As winter yields to the warmer, more changeable days of spring, vehicle owners in Charters Towers face a fresh set of driving conditions...

The Smart Driver’s Guide to Seasonal Servicing

While the rising temperature and clearer skies may inspire a few leisurely drives or weekend getaways, it’s also the perfect time to give your car some much-needed attention. A regular car service is not just procedural—it’s essential for safety, reliability and performance through the season ahead.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, spring in the Charters Towers region typically brings rising daytime temperatures—averaging from the high 20s into the early 30s degrees Celsius—and steadily declining rainfall as the season progresses Bureau of Meteorology+1. These warmer, often dry conditions can strain various vehicle systems, making certain checks and maintenance tasks especially important at this time of year.

Spring in Charters Towers: Weather Patterns and Driving Conditions

The cooling system, for instance, works harder in the heat. A healthy radiator, clean coolant and properly functioning thermostat are crucial to avoid overheating. Similarly, braking performance remains a top priority—even dry roads can conceal dust, road grit or early-season growths that affect braking surfaces and tyre grip.

1. Enhanced Safety 
Servicing addresses wear and tear before it becomes a danger. Worn brake pads, uneven tyre tread or under-inflated tyres can significantly extend stopping distances—especially on faster spring roads. Regular inspections detect such hazards early, helping to keep everyone on the road safer.

2. Improved Reliability and Reduced Breakdowns 
Routine servicing catches minor issues before they escalate. Components like belts, hoses or electrical connectors can degrade silently over winter. A thorough check ensures they’re in good condition, reducing the chances of an untimely breakdown on the road.

3. Better Performance and Fuel Efficiency 
Over time, clogged filters, dirty fluids or misaligned wheels can reduce your engine’s efficiency, bump up fuel consumption and degrade ride quality. A regular service refreshes filters, adjusts fluid levels and aligns components, helping your car run smoother and return better kilometres per litre.

4. Preserve Warranty and Resale Value 
Following your service schedule and having documented maintenance work carried out helps preserve the value of your vehicle. A complete service history is a strong selling point and helps assure potential buyers of your car’s condition. It can also ensure compliance with warranty terms, even years after purchase.

5. Peace of Mind—Avoiding Costly DIY Pitfalls 
Many drivers, especially in the face of cost pressures, may delay servicing or attempt DIY repairs. However, mechanical systems are complex, and undertaking critical tasks such as servicing brakes, suspension or steering components without proper expertise can lead to severe consequences. Independent reports show a rise in roadside assistance calls due to DIY attempts gone wrong, often costing more and risking safety.

When you bring your vehicle to Towers Automotive, our skilled team will carry out a thorough examination which are well suited to making sure a car is ready for spring conditions in Charters Towers. Here's what you can expect included in a typical service, perfect to maximise your car’s autumn-to-spring transition:

Preparing Your Car for Spring: What to Expect in a Service at Towers Automotive

Coolant system check, ensuring levels, hoses and thermostat are in healthy shape under rising heat.

Brake and underbody inspection, verifying pad thickness, fluid condition and looking for rust or wear.

Tyre inspection and pressure adjustment, with recommendations for balancing or rotation as needed.

Fluid top-ups and filter replacement, including engine oil, air filters and cabin filters, to optimise performance and comfort.

Electrical and battery health check, ensuring starting reliability as temperatures change.

General wear-and-tear review, including checking belts, hoses, and steering or suspension components for early signs of damage.

Our aim is to deliver a service that feels both comprehensive and personalised—backed by decades of mechanical experience—so your drive through spring in Charters Towers is smooth, safe and enjoyable.

Once you’ve had your pre-spring service with Towers Automotive, the difference is clear:

Spring-Ready Driving: What You’ll Notice After a Service

You'll notice more responsive braking, a smoother engine feel, tyres that grip confidently, and the cooling system managing the warmer air with ease. That sense of reliability on every journey is real reassurance—knowing that your car is spring-ready, and you're ahead of seasonal issues.

Spring offers us the perfect opportunity to refresh, renew and enjoy renewed road trips. Don’t wait for a fault to appear or a breakdown to spoil your plans. A timely service checks key systems, helps prevent costly issues, and takes full advantage of the season’s better weather.

