Burlington Mechanic rates

[08762456]

I'm not sure if this in the right section, but does anyone from Burlington, VT area or near there know what the typical mechanic labor rates are? I'm a student and need to get my axles replaced on 91 Honda Accord. I'm looking for as cheap of labor, but still done correctly, as possible. I'll be buying the parts separately.

I would do this myself and really don't like paying people to fix my car, but like i said I'm at school so I don't really have many options.

Thanks

 

[willix]

I would get on the phone & get phone quotes. I would target neighborhood independents.

Most all shops will frown at installing your carry-in parts.

 

[lairdwd]

I had a cv-half shaft installed for $70 in Lowell, MA - which should be comparable to VT. Guy did a great job too. No alignment needed afterwards.

Basically - that equates to $60/hr labor + $10 he lost on parts markup. Very fair and reasonable.

 

[lairdwd]

Originally Posted By: willix
Most all shops will frown at installing your carry-in parts.


True. Which is why I like my guy so much. I can get the parts for half what he gets them for, or can get a salvage unit on ebay. I fully understand the repercussions (no warranty).

For difficult, labor/skill intensive jobs that are a PITA, you are better off letting him use a part he buys. For example, I let the mechanic use a reman starter he bought instead of bringing in my own. Thing went belly up in less than a year. He gives a 1 year warranty on parts, and charged me only $60 laborto put the new one in, even though they are a PIT in my car .

 

[eljefino]

If you're daring try craigslist. Find a honda specialist, check out his cars to see if they're in about the same shape as yours. Or try a honda forum, find someone who isn't spending all his time putting coffee can exhausts on and blue light bulbs in his blinkers.

 

[rjundi]

I think my sister in law pays about $45-$50/hr for a mechanic that keeps her old Subaru's alive(standard VT issue with rust etc).

 

[methusaleh]

I know someone in the area who can order the parts wholesale and won't charge you over, and will do the work for cheap or barter. Also know a shop that a friend of mine works at who can help you keep within budget. Contact me if you still need this.