...happened once, the timing belt was one of those off the street mechanics had trouble with...probably should have traded it in at that point (car companies do make certain some repairs are so difficult, that you have to take it in to the dealer if you happen to own it that long...so they can sell you another)

I use Jiffy Lube for oil changes when I'm in a hurry. I refuse everything they offer, for example, "but sir, your air filter is really dirty". Me, "yes, I know, but this car is older so I'm going to get a K&N filter and the time I have to clean that, will be time to trade it in"...nothing stated afterwards.

I do splurge at chain tire shops, such as getting the tire protection. I've found that to be worth it. I always seem to be unlucky on tires, but twice I had to replace a tire because the puncture was too close or in the side wall. So, after 30k miles, my two front tires are new.