Save money on your car repairs by researching the price of the parts, and perhaps buying the part on your own. Many automotive shops charge up the price of the part and pass it on to the consumer. As one of the mechanics told me today (as my car is in the shop), this is one of the ways they made money. Well, I can appreciate their need to make money, while I have a need to SAVE it!
This became clear as I was quoted around $600.00 to replace my distributor. The part was supposedly going to cost $450.00. I panicked a little. After doing research online, I found the correct new OEM part for $154.00! A savings of $300.00.
Good repair shops will agree to install a part that you provide to them, although they will not likely warranty the part. But, the manufacturer or retailer selling the part typically does provide such a warranty for the part, so who cares?
Find out what part your car may need, then do a google search, check E-Bay, etc. I've done this several times on cars I have owned and saved hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Even if you have to pay to have a professional install it, so what? You can at least save money on the part itself!
By JARED DELLINGER from Blacklick, OH
Here are the questions asked by community members. Read on to see the answers provided by the ThriftyFun community.
The mechanic says my ac compressor is seeping and the hose took a dump and that it's about $700 to fix. Does anyone know how to find a little bit cheaper mechanic or if that price is correct? Please help. I have 2 kids and can't have them in the hot car for the summer like that.
By mandy Abeyta
Check out the following website for estimates.
repairpal.com/
Besides MCW's suggested link call around to all of your local auto repair places and ask what they would charge for a seeping compressor with a bad hose by phone. That should give you a better idea of what the fair going rate is in your area without an additional inspection charge.
This might sound mean, and it's sincerely not meant to be, but when I was an infant/child there was no air conditioning in our cars and I survived just fine even in stop and go traffic when the temps were even 90 and 100 so if you can't afford the repair simply use common sense when it comes to your children's heat safety.
Check with your local high school/trade school/college as to their car repair classes. They will do the work for free or only a very minimal charge, for the experience. You will probably have to buy the parts.
My Mazda needs a new battery. Where is the best pace to buy my battery?
Most walmart stores carry them and their prices are good.
I have put 2 new hubs and bearings on my front wheels. Now my 4-wheel drive won't work. Anyone know the answer? It is a 98 Ford Ranger. Thank you.
By Ernie
I have a 1998 Audi A6 coupe. Can anyone tell me where the relay for the A/C clutch is located? Thanks
By joeroo from Holiday, FL
