was brought in without finding other things that "have to be fixed or you will just have the problem again only worse"?

I have taken three different vehicles in for service to three different mechanics in the last 3 months. All ended up costing me at least three times what I anticipated.

- No A/C so I need an A/C recharge, right? Nope, got to have a new A/C compressor. An additional $800 for parts, labor, shop fees, etc. Oh, and by the way, we really should replace your radiator and a bunch of other things for another $1800 (nope, didn't go for that).

- One brake is grinding a bit, need new rear brakes, right? Nope, all the brakes have to be redone and, by, the way, your shocks/struts are shot as well. That'll all be $1200 more than expected.

- Starter motor not engaging in about 10% of cases and makes a grinding noise, need a new starter motor, right? Nope, you also need a new flywheel because the starter motor has damaged the teeth. Pull tranny and replace flywheel for $1000 more.

The good news, all vehicles have been in for service recently so, If nothing else breaks down suddenly, they may last a while longer before I have to get a second mortgage to replace them.

I should have become an auto mechanic. In the good old days (>5 years ago) I seem to remember repairs being a reasonable cost to assume. Now, It seems nothing can be done for less than $1000.