Reply #14: I try to patronize 'local' mechanics w/franchises..... [View All]

[cdsilv]

...recently bought a used car from my local NAPA mechanic. Matt owns the business but is franchised by NAPA. He's gone 'above and beyond' to keep my business. I've experienced this with other local mechanics - they can be quite good, but you do have to know how to see through their bullsh*t.

I grew up working on cars, and my brother is a professional mechanic (ASE certified in just about everything), so when I get an 'iffy' estimate, I have someone to call for a sanity check.

As for WM, I try to buy at local biz, or someone like winn-dixie, but end up at WM for things I can't find elsewhere - at least its cheap.

Yeah, I can pay more for some things, and do sometimes. But I do get p*ssed off when someone tries to
charge me a 300-400% markup.