This is hard to call because there are so many variables. Foreign car parts are usually higher priced than for domestic cars. Are they going to replace the calipers? At this age, that shouldn't be necessary yet unless one is sticking. If the parking brake is built into the caliper, such as on older GM and Ford cars, calipers can cost up to $100.00 and require special installation procedures. If the parking brake is separate, such as on all domestic Chrysler products, calipers will cost around 20 bucks.
Some replacement rotors cost as little as 15 dollars, but most cost around 25 to, . . . oh, . . . around 45 bucks. Some shops have a set labor rate for a brake job that they hope is competitively priced. Some use a "flat rate" guide that spells out the labor times allowed for specific procedures on specific models. That allows them to quote you the same time as their competitors. Only the hourly labor rates will vary.
Flushing the brake fluid is a good idea, is recommended by every manufacturer, and is rarely done because the hydraulic system causes so few problems, it gets ignored. This doesn't take very long, in fact, with the right equipment, it can be done while the mechanic is doing other work on your car. If this was the only thing being done, the job would take about 3/4 hour and a quart of brake fluid.
If you don't trust the estimate you received, look for a second opinion, but you must be sure you're comparing the same parts and services. The lowest cost estimate isn't usually the best value.
A quality rear disc brake job on a Chrysler, (the brand I'm familiar with), at the dealership, with two rotors, would typically run less than $200.00. Use that as a rough guide, not a reason to accuse someone of being a crook. There are many things that will affect your estimate. The best thing to look for is an itemized list of parts and services, not just a lump sum.
caradiodoc
Mar 8, 2010 at 5:25 PM
