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
Common Mistakes During DIY Winter Tire Swaps
Avoid costly errors when changing winter tires yourself. Learn common DIY mistakes and why professional installation adds value.
Symptoms of a Failing Water Pump You Shouldn't Ignore
Identify water pump failure through overheating, leaks, and unusual noises. Learn why prompt repair prevents catastrophic engine damage.
The Role of the Thermostat in Keeping Your Car Warm This Winter
The thermostat controls engine temperature and cabin heat. Learn how it works, signs of failure, and why it matters for winter driving.
How to Diagnose a Clogged Radiator Using a Temperature Gun
Learn how to use a temperature gun to detect radiator clogs. Identify cold spots and understand what uneven temperatures reveal about your cooling system.
How Dirty Oil Can Lead to a $5,000 Engine Replacement
Understand how neglecting oil changes leads to engine failure. Learn the cost of dirty oil and why prevention is the smartest investment.
Preparing Your AC for a Cross-Canada Summer Road Trip
Before a long summer road trip, prepare your AC system. Learn the maintenance steps to ensure reliable cooling across Canada.
Is Nitrogen Worth the Extra Cost for Your Tires?
Nitrogen-filled tires claim benefits like better pressure retention and longer life. Learn if nitrogen is worth the extra cost.
The Benefit of Using Narrower Winter Tires for Better Snow Traction
Narrower winter tires provide better snow traction than wider tires. Learn how tire width affects winter performance and when to consider narrower options.
Signs of a Leaking Radiator: Puddles, Smells, and Steam
Identify radiator leaks through puddles, odors, and steam. Learn diagnostic signs and why early detection prevents catastrophic engine damage.
Why Your Car Needs a Coolant Flush Every 5 Years
Coolant degrades over time, losing freeze protection and heat transfer. Learn why 5-year flushes maintain cooling system health and prevent expensive repairs.
What to Do if Your Oil Pressure Light Flickers in the Cold
Understand what a flickering oil pressure light means in cold weather. Learn when it's normal and when it signals a serious problem.
Dual-Zone Climate Issues: When Your Passenger is Freezing and You're Hot
Dual-zone climate control lets driver and passenger set different temperatures. When it fails, one side is hot and the other is cold. Learn the causes.