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We advise that our workshop will be closed for the Christmas period from the close of business on Friday the 20th of December and reopening on Monday the 6th of January

We advise we will be closed for the Easter long weekend from Friday 29th of March, reopening Tuesday 2nd April

A well respected family owned and operated car service, Woodward's Auto Repairs is servicing the Wangaratta area for more than 20 years.

Wangaratta car service Woodward's Auto Repairs specialises in New Car servicing, Diagnostics and Car Air Conditioning and provides all general mechanical repairs.

When looking for a car repair shop, choose Woodward's Auto Repairs. Our expert mechanics in Wangaratta provide standard car servicing. You will not find more capable mechanics in the Wangaratta area.

Woodward's Auto Repairs are a Repco Authorised Service and provide a Nationwide Warranty on every service.

Keep your cool, without global warming. A proactive car air conditioning approach to protecting our environment.  As Australia begins phasing down HFC use (from January 2018), many new vehicle manufacturers may be switching to new air conditioning systems using the more environmentally friendly refrigerant R-1234yf, instead of R-134a. The benefits of using R-1234yf "Twelve Thirty Four", as R-1234yf is sometimes known, is an HFO type refrigerant delivering high performance, resulting in a more efficient air-conditioning system, fewer emissions and reduced fuel consumption. Hydrofluoroolefins (HFO's) have a double carbon bond meaning they trap less heat in the atmosphere than Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC's) and break down faster. Importantly, R-1234yf systems are specifically engineered to prevent refrigerant leakage and loss, including into the interior of the vehicle. The leakage of refrigerants contributes considerably to greenhouse gases. Why the switch? Older type refrigerants accumulate in the upper atmosphere as greenhouse gases and contribute significantly to Global Warming for a considerable time. In the mid-'90s, the old R-12 (or Freon), which takes a long time to break down into a non-greenhouse gas, was replaced with R134a, which breaks down much quicker. R-1234yf takes that improvement to the next level, breaking down in less than half the time of R-134a (and a fraction of the time R-12 can take). R-134a will remain in use for some time and a licensed mechanic can still service R-134a air con systems, but new vehicles will likely use the new systems with R-1234yf. Some already are. Irrespective of what type of refrigerant your car air conditioner uses, a car service workshop undertaking air conditioner service must have the right knowledge and equipment to handle these gases responsibly. You should always take your car to a mechanic with the skills and specialist equipment to undertake air conditioning service safely and correctly.

There's a new gas in town

Trust, experience & knowledge ... You can rely on your Local and Independent Repco Authorised Service centre, Woodward's Auto Repairs to service and repair your vehicle. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, Woodward's Auto Repairs use quality parts and lubricants and employ state of the art diagnostic equipment and repair methods. What’s more, our fully qualified technicians have access to the latest service information, bulletins and training through the Australia wide Repco Auto Tech program. We provide a full range of automotive services right here in Wangaratta and surrounding areas, all backed by our Repco Authorised Service Nationwide Warranty and fully supported at over 500 Service Centres right across Australia. So rest assured - your car is in safe hands.

As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we use quality parts and lubricants and employ state of the art diagnostic equipment and repair methods.

Woodward's Auto Repairs - Our expertise & knowledge

Modern radiator coolants not only protect your car from overheating, or the fluid from freezing, they also protect the radiator system from corrosion. Woodward's Auto Repairs in Wangaratta are very knowledgeable and experienced in looking after these systems.  It is recommended that you exchange your radiator coolant fluid every two years or 40,000 km's whichever comes first. However the size of the engine, the climate in your area, the age of your current coolant, and the total miles that have been driven can all affect the need to replace the coolant in your radiator. Knowing when to replenish your radiator fluid isn't always easy - obviously, when it has gone a dirty brown colour it's a sign it probably needs to be flushed and replaced - however even fresh-looking coolant could have lost its corrosion protection properties and without measuring its reserve alkalinity there's no signal that it is no longer protecting your vehicle components, and it could even be doing more damage than good. Maintaining good coolant means your radiator system will be much better protected from corrosion and will have a longer life span, it will help prevent you from having to replace expensive engine components. At Woodward's Auto Repairs in Wangaratta at your request, we will perform a full 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report for free as part of any minor, major or log book service. Part of this inspection includes checking the level and condition of coolant in your system and the written report will advise you if we feel a radiator flush, fluid replacement or any repairs are required to maintain the performance of your vehicle.

