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
Is it Too Late to Book Your Winter Tire Swap in November?
November is peak season for winter tire swaps. Learn why booking early matters and what to expect if you wait until late fall.
Is It Your Battery or Your Alternator? How to Tell the Difference
Learn how to diagnose whether your starting problem is caused by a dying battery or a failing alternator.
The Role of Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) in Choosing Your Next Battery
Understand Cold Cranking Amps and why this number matters more than any other battery specification for winter reliability.
How the 'Right to Repair' Movement Protects Canadian Vehicle Owners
Explore how the Right to Repair movement empowers Canadian vehicle owners with access to essential repair information and tools, enhancing consumer choice and vehicle maintenance freedom.
The High Cost of Grinding: Why Waiting 30 Days Can Double Your Bill
Brake grinding damage escalates quickly. Delaying repair for 30 days can double your repair costs. Learn why early action saves money.
Can an Oil Change Actually Improve Your Winter Fuel Economy?
Discover whether changing your oil can improve fuel economy in winter. Learn how oil viscosity, engine friction, and maintenance affect how much gas your car uses.
How to Tell if Your AC Compressor has Seized After Winter
After winter, your AC might not work. A seized compressor is a common problem. Learn the signs and what to do about it.
Signs of Pothole Damage: Why Your Tire Has a 'Bubble' in the Sidewall
A bubble or bulge in your tire sidewall signals serious damage from potholes. Learn why this happens, why it's dangerous, and what to do immediately.
How to Tell if Your Winter Tires Will Last One More Season
Check winter tire wear indicators and tread depth to determine if tires are safe for another season. Learn the 4mm rule and penny test.
The Cost of Battery Replacement in 2026: AGM vs Flooded Lead-Acid
Compare battery replacement costs in 2026. Understand pricing differences between AGM and flooded lead-acid batteries in Canada.
Why Your Battery Dies Overnight in Extreme Cold (and How to Prevent It)
Understand why batteries fail in extreme cold and learn practical prevention strategies to keep your car starting reliably.
Independent Shop vs. Dealership: Saving 80% on Your Next Service
Discover how choosing an independent repair shop over a dealership can save you up to 80% on your next vehicle service. Learn the real pricing differences backed by current data.