I have a strong distrust of mechanics based on my first few experiences of people telling me all the loads of work I needed done only to have a second opinion completely dismiss the first. On top of that, the first few places I used always went over quote by a significant amount. Luckily I eventually found a place who I could trust back in BC.
Then, in 2010 I moved the Toronto and the stress of finding a new mechanic came on quick. I poked around online and the scarce feedback I could find pointed to Cam's/Thruway muffler. I needed a safety inspection and a drive clean test to get registered in Toronto - I went for it and they treated me well - kind, professional and gave my truck a once over at my request to see if there was anything I needed to take care of proactively. Report came back clean - no need to touch a thing.
Fast forward over the past 6 years and I've been in for a few regular visits, the biggest being new brake, rotors and calipers just last fall. Every time I have been more than happy with the service and care.
Recently Gary (my 4x4), has been leaking a bit of PS fluid, been given a recco to replace the ball joints, the tires are nearing their end of days, and a growing rattle coming from under the front end. Perhaps, I have been thinking, I should sell it at a cut throat price to someone capable of taking on the pretty simple repairs and fund my dream purchase of an XC70. To the shop I went today! I fully expected to hear about all the endless things that need replacing and fixing only to leave with a quote for two tires for under $400. The truck isn't perfect, by any stretch of the imagination, but a hose clamp on a loose heat shield, a dismissal of the need for ball joints, and an eye on the PS fluid is all I need.
Cam is by far the kindest and most patient mechanic I have ever done business with. No BS, no ego, no bravado. Just a real honest guy. Same with Carsten, as well.