If your car hasn’t had a recent check-up, now is the time to connect with Towers Automotive in Charters Towers. With trusted mechanical expertise and a local focus, we’ll help you keep your vehicle in top condition for everything spring throws your way…

Discover why a timely car service is vital as spring approaches in Charters Towers. From checking cooling systems to preserving safety and performance, learn how regular servicing at Towers Automotive keeps your car smooth and reliable this spring…

Spring Car Service in Charters Towers | Keep Your Vehicle Spring-Ready

Brake fluid plays a crucial role in the safety of your vehicle by transferring the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to the actual brakes. Without it, your brakes simply wouldn’t function, and as everyone knows, a car without brakes is incredibly dangerous. Even slightly compromised brakes can pose a serious risk.

Brake fluid has a tendency to absorb moisture over time, which can compromise its effectiveness. Brake systems generate high temperatures, and brake fluid is specifically designed to have a high boiling point to prevent it from evaporating. However, when too much moisture builds up, the boiling point is lowered, making the fluid more prone to boiling under heat. This can lead to reduced brake fluid levels, ultimately affecting your vehicle’s braking performance and increasing stopping distances.

Why Is Brake Fluid Replacement Necessary?

In addition to reducing effectiveness, moisture-contaminated brake fluid can lead to corrosion within the braking system. Over time, this can damage components such as the callipers, wheel cylinders, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Regular replacement helps to extend the lifespan of these parts and maintain optimal braking performance.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment, even through microscopic openings in the brake system. This is why regular maintenance is essential to ensure safety.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer will specify how often the brake fluid should be replaced—typically outlined in the logbook service schedule. At Towers Automotive, we recommend replacing it every two years as a general guideline. However, it’s equally important to have it checked during each routine service. A professional mechanic can assess the moisture content in the fluid and check for any leaks or other signs of wear that might require earlier attention.

How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?

Yes, at Towers Automotive, we provide a comprehensive 65-point vehicle inspection upon request with every full service. This includes a detailed review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and rear discs and pads, callipers, cylinders, and more. Our expert mechanics will assess the condition of your braking system and notify you if the brake fluid needs replacing or if any additional brake system repairs or maintenance are required. Regular checks can catch problems early, ensuring your safety on the road.

Maintaining your brake fluid is an essential part of car ownership, and neglecting it could lead to costly repairs or, worse, compromised safety. If you’re due for a brake fluid replacement or simply want peace of mind, book a service with Towers Automotive in Charters Towers. Our team will make sure your braking system is in top condition, so you can drive with confidence.

Learn why brake fluid is essential for your vehicle’s safety, how it works, and why regular maintenance by Towers Automotive is crucial for optimal braking performance and to prevent costly repairs.

Brake Fluid: What It Is and Why It Matters

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Do you drive an Automatic vehicle? Then you might not even be aware that there is a clutch in your vehicle. Without it, the gears in your car will not change.

Towers Automotive in Charters Towers know all about repairing and servicing these systems including clutches, cables and fluids. Learn more below.

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.

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 Towers Automotive in Charters Towers 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.


You should have your clutch inspected if:

What signs to look for if your clutch is not performing

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

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 your local mechanics at Towers Automotive today.

We can perform clutch diagnostics, service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Charters Towers workshop.

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

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

Modern vehicles are equipped with a growing range of safety technologies designed to make driving smarter and safer. These systems are known collectively as ADAS—Advanced Driver Assistance Systems—and they work continuously in the background to help reduce the risk of accidents.

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Calibration in Charters Towers

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects obstacles or sudden stops ahead and automatically applies the brakes.

ADAS includes a variety of features, such as:

Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance by automatically adjusting your speed.

Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Helps detect vehicles beside or behind you that may not be visible in your mirrors.

Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keep Assist: Warns you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane, and may gently steer the car back into position.

All of these systems rely on precisely aligned cameras, radar sensors, and ultrasonic detectors. If any component is even slightly out of place—due to a windscreen replacement, suspension repair, a fender bender, or even a wheel alignment—these systems can become inaccurate or fail altogether. That’s why ADAS calibration is essential.

At  in Charters Towers, we offer expert ADAS diagnostics and recalibration using advanced equipment and up-to-date procedures. Our technicians have undertaken specialised training in ADAS technology, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to recalibrate even the most complex systems in accordance with manufacturer specifications. Whether you're driving a high-tech SUV, a modern 4WD, or a late-model passenger car, our team has the expertise to ensure your safety systems are working exactly as intended.

