I also believe that people do not mind paying a "fair" price fro a good
mechanic. I would pay top rates for someone who I know is going to fix it
right and stand behind it. What bothers me is the "behind the back" aspect of
marking up the parts. They always act like they are doing you a favor by
quoting the dealer cost and then telling you how much they are charging you
below that.

I want a good price for my part, and I will pay the mechanic "above the
board." To me it has to do with honesty. also if mechanics are part retailers
then they should make that clear and allow you to shop around for your parts
like any other retailer has to let you do. If they can retail you the part
for equal or less then I will buy the part from them just like they are a
retailer.

I have no problem with a mechanic making a buck, just be clear about it and
not act like they are doing me a favor by getting me the part for less than
"dealer."

Todd T
84 Westy
Washington DC