I've been there—trying to haggle with repair shops can feel like you're navigating a maze blindfolded. One thing that's helped me is getting multiple quotes first, step-by-step. Start by asking around for recommendations, then get two or three estimates in writing. Sometimes just showing mechanics you're shopping around nudges them toward transparency. It won't always save you big bucks, but it can give you peace of mind that you're not getting completely fleeced... at least most of the time.
"Sometimes just showing mechanics you're shopping around nudges them toward transparency."
Couldn't agree more. Reminds me of the time I took my '68 Mustang in after a minor fender-bender—one mechanic quoted me a price that nearly gave me whiplash worse than the accident itself. Once I mentioned I'd gotten another estimate, suddenly his calculator started working properly again... funny how that works. You're definitely on the right track; it's all about doing your homework and keeping them honest.
