How to find a reputable mechanic?

[Sooga]

Other than just asking friends and stuff, is there a reliable way to find a good mechanic? I know there are a lot of shiesty ones out there....

[Patrick del Poker Grande]

Enroll yourself in a good auto mechanic school.

[shant]

Be born with uncles and cousins who own body shops.

[danderso8]

http://www.cartalk.com/content/mechx/

I haven't used the service, but these guys usually give pretty good car advice on their radio show & newspaper column.

--dan

[handsome]

Go with your gut. If you feel like something is wrong, get the hell out of there.

Once I was sitting in the waiting room of a Meineke and right in front of my face, the manager blatantly ripped off an elderly man (he'd gone in for an oil change) out of an extra $600 for a "leaking gas tank" - I've never heard that before in my life. When I saw my overpriced estimate, I had to say no thanks a hundred times (he was trying so hard to convince me) before he let me leave. At an independent shop, the owner claimed that a side mirror cost him $200 when it goes for $75 retail. Avoid stuff like that.