Meet The Team
Joe Thurs
Owner/Founder
Experience:
Cardinale Brownm (Graduate 1992). Thaddeus Stevens State School of Technology 1994 worked in GM dealerships since. Became GM World Class Technician in 2005 and Chrysler Master Technician in 2017. Numerous other trainings & certifications over the course of my career.
Hobbies:
I enjoy cooking, biking & boating. Vacationing at the shore with my wife & 2 dogs Henry and Barclay.
I believe that our business is different because we truly care about the customer, offering excellent service in all we do.
Wayne Wolfe SR
General Manager
Experience:
GM, Chrysler Trainings, Managed garage in Hamburg for a total of 15 years in the automotive industry. Owned & operated family owned business totalling 3 years.
Hobbies:
Hunting, family atv trips to the mountains, watching my 4 daughters play softball & perform at their dance class.
Candi Montgomery
Office Manager
Experience:
10 years prior auto dealer experience.
Hobbies:
Softball mom - Spending time with family and friends
Malcolm Eubert IIi
Service Advisor
Experience:
Ove 21 years in the automotive business. Light mechanical work (tires, brakes, oil changes), customer service most of my time around vehicles.
Hobbies:
Love a good fire and taking the kids to baseball & soccer games.
Chris Shepherd
Eli Shepherd
Steve Tyson
Steve Houtz
Asceniah Pinter
Apprentice
Experience:
I'm a new Technician that went to school for Automotive Technology for 3 years. I also have a state inspection and emission license.
Hobbies:
My hobbies are very simple which is skateboarding once and awhile. I love to draw and also play basketball. I love the outdoors like hiking or climbing big rocks.
David Figueroa
Technician
Experience:
I have 15 years combined working for Subaru and spent 1 year working for Honda
Hobbies:
Building and racing RC cars with my son. I also do professional drone videos and footage using my DJI setup. Building cars, currently have two of them. Hiking and doing a lot of urban exploring.
Auto Repair in Orwigsburg, PA
When you’re looking for dependable auto repair in Orwigsburg, PA, Joe Thurs Automotive is here to deliver. Our shop combines years of hands-on experience, up-to-date diagnostic equipment, and a genuine passion for helping drivers. We understand the importance of your vehicle for work, errands, and weekend trips, which is why we offer comprehensive services, from oil changes to advanced diesel engine maintenance, all under one roof.
If you’ve ever searched online for ‘auto repair near me’ or ‘mechanic near me,’ you know how many results pop up. The difference with Joe Thurs Automotive is that we treat every vehicle as if it were our own, and every customer as part of our extended community.
Complete Auto Repair Services
Our auto shop is fully equipped to keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and efficient. Instead of bouncing between different places for small and big jobs, we take care of it all.
General Car Repair and Maintenance
- Oil and filter changes for long-lasting engine health
- Brake inspections, pad replacements, and rotor services
- Transmission service, repair, and fluid maintenance
- Cooling system flushes, radiator repairs, and hose replacements
- Exhaust inspections and catalytic converter repairs
- Battery checks, replacements, and charging system diagnostics
- Full car diagnostic testing when dashboard lights appear
Performance and Engine Services: Auto Repair in Orwigsburg, PA
- Spark plug replacements and ignition system care
- Timing belt and chain services
- Fuel injection cleaning and repairs
- Complete tune-ups for smoother driving and better mileage
Steering and Suspension Care
- Shocks and struts replacement
- Steering column repair and alignments
- Power steering service
- Suspension adjustments for comfort and safety
These are not quick fixes—we examine the big picture of your vehicle’s condition to ensure you leave confident in its performance.
Diesel Mechanic and Diesel Engine Service
Our shop also specializes in diesel repair, something not every local mechanic can handle. Diesel engines are powerful and long-lasting, but they require specialized care that exceeds standard car maintenance.
Diesel services include:
- Full diesel diagnostics with advanced software
- Turbocharger inspections and replacements
- Fuel injector cleaning and repair
- Glow plug testing and replacements
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) cleaning
- Preventative diesel service for heavy-duty trucks and work vehicles
Whether it’s a work truck, pickup, or fleet vehicle, our diesel mechanics understand how to keep it running at peak power. If you’ve been searching for a diesel mechanic near me, you’ve found your answer here in Orwigsburg.
Tires and Tire Shop Services
We don’t just handle under-the-hood repairs—we’re also your neighborhood tire shop. Having safe, properly maintained tires can make all the difference in how your car handles on wet or icy roads.
