Southern Oregon Auto Care

Well after I recovered from the estimated price for the needed work from the local GMC dealership, I thought there might be a more reasonable value.  There are several independent shops in Medford, so I contacted three that were relatively close to my home in NE Medford (NMHS neighborhood).  While each auto shop I visited were willing to give me an estimate, what impressed me most was the friendly and thorough conversation I had with Jim C. (owner) at Southern Oregon Auto. 
I got the information I needed to be comfortable putting my car in their care, received a written estimate, and a few days later I proceeded to make an appointment.  I will also add that I shopped for my shocks/struts online and Jim was OK to provide just the labor to install the new suspension components. 
The work on the car was done on time and within the labor estimate.  While the car was in the shop, Jim called to advise that the exhaust maniford was leaking.  I was given a range of repair/labor outcomes and fortunately it was simply a loose bolt so just a labor charge.  Jim offered a no cost wheel alignment check as well and did not charge labor for cleaning the throttle body-nice!
While I didn't need a ride home, SO Auto provides a courtesy shuttle if necessary.  I noted the waiting room is clean and comfortable and offers a view into the service bays so if you wait while they work, you can watch. 
My opinion is reflected in the ratings above: Friendly shop with trained professional staff; ontime and reasonable prices, detailed input on work to be done, and careful and thorough work.  I will be returning to Southern Oregon Auto Care for future maintenance and repairs to my vehicle.