M Wilson's Auto Service Centre

M Wilson's Auto Service Centre Small automotive repair workshop, located in the Perth hills. Founded in 1981. Lic No: MRB 1590 Please call for a quote or further details (08) 92918802

Started in September 1981 by Mark, the business has continued to provide customers with honesty and quality workmanship. In 2004 Chris joined and has this same work ethic and great attention to detail. We can look after most makes and models and cater to your matinence and repair needs.

While our page features a lot of “Blue Oval” products, there is another brand with a similar style of badge that we work...
21/05/2026

While our page features a lot of “Blue Oval” products, there is another brand with a similar style of badge that we work on frequently, Subaru.

Established in Australia in 1973, Subaru has become a staple brand, with some iconic models released throughout the years. Brumby, Liberty, WRX, Forester and Outback are a few that come to mind. We see quite a range through the workshop, with many under new car warranties.

One example is this WRX Sportswagon, in for a 30,000km service. Despite its low mileage and recent dealership “service”, we still carried out a thorough inspection and service. The air and cabin filters were replaced with genuine items, along with the engine oil and filter. A diagnostic scan was performed, along with some other smaller tasks and finishing touches.

For servicing your Subaru performed with care and attention to detail, please get in touch to book your next appointment.

In January of 1951, Holden released the 50-2106 Coupe Utility, more commonly referred to as the "FX". While the concept ...
12/05/2026

In January of 1951, Holden released the 50-2106 Coupe Utility, more commonly referred to as the "FX". While the concept of the Ute wasn’t new at the time, Holden’s offering was incredibly popular. Displaying both increased performance and value compared to its rivals of the period, it was also designed for and made in Australia.

Spanning several generations and countless variants, the Holden Ute endured a lengthy production run, with only a brief pause between 1984-1990. With the end of local manufacturing in October of 2017, the final version was based on the VFII Commodore. The highlight of the range (Non HSV) was the LS3 powered SS variants, the SSV Redline being at the top of the list.

This particular VF II SS Ute (Black Edition) was recently acquired by our customer. After searching for one for a while, when this “Red Hot” automatic example was found, it was quickly snapped up. Having only travelled 9,000km, it presented well and was in very original condition.

Like any recent used vehicle purchase, it’s always beneficial to go through and perform an inspection to see the exact condition and address any potential issues or maintenance items. While it had been recently “serviced” by the dealership, we went through the SS front to back.

Along with the inspection, we cleaned the air and cabin filters, performed a diagnostic scan and flushed the brake system with new fluid. We also recommended some minor future items for replacement, but overall, there was very little to fault. It is pleasing to see a vehicle such as this being preserved, but still seeing use, as they should.

For any enquiries on an inspection such as this, or any other servicing and repairs. Please get in touch with us for further information.

“Celica,” derived from the Latin word Coelica, meaning celestial or heavenly.Originally unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show...
29/04/2026

“Celica,” derived from the Latin word Coelica, meaning celestial or heavenly.

Originally unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October of 1970, the model was aimed at the North American market, largely in response to the Ford Mustang (Pony Car segment). The influence is easy to spot in the initial models, particularly with the RA28 liftback, which arrived in Australia in 1977. The first model was ahead of its time, being the first Toyota that utilized robots during its assembly.

Spanning seven generations, Toyota’s four-cylinder sports car was quite successful in various forms until its demise in 2006. There were highlights throughout, including the success in Group A rally. This saw the introduction of the GT-Four edition, which was a homologation special as per the regulations. This spanned three generations and along with the first gen cars, are highly desirable today.

The TA22 Celica featured here is the result of a two-year restoration, with much of the work completed by the owners in their shed at home. Built in April of 1972, it is what’s known as the earlier “flat light” variation. Largely in its factory form, there have been some subtle changes and modifications made. The most obvious are the cosmetic, such as the Rota “Shakotan” wheels, front spoiler, LED Halo headlights, and “Snapper Rocks Blue” (BMW) paintwork.

Our objective on this occasion was to give the mildly worked 2T engine a retune. With any newly running vehicle, some adjustments and finesse can be required. Mark spent some time working through the fuel and ignition system before making the necessary adjustments. We also gave the car a bit of an inspection, with only minor items found that needed looking into.

Overall, the re-tune greatly improved the car’s manners, response and smoothness, with the road test being a very enjoyable experience. It is a credit to the owners and everyone involved in the project. Shortly after its visit, the Celica passed its inspection on its first attempt and is now registered. It was then treated to an extensive detail by Glossworks, which we will post a link to in the comments section.

