Fix It Forward: How Your Oil Change Helps Someone Else Drive Again

Most people see an oil change as routine maintenance—just another line item on the car care to-do list. But at Good News Auto in Edmonton, an oil change can mean something much more. It can be the difference between a single mother getting to work, a job seeker attending an interview, or a senior reaching a medical appointment.

That’s the heart behind the Fix It Forward program. And it's one of the many ways Good News Auto, owned by Chris Ferland, is redefining what an auto repair shop can be.

This isn't just about engines and tires. It’s about community, dignity, and giving people the freedom to move forward, literally and figuratively.

A Mechanic Shop with a Mission

At Good News Auto, we believe that people matter more than profits. That belief drives every decision we make.

While we offer a full range of automotive services, standard maintenance, engine services, suspension repairs, brake repairs, transmission work, and tire sales—our deeper goal is to serve Edmonton with integrity. We treat customers like people, not transactions. And nowhere is that more evident than in the Fix It Forward program.

Chris Ferland founded Good News Auto with more than mechanical expertise. He brought compassion. He saw that many people in Edmonton struggle with reliable transportation. Often, that struggle is made worse by the high cost of vehicle repairs and the fear of being taken advantage of in an industry known for jargon and upsells.

Fix It Forward was created to change that.

What Is Fix It Forward?

Fix It Forward is a unique initiative that reinvests a portion of Good News Auto's profits into vehicle repairs for those who can’t afford them. It’s simple in concept, yet deeply impactful in execution.

When you come in for an oil change or any other service, part of your payment goes directly toward repairing someone else’s car, someone who would otherwise be stuck without options.

This isn’t charity. It’s dignity in motion.

We believe transportation is not a luxury. It’s essential. It allows people to keep jobs, access education, care for their families, and live independently. By choosing Good News Auto for your own vehicle needs, you automatically become part of a larger solution.

You help someone drive again. And that matters.

Small Acts, Big Impact

You may wonder how an oil change can make a difference. After all, it’s just routine service. But when enough people choose to support a shop that gives back, small acts begin to stack up.

One oil change may fund part of a brake repair. Ten might cover a new set of tires. Twenty oil changes could mean a working transmission for a single mother who relies on her vehicle every day.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to do anything extra. You’re simply maintaining your own car. We take care of the rest.

That means every visit is twofold. You receive expert service from trained mechanics. And you empower someone else to regain their independence.

How It Works Behind the Scenes

We carefully review applications submitted by individuals who need vehicle repair assistance. These applicants often face difficult life circumstances. They may be working multiple jobs, managing illness, or living on limited income. Each case is evaluated for need, urgency, and impact.

Once approved, we apply Fix It Forward funds to their vehicle repairs. We don’t cut corners. We provide the same level of attention and quality as we would for any paying customer.

Because everyone deserves safe, reliable transportation.

And just as importantly, we protect the dignity of every recipient. They are not treated differently. They are respected. We understand that asking for help is hard. So we make the experience as smooth and respectful as possible.

Trust in Every Turn of the Wrench

Our mechanics aren’t just experts. They’re people who believe in fairness and service. Every oil change, every brake adjustment, every tire rotation is done with care and honesty.

We know how frustrating it can be to walk into a shop and feel unsure if you’re being told the truth. That’s why we take extra time to explain what we’re doing and why. We speak in clear language and never push services you don’t need.

Our team takes pride in creating an environment where customers feel safe, respected, and informed. That transparency builds trust, and trust keeps cars (and communities) running smoothly.

More Than Just Repairs

While Fix It Forward is a cornerstone of our work, it’s not the only way we serve the community. We also offer:

• Complimentary estimates customized to your needs
• Honest, upfront pricing with no surprises
• Friendly staff who explain every step of the process
• Full-service maintenance to keep your vehicle in top shape

From engines to exhaust systems, we handle it all. But we never lose sight of our greater mission: helping people move forward, on the road and in life.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

In today’s economy, many families live paycheck to paycheck. A broken-down car can mean missed shifts, lost income, or canceled appointments. Public transportation doesn’t always fill the gap, especially for those who work long hours or live outside central transit zones.

Fix It Forward meets that need head-on. It’s a safety net for those who fall through the cracks. It’s practical, immediate, and effective.

And it’s funded by you, our community.

When you choose Good News Auto, your money doesn’t just go toward a receipt. It goes toward real change. And in a world full of corporate giants and impersonal service, that choice means everything.

Real Stories, Real People

We’ve helped dozens of people get back on the road through Fix It Forward. One man needed repairs to get to his job in construction. Another woman needed her brakes replaced so she could continue taking her kids to school safely.

These stories are not rare. They’re constant. And they remind us why we do what we do.

Fix It Forward isn’t about handouts. It’s about helping people keep moving when life tries to hold them back.

You Can Make a Difference Today

You don’t have to write a cheque or attend a fundraiser. All you have to do is bring your car to Good News Auto for regular maintenance or repairs.

Need an oil change? You’re already part of the solution.

Looking for a brake inspection or suspension check? You’re contributing to something bigger.

Want new tires before winter hits? Your service will help someone else stay safe on icy roads.

Every appointment supports this mission.

Contact Us Today

If you want expert service with a purpose, we’re ready to help. Our trained technicians will take great care of your vehicle, while your service helps someone else keep theirs on the road.

To get started, contact us for a complimentary estimate tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Visit us at:
https://www.goodnewsauto.ca/book-appointment
Or call: 780-485-1993

Let’s fix cars. Let’s fix futures. Let’s fix it forward.

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