I really appreciate the input.
My role as a mechanic was drivability, so around half of my work was tracking down noise (or trying to find a vacuum leak on an engine with about 20 miles of vac line).
I thought about making the repair myself, but I'm so darn busy I barely have time to sleep.
I didn't mention it before, but my local garage asked who was servicing my car (under warranty).
I told them, and without pause, they blurted out "we don't like them", and cited another unliked, but fairly close dealer.
They recommended a dealer nearly an hour away.
I was stunned. Their response seemed gut-level and I'd never heard them speak negatively about other servicers.
The garage is clean, professional, and very well regarded.
We are also a fairly small community, so poor service spreads like wildfire...so, despite my notorious "trust but verify" nature, I think they are trustworthy.
Due to time constraints, I had the same non-recommended dealer re-assess the car...with the same non-result.
So yesterday I sent a detailed message to the recommended dealer regarding my situation.
We'll see how it goes.
I love being a husband, father, and valued part of an amazing team of professionals...but I wish there were more hours in a day.
Bob