RACQ

MTAA

Howard Motor Repairs take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Howard , 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. 

Howard Motor Repairs have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. And offers RACQ Breakdown and Towing Services. As a Repco Authorised Service Centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.


Safety Certificates in Howard Trying to sell your car in Queensland but not sure how to comply with legal requirements? Ignoring these obligations can lead to penalties or a delayed sale. Don’t let a lack of knowledge complicate the process for you.  At Howard Motor Repairs in Howard we we simplify the road to compliance. As an Approved Inspection Station authorized by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, we conduct inspections and issue safety certificates efficiently, giving you peace of mind when offering your vehicle for sale.  Remember, a safety certificate confirms your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards but isn’t a comprehensive mechanical evaluation. If you're looking for an in-depth assessment, we also provide detailed Pre-Purchase Inspections to uncover the full condition of your vehicle. It's worth noting that while a safety certificate focuses on key safety standards like brakes, lights, tires, and more, it doesn’t cover all aspects of Australian Design Rules (ADRs) compliance. But rest assured, our expertise ensures your vehicle is safe and ready for the road. So what does a Safety Certificate Inspection Cover? A safety certificate inspection covers the basic vehicle safety standards for many vehicle components including: Brakes Body rust or damage Lights Steering systems Suspension systems Tyres Windscreens When do you need a Safety Certificate? Did you know when selling a registered vehicle in Queensland, you must have a safety certificate before the transaction? The same rule applies if you’re transferring registration, re-registering, or bringing a vehicle from another state or territory. Avoid penalties and meet the legal standards easily.  It is still, however, a requirement for the seller to obtain a safety certificate before disposing of a registered vehicle. Penalties may apply if a safety certificate is not obtained before selling a registered vehicle. You must obtain a safety certificate on a registered light vehicle when you: Transfer registration to a new owner Re-register an unregistered vehicle Transfer registration from another state or territory to Queensland What vehicles require a Safety Certificate (RWC) in QLD cars motorcycles trailers (including caravans) with an aggregate trailer mass (ATM) between 750kg and 4,500kg. any other vehicles up to 4,500kg gross vehicle mass (GVM). If you are buying a used vehicle, we would recommend that you have a “pre-purchase” inspection completed by us in conjunction with any safety certificate to ensure you know as much as possible about the vehicle before deciding whether to purchase or not. Ready to ensure your vehicle meets safety standards? Bring your car to our state-of-the-art Howard workshop or book your Safety Certificate Inspection online today.

Vehicle owners are responsible for maintaining their vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times. You must obtain a safety certificate on a registered light vehicle before you dispose of a vehicle or transfer registration, including when you...

QLD RWC - Safety Certificates & Roadworthy Inspections

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. Howard Motor Repairs in Howard 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 Howard Motor Repairs in Howard 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 Howard Motor Repairs today. We can perform clutch service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Howard workshop.

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

Grinding gears? - It could be your clutch fluid

Howard Motor Repairs 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 Howard Motor Repairs 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 Howard with Howard Motor Repairs 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 Howard Motor Repairs and Repco Authorised Service From 1 June to 30 September 2025, service your vehicle at Howard Motor Repairs 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

Understanding the Role of Your Car Alternator Your car’s alternator is a vital component that keeps your vehicle running smoothly. It plays a key role in ensuring that your battery stays charged and that your car’s electrical systems function as they should. Without a properly working alternator, you could find yourself stranded or facing unexpected electrical issues. 

That’s where Howard Motor Repairs in Howard comes in. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing alternator problems, helping to get you back on the road quickly and safely. Whether you’re dealing with dimming headlights, a struggling battery, or other electrical concerns, we’re here to provide expert solutions tailored to your vehicle’s needs. What does an Alternator do? The alternator in your vehicle is like the unsung hero of your car’s electrical system. It’s responsible for generating the electricity needed to keep everything running smoothly once the engine is on. When your car is running, the alternator works to charge the battery and supply power to a range of systems, including the headlights, air conditioning, radio, and even the power windows. Essentially, it ensures your battery has enough charge to restart the car later while keeping all the electrical components functioning properly.

Without a working alternator, your car’s battery would quickly lose its charge, leaving you stranded with a vehicle that won’t start. For example, when you’re driving at night, the alternator ensures your headlights stay bright and consistent. Similarly, it powers your wipers during a downpour and keeps your dashboard instruments functioning. It’s easy to see how crucial this part is to the everyday operation of your car. Signs Your Alternator Might Be Failing One of the most noticeable signs of a failing alternator is dim or flickering headlights. Since the alternator powers your car’s electrical systems, issues with it can cause your headlights to lose brightness, especially at night or when idling. Another common symptom is the battery warning light on your dashboard. Although this light suggests a battery issue, it often indicates a problem with the alternator not charging the battery effectively.

