Why do car mechanics/workshops usually try to rip you off?

[FrustratedUser]

Originally posted by: Zenmervolt

Originally posted by: FrustratedUser

Originally posted by: Jzero

Originally posted by: RishiS
The same reason most of us on this forum could get away with charging $50+/hr. to set up a LAN, even tho' most of us can do it in our sleep.

That's not really the same thing. That's supply and demand. You don't know how to do it, but I do. You're willing to pay $50/hr, so I'll take it.

We're talking more along the lines of a computer technician who intentionally breaks something, or lies to the customer just to get more money. A mechanic might tell you you need to replace your tie rod end even though it's fine. A computer tech might tell you your PC Speaker needs to be replaced.

Exactly my point. There is no way for the average Joe to find out if that tie rod REALLY needs to be replaced.

Well, I've never been to a mechanic who wouldn't let me see the car when its on the lift and inspect the parts myself. I personally wouldn't stick with a mechanic who didn't let me inspect the parts.

ZV

That is kind of why I am happy with the oil changes at Brake Master. I can see what they do.

 

[LuNoTiCK]

I didn't read this whole thread, but I've seen the biggest ripoff mechanics.

That car my brother crashed, hardly damaged I swear. Barely broken, but they said over 10 grand for it. They didn't even say the price first, we wanted an estimate and they just said they started working on it. Didn't say a price till it was done. We could have sold the car for like 10 grand, and kept the money to buy a new car. It was a 2003 accord LX.

 

[Damage]

Most mechanics I know are good, it's the shop owner who gouges on parts, and the service write that overbooks your job.. Remember the actual mechanic is only getting %25-40 of that rate the shop charges