I've found a new mechanic.
Superior Tire & Auto do a few things that make a world of difference: first off they let you know what their schedule is like instead of just getting you to drop off your car and waiting for them to get to it. They gave me a time to bring it in and before I left the lot I watched as the mechanic brought it into the garage.
They also don't try to force work on you that doesn't need to be done. On a recent brake job I had asked them to replace the shoes, pads and rotors on on four wheels. The mechanic phoned me a few hours later and told me the back wheels didn't need it. I told him I'd rather do it now then come back in a few months. He told me in a few months I still wouldn't need it. Basically I asked him twice to do more work and charge me more money but he wouldn't.
Finally, they are priced right. Their hourly wage is competitive in an area where there isn't much competition.
TO SUM IT UP: Fairly priced, honest to a fault and they care about your time. Just about everything you'd want in a girlfriend but in mechanic form.