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]

TEIN S-TECH Springs
KYB GR-2 shocks

When I say loud metal noise -I mean it probably is the front end of my car hitting the ramp of the driveway. Sounds like metal - when it prob is the plastic bottom scrapping ( I hope)

Well, you know it does seem to ride like stock - but much much stiffer. Maybe I was expected it to take slight bumps like my suv. I now definately have to slow down -alot - when I see bump(s) in road. Is this all normal? If not, I feel a sound as though im bottoming out. Its not a clunk sound like I had when my bushings were bad. That was like metal on metal. This is just like a sound when u have no shocks.I

If I push up/down near wheel base - should the car bounce up/down - or should there be little to no movement? Im guessing no movement.

This post has been edited by nitemare: Feb 26, 2007 - 2:57 PM