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
How to Properly Break in Your New Winter Tires
New winter tires need a proper break-in period to reach peak performance. Learn the right way to condition your tires for maximum grip and longevity.
Why Your Heated Seats and Defroster Are Taxing Your Battery
Understand electrical load and how comfort features consume battery power, especially during cold starts.
Is Your Car Battery Frozen? Why You Should Never Try to Jump-Start It
Recognize a frozen battery and understand why jump-starting is dangerous. Learn safe thawing methods instead.
How to Verify ASE and Provincial Certifications in Canada
Learn how to verify ASE certifications and provincial mechanic credentials in Canada. Know which certifications matter most and how to confirm a mechanic's qualifications before trusting your vehicle.
The Role of the Parking Brake in Winter Survival
Parking brakes freeze in winter and require maintenance. Learn how to keep your handbrake functioning and why it matters for safety.
The Link Between Oil Dilution and Short Winter Commutes
Understand how short winter commutes cause oil dilution. Learn why city driving in cold weather damages your engine oil and how to protect it.
How Your Cabin Air Filter Impacts Your Heater's Performance
A clogged cabin air filter reduces heater airflow. Learn how this simple component affects heating performance and air quality.
The Danger of Driving on Tires Older than 6 Years (Even with Good Tread)
Tires age regardless of tread depth. Learn why rubber degrades over time and why driving on tires older than 6 years is unsafe.
Winter Tires for EVs: Handling Extra Weight and Improving Range
Electric vehicles need specialized winter tires to handle extra battery weight and maximize cold-weather range. Learn how EV-specific tires improve performance and efficiency.
The Environmental Impact of Lead-Acid Battery Recycling in Canada
Learn how lead-acid batteries are recycled in Canada and why proper disposal protects the environment and public health.
Should You Use a Battery Blanket in Northern Canada?
Understand battery blanket benefits in extreme cold and decide if one is necessary for your climate and vehicle.
How to Test Your Battery's Health at Home with a Multimeter
Learn to test battery voltage and condition using a basic multimeter. Identify weak batteries before they fail.