PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - did my mech just rip me off? 1993 300CE W124.052

urtruelove78 · #12 02-22-2012, 11:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 97 SL320

I had a speech to give to those that wanted to bring bought parts ( hint, to a one those that wanted to bring bought parts were problem customers that expected free work, would blame any new ills on the most recent repair and a would expect their neglected car to be " new and fully overhauled " when they had the spark plugs changed. )

Speech
"I do not put on bought parts, and here is why. . .
First, if the parts are wrong it ties up my shop.
Second, if the part fails, who gets blamed?. . . Usually the mechanic does.
Third, I make a mark up on parts,. . . I am entitled to make a living.
You will find that most, better garages, do not put on bought parts."

Now, there were specific instances where at my request I had loyal customers source parts only because the parts were a ordeal for me to source in the pre internet days ( Fiat Spyder for example )

Well, I will agree more or less on most part with you but saying, I make a mark up on parts to make living,

What is per hour labor that customer is paying is?

$100 to $150 per hour labor is not cheap. Most high paying jobs (1,00,000 salary is $50/hr) are half of that on per hour basis if you know what i mean.

I have long stories about going to different mechanics and felt having been ripped of some time or other. Not one exception. I feel like it's easier to find at least one honest lawyer, doctor or politician then mechanic.

That's why I do most job myself and do my home work before going to them and don't let them sell part to me. Take estimate of repair job and explanation with symptom from at least three of them, go online, find diy link , check if it's easy or difficult, see it special tool is required, usually cheaper to buy even for one time job and try to do it yourself.