When my dad bought me my first car, he wouldn't let me have the keys until I completed an automotives course. Now, thanks to Daddy dearest, I know a lot about cars, and can usually tell when someone's trying to screw me over. I change my own oil, brakes, belts, plugs, wires, etc. I do NOT call triple A for a flat and have enough sense to know how to jerry rig a pair of panty hose to replace a "belt" until I can buy one.

My rule of thumb? When I get a new car (new or used) I ALWAYS buy the Chiltons manual that goes with it. Forget the on in the glove box, spend the $25 on the Chilton. You'll be able to "trouble shoot" and then go back and check out what your mechanic is telling you. Drag out the book and say, "Show me what you're talking about." I've done this a few times, and found that most male mechanics will backpedal and guess what? The problem isn't necessarily THAT, oh yeah, it's THIS.

I'd also suggest calling your local technical college. They offer discounted automotives services IF you can part with your car for a couple of days at a time and IF you don't mind students working on your car. Also, call around and see if you can't find a shop with a certified FEMALE mechanic. They're a bit more expensive, but well worth it in my opinion.