For bookings or availability, please contact us via the usual channels.

When dealing with enthusiast vehicles and projects, there are various ways of going about making improvements and repair...
14/04/2026

When dealing with enthusiast vehicles and projects, there are various ways of going about making improvements and repairs. These days, we first insist on a thorough inspection of the vehicle to get an overall idea of what is required and the customers end goals. From there we can source parts and plan things accordingly, often in stages for simplicity and to make things more efficient.

One such vehicle we have done this with over the last couple of years is this EL Fairmont Ghia, finished in “Oxford Green”. To recap, the Ghia is a relatively standard, low kilometre example in very good condition. It was also optioned the desirable Tickford additions such as the bodykit, suspension and wheels. We first inspected this vehicle back in March of 2024, with the initial visit being largely a service and check over.

Since our previous post on this vehicle, there have been a few repairs and changes made. In September of 2024, the suspension was the main focus of the work, with the original bushes replaced with Superpro items throughout. We also serviced the transmission and replaced the diff oil on that occasion.

Prior to the All Ford Day in October of last year, another addition was made in the form of the Global Trim 18x8 inch “Sharkfin” wheels. Whilst larger diameter wheels may not be to everyone’s taste, in our opinion, you would be hard pressed to find a better choice for this particular application. Being displayed on our behalf, it certainly received plenty of attention and positive feedback at the event.

The most recent visit saw the Ghia receive another service and some adjustments and repairs to help with its driving manners. We had noted the inlet manifold gasket could be a potential issue due to the amount of staining present, so that was replaced. An upper cylinder clean, idle reset and ignition timing check/adjustment were performed. This saw quite a large improvement in its characteristics, particularly when idling in gear.

The progression of this car has been quite pleasing to see and the improvements made have certainly made a sizeable difference. It’s always a pleasure to have this one in the shop as well.

Info on the wheels can be found here for those interested:

https://globaltrim.com.au/products/pre-sale-special-ford-sharkfin-18-x-8-tickford-option-alloy-wheel-set-of-4-includes-nuts-and-genuine-centre-caps?_pos=1&_sid=061b4f707&_ss=r

For any bookings, please contact us for further information.

Low mileage is a desirable trait, particularly when purchasing a used vehicle, but is it a true indication of a vehicles...
01/04/2026

Low mileage is a desirable trait, particularly when purchasing a used vehicle, but is it a true indication of a vehicles condition? In our opinion, whilst it is preferred, it’s often deceiving. This is something we see regularly, particularly with enthusiast vehicles that often see little use. Components and fluids can still deteriorate with age, often faster that those being used regularly.

This FG XR8 Ute here is one such example that came to us recently to have a service performed and to investigate some of the owner’s concerns, one of which was a vibration through the front wheels. Finished in “Silhouette Black”, it had travelled less than 40,000km and initially presented quite well.

Given the fact the vehicle had prior service history, we expected it to be relatively straightforward. Unfortunately, this was not the case as once the inspection began, we found numerous issues that would need to be rectified. We also found many components were still original, which in our opinion should have been replaced regardless of the low kilometres.

To summarize, this is the work performed over two visits:

- Engine oil and filter replaced.
- Air filter replaced.
- Upper cylinder clean performed.
- Fuel filter replaced.
- Transmission serviced performed.
- Diff oil replaced.
- Diff breather hose and clamp replaced.
- Cooling system extensively flushed.
- Front brake calipers replaced with reconditioned items.
- Brake discs machined (F+R).
- Brake pads replaced (F+R).
- Brake system extensively flushed with new fluid.
- Handbrake adjusted.
- Tailshaft centre bearing replaced and shaft balanced.
- Rear gearbox mount replaced.
- Diagnostic scan performed.
- Thorough inspection with future repairs recommended.

This list is quite extensive and at a causal glace may seem like overkill, but it is important to remember that the vehicle is almost seventeen years old. The owner also advised us to go through the car thoroughly and sort these issues after our initial inspection.

For those wondering, the vibration was largely caused by the front brakes not releasing. This was due to a common issue with the phenolic resin piston design and heavily contaminated fluid. Hence why the whole system was gone through.

Whilst far more work than initially anticipated, the improvement in the XR8 was very noticeable. There are some further items to be addressed, but for now the vehicle performs as it should and can be used and enjoyed.

As always for any enquiries, please get in touch for further information.

