Crazy prices...crazy...

[Forkliftguy]

In the midst of preping for a 100,000KM tune-up on the lil 2.4 GAse '01 I have started checking out prices for specific items at the local GM dealership in order to help convince my wife that aftermarket is the way to go. So far I have checked out the price of a new catalytic converter and struts front to back. Please have a seat while I display the numbers (Warning: this doesn't even include installation, not that it matters...)...


Here we go:

Catalytic converter: BAM!!!!!!! CDN$785.00

Front struts: KER-POW! CDN$351.00 EACH!

Rear struts: KA-BAM! CDN$275.00 ea

Total Damage: CDN$2342.55 Tax in


Now, my buddy has sourced out some parts for me from his suppliers and consignment items in his shop (Yes he is biteing the bullet on this for me, but none the less)

Hi-Flow cat PLUS Pacesetter Header, KYB Struts all around, Eibach lowering springs, KUMHO rubber on Gray 17" EVO's (used one season)

Total: CDN$2000.00 Tax in....Hmmmm

[Knifeblade]

have ya tried local auto-stores? With that kind of sale, you may be able to leverage a discount off of that aftermarket pricing.

[Forkliftguy]

I wasn't gonna buy from the dealership, I just neede a focal point to compare the benefits of going aftermarket so my wife would have a better understanding of what the dealership actually charged for bare bones products. She appreciates the aftermarket much more now I had to turn down the rims and tires unfortunately because we are in the midst os selling our house so our cash flow is tied up in that right now, but my new KYB GR2's and Eibach springs are now on order. I can't wait to get them here.


Am I only one finding it difficult to find aftermarket suspension components for this car, or is everyone else who owns a '99 and up N-Body having the same problem? I've been trying to find sway bars and polyurethane bushings for this car ('01 GA SE) and I am not having any luck. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Marc

[Forkliftguy]

Hey Ridenour, maybe you might know where I can find some of this stuff?

[trixtaz]

Forkliftguy, I work at a NAPA jobber...I'm gonna check for you on saturday.

[Forkliftguy]

Cool, thanks. I've been all over the net and can't seem to find anything, I may eventually have to resort to calling specific manufacturers and asking them if they can can make some:P

[trixtaz]

Forkliftguy, good news.

Catalytic:
There are 2 possible designs, I have only one of them available in direct fit, it is about $390. The second design is available as a universal type, and is about $120.

You'd have to ask the dealer for a picture of what the cat on your car looks like and see whether its the same as the direct fit cat that we list.

Struts:
Everything available. Front ~$150/ea; rear ~125/ea.

All prices in $CDN.

Looks like its going to be less than half of what the dealer quoted you!

Visit your local NAPA store if you want to pick those up

[Martina]

Struts for $125 What a steal!! I just paid 350 each all the way around.

[Forkliftguy]

That is a good price. Martina, did you buy your's at the dealership? I just got mine through a friend's shop. I got KYB GR2's all around and Eibach Sport lowering springs.

[Martina]

Yes I got them from the GM dealer. AC Delco