87-Year-Old Downtown Santa Barbara Auto Shop Announces Closure

Powell Garage is closing its doors after serving Santa Barbara for nearly nine decades, marking the end of a business that has served generations of local drivers.

In an email to its customers, the auto repair and maintenance establishment announced that it will permanently close on December 19, 2025. 

“Though we had planned to stay longer, the recent notice of plans to sell the property has dictated that we make this decision,” owners Paul and Fred Ledesma wrote in the email. 

The owners did not disclose any further information regarding the upcoming sale of the property. 

They thanked their customers for their “loyalty and support throughout the years.” They also expressed gratitude to the Powell family “for the opportunity to be a part of Powell Garage’s history” over the years. 

The Ledesmas also did not specify if they plan to reopen their business elsewhere.

Powell Garage’s Decades-Long Legacy

Initially located on Chapala Street, Powell Garage was founded in 1938 by Arnold “A.D.” Powell and his son Everett, according to its website. 

The shop relocated to the lower part of De La Vina Street after World War II and settled into its current location at 1327 De La Vina Street in 1948. 

The Powells worked here together until A.D. retired around 10 years later, according to the website. The shop then passed to his sons, Richard and Fred. 

In tune with the changes in the automotive industry, the two brothers kept themselves updated and underwent training and education to keep up with the changes, according to the website.

Richard and Fred retired by the end of 2004 and sold the shop to longtime employees and brothers, Paul and Fred Ledesma, who had worked with the Powells for more than two decades.

Known For Reliability

Powell Garage offers a range of services, including engine replacements, air conditioning service and repair, belt replacement, brake services, lube oil and filter service, diagnostic services, maintenance servicing, water pump services, and shocks and struts, according to its website. 

For many longtime customers, the closure of Powell Garage will mean the end of a trusted auto repair shop. 

Customers have appreciated the garage for its customer service, reliability, and trustworthiness, based on the testimonials on its website and Yelp reviews. Powell Garage has a 4.8 rating on Yelp, based on 22 reviews. 

Customers also appreciated the prompt service provided by the Ledesmas and their employees. Many customers noted the care taken with older cars and knowledge of cars and spare parts.