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
Why EV-Specific Tires are Necessary for Electric Vehicle Owners
Electric vehicles demand special tires. Learn why EV-specific tires are necessary and what makes them different.
How Many Kilometres Should a Set of Premium Winter Tires Last?
Understand how long premium winter tires last and what factors affect lifespan. Learn to maximize tire longevity and calculate cost per kilometer.
Why Aluminum Radiators are More Prone to Winter Cracking
Aluminum radiators are efficient but brittle in cold. Learn why winter thermal cycling causes cracking and how to protect aluminum radiators.
What is 'Sludge' and How it Restricts Your Cooling System
Sludge forms from degraded coolant and contaminants, clogging radiator passages. Learn what causes sludge, how it damages your cooling system, and prevention methods.
The Link Between a Faulty Radiator Cap and Engine Damage
A faulty radiator cap causes pressure loss, coolant boiling, and overheating. Learn why this small part has huge consequences for engine health.
Oil Leaks After Winter: Why Gaskets Fail During the Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Understand why oil leaks develop during winter freeze-thaw cycles. Learn how cold weather damages gaskets and seals and when to have them replaced.
Why Musty Smells in Your AC are More Than Just a Nuisance
A musty smell from your car's AC isn't just unpleasant. It signals bacterial and mildew growth that can harm your respiratory health. Learn what causes it and how to fix it.
How to Inspect Your Tires for Cracks and Bulges After Winter
Winter takes a toll on tires. Learn how to inspect for cracks, bulges, and damage after the cold season.
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.