About The Neighbor’s Kid Auto Repair
Your Trusted Sebastopol Mechanic Since 2021
Family-Owned Auto Repair Shop Serving Sebastopol & West County. 5th Generation Local Residents. Expert Diagnostics. Honest Service.
Schedule Your Auto Repair Appointment
Same-Day Repair Service Available | FREE Multi-Point Inspection with Every Service
3 Ways to Book
Call: (707) 861-9583
Text: (707) 819-0993
Online Form
Our Story
Born From Adversity, Built on Family Values
The Neighbor’s Kid Auto Repair was founded in 2021 during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. When Erik Engstrom, a retired technology executive with over 30 years of leadership experience, saw his son Zack Anderson—a 5th-generation Sebastopol resident and talented mechanic—struggling to find his path during lockdowns, he saw an opportunity. Not just to start a business, but to build something meaningful together.
What began as a father helping his son has evolved into one of West County’s most trusted auto repair shops. Our name, “The Neighbor’s Kid,” reflects our roots. We’re not a faceless corporate chain. We’re the neighbors you wave to at Ives Park, the family you see at The Barlow, the local mechanics who understand that in a small community like Sebastopol, your reputation is everything.
Today, we operate from our shop at 9133 Green Valley Road in Sebastopol (just north of Graton), serving the entire West County area with the same values that guided our founding: honesty, expertise, and genuine care for our neighbors’ automotive needs.
Meet The Team
Erik Engstrom
Co-Founder & Lead Diagnostic Technician
- 30+ years executive leadership in high-tech industry
- Background in complex information science and systems diagnostics
- Built his first engine in the 1990s
- Specializes in electrical diagnostics and computer system analysis
Erik brings a unique analytical approach to automotive repair. His decades in technology taught him systematic problem-solving and evidence-based diagnostics. While many shops guess at problems or throw parts at symptoms, Erik’s background in complex systems allows him to methodically diagnose even the most challenging electrical and computer issues. His philosophy is simple: test, verify, repair. No magical thinking. No guesswork. Just disciplined, scientific diagnosis that gets results.
Zack Anderson
Co-Founder & Master Technician
- 5th generation Sebastopol resident with deep community roots
- Built BMW engines and track cars while in high school
- Completed Santa Rosa Junior College automotive technology program
- Specialized training in performance engine building and diagnostics
- Expert in Japanese imports (Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Subaru) and European performance vehicles (BMW, MINI, Audi, Porsche)
Zack’s passion for automotive work started early, tearing apart engines at home and studying how things break. His hands-on learning at local junkyards—understanding failure modes by seeing them firsthand—gave him diagnostic insights that can’t be taught in a classroom. Combined with formal training at SRJC, Zack brings both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience to every repair. His athletic background (referenced in multiple customer reviews) taught him discipline and attention to detail that translates directly to precise mechanical work.
Our Complete Team & Capabilities
Beyond Erik and Zack, The Neighbor’s Kid Auto Repair has built a skilled team that includes:
- Multiple apprentice technicians learning the trade (we actively mentor local youth interested in automotive careers)
- Part-time engine machinist with specialized skills
- Collectively, our team brings 50+ years of practical internal combustion engine diagnostic skill and experience
This combination of seasoned professionals and enthusiastic apprentices creates a shop culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing—ensuring every repair benefits from both deep experience and fresh perspectives.
What Makes Us Different
Evidence-Driven Diagnostics (Not Guesswork)
Erik’s background in complex information science and systems analysis means we approach every problem methodically. We use professional-grade diagnostic equipment—not just basic code readers—and test components to verify failures before recommending replacements. We document findings, explain root causes, and provide evidence-based recommendations. No “magical thinking.” No throwing parts at problems hoping something works. Just systematic, scientific diagnosis that identifies the real issue the first time.
Comprehensive Courtesy Inspections
Before we provide most estimates, we perform a full courtesy inspection. This involves approximately one hour inspecting your entire vehicle—suspension, brakes, steering, engine performance, fuel trim, computer diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and overall drivability. This thorough approach often reveals underlying issues that could cause expensive failures if left unaddressed. We believe in catching small problems before they become catastrophic breakdowns.
Transparent, Honest Communication
Customer reviews consistently mention our straightforward explanations and honest assessments. We don’t upsell. We don’t recommend unnecessary work. We explain what’s wrong, why it matters, what happens if you wait, and what it will cost to fix—all in plain English, not mechanic jargon. Many customers report we’ve refused payment for diagnostic time or minor fixes, which reflects our commitment to doing right by our neighbors rather than maximizing every transaction.
Specialized Expertise in Challenging Repairs
While we work on all makes and models (gas, electric, hybrid, diesel—vehicles from 1923 to 2023), we specialize in larger, more complex repairs that other shops avoid. On any given day, you’ll find a MINI, Mazda, Toyota, Honda, BMW, Subaru, or Porsche in our bays. We’re particularly skilled with Japanese imports and domestic vehicles, but our team’s combined experience allows us to tackle European performance vehicles and challenging electrical/computer issues that many general repair shops won’t touch.
Community-Focused Business Model
We prefer to help nice people achieve their vehicular goals over just working on nice cars. This philosophy extends to our apprenticeship program—we actively mentor local teenagers interested in automotive trades, providing hands-on training and real career pathways. We keep at least one bay open every day specifically for emergency breakdowns and new customer issues, because we know car problems don’t respect schedules. And we offer pickup and drop-off service for customers who need it, because convenience matters.
Brake Repair
Expert brake service, pads, rotors, calipers. Same-day service available.
Check Engine Light
Advanced diagnostics, not just code reading. Find root causes fast.
