Evan Chartrand – Contributor

A student-run initiative has begun offering affordable vehicle maintenance services to peers, aiming to reduce the financial burden of car ownership while building practical automotive experience within the campus community.

Image courtesy of Evan Chartrand

CampusCarService, which launched this semester, provides basic services such as oil changes and tire work at lower rates than traditional repair shops. The service targets students who rely on vehicles for commuting but struggle with the rising costs associated with maintenance and repairs. The founder, a university student with a long-standing interest in cars, said the idea developed after recognizing how expensive routine upkeep can become. Many students, particularly those living off-campus, depend on their vehicles daily but may delay necessary maintenance due to cost concerns.

“I’ve seen how quickly small issues turn into expensive problems,” the founder said in an in-person conversation. “I wanted to create something that makes those basic services more accessible while also helping me gain real experience.”

The initiative also reflects a broader trend among students seeking cost-saving alternatives. According to data from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), annual vehicle maintenance and repair costs can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on usage and vehicle condition. These costs can present challenges for students balancing tuition, housing and other expenses.

Several students who have interacted with the service emphasized its affordability and convenience. Henry, a student who commutes regularly, said the availability of lower-cost options on campus addresses a common issue. “It’s not that people don’t want to maintain their cars,” he said during a casual interview. “It’s that they’re trying to save money wherever they can.”

Damien, another student familiar with the initiative, noted that trust and accessibility play a key role. He explained that having someone within the campus community provide these services makes the process feel more approachable compared to visiting a traditional repair shop.

Forest, who has discussed car ownership challenges with peers, highlighted how the service may encourage students to stay on top of maintenance. “People put things off because of cost,” he said. “If it’s more affordable, they’re more likely to actually take care of their cars.”

In addition to addressing affordability, CampusCarService serves as a learning platform for its founder. The student plans to pursue formal training at Algonquin College after completing university, with the goal of becoming a licensed mechanic. The experience gained through the service provides early exposure to real-world automotive work.

While the operation currently focuses on simple maintenance tasks, its presence on campus demonstrates how student-led initiatives can respond to everyday challenges faced by peers. By combining practical skill development with community-oriented service, CampusCarService reflects an approach that prioritizes both affordability and experiential learning.

As the service continues to grow, its impact will likely depend on demand, trust and the ability to maintain consistent quality. For now, it offers a localized solution to a common financial concern among students who rely on their vehicles.