Sarah Mitchell
Sarah has spent over a decade advising small and family-owned auto repair shops on growth, hiring, and customer experience. With an MBA from Western and a background in small-business lending, she has worked directly with more than 200 independent Canadian shops on pricing, marketing, and CRA-compliant bookkeeping. She writes about the operational and regulatory side of running a profitable independent garage in Canada.
465 articles by Sarah
The Cost of Suspension Repair in Canada: From $200 to $5,000
Understand suspension repair pricing in Canada. Learn what factors affect costs and why independent shops often save you thousands.
Why Your Car Dips Sharply When You Hit the Brakes
Understand why your car nosedives when braking. Learn the suspension diagnostics behind this common problem and when to repair.
Symptoms of Failing Control Arm Bushings You Might Notice at High Speed
Learn how failing control arm bushings affect vibration and stability at highway speeds. Understand the signs before they become dangerous.
How Road Salt Corrodes Your Coil Springs and Leads to Snaps
Road salt accelerates coil spring corrosion, leading to cracks and catastrophic failure. Learn how salt damage progresses and how to prevent it.
Why You Should Always Get an Alignment After a Suspension Repair
Understand why wheel alignment is critical after suspension work. Learn what happens if you skip it and why the cost is worth it.
The Difference Between Shocks and Struts (and Why It Matters for Your Wallet)
Understand the difference between shocks and struts. Learn why your vehicle uses one or the other and how that affects repair costs.
How to Perform a 'Wiggle Test' to Check Your Own Ball Joints
Learn the simple DIY wiggle test to check ball joint condition yourself. This easy diagnostic catches problems before they become dangerous.
Why Your Steering Wheel Vibrates After Hitting a Bump
Understand why steering vibration follows bumps. Learn what suspension components are failing and when to seek repair.
The Role of Sway Bar Links in Keeping Your Ride Level
Understand how sway bar links maintain vehicle stability. Learn what failing links feel like and why replacement is important.
How to Tell If Your Car Suspension Is Leaking Hydraulic Fluid
Learn how to identify hydraulic fluid leaks in your suspension. Understand what the fluid is, why leaks matter, and when to repair.
Why Lifted Trucks Need Heavier-Duty Suspension Maintenance
Understand why lifted trucks require specialized suspension care. Learn what components wear faster and why preventive maintenance is essential.
The Link Between Worn Suspension and Uneven Tire Wear
Understand how suspension wear causes uneven tire wear. Learn what patterns indicate suspension problems and why fixing suspension saves tires.