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.
485 articles by Stephanie
How to Pass Your Out-of-Province Vehicle Inspection in BC
Moving a vehicle to BC from another province? Learn when an out-of-province inspection is required, which vehicles may be exempt, and how the ICBC registration process works.
The Checklist for 2026: Passing Your First Post-Winter Safety Audit
Prepare your vehicle for spring safety inspections after winter. Use this checklist to address winter damage and pass your first post-winter audit.
How Potholes Are Killing Your Suspension This Spring
Spring brings potholes that damage suspensions fast. Learn how seasonal road damage affects your vehicle and why spring inspections matter.
How to Prevent Unexpected $2,000 Repair Bills with Preventive Care
Preventive maintenance stops unexpected repairs before they happen. Learn which $100 services prevent $2,000 failures.
The Link Between Preventive Maintenance and Car Resale Value
Preventive maintenance preserves your car's resale value. Learn how maintenance records and service history boost buyer confidence.
How Preventive Maintenance Saves Canadians $1,500 Every Year
Regular maintenance costs less than emergency repairs. See how routine service protects your budget and keeps your car reliable.
How to Reach 300,000 km with Nothing More Than Routine Maintenance
Cars can reach 300,000 km with consistent routine maintenance. Learn what habits and services make this possible.
How Road Salt Corrodes Your Coil Springs and Leads to Snaps
Road salt accelerates coil spring corrosion, leading to cracks and catastrophic failure. Learn how salt damage progresses and how to prevent it.
How Road Salt is Eating Your Exhaust and Muffler System
Road salt causes serious corrosion to exhaust systems. Learn how salt damages mufflers, why Canada's winters are tough on exhaust, and prevention strategies.
The Role of the Road Test in Your Provincial Safety Inspection
Understand why the road test is crucial in safety inspections. Learn what inspectors assess during test drives and why it matters.
The Role of Fluids in Engine Health: Coolant, Brake, and Power Steering
Engine fluids protect your car's most critical systems. Learn what each fluid does and why regular service matters.
Is it Safe to Drive with an Exhaust Leak? What You Need to Know
Driving with an exhaust leak is dangerous. Learn the health risks, vehicle damage, and why you shouldn't delay repair.