Is my auto repair quote fair?
Mechanics often use confusing technical terms or quote expensive full replacements for minor damage. This makes it difficult to figure out if a cheaper fix exists, if high diagnostic fees are justified, or if the vehicle will actually get worse if you choose not to fix it.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Replacing engine and cabin air filters personally for a fraction of the dealer price
- 2Getting diagnostic fault codes read for free at an auto parts store
- 3Purchasing an inexpensive OBD2 scanner to diagnose check engine lights at home
- 4Watching YouTube tutorials to learn basic DIY maintenance procedures
- 5Cleaning the throttle body yourself using throttle body cleaner spray
- 6Finding an independent body shop that doesn't work primarily with insurance companies
- 7Using plastic staples and body filler to patch the crack
- 8Plastic-welding the part back together and refinishing it to match
In their words
Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.
“Next time i should just do this instead of being charged 200 for checking the vehicle”source ↗
“Took my car in because of emission system problem”source ↗
“Confused what sds throttle body intake is.”source ↗
“hi, i have a small crack in my bumper and the auto shop quoted me 1500 to replace the entire bumper??? is that fair? or could this be fixed cheaper?”source ↗
“and if i don’t fix it, is it fine? will it get worse??”source ↗