[matthewb0051]

I have a few Land Rovers. I can do most of the work myself but at times need to take it to the mechanic, a Land Rover only independent shop. For example, my 2001 Range Rover front axle seals were leaking following ball joint replacements. It takes a specialist tool that runs around $2k IIRC and it isn't readily available. They adjust a collet at the bottom of spindle and get the half-shaft properly aligned top to bottom.

While it was there, I also asked them to look at the Y-Pipe as to O2 sensors were stuck. They got them out but threads were damaged. Claimed they couldn't find a bung to weld in place. The Y-Pipe with two cats is $699 retail. They quoted me around $950 for the part and informed me that they are 40% markup on parts. They didn't even have a wholesale agreement with the place that carries the part (I use that company as well). I ended up getting it shipped to me for $750 and will do it in my garage. Actually, I ordered it from Company B, which got it wholesale from Company A and had it dropped shipped from Co A. Genius, since Co B made a quick $100 for just taking an order.

The fee that really puzzles me is their credit card fee. My bill for the axle work was a bit over $1,200. They charged $43 as a credit card fee. I asked the kid at the desk why I was paying credit card fee since the card was a debit card. Logic in my mind. He said that any time the card reader is used there is a fee.

Isn't the credit card fee just a cost of them doing business and shouldn't they just roll it up in their hourly rate? BTW, hourly is $195 now. I'm sure if I had walked in with $1,300 in cash they wouldn't have been able to make change and likely wouldn't have accepted, ditto for a check. It just seems a bit over the top to charge a fee just for making payment.

Don't get me started on shop supplies fee, which seems to be everywhere. Honestly.