About Us
HONESTY - QUALITY - INTEGRITY
South Elm Automotive has been a staple on downtown Manchester’s Elm Street since 1964. Our building originally housed Bouchard’s Shell Gas Station and has since been remodeled into a modern, four-bay service facility — with our design and fabrication studios located upstairs.
The name South Elm Automotive has long stood for trusted, personalized automotive care — a place where customers are known by name, not just as another face. With deep expertise in both European and domestic vehicles, our team can quickly and confidently diagnose and repair any issue that comes our way.
We offer complimentary loaner vehicles, secure after-hours drop-off and pick-up, and accept all major credit cards for your convenience.
Our Team
Kevin Lawler - Owner / Parts Guru
The patriarch and seasoned sage of Southern New England's automotive realm. With four decades of problem-solving wisdom, Kevin is the driving force behind the automotive expertise that stretches from Hondas to Volvos. A true leader, Kevin's journey in the automotive industry reads like a “who’s who,” with every pit stop leaving an indelible mark. The stream of customers who have followed his 40-year tenure is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the automotive craft—and to the people who operate those vehicles.
As the former President of the Volvo Parts and Service Club, Kevin is not just a manager; his knowledge of automotive parts manufacturers and sources is legendary—an encyclopedic mind that could make even the most seasoned guru tip their hat in respect. In the world of European automotive repair, Kevin Lawler is often tapped as a resource for other shop owners seeking guidance. When faced with a puzzle that stumps the rest, Kevin is the one they call—the troubleshooter with a toolbox full of solutions and a cheeky grin to match.
Sean Lawler - Owner / Creative Director
Meet Sean Lawler, the brains behind the creative reins at South Elm. With a career path that has zigzagged from the runways of fashion to the gritty garage floors of an auto shop, Sean seamlessly stitches together style and steel. Having spent two decades working his creative magic in the fashion industry—collaborating with heavyweights like Adidas, Reebok, Lucky Brand, Polo Ralph Lauren, and John Varvatos, to name just a few—Sean ran a multinational design agency that supported some of the biggest names in apparel. In a plot twist fit for Hollywood, he returned to his roots, rolled up his sleeves, and embraced his heritage of auto repair glory.
Sean’s passion now lies in combining modern performance with classic styling. You can find him in the shop doing everything from custom welding fabrication to nuanced stitchwork on upholstery. The artistry of creating something beautiful drives his creative spirit. But he’s no slouch with a wrench either—he has earned his ASE Master Technician Certification. Often referred to as “the Land Rover whisperer,” your car has never been in better hands, and your journey is about to get a whole lot more stylish.
Services
General Auto Repairs
Got a weird noise coming from your engine? Come in and see us for a check-up! We handle everything from exhaust work and check engine lights to heating and cooling repairs.
Tires & Brakes
We offer a full range of tires for every make and model. Our team uses only high-quality brake components that meet or exceed manufacturer recommendations.
Car Maintenance
Oil changes, tire rotations, fluid flushes, and tune-ups — we offer all the same high-quality scheduled maintenance services as the dealerships, but at significantly reduced prices.