Even if it looks clean, your coolant still might need replacing!

Radiator Coolant

Faulty and low charge batteries are to be avoided. Don't wait till you're stranded somewhere on the side of the road, hoping for a jump start. It is easy to have your car, bike, truck battery tested or charged up at Woodward's Auto Repairs in Wangaratta.  Often issues occur because we have all reduced how much we drive or decided to only rely on one car (as petrol prices skyrocket!) and have left the other in the garage. But did you know that batteries can still discharge even when your car isn't in use? - ask Woodward's Auto Repairs about a battery test today!  Our technicians do a battery load test as part of the 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report that comes free with every car service. If you have concerns, we can do a stand-alone battery test and inspection right here in Wangaratta. Car Battery FAQ How do I know if my battery is getting flat or low? The most obvious sign of a flat battery is when your car won't start, but modern motor vehicles can show symptoms like non-essential functions not operating correctly - things like idle stop-start function not working, or the car's air-conditioning not working effectively.
Other signs you might need a new car battery include: Vehicle is slow to start Engine won't start Dash Lights work, but engine won't start Constantly needing a jump start Film or corrosion on the battery Cracked swollen or leaky battery Rotten egg smell under the hood Do I need a new car battery? The most obvious sign of a flat battery is when your car won't start. Modern motor vehicles can show symptoms like the idle stop-start not working or the car's air-conditioning not working to full capacity.

Other signs include cracked, dirty or leaky batteries, a rotten egg smell under the hood of your car, or regularly needing a jump start or recharge. The best way to know if you need a new battery is to get a car battery test at {{{businessName}}} Does a flat battery use more fuel? Yes! When your car battery is running flat, the alternator works harder to recharge the battery. This added load on the engine means it burns more fuel. Where can I buy a new car battery? Come in and see us! As a Repco Authorised Service Centre, {{{businessName}}} have access to the highest quality batteries to suit most vehicles. Who can test my car battery? {{{businessName}}} can do a battery load test. Phone us or visit the workshop today. Why choose {{{businessName}}} for a battery test? If you have concerns about your vehicle's performance, it is wise to get your battery tested at a full-service workshop like {{{businessName}}} rather than at a parts store. That's because we take into consideration the whole vehicle and can diagnose any deeper issues. There is nothing worse than replacing your car battery only to find the problem actually lies elsewhere… except maybe being told your battery test is fine with no explanation for your ongoing issues! Can my car battery be recharged? Yes, in fact the battery is being recharged by the alternator in your car whenever the engine is running. Sometimes this fix isn't enough, and your battery requires an external recharge. It's best to ask the professionals like our team at {{{businessName}}} about this, as you could void the battery warranty by recharging it yourself. Sometimes external recharging is not the best option because every battery eventually reaches a point in its life where replacement is the only answer to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Can I fit my battery myself? The short answer is yes...But! Modern vehicles are “computers on wheels”, so if you decide to DIY you must follow proper installation procedures to avoid damaging the ECM (Engine Control Module) and TCM (Transmission Control Module). Plus, if the battery gets incorrectly installed, items like the radio, the navigation system and security codes may need to be professionally reset. Talk to {{{businessName}}} today. We can recommend the right battery for your needs and install it for you. 

Ever replaced your battery only to find your car problem wasn't fixed? Don't be left feeling flat, get your battery tested at a full service workshop.

