Hans:
My experience is that if you had to pay full retail for parts and labor, only millionaires could keep these things on the road. I would recommed using the recommeded shops board on this forum and finding a good independent in your area that will work with your parts, or help you find ones at a discount. I the past few years I have gotten the following parts through Importec, Fast Lane and other internet parts suppliers all without incident and with great results:
Transmission
Water Pump
Steering Gear
Tie Rod Ends
Drag Link
All belts and hoses
thermostat
shocks
bushings
steering damper
brake pads
rotors
abs sensors

Just use the forums, take your time, and do your research and you should be able to get good info