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

[playr158]

1) ALL 4 tires on the ground LOOSEN the top 3 strut tower bolts inside engine bay + the center bolt as well (don't remove them just yet

2) jack up one side & remove the tire (like step 1 make sure you loosen bolts BEFORE jacking up)

3) instert jackstand to insure stability,

4) remove the bottom 2 bolts holding in the strut to the knuckle

5) remove top 3 bolts

6) slide out strut

(this should have taken 20 min on average if you work at a slow/moderate pace)

lay the strut/coil assembly on its side on the ground the completely loosen the center nut (face it away from you it MIGHT be under very minor pressure but since you have lowering springs it shouldn't be)

7)once that is done remove top mount and install bump stop

8) reverse order from 6 to 1