Car Battery Testing and FAQ 

Unroadworthy tyres are unsafe, illegal and basically cost you money Woodward's Auto Repairs are the professionals in Wangaratta when it comes to the supply, fitting, repair and maintenance of tyres for a range of vehicle types. You should have your tyres checked by a professional on a regular basis to ensure the safety, comfort and reliability of your vehicle in addition to the life span of your tyres. Tyres play a vital role in the safety and stopping power of your car, they are not just about a comfortable ride. Their main role being to keep your car in contact with the road and provide the traction to both move the car forwards and to stop safely when you need to. Stop and think about it... The braking system simply cannot be expected to work to its maximum performance if the tyres are worn or otherwise unsuitable for the car or type of driving you undertake. You should always ensure that your tyres and wheels are in good condition and set up correctly to help maximise your vehicle's braking performance If you are experiencing unusual vibrations, poor handling of the vehicle, have problems keeping tyres at the correct pressure, have low tyre tread or can see obvious damage to your tyres, you should probably have your tyres checked by experts such as the service team from Woodward's Auto Repairs. Regular car servicing can keep your car in good condition and having the tyres checked by a qualified mechanic at the same time can help you be aware of the condition of your tyres and alert you to any potential problems. Your Woodward's Auto Repairs mechanic can also let you know if your car could do with relatively low cost solutions that can greatly improve your driving experience as well as overall vehicle safety, such as a wheel alignment or wheel balancing. Tyres eventually wear out, an unavoidable process quickened by hard braking and regular high speed driving, as well as uneven road surfaces. Unless there are problems causing uneven tyre wear or bald spots or there is other significant damage, the depth of the tread on the tyre is usually the best indicator your tyres are due for replacement.  Although the legal minimum tread depth varies, a good rule of thumb is when tread depth is approaching 1.6mm you should talk to your Woodward's Auto Repairs mechanic about buying new tyres. Tread very carefully... Tread on a tyre is very important as this is where you get the traction to both move the car forwards and also the friction required to stop safely and efficiently. Tread is also the method by which water is dispersed away from the tyre surface in a manner which prevents aquaplaning and maintains maximum grip and control. The less tread depth you have, the less control you will have in wet driving conditions. It's all about finding the right balance... New tyres, a wheel alignment and wheel balancing go hand in hand to ensure good handling and maximising the expected lifespan of your new tyres. Woodward's Auto Repairs are experts at inspecting and maintaining tyres and related components and can give you good advice on purchasing the correct tyres for your car and also offer wheel aligning and wheel balancing services to help you look after your tyres. So if you need new tyres, tyre repairs, a wheel balance or wheel alignment or even just a simple bit of wheel related advice, perhaps it is time to pop in to our Wangaratta workshop for some expert advice.

Given that their main role is keeping your car in contact with the road, tyres play a vital role in the stopping power of your car. Woodward's Auto Repairs are tyre & wheel professionals…

What are your tyres costing you?

