Business Details
Your Trusted MOT & Car Service Centre in Orpington
Central Auto Centre has been serving the Orpington community for over 35 years, evolving from a specialist tyre and exhaust service into a comprehensive automotive repair centre. Established in 1988, our team of ATA-accredited technicians delivers expert MOT testing, diagnostics, and servicing for all vehicle types, including electric and hybrid models. We invest continuously in state-of-the-art equipment, including Bosch diagnostic systems and HFO-1234yf air conditioning technology, to maintain our position at the forefront of automotive care. Our facility on the A21 in Green Street Green offers wheel alignment, brake repairs, and fast-fit services, supported by free WiFi and courtesy cars for customer convenience.As a family-run business since our founding as Central Tyre & Exhaust, we prioritise transparency, using COMMA oils and manufacturer-specified parts to preserve warranties. Our 2011 name change reflects our expanded capabilities, while our commitment to quality remains unchanged, combining technical expertise with personal service for both routine maintenance and complex repairs.
Services
MOT Testing
Car Servicing
Tyre Fitting
Brake Repairs
Air Conditioning
Diagnostics
Wheel Alignment
Clutch Replacement
Battery Services
Electric Vehicle Maintenance
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years' experience in automotive repairs and servicing
- Our technicians are ATA accredited for professional excellence
- We use manufacturer-specified parts to maintain vehicle warranties
- We offer free WiFi and courtesy cars for customer convenience
- We invest continuously in the latest Bosch diagnostic equipment
Associations and certifications
- Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI)
Services
MOT Testing
We provide Class IV MOT testing for petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles. Our ATL-certified centre uses modern equipment to ensure accurate assessments while offering post-test repairs. Technicians identify potential issues before failures occur, helping maintain roadworthiness and compliance with UK regulations.
Car Servicing
Our servicing follows manufacturer specifications using COMMA oils and OEM-equivalent parts. We maintain warranties through scheduled maintenance while checking critical components like brakes and suspension. Digital diagnostics identify hidden issues early, preventing costly breakdowns and maintaining vehicle performance.
Tyre Fitting
We supply and fit all major tyre brands with expert wheel balancing and alignment. Our technicians check tread depths and pressures while offering winter tyre options. Puncture repairs use approved methods, and we provide casing disposal as part of our environmentally responsible service.
Air Conditioning
Our HFO-1234yf compliant systems service includes refrigerant recharging and system diagnostics. We check compressor function and cabin filters while offering deep cleaning treatments. Regular maintenance improves efficiency and ensures optimal cooling performance throughout warmer months.
Diagnostics
Using Bosch and Snap-On equipment, we diagnose complex electrical and mechanical issues. Our technicians interpret error codes while checking sensor functionality and ECU operations. This precision approach reduces diagnostic time while identifying both immediate faults and potential future problems.
Questions
What services does Central Auto Centre offer?
We provide MOT testing, car servicing, tyre fitting, brake repairs, air conditioning services, diagnostics, wheel alignment, clutch replacement, battery services, and electric vehicle maintenance.
Are your technicians qualified?
Yes, all our technicians are ATA accredited and receive regular training on the latest automotive technologies, including electric vehicle systems and advanced diagnostic equipment.
Do you service electric vehicles?
Yes, we service all electric vehicle types including BEVs, PHEVs, and MHEVs, with specialist knowledge of EV braking systems, battery management, and MOT requirements for electric cars.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major debit and credit cards, cash payments, and contactless transactions for all services including tyre fitting, MOTs, and vehicle repairs.
Is there customer parking available?
Our Orpington garage has customer parking spaces for those waiting during servicing, with free WiFi access available in our reception area during your visit.
Can I get a courtesy car?
Yes, we offer courtesy cars for £12 per day to customers requiring transport while their vehicle undergoes servicing or repairs, subject to availability.
Reviews (7)
Bex H. BexiBeans
Aug 27, 2021
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Pretty sure this place has been around since before I was born, but I started coming here 3 years ago because the first place I used for an MOT was a rip off and I was told I wouldn't understand because I'm female. So I came here, knowing it had a good reputation after being around so long and I've stuck with them since. My car has needed a fair amount of work but Guy has always explained each part well, why its happened, how urgent it is to fix etc. When I had a long list of stuff on the mot he got me to open the list online so I could see what he was talking about and know it was all legit. He
Aurelija Meakin
Jul 29, 2021
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SAVE YOURSELF TIME AND MONEY - AVOID AT ALL COST OR GET THEIR WORK CHECKED OUT ELSEWHERE AFTERWARDS JUST IN CASE THEY MESSED IT UP. ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE A WOMAN.
RUN BY A RUDE, DISRESPECTFUL, CHAUVINIST GUY who also runs the appalling / call it "non existing customer service" phone line.
--- problem created in March 2021 when fixing a tyre - over-tightened wheel nuts
--- in July the issue comes to light when another garage attempts to change brake pads and the wheel does not come off and garage breaking two locking nuts I return to the Central Auto Centre to politely ask for the issue to be
RUN BY A RUDE, DISRESPECTFUL, CHAUVINIST GUY who also runs the appalling / call it "non existing customer service" phone line.
--- problem created in March 2021 when fixing a tyre - over-tightened wheel nuts
--- in July the issue comes to light when another garage attempts to change brake pads and the wheel does not come off and garage breaking two locking nuts I return to the Central Auto Centre to politely ask for the issue to be
Andy Sage
Jul 04, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality,Value
Had new air con compressor fitted, could not fault the service I received, would highly recommend
Service:A/c installation & repair
Had new air con compressor fitted, could not fault the service I received, would highly recommend
Service:A/c installation & repair
Mark Walford
May 30, 2021
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Guy really knows his stuff.. They have the BMW diagnosis kit and sorted my mini out when I'd been given the run around elsewhere
James Leverington
Apr 06, 2021
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Nothing but positive things to say about this place. Friendly staff delivering a quality service. Fair and just advice and will help you get the very best for your money.
Paul Ingram
Aug 21, 2020
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Guy and the team know their stuff offering a great, friendly, and honest service and good value too. They'll go the extra mile to keep costs down and source difficult to obtain parts. Used them for years, highly recommended. You can't beat a local trustworthy garage which is usually so hard to find.
Will Rosieryt
Jun 21, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality,Value
So impressed with these guys I had to write a first ever review. Great team, efficient and a reasonable price. Found and fixed a wiring problem in a few hours that three other garages could not find or fix previously. Thank you Guy and your team.
Services:Brakes,Electrical repair,Tyres
So impressed with these guys I had to write a first ever review. Great team, efficient and a reasonable price. Found and fixed a wiring problem in a few hours that three other garages could not find or fix previously. Thank you Guy and your team.
Services:Brakes,Electrical repair,Tyres
