How do you find a good mechanic at a fair price?

You learn how to do it yourself. You’ll have thousands of dollars.

not always fool-proof, but AAA, American Automobile Association inspects and certifies shops that meet their standards. And some of these shops also do the towing for AAA members broken down vehicles. Also, your auto insurer may have lists of “approved” or inspected shops.

Word of mouth. I have found three good fair-priced mechanics, all by recommendations from others, either friends or other related but not competing businesses (e.g. body shop or auto supply shop or auto dealer recommends mechanic).