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
Retrofitting Your Garage for EVs: Hoist and Weight Considerations
Electric vehicles are heavier than gas cars. Learn how to assess hoist capacity, manage weight distribution, and retrofit your garage safely for EV service.
EV Training Centers in Canada: Where to Send Your Techs for Certification
Proper technician training is essential for EV service. Learn where to find EV training programs in Canada and how to choose certification that benefits your shop.
Safety Procedures for High-Voltage Vehicles: Protecting Your Team
Electric vehicles contain high-voltage systems that pose serious hazards. Learn essential safety procedures, equipment, and training requirements to protect your technicians when servicing EVs and hybrids.
EV Maintenance Myths vs. Reality: What Services You Can Still Sell
Electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas cars, but they still need regular service. Learn which maintenance myths are false and which profitable services independent shops can offer EV owners.
Hybrid Battery Repair: A New Profit Center for Independent Garages
Hybrid batteries are expensive to replace but profitable to repair. Learn how independent shops can diagnose and repair hybrid battery systems to create a new revenue stream.
The $2.3 Billion EV Affordability Program: Will More EVs Enter Your Bay?
Canada's $2.3 billion EV affordability program aims to increase EV adoption. Understand how this program impacts used EV prices, customer demographics, and service demand at independent shops.
Sustainability in the Shop: How to Market Eco-Friendly Oil and Parts
Environmentally conscious customers choose shops offering sustainable products. Learn how to source eco-friendly oils and parts, and market your sustainability commitment to attract loyal customers.
Applying for ZEVIP Funding: How Small Shops Can Get EV Charger Grants
The Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program offers up to 75% funding for EV charger installation. Learn how small independent shops can apply for ZEVIP grants and add charging infrastructure to attract EV customers.
Level 2 vs. DC Fast Chargers: Which One Should Your Shop Install?
Level 2 and DC fast chargers serve different customer needs. Learn the differences in charging speed, cost, installation requirements, and revenue potential to choose the right charger for your shop.
Facebook Ads for Garages: Targeting Car Owners in a 10km Radius
Use Facebook ads to target car owners within 10km of your shop. Learn targeting strategies, budget allocation, and creative best practices.
Text-to-Pay and Digital Invoicing: Why Convenience is the New King
Implement text-to-pay and digital invoicing to meet customer expectations. Learn how convenience drives customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Educational Marketing: Teaching Customers About Planned Obsolescence
Use educational marketing to teach customers about planned obsolescence. Build trust by helping them understand vehicle longevity and maintenance.