What kind of mechanic did you take it to? In these here parts, we have our car work done at the dealership, and if the car is undrivable while we await the appointment, they will supply a loaner. They're real great guys.

Even the ford dealer is decent. We live about 15 minutes away, so if my mom has no way to get back home after dropping off the van, they drive her home. They even drive out to pick her up when the work is done.