Boondall is close to us, and a fair number of the vehicles we see from that way have a tow ball fitted and a van or a boat behind them at weekends.
Towing does not simply add weight, it changes where the heat goes. An automatic transmission working against a load generates considerably more heat in the fluid, and heat is what degrades transmission fluid. The cooling system carries that extra load too, often through a transmission cooler that shares the radiator. Brakes do far more work bringing the combined mass down from speed, so pads and fluid both suffer. And because the tow bar loads the rear of the vehicle, springs and bushes at the back wear ahead of schedule. Almost every manufacturer lists towing under the severe duty schedule for exactly these reasons.
Why book with us
If you tow regularly, tell us when you book. It changes what we check and what we recommend, particularly around transmission fluid condition and brake fluid moisture content, neither of which shows up in normal driving until it matters.
Transmission heat is the one to watch
Of everything towing loads, the automatic transmission is the least visible and the most expensive to get wrong. Fluid degrades with heat, and a transmission working against a heavy trailer runs far hotter than one that is not. The symptom is a shift that flares or feels harsh, and by the time it is obvious the fluid has usually been cooking for a while. If you tow regularly it is worth having the fluid condition assessed rather than trusting a filled for life label.
Most asked for from Boondall
settings Clutch & TransmissionInside the workshop
Not stock photos. This is the Buchanan Road workshop, our hoists and our technicians.
“We have a small car rental company and these legends are caring of our fleet. The workshop definitely have the best car servicing in Brisbane Northside, everything is done with transparency and only made after our approval. Really recommend!”
“Excellent service and quality work. The team was very professional, transparent, and explained everything clearly before carrying out the work. My car was in great condition after the service, and the whole process was quick and efficient. I highly recommend them!”
“Great experience with this garage. The team was very professional, friendly, and explained everything clearly about the work that needed to be done. The service was completed on time and the price was very fair. It’s great to find a place that is honest and does quality work. I highly recommend them.”
The 30 Day Guarantee
Every repair we carry out is backed for 30 days. If something we touched is not right, bring the car back and we will make it right at no cost to you. No argument, no fine print, no second invoice.
Common questions
Does towing really need a different service schedule?
Almost every manufacturer lists towing under severe duty, and for good reason. The transmission runs hotter, the brakes do far more work and the rear suspension carries load it was not designed to carry constantly.
How often should transmission fluid be changed if I tow?
More often than the standard interval suggests, because heat is what degrades the fluid and towing generates a lot of it. We assess the fluid condition rather than applying a blanket figure, since a neglected transmission needs a careful approach.
Should I upgrade the brakes for towing?
Usually the answer is correct maintenance rather than upgrades. Fresh fluid, pads in good condition and a system with no air in it will handle a legal towing load. We would rather fix the basics than sell you parts.
Where to find us
3/33 Buchanan RoadBanyo QLD 4014
- Monday to Friday
- 08:00 to 17:00
- Saturday
- 08:00 to 12:00
- Sunday
- Closed
5.0from 53 Google reviews
1966servicing Brisbane since
Experience the Standard in Auto Care
Total transparency, fair prices and a 30-day guarantee. Banyo, Brisbane. Since 1966.