You’ve had your windscreen or front bumper replaced

Your vehicle’s suspension, steering, or alignment has been adjusted

You’ve been involved in even a minor accident

You’re seeing ADAS-related warnings or faults on your dash

Our workshop is fitted with the latest diagnostic tools, allowing us to test and fine-tune your ADAS features with pinpoint precision. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we also provide the confidence of our nationwide warranty on all work performed.

On top of our technical capabilities, we pride ourselves on customer convenience—offering vehicle pickup and drop-off within Charters Towers, a secure after-hours key drop, and friendly, down-to-earth service that puts you first.

If you rely on modern safety systems while driving—as most of us do—make sure they’re calibrated correctly. Book your ADAS service with  today and drive with confidence, knowing your car’s technology is ready to protect you.

Get professional ADAS diagnostics and calibration at Towers Automotive in Charters Towers. Ensure your vehicle’s safety systems are accurate and functioning as intended…

ADAS Calibration & Diagnostics | Towers Automotive Charters Towers

As Easter approaches, the excitement of the long weekend begins to build. Whether you’re planning a road trip with family or simply staying close to home in Charters Towers, the holiday season often brings extra demands on our cars. From last-minute errands to school holiday plans, it’s a time of year when vehicle reliability and safety become more important than ever.

Easter Driving in Charters Towers: Why Early Vehicle Servicing is Essential

But here's the thing: the closer we get to Easter, the busier car service workshops become. Bookings skyrocket, and finding an available spot for a car service can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why booking your car’s service early is so important. It ensures you’re not caught off guard and that your vehicle is in top condition when you need it most.

At Towers Automotive in Charters Towers, we understand how vital your car is to your lifestyle. Whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store, school pick-ups, or heading out of town for the holiday weekend, your car plays a huge role in keeping life moving smoothly. That’s why we encourage all drivers to get ahead of the Easter rush and schedule their vehicle servicing now.

Maintaining your car regularly isn’t just about keeping it running—it’s about ensuring safety, reliability, and longevity. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to surprise you with breakdowns, and it performs better under pressure, especially during long road trips or when navigating unpredictable holiday traffic.

When you bring your car in for a service, there’s so much more happening than just a quick oil change. Regular servicing at Towers Automotive can include:

Brake Inspections & Adjustments: Ensuring your car can stop quickly and safely, especially when roads are busy.

Tyre Pressure Checks & Wheel Alignments: These not only improve fuel efficiency but also keep your car steady on the road.

Engine Diagnostics: Identifying any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Cooling System Services: Essential for preventing overheating during long drives.

Safety Checks: From lights to seat belts, we ensure your car is equipped for safe travels.

These tasks help to protect not only your car but also the safety of your loved ones, whether you're headed out on a big adventure or just tackling the daily drives around Charters Towers.

While it might feel like Easter is still a little while away, time has a funny way of slipping by. Before you know it, workshops across Charters Towers will be filled with last-minute bookings. The holiday rush can mean missing out on getting your car serviced in time—or worse, rushing to find someone who can fit you in without compromising quality.

If you're planning a trip over the Easter long weekend, ensuring your vehicle is road-ready is non-negotiable. From engine performance to suspension checks, everything needs to be in tip-top shape to handle the demands of holiday driving. Even if you’re staying local, it’s still a good idea to be proactive about car care. Having your vehicle serviced now can save you from stress and inconvenience later.

When it comes to quality car servicing, Towers Automotive is the trusted choice for drivers in Charters Towers. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to exceptional service, we take pride in ensuring every vehicle we work on leaves our workshop in its best possible condition.

Why Choose Towers Automotive in Charters Towers?

Our team is made up of highly trained mechanics who have access to the latest technology and tools to provide top-tier care for your car. Whether it’s regular maintenance or a more complex repair, you can count on us to deliver outstanding results every time.

What sets Towers Automotive apart is our dedication to customer convenience. From before-and-after hours drop-off options to vehicle pickup and delivery within the local area, we make car servicing as hassle-free as possible. And while you wait, we’ve got a comfortable waiting area with all the amenities you need.

