For your convenience, our workshop will be open for business right through the Christmas period, except for public holidays

Thompsons Auto Repairs / Centre Radiators take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times.

Conveniently located in Port Pirie, Thompsons Auto Repairs / Centre Radiators is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods.

Thompsons Auto Repairs / Centre Radiators  have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring only the very best in automotive care.

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, Thompsons Auto Repairs to service and repair your vehicle. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, Thompsons 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 Port Pirie 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.

Thompsons 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. Thompsons Auto Repairs in Port Pirie 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 Thompsons Auto Repairs in Port Pirie 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 Thompsons Auto Repairs in Port Pirie.  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 Thompsons 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 Port Pirie. 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 

As the holiday season draws near, it's time to start thinking about hitting the road with family and friends.  However, before embarking on any road trip, it's essential to make sure that your car is in excellent condition for safe driving and if you are planning on towing a caravan or trailer you will want to make sure the vehicle is ready for the job. It may seem a little daunting at first but take heart brave traveler... Regular servicing and maintenance are the primary keys to ensuring your vehicle is holiday-ready Regular servicing is critical for maintaining the overall health of your vehicle. During a service, trained mechanics check and replace the parts that are worn out or need replacing, clean your engine, and refill all the fluids. Regular servicing helps you detect potential problems before they become severe, saves you from costly repairs in the future, and helps prolong the life of your car.﻿ So if you have kept up your regular service schedule with a reputable mechanic you are ahead of the game already. Ten ways regular servicing helps make sure your car is ready for the holidays Holidays should be about having a good time and relaxing, not stressing about all the things like packing the car, organising all the things for the holiday itself, getting the kids sorted and so on. The last thing you want to have to worry about is whether your car is in the safest and most efficient condition possible to make the journey. That's where regular car service by an honest and reputable car service workshop like Thompsons Auto Repairs comes in, as many of the things requiring checking will already have been checked. 1. Checking and Changing Engine Oil﻿ Engine oil lubricates all the moving parts inside your engine and keeps it running smoothly. It's essential to check your oil levels regularly and top-up if needed. Additionally, engine oil should be changed regularly as recommended in your vehicle's manual.﻿ 2. Battery Inspection﻿ Your car's battery is responsible for starting the engine and providing power for your car's electronics. A faulty battery can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. Therefore, before you hit the road, have a mechanic check the condition of your battery and replace it if necessary.﻿ 3. Tyre Maintenance﻿ Your car's tyres play a significant role in ensuring your safety while driving. They're the only point of contact between your car and the road. Before a holiday trip, it's important to inspect your tyres for wear, damage, or punctures and have them replaced if necessary. Don't forget to check the tyre pressure too.﻿ 4. Brake Maintenance﻿ Brakes are an essential safety feature in any vehicle. A comprehensive brake inspection should include the rotors, pads, and calipers. These parts can wear out over time and should be replaced when necessary.﻿ 5. Air Conditioning System﻿ During the holidays, air conditioning is crucial to ensure a comfortable and safe journey, especially during hot or very cold weather. Have a qualified technician inspect your air conditioning system, check the refrigerant levels and leaks, and recharge it if needed.﻿ 6. Suspension and Steering﻿ The suspension system helps to ensure that you have a smooth ride. It comprises of various components, including shocks, struts, and springs. A qualified technician should inspect these parts to ensure that they're functioning correctly. The steering system should also be checked, including the power steering fluid, belts, and hoses.﻿ 7. Electrical System From your car's battery to its alternator, regular servicing can help to prevent electrical issues. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing auto electrical problems, ensuring that your vehicle's electrical system is in good condition.﻿ 8. Fluid and Filter Replacement﻿ Regular servicing also includes fluid and filter replacement, such as oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. These fluids and filters need to be changed regularly to ensure that your car is running at its best. 9. Vehicle efficiency A well serviced vehicles is not only safer, it also generally runs more reliably and efficiently meaning you won't have to worry so much about breakdowns or mechanical failures and that you will also benefit from better fuel efficiency. Saving money at the petrol pump means more to spend on holidays... 10. Peace of Mind Bottom line - Regular servicing helps provide peace of mind, especially if you're going on a long trip. The certified technicians at Thompsons Auto Repairs can provide you with a vehicle inspection and any necessary repairs or maintenance, ensuring that your vehicle is safe and ready for the road ahead.﻿ Just let us know you are planning a road trip and we will be happy to advise you if we think you might need to address any potential issues. Regular servicing is important to keep your car running smoothly and safely, especially during the holiday season. At Thompsons Auto Repairs we offer a range of mechanical tasks to ensure the safety and condition of your vehicle for holiday driving. Book your service now to ensure that your car is holiday-ready ahead of time and then you only have to worry about packing the car and heading off when the holidays arrive.

Ensure your car is in tip-top shape for holiday driving. Learn about 10 ways regular servicing helps make sure your car is ready for the holidays...

Get your car ready for the Christmas holidays: 10 Tips for regular servicing and maintenance﻿

Thompsons Auto Repairs (AU28144) are the best choice to perform all your Car Air Conditioner Regas, Repairs, Inspection or Servicing needs in Port Pirie and the surrounding areas. Today's vehicles are intricate machines, and much like the engine, your car's air conditioning system comprises various parts that require periodic maintenance or replacement. Regular servicing of these components is essential to guarantee that the air conditioner remains dependable and operates efficiently. Proper upkeep not only ensures your comfort but also extends the lifespan of the system, preventing costly repairs down the road. So, whether it’s the compressor, refrigerant, or filters, timely attention to these elements is crucial for the optimal performance of your vehicle's climate control. When refrigerant escapes due to evaporation or leakage, your air conditioning system's efficiency starts to decline. Consequently, the system has to exert more effort to cool your vehicle, potentially leading to an increased consumption of fuel, particularly for smaller engine cars. This not only diminishes the performance of your air conditioning but can also negatively impact your fuel economy. Ensuring your refrigerant levels are properly maintained can prevent these issues, keeping your air con system running smoothly and economically. Consequently, it is crucial to routinely inspect the state of the rubber gaskets for any indications of wear, leaks, or deterioration. These issues could potentially lead to the escape of refrigerant, impacting the efficiency and performance of your cooling system. Regular checks ensure the seals maintain their integrity, preventing costly repairs and maintaining optimal functionality. By getting a car air conditioning service every 12 months you may help protect your system from costly breakdowns now and in the future, keep passengers safe by helping to prevent the build-up of potentially harmful substances and a well serviced car air conditioner actually saves you money because it reduces the amount of fuel being burned. Thompsons Auto Repairs care about the environment and have Arctick Authorisation (AU28144) to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning regas, repairs, inspection or servicing. Book your car air conditioning service with the professionals at Thompsons Auto Repairs in Port Pirie! 

Thompsons Auto Repairs care about the environment and have ARC Tick Authorisation to reliably and responsibly conduct automotive air conditioning service (AU28144)...

Thompsons Auto Repairs

Cars are our passion.

There's a new gas in town

Thompsons Auto Repairs - Our expertise & knowledge

Radiator Coolant

Car Battery Testing and FAQ

Get your car ready for the Christmas holidays: 10 Tips for regular servicing and maintenance

Is keeping your cool costing you fuel?

Thompsons Auto Repairs

Cars are our passion.

There's a new gas in town

Thompsons Auto Repairs - Our expertise & knowledge

Radiator Coolant

Car Battery Testing and FAQ

Get your car ready for the Christmas holidays: 10 Tips for regular servicing and maintenance﻿

Is keeping your cool costing you fuel?

Get your car ready for the Christmas holidays: 10 Tips for regular servicing and maintenance