2001 BMW 525 Radiator Replacement Cost

RUTHL2

MEMBER
2001 BMW 525

Other Category problem
2001 BMW 525 Engine Size unknown Two Wheel Drive Automatic 80,000 miles

The radiator had to be replaced after my car overheated fifty miles from home. I was towed (AAA) and the garage charged me over $1,000. 00 to do the job.
My local gas station said they could have replaced it for about $400.00.
The local BMW, where I always take the car, couldn't give me a price w/o looking it up.
I have a feeling I was taken, no?

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

$1000 seems a bit steep for a radiator. Did you approve this before the repairs started or did you negotiate with them at all? How much was the labor and how much were the parts? The bureau of automotive repairs in Ca. Has made a new law that compels the car repair quotes to be broken down and separate parts and labor charges. This law is for the protection of consumers, but you still have to approve in writing or if agreed to by phone, before the repairs can legally be performed. The consumer must beware, if it were me, I would have had AAA tow it out of there if they were not willing to deal and taken it to someone I could trust. BTW I am sorry that you feel you got taken, when things like this happen, it makes all of us (mechanics) look bad.