Frequently Asked
Questions
Straight answers on roadworthy certificates, dyno tuning, log book servicing, performance upgrades and more from Step Up Automotive in Upper Coomera.
Roadworthy & Safety Certificates
Step Up Automotive is a licensed QLD inspection station (AIS11138). Our Safety Certificate pricing is competitive for the Gold Coast and Upper Coomera area. Call us on 0421 230 391 or book online for a current quote — pricing can vary by vehicle type.
A QLD Safety Certificate inspection covers brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lighting, seatbelts, windscreen, body structure, and other safety-critical systems. We check everything required under Queensland Transport and Main Roads guidelines.
A Queensland Safety Certificate is valid for 2 months or 2,000 km from the date of issue — whichever comes first. It must be used for the sale or re-registration of the vehicle within that period.
Dyno Tuning
A standard dyno tune session typically takes 3–5 hours depending on the vehicle, its modification level, and the tuning strategy. More complex builds — like a fully built Evo — may require a full day. We recommend booking in advance so we have adequate time for your car.
A dyno tune remaps your engine's ECU on a dynamometer to optimise fuel delivery, ignition timing and boost (on turbocharged cars) for your specific modifications and fuel. Even a stock car can benefit — improved throttle response, better fuel economy, and more reliable power delivery are common results.
We specialise in turbocharged performance vehicles — Mitsubishi Lancer Evo (VII–X), Mercedes-AMG, Nissan GT-R, Subaru WRX/STI, and most other ECU-tunable platforms. Contact us to confirm your vehicle before booking.
Performance Tuning & Upgrades
Stage 2 tuning typically involves an upgraded exhaust (downpipe or cat-back), a high-flow air intake, and a full ECU remap to extract maximum benefit from those modifications. On turbocharged platforms like the Evo or Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, Stage 2 commonly adds 30–60+ kW at the wheels depending on the base tune and hardware fitted.
Yes — any modification that changes the power, performance or safety systems of your vehicle should be declared to your insurer. Failure to disclose can affect your policy. We recommend contacting your insurer before and after any significant modifications.
Yes — E85 flex-fuel tuning is available for compatible platforms. E85 allows for significantly higher boost and ignition timing due to its cooling effect and high octane rating, which typically yields substantial power gains over a 98 RON tune. Fuel system upgrades (injectors, fuel pump) are usually required first.
Log Book Servicing
No. Under Australian Consumer Law, you can use any qualified independent mechanic for log book servicing without voiding your manufacturer warranty — provided the correct fluids and parts are used and the log book is stamped. Step Up Automotive follows manufacturer specifications and stamps your log book on every service.
Yes. While Step Up Automotive specialises in performance vehicles — Mitsubishi Evo, Mercedes-AMG, Nissan GT-R — we service all makes and models for log book servicing, roadworthy certificates, and general repairs. Everyone is welcome.
Bookings & Location
We are at 12/2 Kohl Street, Upper Coomera QLD 4209 — just off the Pacific Motorway on the northern Gold Coast. You can book online via our contact page, call us on 0421 230 391, or message us on WhatsApp.
Monday to Friday: 8am–5pm. Saturday: By appointment. Closed Sunday. For urgent enquiries outside business hours, WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us.
Still Have Questions?
Call, text or book online — Rodney and the team are happy to chat through any job, big or small.