For those concerned about their environmental impact, we also provide air conditioning servicing that is both efficient and eco-friendly AU37246). And with every service, you’ll receive a free 65-point inspection report that gives you a clear picture of your vehicle’s condition.

Towers Automotive don't just provide service for cars. We can also provide servicing and repairs of towed vehicles such as caravans and trailers in our well equipped Charters Towers workshop. Making sure your towed vehicles as well a the vehicle doing the actual towing are both up to the task of getting you to your destination safely and efficiently will go a long way towards making sure your Easter holiday memories will be happy ones...

Don’t wait for Easter to creep up on you—take the proactive step of booking your car’s service today. At Towers Automotive, we’re here to make sure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and ready for wherever your Easter plans take you.

Whether you’re heading off on an exciting holiday road trip or simply making the most of your time in Charters Towers, trust Towers Automotive to keep your car running smoothly. Avoid the Easter rush, protect your family’s safety, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is in expert hands.

Make this Easter stress-free and memorable. Call us today to secure your spot or book your service online. Let’s make sure your car is as ready for the holidays as you are!

Avoid the Easter rush and ensure your car is ready for holiday driving in Charters Towers. Book early with Towers Automotive for reliable, professional car servicing today!

Easter Driving: Plan Ahead with Expert Car Service in Charters Towers

Easter Driving: Plan Ahead with Expert Car Service

As the Christmas holidays approach, excitement builds for joyous celebrations and family gatherings. For many, this time of year also includes hitting the road for long trips to visit loved ones or to embark on well-deserved vacations.

While planning holiday festivities is essential, ensuring that your vehicle is in top-notch condition for the journey is equally important. Regular car servicing plays a pivotal role in preparing your car for the Christmas holidays, and there's no better place to book your service than Towers Automotive in Charters Towers.

The weeks leading up to Christmas can be overwhelmingly busy, not only for individuals preparing for the festive season but also for automotive workshops. Many workshops experience a surge in demand during this time as people scramble to get their vehicles checked and serviced. Additionally, numerous workshops close over the Christmas period, making it challenging to find available appointments. To avoid the disappointment of last-minute booking struggles and ensure your car is holiday-ready, it's wise to schedule your service early at Towers Automotive.

The Holiday Rush and the Importance of Early Booking

Regular car servicing encompasses a variety of mechanical tasks that contribute significantly to your vehicle's safety and performance. Here are some key components typically addressed during a routine service:

Some other ways regular service helps ensure Safe Holiday Travels

1. Engine Oil and Filter Change: 
Fresh engine oil and a clean filter are vital for your engine's health. They ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns during long trips.

2. Brake Inspection and Servicing: 
Well-functioning brakes are crucial for your safety on the road. During a service, mechanics will check brake pads, discs, fluid condition and levels, ensuring your braking system is reliable.

3. Tyre Inspection and Rotation: 
Proper tyre maintenance is essential for optimal traction and handling. Technicians will inspect the tyres for wear and tear, check air pressure, and rotate them if necessary, enhancing safety and fuel efficiency.

4. Battery Check: 
A faulty battery can leave you stranded, which is far from ideal during the holidays. Regular servicing includes battery testing to ensure it holds a charge and is in good condition.

5. Fluid Level Checks: 
Beyond engine oil, other fluids such as coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid are checked and topped up if necessary. Maintaining the correct fluid levels is crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring smooth operation.

6. Belt and Hose Inspection: 
Over time, belts and hoses can become worn and prone to failure. Mechanics will inspect these components for signs of damage and replace them as needed, preventing potential issues on the road.

7.  Safe-T-Stop Report: 
Our Minor Services and Log Book Services come with a comprehensive Safe-T-Stop Report which visually reports on your vehicle’s brake function, suspension performance and wheel alignment.  It even weighs your vehicle which is important if you are loading up to go Caravanning or Camping over the break.

By addressing these fundamental aspects during regular servicing, you can drive with confidence, knowing that your vehicle is well-prepared for holiday adventures.

One of the most significant advantages of having your car serviced at Towers Automotive is the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is in the hands of professional mechanics. Backed by a nationwide warranty, the skilled technicians at Towers Automotive are committed to providing top-tier service and ensuring your car is in excellent condition for any journey.

