Did a search for labor times or "book rates" for shocks and I couldn't find much so I'm starting this thread. I've got an '90 Q45 "standard" or non-active. Got the 4 shocks courtesy of AZHitmans deal (thanks!). I will use my local Infinti dealer for install, but service writer was unsure of the book rates?? I saw him thumbing through a Chilton's ref manual and he came up what I thought as high hours (6.4 hrs total for all 4 shocks). I even have the trunk clean and all the panels out! Is there a SPECIFIC "book" that service writers reference that I can direct this guy to? I've read about an hour per shock but I need some ammo here. Also, would it be unreasonable to have him include the upper links in the shock job for no extra? Bonus question: I have a leak in my power steering line. Think it's hose part#49722M. Anyone want to estimate the "book time" to change that out? Way too messy for me. Thanks for any advice. Service appt is Monday first thing.
Bradlong-time reader, rare poster
Labor times for shocks
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Holisticbeatz
- Posts: 1221
- Joined: Thu Mar 06, 2003 6:09 pm
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
http://www.nissaninfiniticlub....=7032
There are at least a couple service labor sources used widely in the industry. I would guess they're all pretty much in agreement. This is definitely a job that could be done by a lot of independents for less than what a dealer will charge you. The upper link isn't part of the job, but it's a small job on it's own, and you can try to include it in your negotiations--especially if they want to charge you 6+ hours!
There are at least a couple service labor sources used widely in the industry. I would guess they're all pretty much in agreement. This is definitely a job that could be done by a lot of independents for less than what a dealer will charge you. The upper link isn't part of the job, but it's a small job on it's own, and you can try to include it in your negotiations--especially if they want to charge you 6+ hours!
Thanks for the input. I'll check with local shops and get a labor time from them. Unfortunately I have neither the proper tools or now the spare time. I commute from Pittsburgh to Houston to run a business so most of the DIY stuff is out as I prefer to spend the little time I have home with the family. If I was only having the shocks done, I'd definitely let someone else do it. I have a good sized list of things that need done (other than shocks) and want the expertise at the dealership for those other items. They also give me a spectacular price on parts and knock $10 off hourly labor rate.
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greg_atlanta
- Posts: 1111
- Joined: Tue Jul 23, 2002 4:37 pm
- Car: 2008 G35 Journey Sedan, silver/black (no sunroof), 1992 Q45 (in a past life)
If the dealer doesn't know then that means it's up for negotiation!!
If you also need upper links & ps hose, offer to pay list price parts/labor for upper links and power steering hose and then add 2-4 hours for shocks (since the labor for both jobs overlaps).
Doing more stuff with one visit saves the dealer time and SHOULD save you money!!
If you also need upper links & ps hose, offer to pay list price parts/labor for upper links and power steering hose and then add 2-4 hours for shocks (since the labor for both jobs overlaps).
Doing more stuff with one visit saves the dealer time and SHOULD save you money!!
Thanks for the replies. Found a mechanic who will moonlight on the shocks. With the money I save will do the upper links too. I'll still use the dealer to change the power steering hose and fan belts/idler pulleys/radiator fan. Also getting an alignment done. Unfortunately it'll be about 3 weeks before I get back to town to see the results!
Brad
Brad
Did all 4 of mine in 4 hours on a Saturday morning, went really slow and methodical, torqued everything down right etc... Very simple job that can be done by a porch monkey!!
Unfortunately the dealer quotes send the non mechanical to the classified ads to get rid of the car!! Dealer recently quoted the guy I bought my car from $1,900 for all 4!! Yikes.
Unfortunately the dealer quotes send the non mechanical to the classified ads to get rid of the car!! Dealer recently quoted the guy I bought my car from $1,900 for all 4!! Yikes.
DAE, Good link. I was thinking anything over 4 hrs was too high. I ordered the bushings, spacers, etc that you had listed. I went through each item on the front/rear shock diagram with the local parts guy and to make sure I got ALL the rubber parts and spacers. I'll be back in town in 3 weeks to try out the ride. All the other work (non-shock) gets done Monday by the dealer.
Brad'90 Q45 Std, 212,000 miles. New transmission 10 mos ago.
Brad'90 Q45 Std, 212,000 miles. New transmission 10 mos ago.