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
What Happens if Your Car Fails? Re-Inspection Rules and Costs
Learn what happens when a vehicle fails safety inspection. Understand re-inspection timelines, costs, and your options.
How Preventive Maintenance Saves Canadians $1,500 Every Year
Regular maintenance costs less than emergency repairs. See how routine service protects your budget and keeps your car reliable.
The Ultimate Fall Car Care Checklist: Preparing for -30°C Mornings
Prepare your car for Canadian winter with this complete fall checklist. Ensure reliability when temperatures drop to -30°C.
Spring Recovery: Healing Your Car from a Winter of Road Salt and Slush
Road salt and winter slush damage your car's undercarriage and exterior. Learn spring recovery steps to repair winter damage.
Why Your Car Needs a Multi-Point Inspection Every 10,000 km
A multi-point inspection every 10,000 km catches problems early. Learn what technicians check and why this standard matters.
How to Reach 300,000 km with Nothing More Than Routine Maintenance
Cars can reach 300,000 km with consistent routine maintenance. Learn what habits and services make this possible.
The Role of Fluids in Engine Health: Coolant, Brake, and Power Steering
Engine fluids protect your car's most critical systems. Learn what each fluid does and why regular service matters.
Why You Should Wash Your Undercarriage Every Week in the Winter
Winter road salt corrodes your car's undercarriage rapidly. Weekly washing prevents rust and extends vehicle life.
The Maintenance Schedule for the Average Canadian SUV in 2026
Follow this maintenance schedule to keep your Canadian SUV reliable. Covers oil, fluids, tires, brakes, and seasonal service.
How to Prevent Unexpected $2,000 Repair Bills with Preventive Care
Preventive maintenance stops unexpected repairs before they happen. Learn which $100 services prevent $2,000 failures.
Why Cabin Air Filters are More Than Just a Comfort Feature
Cabin air filters protect your HVAC system and health. Learn why regular replacement matters for your vehicle and family.
The Importance of Checking Belts and Hoses Before a Summer Road Trip
A belt or hose failure during a road trip is dangerous and expensive. Learn what to check before you travel.