How Much Should I Charge For This Repair?

bill190 · March 31, 2009

A friend called me and asked if I could help him change out his turn signal switch on his Suburban. He said his mechanic (non-GM) told him this was the problem causing his brake lights to not work as the brake light wiring is routed through this switch.

I said sure, and he said he would order the part. Then he mentioned both brake lights were not working...

Then I looked at the wiring diagram and it seemed unlikely that a bad switch would cause both lights to go out at the same time. I called my friend back and asked if I could come over and check a few things before he ordered the part.

Then I went over and had him step on the brakes - nothing. Then step on the brakes and "giggle" the turn signal lever - nothing. Then I had him turn on the hazard light switch - nothing.

Hummm... I said sounds like a fuse to me. He said he already checked and it was ok. I checked anyway. There was a "brake" fuse which was OK, but also a "stop" fuse which was fried.

I replaced the stop fuse and everything worked ok.

Then he said "What do I owe you?"

Then I thought of this forum and some of the outrageous charges/estimates you folks have received...

I said; $98.00 "diagnostic fee" and "1 hour minimum" $100.00 for electrical repairs, so $198.00.

Then I said "Don't worry about it, nothing...." (He knew I was kidding.)

VR021302 · March 31, 2009

6-pack

Outbacker · March 31, 2009

In that situation, if he paid for the replacement fuse, then the total owing would be zero. He is a friend, and in my mind, friends do not charge friends for helping them out. Glad that you were able to narrow it down to a simple fix.

mr_bots · March 31, 2009

Since he is a friend, maybe give him a $50 discount and only charge him $148.

MikeInCtown · March 31, 2009

As payment i would suggest that he post his mechanic info along with the story on forums everywhere.

txab · March 31, 2009

Would this friend do something for you if you were in a similar situation? If so, charge nothing. If not, charge him.... let's say $20.00. Covers your vehicle expense and such. Some people like to be charged something so as not to feel like they are taking advantage of you. They are rare, but they are out there.

jrrod2004 · March 31, 2009

brings back the time when I was asked to watch the house for a buddy of mine that was getting married in Maine (we all live in Texas). He was gone for 3 weeks (or so) and I got his firebird, Silverado and Wrangler. I used the Firebird and Silverado and left the Wrangler alone. Took care of his dogs too while he was away. In the end, I told him "Thanks for the Firebird and the mutts, they both were loads of fun," and walked away. His wife insisted on paying me $300.00. I didnt look twice at the offer.

(and yes I did take care of some minor mechanical concerns with the Firebird and Silverado while he was away)