Compare Repair Costs

[mcs328]

http://repairpal.com/

Seems like a handy tool to see if you're overpaying for questionable repair on your car. Also locates local mechanics in your area.

[attgig]

So, I just looked up recharging my AC system for a 97 VW. it says 180-220. 90-100 for parts and 90-120 for labor.
REALLY? does it really cost that much to recharge an ac? Don't cans cost like 15-20 bucks at an auto parts store?

[Daedalus]

Proper recharging requires evacuating the system completely, pulling a vacuum for an extended period, and replenishing the oil (as measured out during the evacuation) prior to filling up to within .1 lbs of spec. An hour's labor may be a bit generous, but not by much if at all. As far as parts, the big hitter is the receiver/drier, which should be replaced (though many opt not to). R134a fluid used in '97 cars is fairly cheap, even at retail. Sounds like the site's weakness is it doesn't give a menu of service options in cases like this, nor does it explain in detail what's involved.

I don't know because it wouldn't even work for me. Everytime I click on a service fom the pop-up window it goes back to the main page, but it doesn't show that any service has been selected. I might not have the right browser settings or something.

[mcs328]

The prices seem comparable to my experiences for my 99 Honda Civic. I just picked services I remember paying for or have done myself. I guess YMMV.

[Daedalus]

I got it to work on my work computer. Seems pretty decent on the labor times, but the parts estimates may be way under, as it only prices the parts you absolutely need. E.g, it'll give a price for a timing belt to have it replaced, but it ignores all the various gaskets and seals that need to be replaced in the process and which can add $hundreds to the bill.