Is my mechanic's repair quote reasonable? How to judge any estimate

How a repair quote is built

Every estimate is built from two main parts. Parts can be OEM, made or sourced by the vehicle's manufacturer, typically the most expensive with the most predictable fit; aftermarket, made by a third party, with price and quality that vary widely; or used or reconditioned, usually the cheapest, with the least predictable remaining lifespan.

Labor is calculated from published labor time guides for your make and model, multiplied by the shop's hourly rate, which varies by region and by shop type.

What actually drives the price

• Vehicle complexity: luxury, performance and electric vehicles often cost more to service
• Parts availability: rare or imported parts typically cost more and take longer to source
• Labor rate: dealership rates are often higher than independent shops
• Diagnosis complexity: an intermittent or hard-to-find fault can add diagnostic time

What to do before you say yes

1. Ask for a written, itemized estimate before any work starts.
2. Check that parts and labor are on separate lines, and that the part type is named.
3. Ask whether a diagnostic fee applies before you authorize an inspection.
4. Ask how any recommended extra work relates to the problem you actually brought the car in for.
5. Ask whether the repair is urgent or can reasonably wait, and what the warranty covers on parts and labor.
6. For a significant repair, get a second quote from another reputable shop.

Red flag or green flag?

• One lump sum, no breakdown: red flag, so ask for parts and labor on separate lines.
• Pressure to approve extra work over the phone: red flag, so ask to see the failed part or a photo first.
• A diagnostic fee that only appears on the final bill: red flag, so ask about fees before any inspection.
• Happy for you to get a second opinion: green flag, because a reputable shop won't discourage it.

What people often get wrong

Assuming the cheapest quote is automatically the best one. Check parts quality and warranty terms before deciding on price alone.

When to get a second opinion

A second opinion is reasonable for any significant repair. Bring the first shop's written estimate and any diagnostic details. If two independent shops give a similar diagnosis and a similar price range, the estimate is likely fair. If there's a large gap, ask each shop what accounts for the difference before you decide.

Read next

• When to replace brake pads and rotors, and what to look for
• Used car paperwork: history report, title and service records
• Flashing check engine light: slow down, this one is urgent

This page is general information and does not replace a professional assessment. Symbols, codes and behaviour vary between makes. Always check the handbook for your own car.