Automated answering is a joke. Finally transferred...

Automated answering is a joke. Finally transferred to a person and call is dropped. Called back was on hold for 15 min just to ask a simple question as to whether they had any appointments. Lady tells me first available is in 5 days and that they don't recommend walk ins. I ask if there are any other options as I live an hour and a half from the store and a random midday appt on a Tuesday isn't possible for me. Her answer was to make an appt. This is pretty much the level of success that I have had anytime that I call apple. I get frustrated and after 45 min of calling, looking up my phone info etc only to have my call dropped I finally give up and pay 2x as much to get repair at a 3rd party shop. Have never had a pleasant transaction with Apple Store or tech.