Impact of the Mechanical Repair Division
The ARA Mechanical Repair Division is here to support B.C.’s independent and franchise repair shops by advocating for fair business practices, access to OEM repair information, and skilled workforce development. We tackle regulatory issues, training gaps, and industry challenges to ensure repair professionals have the resources and support needed to succeed in a changing automotive landscape.
DRIVING PROGRESS: ARA's IMPACT ON MECHANICAL REPAIR
Industry representation.
The ARA collaborates with government, public educational institutions and industry associations to develop programs that empower young apprentices. These initiatives provide the resources, skills, and experiences they need to accelerate their careers and thrive in the automotive industry.
INDUSTRY PARTNER
Policy Development
Training Resources
Representation
INDUSTRY PARTNER
Right to repair.
As one of the original signatories of the CASIS agreement in 2008, the ARA, working with the National Automotive Trades Association, is committed to protecting your interests within the automotive industry. We regularly engage with OEMs to ensure that independent repair shops and professionals have ongoing access to vital repair information and diagnostic data. These efforts help maintain a level playing field, ensuring that you have the tools and resources needed to provide high-quality service to your customers while supporting the sustainability and growth of your business.
Vehicle security information access.
Originally left out of the CASIS agreement, access to vehicle security and digital information has become a growing concern for repair facilities.
Work with Industry
Information Access
Advocacy
AUTO CAREERS BC
Investing in the future of our workforce.
The ARA is committed to supporting the province’s future workforce and developing the automotive service industry. Initiatives such as AutoCareersBC and the Pedal Car Challenge are aimed at engaging and fostering the next generation of automotive professionals.
$164,945 RAISED
The ARA has worked to fundraise for scholarships and bursaries to support individuals who aspire to work in the automotive trades, including mechanical repair.
In 2015, the ARA established the Automotive Retailers Foundation Inc. (ARFI) as a registered charitable foundation with the goal of advancing education and relieving poverty in Canada – particularly within the automotive trades sector.
EVfriendly training program.
New and Improved
The ARA is excited to announce the expansion of our EVfriendly training program, which demonstrates our industry’s commitment to embracing the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The ARA supports mechanical repair operators in adapting to industry changes, particularly with the growing demand for electric vehicles.
Our EVfriendly program provides the training and resources needed to handle challenges safely, while advocating for policies that ensure a sustainable future for the towing industry.
ARA member benefits.
Over 1,000 active ARA business members.
ARA is the largest trade association of its kind in Canada.
70+ years representing the automotive industry in BC.
3,000+ active ARA Group Benefits Plan members.
The Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) is the largest trade association representing the automotive industry in British Columbia. Our primary focus is on addressing the key issues and needs of our industry so that our members can concentrate on the success and growth of their businesses. With over 1,000 business members throughout the province, the ARA plays a vital role in representing the automotive sector within BC.
The ARA represents the automotive service industry in British Columbia by working with the government and stakeholders in ways that help entrepreneurs grow.
- The ARA Group Benefits Plan has covered members for decades. This places it among the longest running and most stable association plans in Canada.
- The plan insures thousands of employees in all divisions of the ARA as well as associated members across Western Canada.
- By participating in the plan, members are leveraging their investment and reaping the rewards of having a strong voice for the automotive industry through the ARA.
- Investing in employee benefits enhances job satisfaction and provides security for employees and their families while also sending a clear message to employees that they are valued members of your organization.
The ARA’s training website provides unique online courses. The ARA also works with external educators to provide the training necessary for businesses to remain viable in today’s automotive service industry.
The ARA’s buying power gives members special pricing on a wide range of products and services offered by our supplier partners. When you join the ARA, you become a member of our buyers’ group, which provides the opportunity to save money on things like our employee benefits program, business and home insurance, group RRSP plan, credit card processing, office supplies, uniforms, coveralls and work wear, collection services, and much more.
The ARA is a hub, connecting you with peers, experts, government, training providers, associations, and suppliers through networking event such as meetings, conferences, training sessions, and social gatherings.
The products and services that the ARA provides to members at special rates include license and lien searches, lien registrations, ICBC damage checks, CarProof, collections, forms, signs, decals, and more.
Contact your Mechanical Repair Division advisor today.
Ken Hendricks
Senior Industry Relations Advisor
- 604-419-4863
- kenhendricks@ara.bc.ca
- 1-8980 Fraserwood Court, Burnaby, BC
“On behalf of the Automotive Retailers Association, we invite you and your company to join our vibrant community focused on enhancing the mechanical repair sector in British Columbia.
With over 70 years of experience, the Automotive Retailers Association has played a vital role in supporting the collision industry across the province. We offer unwavering representation and advocacy, along with valuable resources designed to foster your business’s growth and success. Together, we can drive progress and innovation in the mechanical repair sector.”