Hello,

The alternator on my 2007 LR3 V8 catastrophically failed while driving, and I had to limp to my closest garage, which are the guys I use for oil changes ($150) and have a well organized shop. This is in Westchester County, NY. I was a bit shocked when quoted at least $750 for a remanufactured Bosch alternator, and said the Genuine was over $1000. This was for parts only. He recommended doing the serpentine belt and replacing the battery for a total of $1750. I have looked at the prices for OEM Denso and they are closer to $300. I have taken care if small issues around the car (valve blocks, BT module) but have no time or space to do this one myself.

I just need the car back and will probably just do it but feel this is a bit too much from a shop that I respected and had good impression of. Should I bring this up when I pick up the car? I will probably not return there. Do you have any recommendation for a shop in the lower Westchester area (tried British Auto Works in the Bronx, that wanted to replace my front struts when the problem was the valve block)? Am I being a primadona and the cost is actually reasonable?

Thank you

 

Confused on your prices. So $1,750 is for the whole package? That does seem high, like the oil change price (I use Mobile 1 and it costs me $50). But if it is for a reman alternator, battery and TWO belts installed that is not he worst maybe. The battery recommendation may be based on the fact that a failed alternator can damage a battery. Seen it a few times. Even seen a bad battery mess up new alternators.

 

Thank you for your answer. I believe thats the package including the aux (primary) belt, battery, reman alternator and labor. I like this shop but the quote seemed high. I am not an expert and was looking for some feedback.

 

I dunno, maybe somewhat high. Need a much better price break down on parts. Labor is always what kills. But if we assume the alt is $750, battery $300, belt $50 that leaves about $600 in labor. The work is about 2 hours (and I am being generous), so that's $300/hr. I think for your area a typical labor rate would be closer to 150/180hr for a good shop. My LR dealer is about $120, but over here prices are much lower. I am just guessing, estimating. So maybe its a couple hundred too high in my opinion. Going elsewhere could maybe save you up to $400 if you really shop around?

 

A Denso reman is maybe around $300. Labor is maybe 2 hours to r&r. I certainly wouldn't pay 1750.