Transmission Repair
Automatic, manual, CVT service. Honest diagnostics, expert transmission repair.
Suspension & Steering
Shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints. Restore your smooth ride.
Oil Change & Maintenance
Synthetic & conventional oil change. FREE multi-point inspection included.
Radiator & Cooling System
Stop overheating fast. Radiator, water pump, & thermostat repair service.
AUTo Electrical System Repair
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring. Our mechanics do it all.
Engine Repair & Performance
Tune-ups, timing belts, misfires. Restore power & efficiency.
Complete Auto Repair
All services under one roof. From oil changes to major repairs.
Community Involvement
Investing in the Next Generation
As a family business born from a father mentoring his son, we understand the importance of passing on knowledge and skills. We actively operate an apprenticeship program for local teenagers interested in automotive careers. In an era when skilled trades are undervalued and young people are pushed exclusively toward four-year degrees, we provide real career pathways, hands-on training, and mentorship that prepares the next generation of mechanics.
Supporting Neighbors in Need
Customer testimonials frequently mention our generosity—refusing payment for diagnostic time, helping people in difficult situations, providing assistance beyond what’s expected. This isn’t a marketing strategy; it’s how neighbors treat neighbors. We remember that vehicles aren’t just machines—they’re how people get to work, pick up their kids, make their living. When someone is in a tough spot, we help however we can.
Local, Independent, Invested
As 5th generation Sebastopol residents, we’re not going anywhere. Our kids go to local schools. We shop at local businesses. We see you at the farmers market. This is OUR community. Our success depends on maintaining trust and delivering honest service, day after day, year after year. Unlike corporate chains that can damage their reputation and simply rebrand, we live with every decision we make. That accountability keeps us honest.
Our Facility & Equipment
We operate from a modern, well-equipped shop at 9133 Green Valley Road in Sebastopol, conveniently located just north of Graton. Our facility features:
- Professional-grade diagnostic equipment (not consumer-level code readers)
- Specialized tools for European and Japanese vehicles
- Multiple service bays allowing simultaneous repairs
- Dedicated bay reserved daily for emergency/new customer issues
- Engine machining capabilities (via our part-time specialist)
- Comfortable waiting area with WiFi (for customers who choose to wait)
We continually invest in the tools, equipment, and training necessary to properly diagnose and repair modern vehicles. As cars become increasingly computerized and complex, we stay ahead of the curve with both technology and knowledge.
Contact Details
Address
9133 Green Valley Rd, Suite 110, Sebastopol, CA 95472, United States
Phone
(707) 861-9583
Erik's Mobile (Text/Call)
(510) 967-5969
Working Hours
What Our Auto Repair Customers Say...
Featured Service Highlights
Expert Brake Repair in Sebastopol
Same-Day Brake Service | Certified Brake Mechanics
That squealing sound when you brake isn't going away on its own—it's a warning that brake pads are worn and damaging rotors. Ignoring brake problems turns a $200 pad replacement into an $800+ rotors and pads job. Our certified brake mechanics in Sebastopol provide expert brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing, and complete brake system service with same-day turnaround on our most brake repair services.
Check Engine Light Diagnostics in Sebastopol
Advanced Diagnostics, Not Just Code Reading | Expert Mechanics
A check engine light can mean anything from a loose gas cap to catastrophic engine damage. A FLASHING light means your engine is misfiring RIGHT NOW and destroying the $2,000 catalytic converter with every mile you drive. Our expert engine diagnostics in Sebastopol use professional scan tools—not just basic code readers—to identify root causes and provide accurate repair recommendations. Don't let a $150 oxygen sensor turn into $2,500 in cascading damage.
Transmission Repair & Service in Sebastopol
Automatic, Manual & CVT Transmission Specialists
Transmission problems get exponentially worse if ignored. Slipping gears, delayed shifts, or jerky operation indicate internal damage happening RIGHT NOW. A $400 transmission fluid service today can prevent a $3,500 rebuild tomorrow. Our certified transmission mechanics in Sebastopol diagnose automatic, manual, and CVT transmissions on all makes and models with honest assessments and transparent pricing.
Suspension & Steering Repair in Sebastopol
Shocks, Struts, Ball Joints & Control Arms
Clunking noises over bumps? Excessive bouncing? Pulling to one side? Worn suspension components don't just make driving uncomfortable—they destroy tires and create dangerous handling. A $400 set of tires can be ruined in 10,000 miles by worn suspension. Our experienced suspension mechanics in Sebastopol repair shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, and tie rods to restore your smooth ride and protect your tire investment.
Oil Change & Preventive Maintenance in Sebastopol
Synthetic & Conventional Oil | FREE Multi-Point Inspection
Regular oil changes are the most important thing you can do to extend engine life. Dirty oil causes sludge buildup, increases wear, and leads to expensive engine repairs costing thousands. Every oil change service near Sebastopol at our shop includes a comprehensive FREE multi-point inspection that catches small problems before they become catastrophic failures. We offer synthetic, conventional, and high-mileage oil options plus factory-recommended 30k/60k/90k maintenance services.
Engine Repair & Performance in Sebastopol
Tune-Ups, Timing Belts, Misfires & Engine Diagnostics
Engine misfiring? Rough idle? Loss of power? Engine problems range from simple (spark plugs) to complex (internal damage requiring tear-down). Ignoring engine misfires destroys $2,000 catalytic converters within weeks. Our expert engine repair mechanics in Sebastopol use professional diagnostic equipment—compression testing, leak-down testing, advanced scan tools—to accurately identify problems and reccommend repairs including tune-ups, timing belts, and major engine work.