About Us

San Francisco Auto Works is the Bay Area’s premier independent auto repair shop specializing in Subaru and other Japanese makes.  Honesty, integrity, and top notch service are our core values and central to our success. Founded in the Mission District in 1974 by Dale Newhouse, we have over 40 years of history in our current location. Originally a general service facility providing repair and maintenance to all makes and models, our focus was shifted to Subaru, as well as Toyota, Honda and Mazda, when second generation owner Kevin Hrebich brought in Johanda Parmana to partner with him in the business. After 36 and 25 years of stewardship respectively, Kevin and Joe retired in 2018 and entrusted the shop to their former shop foreman Kevin Sawyers, who is now the proud 3rd generation owner. Kevin has over 20 years of experience as a mechanic and has a true passion for automobiles of all kinds, having purchased and restored his first car, a 1930 Model “A” Ford sedan, at the age of 8. An out and proud gay man, Kevin takes a great deal of pride in thriving in an industry that historically has not been entirely friendly to the LGBTQ community, and uses his skills and experience to provide excellent service to all his customers regardless of background. Whether you just need an oil change, a major service, or a full overhaul, San Francisco Auto Works has you covered.