How we estimate repair costs

Every estimate on this site is calculated from the same transparent formula, so you can see exactly where the numbers come from.

The formula

Total = (labor hours × hourly shop rate × regional adjustment) + parts price

Each part of the formula is shown as a range, from the lowest typical case (aftermarket parts, quick job, lower-cost shop) to the highest (OEM parts, difficult access, higher-cost shop).

Labor time

Labor hours reflect typical "book" times that shops use to quote jobs. Book times vary by engine layout: a front-mounted alternator on a 4-cylinder takes far less time than one buried under the intake of a V6.

Hourly shop rates

• Independent shop: $110–$160 per hour
• Chain (Midas, Firestone…): $120–$175 per hour
• Dealership: $160–$230 per hour

Vehicle type adjustments

• Compact / economy car: parts ×1, labor ×1
• Midsize sedan / crossover: parts ×1.15, labor ×1.1
• Truck / full-size SUV: parts ×1.3, labor ×1.15
• Luxury / European: parts ×1.8, labor ×1.3

Regional adjustments

• Lower-cost area (rural, South, Midwest): labor ×0.88
• Average US area: labor ×1
• High-cost metro (NYC, SF, LA, Boston): labor ×1.2

Limitations

These are estimates, not quotes. Your exact price depends on your specific model, engine, the condition of related parts, taxes, shop fees and diagnostics. Always get a written estimate from a licensed shop before authorizing work.