Following on from our previous post, we had yet another “Shadow Black” Mustang GT in recently, this being a preceding it...
25/03/2026

Following on from our previous post, we had yet another “Shadow Black” Mustang GT in recently, this being a preceding iteration. The “FM” variant featured here was brought to us for a service and to investigate a couple of issues that the owner had noticed since purchasing the vehicle.

The service consisted of the following:

- Engine oil replaced.
- Engine oil Filter replaced (Ryco Syntec).
- Air filter replaced.
- Cabin filter replaced.
- Upper cylinder clean performed.
- Various trim clips replaced.
- Diagnostic scan performed.
- Thorough inspection performed to the vehicle.

We also managed to diagnose some of the owner’s concerns, the bulk of which was an issue with the exhaust system contacting part of the suspension under certain circumstances.

Finally, we recommended some future repairs and maintenance moving forward. These include various other fluids; spark plugs along with rectifying the incorrect rear tyres (size) and worn factory style wheel nuts. The wheels have been replaced for another set since it’s visit, rectifying those two issues.

For availability for service and repairs, please get in touch for further information.

“A Legacy Like No Other”.A statement that would be hard to argue with, given the Mustang has been one of the most iconic...
16/03/2026

“A Legacy Like No Other”.

A statement that would be hard to argue with, given the Mustang has been one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced. In it’s sixty-year run, there have been seven generations, with the S650 (FO) being the current offering.

Largely an evolution of the proceeding S550 (FM/FN), it features improved performance, more driving refinement, angular styling and updated technology/driver interface. With a few variations available, it’s very hard to go past a Coyote powered fastback.

The “Shadow Black” GT featured here was brought in to us recently to have its first serviced performed after 3000km. Rather than just dump the oil and tick some boxes, we went through the vehicle thoroughly, ensuring a high level of attention to detail throughout. Genuine parts were used along with the appropriate specifications for items such as the wheel nut torque.

This was our first experience with the latest Mustang and we thoroughly enjoyed it, the hidden easter eggs found throughout were quite fun as well. Some are included in the photos for those interested.

For servicing and repairs for your vehicle, please get in touch for availability and further details.

“Old cars are easy”.We hear comments like this on a regular basis through the workshop, particularly whilst a vehicle is...
05/03/2026

“Old cars are easy”.

We hear comments like this on a regular basis through the workshop, particularly whilst a vehicle is in having repairs completed. Whilst they are far more basic than modern offerings and may have more access, less electronics and components, they still have their intricacies and take attention, care and patience to rectify properly.

With any older vehicle, what can often be a simple job can turn into something much more complex. When cars have been restored or modified previously, you can typically find something you don’t expect or greatly vary from the factory specifications. Also, whilst replacement parts are often available, they don’t always simply bolt or clip into place.

Case in point, this XA Fairmont Coupe, which has featured on our page previously. The factory V8 finished in “Calypso Green” (albeit slightly altered) is very much a solid cruiser that gets plenty of use. More recently it returned to have some further items ticked off the list to ensure reliable driving continues. These were centered around the fuel gauge and handbrake.

After going through the braking system on a previous visit, we set out to rectify the handbrake set up. Using a 9” diff and later XC style disc brakes at the back, we found the orientation of rear cable had been “improvised”. With the handle removed, cleaned and lubricated, new cables throughout and the routing corrected, we also found the new rear cable was made too long, requiring modifications to work correctly whilst maintaining a window of adjustment.

The fuel gauge side initially began with some electrical repairs, after finding the majority of the wires behind the dash to the instruments were all red and poorly crimped together. Once they were repaired elsewhere and the gauge was inspected, we moved rearward to the sender itself. After being supplied with a replacement, we removed the original item to find not only that it was for a standard tank opposed to the 28 gallon (big tank) fitted, that the float was not attached.

After inspecting the inside of the tank, the decision was made to remove it from the vehicle and have it cleaned, however the owner chose a complete replacement aftermarket tank. We removed all the prior sealant used and replaced all the relevant hardware, gaskets, clamps and hoses. After having issues with the aftermarket sender seal, we found another option which eliminated any leaks from the area. A new fuel filter was also installed to replace the typical plastic item used in these applications. Some other items were attended to such as a minor transmission oil leak.

Whilst this job took more than anticipated, we were glad that we were able to find and rectify these issues. We would like to thank the owner Mark for his patience and understanding throughout the process. Also, to the team at Superoo Falcon Spares for all the assistance throughout as well.

For any bookings or enquiries, please contact us for further details.