A Guide to Car Battery Care and Solutions in Wangaratta Car batteries are the silent powerhouses behind our daily commutes and weekend getaways, but their importance often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Regular car servicing is key to preventing battery issues and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly, especially in places like Wangaratta, Victoria, where varied weather conditions can put additional stress on your car's battery. Do I need a new car battery? The most obvious sign of a flat battery is when your car won't start. Modern motor vehicles can show symptoms like the idle stop-start not working or the car's air-conditioning not working to full capacity. Other signs include cracked, dirty or leaky batteries, a rotten egg smell under the hood of your car, or regularly needing a jump start or recharge. The best way to know if you need a new battery is to get a car battery test at Woodward's Auto Repairs. Why Regular Car Service is Essential for Battery Health Regular car service is crucial to maintaining your vehicle's health, including your battery. During a routine service, mechanics check the battery's charge level, clean the terminals, and ensure it's securely mounted. These checks help prevent common battery issues and can extend the life of your battery. Consistent servicing helps avoid unexpected breakdowns, saving you time and money in the long run. Cold Weather and Battery Performance In Wangaratta, cold winter mornings can spell trouble for your car battery. Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery, reducing its ability to hold a charge. This is why your car might struggle to start on a chilly morning. If you're experiencing sluggish starts or dimming headlights, it might be time to get your battery checked. Other Factors Affecting Battery Performance Apart from the cold, several other factors can affect your battery's performance: Short Trips: Frequent short trips prevent your battery from fully charging, reducing its lifespan Electronic Accessories: Devices like phone chargers and GPS systems can drain your battery when the engine isn't running Age of the Battery: Most car batteries last 3-5 years. If yours is older, it might be time for a replacement. Does a flat battery use more fuel? A flat or weak battery can indirectly lead to higher fuel consumption. If your battery is struggling, the alternator has to work harder to charge it, which can increase engine load and fuel usage. Keeping your battery in good condition helps your car run efficiently, saving you money at the pump. Where can I buy a new car battery? If you're in Wangaratta and need a new car battery, you have several options. Local auto parts stores and service centres like Woodward's Auto Repairs offer a range of batteries suited to your vehicle's needs. It's always a good idea to choose a battery with a warranty for peace of mind. Who can test my car battery? Most auto service centres, including Woodward's Auto Repairs, offer battery testing services. A professional test will assess your battery's health, helping you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Regular testing, especially before winter, ensures your battery is ready for the season's demands. Why choose Woodward's Auto Repairs for a battery test? If you have concerns about your vehicle's performance, it is wise to get your battery tested at a full service workshop like Woodward's Auto Repairs - rather than a parts store - because we take into consideration the whole vehicle and can diagnose any deeper issues. There is nothing worse than replacing your car battery - only to find the problem lies elsewhere… except maybe being told your battery test is fine with no explanation for your ongoing issues! At Woodward's Auto Repairs, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive battery testing and replacement services. Our experienced technicians use the latest diagnostic tools to ensure your battery is in top condition. We offer a wide range of quality batteries, expert advice, and competitive pricing, making us the go-to choice for battery care in Wangaratta. Can my car battery be recharged? Yes, in fact the battery is being recharged by the alternator in your car whenever the engine is running. Sometimes this fix isn't enough, and your battery requires an external recharge. It's best to ask a professional about this, as you could void the battery warranty by recharging it yourself. There may come a point where external recharging is not the best option either because every battery eventually reaches a point in its life where replacement is the only answer to avoid unexpected breakdowns. if your battery frequently goes flat, it might be a sign of a more significant issue, such as a failing alternator or parasitic drain. It's best to have a professional diagnose the problem to prevent further damage. Can I fit my battery myself? The short answer is yes. But modern vehicles are “computers on wheels”, so you must follow proper installation procedures to avoid damaging the ECM (Engine Control Module) and TCM (Transmission Control Module). If you're not confident in your skills, it's best to let professionals handle it to avoid damaging the battery or your vehicle. Improper installation can lead to short circuits or void the battery's warranty. Plus, if the battery gets incorrectly installed, items like the radio, the navigation system and security codes may need to be professionally reset. Car batteries are vital to your vehicle's performance, and regular servicing ensures they remain in optimal condition. In Wangaratta, where weather conditions can be challenging, staying proactive about battery care can save you from inconvenient and costly issues. Whether you need a new battery, a test, or expert advice, Woodward's Auto Repairs is here to help keep you on the road with confidence... Want even more information about Car Batteries? Click here. Book battery related services or contact us for a quote

Learn why regular car service is essential for battery health. Discover how cold weather and other factors can affect your battery's performance and get expert advice on battery care in Wangaratta…

Woodward's Auto Repairs

Cars are our passion.

There's a new gas in town

Woodward's Auto Repairs - Our expertise & knowledge

Radiator Coolant

Car Battery Testing and FAQ

What are your tyres costing you?

Navigating Car Battery Challenges