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.
485 articles by Sarah
Case Study: How a $300 Ball Joint Repair Saved a $40,000 Vehicle
Real-world example of how early ball joint repair prevents catastrophic failure. Learn the ROI of proactive suspension maintenance.
What's Actually on the Ontario MTO Safety Inspection Checklist?
Understand how your vehicle is evaluated. Discover the official Ontario light-duty vehicle inspection checklist, compliance steps, and mechanical pass/fail guidelines.
Safety Certificate vs. Pre-Purchase Inspection: What's the Difference?
Confused about safety certificates and pre-purchase inspections? Learn what each covers, when you need them, and how they protect you as a buyer.
How to Pass Your Out-of-Province Vehicle Inspection in BC
Moving a vehicle to BC from another province? Learn when an out-of-province inspection is required, which vehicles may be exempt, and how the ICBC registration process works.
Why Your Used Car Needs a Professional Inspection Before You Buy
Thinking about buying a used car? A professional pre-purchase inspection protects your investment. Learn why it matters and what it reveals.
Common Reasons Vehicles Fail Safety Inspections in Canada
Learn the most common reasons vehicles fail safety inspections across Canada. Understand what inspectors look for and how to prevent failures.
The 90-Minute Inspection: What Happens During Your Safety Check?
Wondering what happens during a safety inspection? Learn the step-by-step process, timeline, and what inspectors check during the typical 90-minute appointment.
How the 2025 BC Vehicle Inspection Manual Changes Your Next Service
BC's vehicle inspection manual has been updated for 2025. Learn what changed and how new standards affect your next inspection.
Can You Sell a Car Without a Safety Certificate in Canada?
Wondering about selling your car without a safety certificate? Learn the legal requirements across Canadian provinces and your seller obligations.
How to Check a Vehicle's Safety History Using its VIN
Learn how to use a vehicle's VIN to check safety history, inspection records, and maintenance reports. Protect yourself as a buyer.
Why Independent Shops are the Best Place for a Fair Safety Inspection
Learn why independent repair shops provide fairer safety inspections than dealerships and chains. Discover the advantages of local expertise.
The Role of the Road Test in Your Provincial Safety Inspection
Understand why the road test is crucial in safety inspections. Learn what inspectors assess during test drives and why it matters.