Following on from our previous post, we are featuring another F6, albeit the predecessor, the BF MKII F6 Typhoon.This “O...
23/02/2026

Following on from our previous post, we are featuring another F6, albeit the predecessor, the BF MKII F6 Typhoon.

This “Octane” covered example is Typhoon build number 0039, 1 of 31 made in this colour with an automatic transmission. Purchased as an ex-demonstrator, the F6 was largely a daily driven vehicle until a few years ago. We have gradually been improving the car, performing the required repairs as these vehicles require maintenance with age as much as mileage.

On this occasion, we began with investigating an oil leak, initially suspected to be from the transmission. However once on the hoist, it became apparent that the cause was multiple points from the engine. The decision was made to remove the engine to rectify these as well any other items we came across during the process. Jobs like these are quite intensive and it would be a very lengthy read to include everything, so we will cover the important parts down below.

With the engine placed on a stand, we removed the rocker cover, timing cover and sump. New genuine Ford gaskets, seals, grommets and miscellaneous bolts were used throughout. This included items such as the rear main, crankshaft and any other relevant components that were disassembled. We also took the opportunity to clean and even detail some areas either during or prior to assembly. Factory torque specifications were also used during reassembly stage.

Some of the accessories were also replaced with genuine items, such as the alternator and starter motor. The very deteriorated original engine mounts were also swapped for a new genuine pair. Other items were addressed such as the water pump, cooling system hoses, transmission heat exchanger, power steering hoses and rear shock absorbers. The driver’s seat was also replaced with another matching item that the owner had sourced.

With many hours invested into the Typhoon, we were able to greatly improve and rectify many issues, whilst performing preventative maintenance to reduce potential future problems. Not only did was drivability improved, the appearance underneath the bonnet was also a satisfying byproduct.

For any servicing or repairs for your FPV, feel free to contact us for further information.

“Potent Performer”.One of the terms that Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) used in their marketing campaigns for the newly...
16/02/2026

“Potent Performer”.

One of the terms that Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) used in their marketing campaigns for the newly released F6 model, based on the Orion (FG) platform. For the time, it was well regarded as one of the best performance sedans on the market. Building off the previous BF model, a raft of changes were made to make a more powerful and capable package.

The FG F6 (MK1) featured on this occasion is build No 0871, 1 of 24 manual examples produced in “Nitro Blue”. Purchased from the eastern states and delivered straight to the workshop, we were tasked with performing various repairs and improvements, with the goal to also prepare it for WA registration.

After initially inspecting the F6, we found a range of items that would need to be rectified. These were a mixture of wear and tear, workmanship or parts chosen. The history was a bit of an unknown, however you could see modifications had been made during some point of its life. The owner also wanted some changes made, so we made the most of the opportunity whilst the relevant areas were being worked on.

Over the course of two visits, we performed the following:

- Major service performed with all fluids and filters replaced (Air filter cleaned).
- Upper Cylinder clean performed.
- Cooling system flushed, new reservoir fitted.
- Exhaust and intake manifolds tightened.
- Turbo Oil feed removed/inspected.
- Fanbelt and idler/tensioner pulleys replaced.
- Engine mounts replaced (includes rear gearbox).
- Various suspension arms and bushes replaced (Misc control arm, outer bearings, rear swaybar etc).
- Shock absorbers and bump stops replaced (Suitable for lowered suspension).
- Diff removed, inspected, resealed and seals replaced.
- IMS diff hat brackets removed, diff position changed and new brackets installed to cradle.
- Ultrex 4” exhaust fitted (including dump pipe).
- NPC Dual Friction clutch kit fitted with associated components.
- Mal Wood clutch master cylinder fitted.
- Rear main seal replaced with genuine item.
- Tailshaft removed, inspected and balanced.
- Gas support struts replaced (Bonnet and boot).
- Handbrake adjusted.
- Various globes replaced.
- Misc repairs and adjustments made where required.

After completing the extensive amount of work, the improvement in the F6 was drastic. This was largely due to the rectifying some clearance issues, renewing aged parts and picking products more suitable for street use. This job certainly had it’s challenges, but it turned out well all things considered. Further changes such as a retune were performed once the vehicle was returned to the owner.

Special thanks to the following for their assistance on this job:

Angry Panda Creative Metalwork.
Final Drive Engineering.
Glossworks Detailing.
Independent Motorsports.
Mal Wood Automotive.
NPC Performance Clutches.

For any enquiries and bookings, contact us for further information and availability.

Address

15 Laurence Road
Perth, WA
6076

Opening Hours

Monday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+61892918802

Website

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