Realiable, cheap(er) mechanic in town?

[djsFlames]

I know that's an exaggeration as nothing is cheap when it comes to parts but I need to get the locking system and struts/shocks fixed on my car without dropping an exorbitant amount on it right now aside from the cost for the parts themselves. Anybody know of a place in town that is honest and reasonable with their hourly charges and won't scam you up the wazoo for a fairly simple fix up?

Went to Shaw GMC for some work last month and they skipped half the stuff they were supposed to do on my vehicle, apparently because the person working the desk took 20 minutes too long going over what I wanted done, when I clearly explained it to them beforehand on the phone (meanwhile emphasizing that everything I wanted done would be costly - how nice). They had a whole afternoon to do it, but apparently the mechanics go home an hour and a half before the shop actually closes and couldn't get around to it. Said I could leave my car there for 3 days to get the rest done. I laughed and took my keys.

I'm hoping to find a place that I can return to while feeling like I was given good/fair treatment as a 20-something customer when I need something fixed/looked at. Any suggestions?

[pylon]

You should change your title to mechanic, not auto body place, because you are looking for a mechanic.

Also what kind of car? There are a ton of independent speciality shops that specialize in certain brands.

[djsFlames]

That's what I meant. I typically throw it all under the same pile when referring to auto repair shops.

It's a chevy cobalt. The one with all the recalls for the faulty ignition piece.

[Mean Mr. Mustard]

http://www.haynes.com/products/productID/515

I don't know if you have the ability to do it on your own but I have used the Haynes books quite often when doing smaller repairs. If your car is under warranty then I would consider going to a shop but shocks and struts aren't too difficult (maybe some scraped knuckles and an afternoon of work).