4 Hours labor charged to install Springs and Struts! Options

[nitemare]

OMG. My mechanic (not dealer) just said it took 4 Hours to install all 4 springs and struts. At about $80 hourly rate - that comes to $320 for just install. I supplied the teins and kybs. WTF? I thought this takes 2 hours to do.

Also charged me 1 hour to replace spark plugs and fuel filter. Plus 1/2 hour labor to install both rear bushings. He had to order bushing from dealer at cost of $40 total.

Ive been going to this guy for years. Well, last time. I feel this is too much. Maybe Im wrong. But for a 12year old car - paying $634 is not worth it to me.

Now, I do the basics myself. Oil changes, battery replacements, filters, wipers, bulbs. I did do brakes once - but turned into a project on my old subaru. I think Im going to invest in a lift at this point.

This post has been edited by nitemare: Feb 23, 2007 - 10:41 AM

[nitemare]

Really appreciate your step-by-step procedure. Doesnt sound too difficult. The car is still in the shop because of a battery draw issue when car is off. I just asked my mechanic about this one. He said he will check it out. Ill let him do it if he doesnt charge me more than 1 hour. He shouldnt charge me at all with all the money I jsut gave him to replace all 4 struts/springs. Ill see what he determines.

[trdproven]

Really appreciate your step-by-step procedure. Doesnt sound too difficult. The car is still in the shop because of a battery draw issue when car is off. I just asked my mechanic about this one. He said he will check it out. Ill let him do it if he doesnt charge me more than 1 hour. He shouldnt charge me at all with all the money I jsut gave him to replace all 4 struts/springs. Ill see what he determines.

One good advice, do not try to install them yourself if you are unsure. Loosening the center nut without compressing the springs firmly will pop out bluntly and very strongly, you could be seriously injured or worse. These springs if not held down will shoot out like a metal slingshot. Be careful.