How professional mechanics figure their labor time

[willrev]

I have been amazed lately at the difference in how paid mechanics figure their labor time. Many are using one of several computer programs that estimate the time on each job. That is multiplied by their hourly rate. I know two indys who use computer programs by auto service companies to do this. They charge that amount regardless (even if it takes less time). They have almost gotten as bad as the doctors and health insurance companies raping the American public by charging outrageous amounts.

Yesterday I went to the Mercedes dealer. I have gotten to know my service advisor pretty well and have personally met the mechanic there who works on the older cars. She and he both said they do not use a computer program. The mechanic tells the service advisor how long the job will take.

The dealership mechanic said 3 hours to change out my differential. Two indy mechanics both said 9 hours labor. The dealer is $85 per hour. The indy's are both $75 per hour. GO FIGURE!