You might also experience strange electrical malfunctions. For example, your power windows may move slower than usual, or your radio and air conditioning might cut in and out. In more severe cases, your car may even struggle to start or stall unexpectedly, as the battery isn’t receiving enough charge to keep the engine running.

Another telltale sign is unusual noises, such as whining or grinding sounds. These could point to a worn alternator belt or failing internal components. Additionally, if you notice a burning smell, it might be due to an overheated alternator or frayed wiring.

Pay attention to these symptoms early on. Catching alternator issues before they escalate can save you from the inconvenience of a breakdown. If you’re noticing any of these signs, the team at Howard Motor Repairs in Howard is ready to help with expert diagnostics and repairs. What Can Cause Your Alternator to Fail? Several conditions can contribute to alternator failure, and understanding these can help you prevent unexpected issues. High humidity is a common culprit, especially in areas where moisture can seep into the alternator, leading to internal corrosion or damage to its components. Water exposure, such as driving through deep puddles or flooding, can also cause significant harm by short-circuiting the alternator or damaging its bearings.

Temperature extremes are another factor to consider. In very hot conditions, the alternator can overheat, which may reduce its efficiency or lead to premature wear of its internal components. Conversely, in colder climates, frozen or stiff parts can increase strain on the alternator, causing it to fail more quickly. Dust and debris can also accumulate in the alternator, particularly if you often drive on unsealed roads, leading to blockages or wear on the moving parts.

Oil contamination is another factor that can lead to alternator failure. Leaks from valve covers or power steering pumps can drip into the alternator, damaging internal brushes and causing it to malfunction over time.

Additionally, a worn or loose drive belt can affect how the alternator operates, as it relies on the belt to transfer power from the engine. Similarly, faulty or aging wiring can disrupt the electrical flow, putting extra strain on the alternator.

To minimise the risk of alternator failure, regular maintenance is key. Keeping the alternator clean, checking for any signs of wear, and ensuring the surrounding components are in good condition can go a long way in extending its lifespan. If you suspect your alternator is at risk, the skilled team at Howard Motor Repairs in Howard can provide a thorough inspection and the necessary repairs to keep your vehicle running reliably. Parts to Consider Replacing with the Alternator When replacing an alternator, it’s often a good idea to replace certain related components to ensure your vehicle’s electrical system continues to function reliably. One key part to consider is the drive belt, sometimes referred to as the serpentine belt. This belt is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the alternator, and if it’s worn, cracked, or stretched, it can slip or fail, causing the new alternator to underperform or stop working altogether. Since the belt needs to be removed to install the alternator, replacing it at the same time can save on labour costs and prevent future breakdowns.

Another component worth inspecting is the belt tensioner. This part keeps the drive belt taut, ensuring it can effectively transfer power. A worn or faulty tensioner can lead to improper belt alignment or slippage, which puts additional strain on the alternator. Replacing the tensioner when fitting a new alternator is a proactive way to avoid potential issues down the track.

In addition, it’s wise to check the alternator pulley for signs of wear. A damaged or misaligned pulley can impact the alternator’s performance and lead to premature failure of the new unit. Replacing the pulley, if necessary, can help extend the lifespan of your alternator.

At Howard Motor Repairs in Howard, we always recommend a thorough inspection of these related parts during an alternator replacement. Our skilled technicians will assess the condition of your drive belt, tensioner, and pulley, ensuring every component is in top shape. This approach helps maximise the efficiency of your new alternator and keeps your vehicle running smoothly for miles to come. Petrol vs Diesel: How Alternators Differ Alternators in petrol and diesel engines share the same fundamental purpose: generating power to charge the battery and run the vehicle’s electrical systems. However, there are key differences in their design and power output, reflecting the distinct demands of these engine types.

In general, diesel engines require alternators with higher power output compared to those in petrol engines. This is primarily because diesel engines often come equipped with additional electrical components, such as glow plugs or intake air heaters, which are crucial for starting and running the engine, especially in colder conditions. These components draw a significant amount of power, meaning a diesel alternator must be robust enough to handle the extra load.

