West Seattle’s newest full-service auto repair shop, West Seattle AutoWorks, is celebrating its grand opening on Monday, Oct. 4, 2010. The shop is located in the former Swedish Automotive Center facility at 7501 35th Ave. S.W., Seattle, WA 98126.

Co-founders Todd Ainsworth and Christopher Christensen have deep roots in the West Seattle community and said, " We're excited to launch West Seattle AutoWorks in our own neighborhood."

The grand opening will be preceded by an open house on Friday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., where customers can meet the staff, make appointments, and enjoy food and refreshments.

"We'll be introducing ourselves and grilling up some dogs, etc. making sure our computer systems are up, getting some last-minute stuff done," said Ainsworth.

Ainsworth has 24 years of professional experience repairing autos and is an ASE Re-Certified Master Tech and State Authorized Emissions Specialist, and he has sat on the Governor’s Board for Vocational Education. A longtime West Seattle resident, he has coached youth baseball, is active in the local music community, and currently writes an auto-focused online column for the West Seattle Herald.

Christensen has 26 years of professional experience repairing cars and managing auto parts stores and service departments. He is an ASE Re-Certified Master Tech, State Authorized Emissions Specialist, Exotic Car Certified Tech and Five Star Certified Chrysler Tech. A longtime West Seattle resident, he volunteers for and is active with Hope Lutheran and Seattle Lutheran schools and manages their vehicle fleets. Christopher has degrees in business and economics from Central Washington University.

Asked to describe the shop and its philosophy, Ainsworth said, “Our goal is to provide the highest-quality auto repair and maintenance and give our customers a shop they can trust and come back to for all their automotive needs. We also strive to keep as much of our business in West Seattle as we can, from suppliers to office and promotions.”

West Seattle AutoWorks services all makes and models, except Subaru, Volvo, Saab and Mini. Those makes can continue to be serviced at the new Swedish Automotive Center location, four blocks south. West Seattle Phone: 206-257-5344. On the Web: westseattleautoworks.com (the site is still under construction).

Hours 8am-5:30 pm M-F Friday,