A mechanic tried to charge me $8,000 for a “broken engine”—but what I took out of my purse made him beg me to rip up the bill.

to pressure you, and I assumed you wouldn’t challenge me.”

I held his gaze.

“That’s the truth. Remember how it sounds.”

Rebecca pointed toward the office.

“Go. I’ll speak with you later.”

When he left, she turned to me.

“Do you want to see the real problem?”

“Yes. I want to know what I’m paying for.”

In the service bay, Rebecca started the car. The engine continue reading …