Another difference lies in the physical design of the alternator. Diesel engines tend to operate under higher compression and produce more vibrations, so their alternators are often built with more durable materials to withstand these tougher conditions. Additionally, diesel alternators may feature larger or more efficient cooling systems to manage the increased heat generated from the higher electrical output.

It’s also worth noting that vehicles with diesel engines often have larger batteries to complement the higher power demands, and the alternator needs to be capable of maintaining an adequate charge for these larger batteries. On the other hand, petrol engines, with their generally lower power requirements, are typically paired with alternators that have a lower output but are more than sufficient for the job.

Regardless of whether you drive a petrol or diesel vehicle, ensuring the alternator is suited to your car’s specific needs is vital. If you’re unsure about the condition or suitability of your alternator, the experts at Howard Motor Repairs in Howard are here to help. Our experienced technicians can assess your alternator and electrical system, ensuring everything is performing at its best. Your Local Experts in Alternator Services Maintaining a healthy alternator is essential for keeping your car’s electrical systems running smoothly and ensuring your battery remains charged. From powering your headlights and air conditioning to supporting crucial engine functions, the alternator plays a pivotal role in your vehicle’s performance. Recognising symptoms of a failing alternator—such as dim headlights, dashboard warning lights, or strange noises—can save you from unexpected breakdowns. Regular maintenance, addressing contributing factors like worn belts or moisture exposure, and replacing related components during repairs can go a long way in extending the life of your alternator.

Whether you drive a petrol or diesel vehicle, the team at Howard Motor Repairs in Howard is here to provide expert advice, diagnostics, and repair services tailored to your vehicle’s needs. We understand the unique demands of different engine types and ensure that every repair or replacement is carried out with precision and care. If you suspect your alternator might be on the way out or simply want peace of mind, give us a call or stop by our workshop. At Howard Motor Repairs, we’re committed to keeping you on the road safely and reliably.

Get reliable alternator repairs in Howard. Read about the Signs Your Alternator Might Be Failing. Trust Howard Motor Repairs for expert services to fix alternator issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Call us today!

Car Alternator Issues? Here’s What You Need to Know

Before you hit the road with your Motorhomes, Caravans, Camper Trailers, or even your Utility Trailers, let's talk about something super important but often overlooked – your wheel bearings. Think of wheel bearings as the unsung heroes of your vehicle. They're the ones working hard behind the scenes, making sure your axles and wheels are supported, can spin freely with minimal friction, all while carrying the weight of your whole setup. Yep, they're pretty crucial for a smooth and safe ride. Now, we've seen our fair share of holidays cut short right here at Howard Motor Repairs – a proud RACQ Roadside Assistance and Breakdown contractor. It's a common sight, unfortunately. Travelers all excited for their journey, only to end up on the side of the road with severe axle damage, all thanks to neglected wheel bearings. Trust us, it's not the holiday memory you want to make. This is a great example of what can go wrong - Failed caravan/wheel bearing/hub that we have seen recently at Howard Motor Repairs We also see these - Failed hitch from a caravan recently brought in to Howard Motor Repairs Because wheel bearings tend to be out of sight, they often end up out of mind, too. But skipping on their maintenance and inspection is like inviting trouble to your road trip party. Imagine this: you're cruising, having the time of your life, and then boom! Wheel bearing failure hits. We're talking about axles or wheels potentially giving up on you and saying goodbye. Not cool, right? If your ride starts serenading you with unusual noises or you notice any funky symptoms, it's our cue at Howard Motor Repairs to step in. Don't worry, we've got your back! What can we do for you? A lot! From repacking and adjusting wheel bearings (where it's needed), handling hub assembly repairs and replacements, to outright bearing replacement. Noticed any weird vibrations under your foot pedals, a pull to one side, or a loud, I'm-not-okay kind of noise from your tyres? It might be your wheel bearings screaming for attention because of damage, leaks, or just being as dry as the Outback. Before you set off to make memories, swing by Howard Motor Repairs. We're not just here to help you out when things go sideways. We're here to make sure they don't in the first place. Let's keep your holiday rolling smoothly – literally. Safe travels, folks!

Heading on a road trip? Don't let wheel bearing issues ruin your adventure. Visit Howard Motor Repairs for essential maintenance and enjoy a smooth, safe ride.

Howard Motor Repairs

Cars are our passion.

QLD RWC - Safety Certificates & Roadworthy Inspections

Grinding gears? - It could be your clutch fluid

Inspected & protected

Love Your Car & Win

Car Alternator Issues? Here’s What You Need to Know

Check your Wheel Bearings