Yeah - I guess I'm still living in the past... everything seems so high these days. I remember complaining on spending $10,000 on a new car. Seems everything goes up but your own paycheck.
I just lol'ed at the PepBoys guy. I agree, they won't ever see my car in their shop... I was just seeing how much a "recommended" Tire Rack installer would charge. What a rip-off. It is a shame the way some shops take advantage of unknowing people. Seems the honest mechanic is a rare breed now days.
My mechanic is older guy, but he has a couple good guys that do the heavy lifting for him. He is always busy. His shop has worked on a number of my cars/trucks over the years. Sometimes I think he is too high, but he always does good a good job and if it is not right he makes it right. The old saying is true - you get what you pay for. (I still try to pay less when I can tho... just my nature)