YACT: Help! Am I getting ripped?

[Yossarian]

'99 Mustang V6. I brought it in today to get some stuff fixed, here's what they just called me with after checking the car out.

1. Front end is making a pretty nasty squeak when I turn either way--replace tie rod ends $175, alight front end $90

2. Radiator fluid is brown, flush, chemical cleaner, refill $110

3. Power steering fluid looks a little burnt, flush & replace $90

How much am I being overcharged here???!!

 

[Kipper]

A radiator flush should cost you $70, MAX...it is ridiculously easy for them to do. You wouldn't probably even pay that much at a dealer. The power steering, I'd assume, although I've never personally done it but $90 seems steep.

Edit: A COMPLETE alignment, not just the front end, should cost you about $70-80. This guy is ripping you off.

 

[Kipper]

Check this out:

http://www.cartalk.com/content/mechx/

and also check with your local BBB to find a good mechanic.

 

[CRXican]

I'd let them fix the suspesnion. You can drain and replace the power steering and radiator yourself rather easily.

 

[Yossarian]

thanks for that link MCD. this is a dealer btw. for now I will have them do the tie rods & alignment. I'll see if I can do the other stuff myself. they also say my front brakes are at 3mm and I should have them done too, but I'll find a cheaper local place for that.