Crazy markup on parts

Nothing new, markups have been like that for years.

You can't even really blame the dealer either, the manufacturer sets the MSRP.

 

Ask what their MSRP is. Could be the part that was $300 more was retail and the other place gave you a discount. Not uncommon that places will give regular/good customers better pricing.

 

They don’t really want your Business. They’re happy doing warranty work. But as long as people are willing to pay they’ll gladly take your money. Probably be at the back of the line, and stay there while other warranty work from big customers comes in. Find a good Independent shop. Build a relationship with them. Sometimes on the road you can get better and quicker services from a mobile truck repair. Cheaper than the dealer. Often the mechanics got their start at Dealerships. Not all mechanics at dealerships are experienced. Only one certification is usually needed for whatever the work. Electrical, brakes, transmission, etc. Meanwhile someone fresh out of school might be doing the actual job. Things aren’t always as they appear. Have to be real carefull, get estimates, ask questions. If not be prepared for sticker shock. The big difference now is parts not being available. Backordered for 3-4 months. 5 minute internet search you can find the part for half price, readily available. Shipped overnight for a fee if needed. Dealerships sometimes are best for parts. Big price differences between them too. Good place to start for comparisons. Pays to shop around. Especially these days. Mister Obvious has spoken. Lol !!!

 

I remember when I had Pete with Cat engine, the same injector at Peterbilt was less expensive than going to Cat. You would think the 2nd party would have the mark up, not the OEM.

 

Few months ago I was getting a new coolant level sensor and a KW dealership on the west coast wanted over $500 for it. I couldn't ####ing believe it. Ordered one off amazon for about $20. Since the pandemic dealerships have skyrocketed the price of parts well above the percentage everything else went up from due to inflation. They are gouging the hell out of us.

 

It's in every industry. I was quoted $4800 to install a new 3 ton AC condenser for my rent house. $3500 for the unit, and $1300 for the labor.

I called my buddy who's a licensed HVAC tech and the unit was $1350 for him to get it. We had it installed in about an hour and a half, and the longest part of that was spent vacuuming the system and drinking a couple of beers. I traded him some gunsmithing for his labor.

Plus the beer of course.