If so can someone tell me about one in the chicagoland area or what to search for. My ps3 disc drive is broke and I want to get a 3rd party estimate

In Poland we have plenty places that repair blu-ray drives for 1/4 - 1/3 of what Sony wants ;)

Should be similar in USA

Yeah, found some under just general electronics and tv repair listings. I sent in a request for an estimate on 2 websites. I'm sure it'll be a lot cheaper.

If you find something local, let me know. That way if I have a problem down the road, i can look back at this link

http://tightwadweb.com/gamingrepair/store.htm

http://www.chicagogadgets.com/ps3_repair.php

I got a quote of $100 from one. Much better than $190 from Sony.

You should ask Modchipman:

www.modchipman.com

If they don't fix it themslelves, they probably know someone who does.  Great company.