Rep Power: 0

Hi All,

I am owner of Honda Civic LX 2004 model. I had engine lights on with codes P01456 and P0135. Since I have recently moved to California I need to pass the smog test and get the registration done. I did my repairs with a mechanic who did replacement of Air fuel Sensor looking at the engine light problem. He also told to change the fuel gas cap as it had some cracks. I was charged $259.08 for air fuel sensor. I got the gas cap from autozone for $11. If the mechanic has done the fuel gas cap change he would have charged me $40 bucks. My engine light problem is solved and I passed smog test, got the registration done in California.

Now when I am looking at price of air fuel sensor online it is costing around $50-$70 range. I want to know whether I have paid more for air fuel sensor/mechanic has cheated with charging more repair price then actually it is ?

Experts your comments would be highly appreciated.

Thanks in Advance.
+Ketan

 
Rep Power: 210

Most mechanics charge a per hour rate..what is his?
Most mechanics use a guide that list estimated repair time for whichever repair that is required. So, hourly rate x suggested repair time.

Also, not uncommon for a mechanic to charge a markup price on parts. Did he use a Honda genuine/ OEM fuel sensor or did he use an aftermarket? OEM is usually more expensive but always the best way to go as far as quality, fitment and durability.

You want to find out whether you paid a fair price you need to call him back and ask these questions:
* OEM or aftermarket part and what is the price of the part on his invoice
* his hourly rate
* Listed time of repair in guide he used (i.e: 1.5 hours)

One way to justify it is his repair allowed your car to pass emissions testing. I am not sure if your state imposes fees or fines for not passing inspection?

 
Rep Power: 222

Are you sure you're looking at the right part? I just replaced the a/f sensor in my car and the cheapest I could find it was $160 on amazon. That was for the correct oem sensor. Honda wanted over $300 for the same part. Normal O2 sensors can be had for $50-$70 all day.

As long as he used the correct part i think his price is fair. You didn't work on it, the old sensor may have been seized to the manifold for all you know.

 
Rep Power: 518

Mechanic didn't charge you enough. You should give him another $200.