It is key to have someone who you trust as a mechanic. I can't over emphasize that enough. Do some searching online and through any contacts you have that live in your area. If you have no other options, question some of your neighbours and they may point you to 'their guy?
Also, if you don't have AAA, just get it and you will never have to worry about any of that shit. When you break down, if AAA can't fix it, they tow you to your trusted mechanic. Every now and then you will pay for a whole year and not use it, but when you end up needing it, it is worth the $125 or whatever it is for a yearly membership.
Simple and effective.