I have a quote from a highly decorated napa mechanic for struts, rear brakes and rotors, front axle replacement, stabilizer links, and a wheel alignment. The parts are two thirds of the total estimated cost. Another quote from a larger chain style shop was 43% less for the total job, I don't have the parts and labor breakdown. I don't know who manufactures what parts and how much of a difference there could be in their quality. I know the labor cost would be less for the larger shop, but might there be a big difference in the quality of the parts ? How could a non mechanic know ?
RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2004 Toyota Sequoia. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.
Compare labor rates between the two shops, the high price shop may be a full service shop with a higher rate and the cheaper shop may specialize in easier repair such as brakes, steering and suspension. The cheaper shop will not have as experienced techs and their labor will be lower. Also check the warranty on parts, the cost of parts can greatly change with quality and warranty implied.