Peace of Mind with Professional Mechanics

Before setting off on your Christmas road trip, it's comforting to know that your vehicle has been thoroughly inspected and serviced by experts who prioritise your safety and satisfaction. Should any unexpected issues arise, the nationwide warranty offers additional assurance, allowing you to travel with confidence and focus on creating memorable holiday experiences.

Regular servicing not only prepares your car for holiday travels but also enhances its overall performance and longevity. By addressing potential issues early and keeping your vehicle in optimal condition, you reduce the likelihood of costly repairs down the line. A well-maintained car performs better, consumes less fuel, and provides a smoother, more enjoyable driving experience.

Enhanced Vehicle Performance and Longevity

Moreover, regular servicing contributes to preserving your car's resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to invest in a vehicle with a documented history of routine maintenance, ensuring you get the best return on your investment should you decide to sell in the future.

The Christmas season is a time for joy and celebration, not stress and worry. By prioritising your vehicle's maintenance, you can eliminate one potential source of holiday stress. Knowing that your car is road-ready allows you to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with family and friends.

Don't let vehicle issues disrupt your holiday plans. Book your service early at Towers Automotive in Charters Towers and ensure that your car is in peak condition for the festive season. The experienced team will provide exceptional service and attention to detail, leaving you free to enjoy a worry-free holiday journey.

As the holidays approach, make car servicing a priority on your to-do list. By booking your service early at Towers Automotive in Charters Towers, you guarantee that your vehicle receives the care it needs to tackle holiday travels with ease. Regular maintenance not only ensures your car's safety and performance but also grants you peace of mind, knowing you're in the hands of skilled professionals backed by a nationwide warranty.

Prepare your car for the Christmas holidays with regular car servicing from Towers Automotive in Charters Towers and embark on your festive adventures with confidence…

Discover why booking your car service early with Towers Automotive in Charters Towers is crucial for a stress-free Christmas road trip. Learn the benefits of regular servicing…

Prepare Your Car for the Christmas Holidays with Regular Servicing

How Regular Car Service Helps in Preparing for the Christmas Holidays

It is important to remember that brake noises are not only caused by normal wear and any unusual noises anywhere in your car should always be investigated by a qualified professional mechanic.

At Towers Automotive we provide expert brake pad replacement service using quality parts, covered by our Nationwide Warranty.

We can also perform inspection, repairs or replacement of many other brake components such as:

 When it comes to Brake Maintenance, you should never take a risk. If you're not sure if your brake maintenance is 100% - call a professional service centre such as Towers Automotive

We offer a Free Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection Report we inspect the brake pads for wear and will tell you if they want replacing. We can also recommend the right pad for your driving style and conditions.

Some things are best left to the experts and this is one of them. You should never let anyone but a qualified professional like Towers Automotive touch something as key to your safety as your braking system...

Brake Pad Replacement in Charters Towers

When it comes to brakes, you should never wait until brake repairs are necessary.  

Proper testing and routine checkups, such as our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection which we provide with all full car services, are important to ensure your vehicle's brake system is in top condition. Our expert team of technicians will be happy to advise you when they suspect that service or repair of your brake system is indicated to stop it becoming a bigger issue.

Brake services we perform at Towers Automotive include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Charters Towers workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Charters Towers

Brake and Clutch

AAAA

Due to family reasons we will be closed from lunchtime Friday 18th August and reopen 8am Tuesday 19th August 

Located in the large blue workshop behind Central State School Oval in Charters Towers, Towers Automotive has been servicing trusted customers since 2005. 

With almost 30 years of experience, the owner of Towers Automotive Aaron Stibbs together with wife Kelly invite you to personal and trusted car service at their workshop.

Employing state of the art diagnostic equipment and repair methods, Towers Automotive recommend, use and sell quality oils, lubricants and automotive parts. All our technicians are trained in the latest developments.

Specialising in classic Vintage Car,  Safety Certificates (Roadworthy Inspections), trailers and Trucks up to 16t, GVM upgrades, and towing services up to 7 tonne

Towers Automotive

Brake and clutch

Related articles

Spring-Ready in Charters Towers:

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

ADAS Calibration & Diagnostics

Easter Driving: Plan Ahead with Expert Car Service

How Regular Car Service Helps in Preparing for the Christmas Holidays

Noisy Brakes?