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| Save on Auto Repairs by Getting an Online Estimate |
Submitted by:
Tip Hero 07/05/2008 5:58 AM
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Just learned of a new website that gives you free estimates on auto repairs called RepairPal. You just enter your make, model, year, repair type, and zip code and they provide you with an estimate for the repair. They've come up with an algorithm that takes into account the cost of parts, labor, an average hourly rate for mechanics in your area, and other factors.
The repair estimate is expressed as a range because different variables can effect the price like whether you go to an independent mechanic or a dealership. In the sites FAQ section they mention independent mechanics can be 15-40% cheaper because dealerships often charge higher labor rates because their mechanics are factory trained technicians and they tend to use original equipment manufacturer parts (OEM) which are more expensive than generic parts made by independent suppliers.
RepaiPal doesn't include cars older than 1990. It also doesn't include estimates for most new hybrids because there isn't enough reliable data yet to create repair estimates. They also only cover repairs made in the United States although they say they are working on a Canadian site as well.
I must say I've never liked getting auto repair quotes because I'm at such a disadvantage in terms of knowledge and I'm afraid I'm going to get taken to the cleaners. Sites like RepairPal help to close that knowledge gap and put consumers on more even footing.
RepairPal Website
There are also a couple of other services that offer repair estimates.
FairRepair.com offers auto repair estimates for $9.99. You can see a sample estimate on their homepage.
Driverside.com is another site that also offers repair estimates.
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