Thompson Auto Repair

AUTO REPAIR

Thompson Auto Repair Donald Thompson

For someone whose life has revolved around cars from an early age, a fivestar reviewed auto repair company is something Donny Thompson doesn’t take lightly. He is grateful for those who supported him in his journey from apprentice to backyard mechanic to owner/operator of Thompson’s Auto Repair, which is growing by over 400 customers per year. Being around his grandfather, who owned several local service stations years ago, was the spark that began Thompson’s love of cars. At age 17, Thompson began as an apprentice at Culpeper’s Chrysler dealership. He learned and honed his craft working on vehicles for the company for over 20 years. In 2017, he started doing on-the-side work for friends in his garage at home and by August 2018, had enough work to leave the dealership and hire someone else full time.

By March 2020, his business grew too large for his backyard. That’s when Tony Troilo of Rosson & Troilo took him under his wing and helped him relocate Thompson’s Auto Repair to its current location in Brandy Station. Today, Thompson services over 1100 customers. “If it wasn’t for Tony, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Thompson said. “He’s been a great mentor and friend.” It was a big leap to go from home garage to full-service commercial operation, especially keeping up with the business side of things, but at the new location, work kept coming. Thompson was able to hire six employees and expand his services to include tires, alignments and Virginia state inspections. Thompson’s Auto Repair is one of only a few auto repair shops in the state to offer digital inspections. With a digital inspection, customers receive a detailed inspection report via text or email and can see photos of any areas that may have failed at home while their vehicle is still at the shop. The report includes tests that have been run, a diagnosis and recommendations for repair. Thompson also provides another helpful service, courtesy pre-purchase inspections for used vehicles. Customers or not, folks may bring vehicles to him for a reassuring check-over before they buy. Thompson feels people deserve to know if they’re getting a real deal or if there’s room to negotiate. These unique offerings represent Thompson’s commitment to developing relationships with customers built on honesty and transparency and consistent high-quality work. “I never try to sell you something you don’t need,” Thompson said. “We treat you like a part of the family. I want you to feel comfortable bringing your vehicle here.” Quality has always been number one for Thompson, and he stands by the shop’s workmanship so steadfastly that all maintenance and repairs Thompson’s Auto Repair performs on vehicles comes with its own one-year warranty for parts and labor. Thompson’s technicians are all ASE certified, and the shop itself is certified as a NAPA Auto Care Center, which carries its own nationwide warranty. Word of mouth keeps business growing. Those who come, leave rave reviews. The shop received the Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022 from the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. Not bad for an honest young man who always wanted to work on cars.

“That’s all I’ve ever wanted to do,” said Thompson.