Water Pump

[jessep28]

I am on the "you got ripped off bandwagon" but am concerned with the action of recourse that can be taken.

First I would call them up and explain that you did not agree to this repair and request the money back. If they keep saying no, try to give a little by maybe paying for the cost of the water pump.

If you are still talking to the NO broken record, then call the Better Business Bureau. Sometimes that can force the other party to take action and make things equitable.

If there still isn't budging, then you need to consider legal action. Small claims stuff doesn't usually require a lawyer, although you may want to consult one so you know how to present things since this was a verbal contract and its your word over theirs over what was exactly authorized.

I am not a lawyer by any means, but that's how I think you should proceed.

[jessep28]

For the City, $80/hr for labor isn't bad. I just did an unscientific Google search and $65/80 is the norm for Austin, Texas according to some Austin Business site for instance.

Did you pay for that pump repair with your credit card? You may be able to contact the card company and claim fraud.

[Langning]

For price comparison, I remember seeing the price list at my local GM dealership. Water pump replacement is listed for $350. MetroWest Boston is a high cost of living area...

My wife had had a water pump replaced for her 96 Chevy Cavalier at Texaco gas station around 2000-2001. She paid about $225.

So anything above $350 is highway robbery.