Watch Last Stop Garage
- 2018
- 2 Seasons
-
6.3 (92)
Last Stop Garage is a Canadian documentary series that aired from 2017 to 2019 on the Motortrend network. The show follows the daily operations of CRB Automotive, a small family-owned business in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. The garage is owned by Colin Baikie and managed by his son Leander, with mechanic Corey Webber rounding out the team. Throughout each episode, the team takes on a variety of automotive challenges and repairs, ranging from snowmobiles to ATVs to boats.
The show's emphasis on community is evident from the very first episode. The team's goal is not simply to repair vehicles, but to do so in a way that is accessible and affordable to the people of their remote town. As the only garage in the area, CRB Automotive plays an essential role in keeping the town running. This is particularly true in the winter months, when snowmobiles and other outdoor recreational vehicles become the primary mode of transportation.
One of the show's greatest strengths is its focus on the mechanics themselves. Rather than simply focusing on the vehicles they are repairing, the cameras also delve into the personal lives and histories of the mechanics. Viewers get a sense of the tight-knit community in which CRB Automotive operates and the role the mechanics play in that community. The team is shown bonding over meals, swapping stories, and even taking time out of their workday to attend a community event. All of this serves to emphasize the importance of small businesses like CRB Automotive, particularly in areas where access to services can be limited.
While Last Stop Garage is undeniably a reality show, it avoids many of the tropes that often come with the genre. The show is refreshingly down-to-earth, with the team eschewing flashy stunts and gimmicks in favor of a more practical approach to vehicle repair. There are no manufactured conflicts or contrived scenarios here; instead, the show focuses on the day-to-day realities of running a small garage. This makes for a show that is both relatable and satisfying for viewers.
This emphasis on practicality is also reflected in the show's approach to vehicle repair. The team is shown using a variety of tools and techniques to diagnose and fix problems, often coming up with creative solutions that are specific to the unique challenges of their location. This practical approach is particularly evident in the team's heavy reliance on welding, which is a crucial skill for repairing the steel bodies of snowmobiles and other outdoor vehicles. The mechanics' vast knowledge and expertise in welding are a testament to the value of hands-on experience and hard work.
The show's attention to detail is also impressive. Each episode is carefully structured to highlight the different aspects of vehicle repair, from diagnosis to disassembly to repair and reassembly. Viewers are given a window into the complex inner workings of different types of vehicles, learning the ins and outs of how each one operates. This attention to detail is not only fascinating for car enthusiasts, but it also serves to underscore the skill and expertise required to be a successful mechanic.
In addition to the practical aspects of vehicle repair, Last Stop Garage also highlights the creative side of the business. The team is shown coming up with unique design ideas and customizations for their clients, often working closely with them to ensure that the final product meets their individual needs. This aspect of the show is particularly enjoyable, as viewers get to see the mechanics flex their creative muscles and come up with innovative solutions to vehicle problems.
Overall, Last Stop Garage is a refreshingly authentic look at the world of automotive repair. Its emphasis on community, practicality, and creativity sets it apart from other car shows, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of auto repair.
Last Stop Garage is a series that ran for 2 seasons (36 episodes) between January 5, 2018 and on Motortrend