Date: 06 Sep 2000 18:51:50 GMT From: dsjkallennopsamcom (DSJKALLEN) Subject: Re: repair: fair price?
Sean, Seems high to me, but all car repair prices, regardless of make, are very high these days. You can buy a Bosch alternator for around $140, but then, of course, you have to install it. A very good battery can be purchased for $80 or less, and installation is easy. And, the thermostat, a typical Saab two-stage unit, will run around $25 for parts. I've owned Saabs since 1972, and find their parts prices these days totally out of line. For example, my venerable '85 900 needed a catalytic converter a year or so ago. The Saab replacement was $1,500! I bought a "drop in replacement" Walker converter (exactly the same specs and dimensions) from a local independent auto parts retailer for $85.00. And, my Saab dealer installed it!! So, it's the same thing with everything else these days -- whatever the price will bear. But, a little knowledge, especially from the numerous Saab websites here on the internet, goes a very long way to making Saab ownership cheaper. Take care. Don Allen Urbana, IL