Repair question to ask mechanics for Pricing??
 

Hi,

I've got an 1983 Diesel. She needs some repairs. (IE, the Brake light is on when I step on the brakes).

I've found approximately 5 mechanics in the Bay area who are supposed to be good with Mercedes.

I don't want to Spend more than I have to, as I'm not working..
I'm, thinking of calling them and asking them what they charge for a certain repair, to try and get a general idea of their pricing....

Any suggestions of a good generic diesel repair cost that will help me get a feeling of their prices compared to each other?
Thanks

If you can find list price of the parts, plus the length of time to do the job, plus the hourly rate they charge - there ya go. Some mechanics will do brake jobs for a flat fee but they'll buy cheap pads to offset the low price. Either ask them how much for new pads rotors installed front/back or ask them what they charge an hour. Some garages may charge $120/hr while others only $80/hr.

You could do the brake pads yourself. It really is easy if you read about it first, then take the time to get it done.

There is nothing "diesel" about your brakes. As brakes go, they are very straight forward and any reasonably qualified brake technician should be able to fix you up.

Thanks...POS...so that is how I'd phrase it?
 

So I would ask specifically How much for new pads rotors installed front/back?...what are the rotors?...as you can see, I do not know much
about the mechanics of the car...although I do change my fuel filter
regularly.
thanks

Rotor basically means the same thing as disk. They are the big steel disks that are located just inside each of the wheels- the brake caliper pushes the brake shoes against them, creating friction, and so on. If they are below acceptable thickness, then they will need to be replaced.

I don't intend to scare you, but older cars can have unanticipated problems, such as seized bolts, nuts, and so on. I have heard mechanics say that these things can increase the labor time beyond the standard factory labor time, which tend to be figured for newer cars, still under warranty.

That being said, I hope things go well for you !

Brakes on an '83 are extremely simple. Since you aren't working, you have plenty of time to learn and do the work yourself.

i've never had brake work be anything other than radically overpriced. dunno which book they get the quotes from but it tends to be ridiculous. i would definitely take the time to call maybe even a dozen shops!

This is all DIY
 

No reason for a mechanic, brakes are a simple DIY...

PeachPartsWiki: Front Brake Pad & Rotor Replacement

PeachPartsWiki: Front Brake Line Replacement

PeachPartsWiki: Replacing the Rear Brake Pads & Rotors

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/video-forum/350091-w123-w126-brake-diy-videos.html

.

Locate a good back yard mechanic. Get a price. Not working and paying out 70-100 per hour is not a great equation. Also the less you know about cars today can make you a victom all too easily.

Much better option. You may have a friend with some experience that could help you as well. Almost anyone that works on his cars can change out a set of rotors if required and pads. Once he helps you then the next time you will know how to do it yourself.

You should start somewhere. Watch the videos Mr Hunter has posted to give you some ideals and confidence would be a good start.

Yeah, brakes are pretty straight forward.

Yet, with the front rotors there is extra time involved due to pre loading the outer bearing.

Use your head and learn how to do this simple stuff yourself.If I can do it you can. It's not rocket science. Fix one thing and you will gain more confidence to try something else. You said that you change filters. If you have an old Benz like most of here you will need to start doing stuff for yourself and there is a ton of free help available on this forum. If you just cant do it yourself and you dont have a ton of money to fix stuff that happens to 30 year old cars. You may need to look at a newer used vehicle. just sayin...

oh and definitely include mobile mechanics in your calls. i think there are some in the bay area that are much more reasonable than a specialist shop .

The brakes on these cars are super simple....i just bleed my brakes by my self....used a tool box to press the peddle down....then run to the bleeder....super easy....sounds like all you need is pads....all you need is a nail, hammer and large regular screw driver to change the pads...

Let me offer a contrary view
 

LindaJane, first, find out why you are getting the brake light. It could be pads as everyone seems to be assuming. It could also be a low brake fluid condition. Question is, which light? Low fluid will give you the "Brake" light. Worn pads will give you the yellow circle with little appendages on it.

If low fluid, open your reservoir and observe the fluid level. If fluid is low, before simply filling the reservoir, inspect each wheel on the inside and around the master cylinder for leaks. If no leaks, put fluid into the reservoir (DOT-4 only) and see if the light goes out.

If worn pads, either follow the instructions others have given or take it to somewhere like MIDAS or Meineke to repair. They will give a fair price, be honest and a guarantee. You do not need to take it to a Mercedes specialist for brakes. You CAN do it yourself or with the help of someone who has a little wrenching experience. It is not complicated but be sure you can complete the job. If you get stuck in the middle of the job with a task you can't complete, you will only add the cost of a tow.

Good luck and please come back to let us know how you do.

Sure, they will guarantee the sorry $10 pads they install. But the warranty does not include labor, which you will again need real soon, after their cheap pads wear out in short order. It's all part of the scheme to get the customer back into their shop sooner than later.

My advice on chain auto shops: never go there. They have taking your money down to a science. It's part of their culture.