools, we can accurately assess the battery's condition and determine the most appropriate charging method. The charging time can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of battery, its current state of charge, and the charging technology used. Our smart charging systems can optimise the charging rate and duration to prevent overcharging and extend battery life. Top-Quality Batteries for All Vehicles At Launnie Automotive, we recognise the essential function your vehicle's battery serves in activating the starter, running the engine, and powering electrical systems. To support this, we offer an extensive selection of high quality, reliable batteries tailored to suit any vehicle. Should you notice issues such as sluggish cranking, fading lights, or abrupt power drops, it’s crucial to have our expert mechanics test your battery. Impact of Cold Weather on Car Batteries Cold weather is notorious for affecting car battery performance. Low temperatures decrease a battery's charge capacity, placing additional strain on it when starting your vehicle. This increased strain can reduce the battery’s lifespan or even prevent your car from starting. This is particularly concerning for batteries over three years old, as their efficiency diminishes. Regular testing is essential to ensure your vehicle remains functional during the colder months. Importance of Routine Battery Inspections At Launnie Automotive, we can’t stress enough the significance of regular battery inspections, especially before winter sets in. Batteries older than three years are prone to wear and tear, which can compromise performance and reliability. Frequent checks help us spot potential issues early, preventing the hassle of an unexpected battery failure. Comprehensive Auto Electrical Services Beyond battery checks, Launnie Automotive also offers inspections and replacements for auto electrical components powered by the battery. This thorough service ensures your entire electrical system is in peak condition, further enhancing your vehicle’s dependability. Book Your Service Today! Regular inspections, especially for batteries over three years old, are crucial to avoid the surprise of a non-starting vehicle. At Launnie Automotive in Invermay, we’re committed to ensuring your vehicle is drive ready with reliable batteries from top brands. Contact us today to schedule your battery check-up and stay prepared for the cold.

Ensure your vehicle's reliability in Launceston with battery check-ups and replacements from Launnie Automotive. We service cars, 4x4s, Utes, Vans, and SUVs. Schedule your inspection today!

Car Battery Services

When it comes to keeping your vehicle in top condition, one component you simply cannot ignore is the timing belt. At Launnie Automotive in Invermay, we understand just how critical this often-overlooked part is to your engine's health. Let’s delve into why maintaining your timing belt is essential and how Launnie Automotive ensures your vehicle remains in peak performance. The Role of the Timing Belt Your timing belt is crucial in synchronising the movement of the engine’s camshaft and crankshaft. This ensures that the valves and pistons operate in perfect harmony, avoiding any collisions that could cause serious damage. Think of it as the maestro conducting the orchestra under your bonnet, ensuring everything plays in time. Without it, your engine's performance could falter, leading to significant issues. When to Replace Your Timing Belt Manufacturers typically recommend replacing your timing belt every 90,000 to 100,000 kilometres, but it's always wise to check your vehicle's manual for specific guidance. At Launnie Automotive, we advise combining your timing belt replacement with a new water pump installation. This preventive measure saves time and potential future labour costs, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly for longer.  Consequences of a Failing Timing Belt Ignoring timing belt maintenance can lead to severe consequences: Severe Engine Damage: A broken timing belt can cause pistons and valves to collide, leading to costly and extensive repairs. Complete Breakdown: A snapped belt will leave your vehicle inoperative, potentially leaving you stranded. Expensive Repairs: The cost of replacing a timing belt is significantly less than repairing the damage caused by a failure. At Launnie Automotive, our skilled technicians are dedicated to helping you avoid these pitfalls. We provide thorough inspections and timely replacements, ensuring your vehicle's longevity and reliability. Visual Insights into Timing Belt Wear The photos featured in this article showcase a worn timing belt on a vehicle in our workshop that requires replacement. These images illustrate where the belt sits within the engine and provide a comparison of its appearance when new. Our visual guide aims to give you a clearer understanding of the importance of timing belt maintenance and replacement. At Launnie Automotive, we use these insights to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition, providing you with peace of mind on every journey. Why Choose Launnie Automotive? Our approach at Launnie Automotive is rooted in customer satisfaction and vehicle safety. We pride ourselves on delivering top-notch service with a friendly, yet professional tone. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest automotive advancements, ensuring we provide accurate advice tailored to your vehicle's needs. Book Your Service Today Don't leave your vehicle's fate to chance. By booking a timing belt service at Launnie Automotive, you’re taking a proactive step in safeguarding your engine's health. We are committed to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely, so you can enjoy the roads of Invermay and beyond with confidence. Trust Launnie Automotive to keep your vehicle's heart beating in perfect rhythm. Contact us today to schedule your timing belt inspection or replacement. Your engine will thank you!

Discover why timing belt maintenance is crucial at Launnie Automotive in Invermay. Ensure smooth engine performance and avoid costly repairs. Book your service today!

Launnie Automotive

Cars are our passion.

What Happens When a Drive Belt Hydraulic Tensioner Fails?

Grinding gears? - It could be your clutch fluid

Inspected & protected

Love Your Car & Win

Car Battery Services

Timing Belt Maintenance at Launnie Automotive in Invermay