Is this quote reasonable?

[John Hubertz]

Hi all,

I own a W202 - a '99 C280.  Wonderful car that I purchased over 5 years ago, and it has had only a couple of minor problems.

Lately I've begun to have a squeak/rattle from the left front - took it to a national chain called "Midas" (they are full service although they are known mostly for their mufflers).  Great small shop, very honest, free estimates.

But OH what an estimate!

Inner and outer tie rods, both sides, labor is estimated at $178 EACH for inner tie rod replacement, and $107 EACH for the outers.  Gack!!

These prices do not include parts or alignment (which is a reasonable $60).

Upper ball joints quoted at $196 each.  They recommend replacing both as movement is noticeable on both sides.

Folks, that's over a $1000 USD for labor only.  This seems unbelievably high to me - is there something strange or special about these components on a Mercedes of this vintage?  Is this a rational price? 

The labor rate is a very high $90 per hour (typical around here is closer to $60).  That totals to 12 hours for labor - 2 hours per inner tierod, 1.2 per outer tierod, and 2.2 for each upper ball joint.

Do these hours seem reasonable for this work?

[daantjie]

Well, I had both side upper control arms done (I supplied parts), and that was $ 450 CAD here in Vancouver.  Took then about 5 hours, and they quoted me beforehand.  Guess the lost out a bit as their shop rate is well over $100 per hour.  After 37 years they were in there GOOD so I got my money's worth I think

[John Hubertz]

Could a talented person with loads of experience do this work in a backyard shop?  I've got a really great guy working out of his house down the street from me - his work so far has been amazing and he charges about $30 an hour for labor.

[daantjie]

I would say yes, depending on his/her skills and tools.
But you will of course need alignment done after, doubtful a backyard guy will be geared for that.