How does one get a car fixed next day?

[Mallowmarshmallow]

My car overheated today. RAC came out and diagnosed a problem. The nearest garage is a five minute drive but never ever answer their phone....next closest is about 20 minutes and mechanic said that's too far....

I could get it recovered there but by the time I get there the garage probably won't be able to do it same day and then I won't be able to get to work on Tuesday.

How do people manage to continue their lives with only one car if it needs fixing. Surely I'm missing a trick....?

They take it to the garage and then use taxis/public transport/hire car

Does the garage offer a courtesy car? Failing that you make do with public transport / lift share / favours from friends and family. If all else fails, emergency leave from work.

If it overheated I assume a problem with ur radiator?? DP had this, we filled it up to over max with water to get where we needed to be that was about the same distance, take extra water with u

Sadly I'm a self employed peripatetic (kind of) worker and my client will not be able to do their job if I can't make it which means leave or public transport are both tricky. A hire car would be more doable....

My mum is away on holiday and she's my local helper.

It is the thermostat housing according to the RAC but the water empties as soon as it's filled so I don't think I'd manage the 45 minute commute even with regular top ups....

My first plan is lots of frantic garage calls in the morning then a hire car if they're not fruitful I think....

Hope you got yourself sorted.