Our tire services cover:
- Flat tire repair and patching
- Tire balancing for a smoother ride
- Tire rotations to extend tread life
- New tires from trusted brands for every type of driver
- TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) repair
Whether you need emergency tire repair or a full set of new tires, we’ll help you choose the right option based on your vehicle and driving style.
Signs You Should Visit the Shop
Not sure if your car needs service? Your vehicle often tells you when something’s wrong. Paying attention to small changes saves money down the road.
Watch for:
- Brake squeaks, grinding, or longer stopping distances
- Dashboard warning lights, like the check engine light
- Poor fuel economy or sluggish acceleration
- Odd smells like burning or fuel odors
- Difficulty starting or frequent jump-starts
- Uneven tire wear or pulling while driving
- Shaking or vibrating steering wheel
Even if the issue seems small, a quick inspection now can prevent a major breakdown later.
Driving in Orwigsburg – Local Challenges
Orwigsburg drivers face unique conditions—cold winters, hilly terrain, and changing seasons put strain on cars and trucks. Freezing temperatures can damage weak batteries, salt on the roads can corrode undercarriages, and steep grades can wear out brakes more quickly. That’s why local knowledge matters when it comes to an auto shop. We prepare your vehicle to handle these regional challenges year-round.
If you rely on your vehicle for long commutes, school runs, or weekend trips out of Schuylkill County, having a reliable mechanic nearby makes life a lot easier.
Preventative Maintenance Pays Off
It’s easy to think of auto repair as something you only do when your car breaks down. But preventative care is what keeps you off the side of the road.
Preventative maintenance at Joe Thurs Automotive:
- Seasonal vehicle inspections
- Fluid checks and flushes (brake, coolant, transmission)
- Cabin and engine air filter replacements
- Battery load testing before winter
- Belt and hose inspections for early wear
- Tire rotations and balancing every 5,000–7,000 miles
This type of care reduces long-term repair costs, improves safety, and ensures you’re always ready for the road ahead.
Advanced Diagnostics – No Guesswork
Modern vehicles are more advanced than ever. With computers and sensors running everything from engine timing to air conditioning, guesswork just won’t cut it. Our shop utilizes advanced diagnostic equipment to read error codes, pinpoint issues, and provide accurate troubleshooting solutions.
So when that check engine light turns on, you won’t get a vague explanation—you’ll get a clear diagnosis and a repair plan. That’s what sets our auto shop apart from generic quick-service garages.
Frequently Asked Questions – Auto Repair in Orwigsburg, PA
Q: Do you service both gas and diesel vehicles?
Yes, we have technicians trained to work on both gas-powered cars and trucks, as well as diesel engines. From family sedans to heavy-duty work trucks, we handle them all.
Q: How do I know if I need new tires?
Check tread depth with the penny test—if Lincoln’s head shows, it’s time for replacements. Other signs include uneven wear, sidewall cracks, or vibrations.
Q: Can you handle major repairs like engine or transmission issues?
Absolutely. We perform both complex repairs and routine maintenance, including transmission service, engine diagnostics, and rebuilds when necessary.
Q: Do you repair commercial or fleet vehicles?
Yes, our shop services work trucks and small fleets, including diesel maintenance and tire services to keep businesses moving.
Q: How often should I rotate my tires?
Every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Regular rotations extend tire life and improve handling.
Q: What if my check engine light is flashing?
A flashing light indicates a serious issue, like a misfire that could damage the catalytic converter. Schedule diagnostic testing right away.
The Joe Thurs Automotive Difference
We’re not just another auto shop in the area—we’re part of the community. Our difference comes from clear communication, transparent service, and care that goes beyond the basics. We explain what’s wrong, how it impacts your vehicle, and what the best options are. That way, you feel confident about every decision.
With skilled mechanics, modern tools, and a full range of services—including diesel repair and new tires—we’ve built a reputation as the go-to auto repair shop in Orwigsburg.
Auto Repair in Orwigsburg, PA You Can Rely On
When you need trusted auto repair in Orwigsburg, PA, Joe Thurs Automotive is ready to help. From diesel engine service and new tires to everyday car repair, we keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and ready for the road.
Call us today, schedule your appointment online, or stop by the shop. Whether it’s routine maintenance, a major repair, or simply tire services, our friendly team will get you back on the road with confidence.