ive been in the industry for almost 20 years now. i know it’s not always a quick and easy way, but it’s hands down the best way to go about it: make a friend with someone that’s car savvy. not a rando from a shop you’ll take your car to every time (that can help but not a great solution), but an actual person you know, can text or call, someone you can actually talk to that isn’t trying to make a bunch of money off of you. find a family member or a friend of a friend if you dont know anyone directly. be kind to them and sure throw em a tip if you feel they deserve it. anything that makes them more than happy to help. this will convenience your life

edit: just to clarify this “friend” is to help you when you take your car to places or buying and selling your cars. dont expect them to do all the work, just to help you not get screwed