I went away from the independent mechanic a decade or more ago when the trusted mechanic in my neighborhood sold his business. Ended up going to the dealer for the last decade.
My 1996 Toyota T100 needed AC and fan/blower work ... the dealer said $1750 (AC) + $400 (fan). Come on ... the truck isn't worth that much.
A coworker recommended that I take it to Back To Basic ... glad I did. Got both of those items fixed for 1/3 of what the dealer wanted. Its been a month, they are still both working great!
I've since taken my 2008 Toyota Camry in for Oil/Lube, electrical check-up, front brakes, and a general road trip check. Once again ... very happy with the work and price.
I've got a new trusted mechanic :-)