Stephanie Bakalar
Stephanie 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.
1384 articles by Stephanie
Should You Ask to See Your Old Car Parts After a Repair?
Whether a shop must give back your old parts depends on your province or state. See the rules, the exceptions, core charges and what to say at the counter.
Can a Software Update Really Fix Your Check Engine Light?
A software update fixes a check engine light only when diagnosis finds a software fault. See who can reflash it, when updates are free and how OTA works.
How to Avoid the 'Pothole Tax' This Spring: Complete Prevention Guide
Learn how to spot hidden road hazards and prevent expensive suspension damage. Discover natural defensive driving habits and tire maintenance strategies directly from the shop floor.
My Mechanic Doubled the Bill: What Are Your Legal Rights?
Stuck at the service counter with a surprise repair bill? Learn your province's exact legal cost caps, when you can refuse to pay, and how to use the 5-Line Estimate Test.