I bought my MINI last year (2002 Cooper S, pic should be attached) and now I'm paying my way through college. I won't be able to do much upgrading for a long time, but I need to find out how to maintain my MINI as cost effectively as possible.

The first thing I need to do is find a reliable, trust-worthy mechanic. I live in Northern VA (Fairfax county). How would you recommend finding a good mechanic, or do you have any specific recommendations for this area?

I'm already having some problems. I'm guessing whoever owned the MINI before me didn't know how to drive a stick because the clutch is slipping. It only slips when I really press down the gas, so I've been driving it carefully without a problem for about a month. I brought it into a local shop and they said they have to replace the entire thing and it'll cost about $3,000. I can't afford that. Is this something I can drive with for a while until I save up the money, or will driving without repairing it ASAP cause more costly issues down the road?

I know I've asked several questions here. The main concern for me is finding a reliable mechanic. Thanks for any help you can provide.