Ford Ranger 2004 Brake, Cooling, Suspension & Engine Tune-Up Repair

1. Brakes

• Total: $780.95
• Parts:
  • Pads: $73.99 (MX833 Semi-Metallic)
  • Rotors (2): $339.98 ($170 each)
  • Tapered Set (2): $47.98

How does this compare?

• Parts (Pads & Rotors): $264 - $275
• Labor (1.5-2 hrs): $210 - $300
• DIY Prices: Pads: $70-75, Rotors: $194-200 (for both)

Assessment:

• Pad price is fair.
• Rotor price ($339.98) is quite a bit above normal—could buy high-quality aftermarket rotors for about half that.
• Tapered Set (for wheel bearings) is specific to your truck and usually not replaced with every brake job unless needed, so confirm if they are actually worn or damaged.
• Labor is the main expense; $780 is high for front brakes even with bearings unless the shop rate is very high.
• Recommendation: Ask for a labor breakdown. Consider independent shops where total should be $450-$550 unless there are unusual circumstances.

2. Cooling System Pressure Test

• Total: $15.99

Assessment:

• Reasonable price; some shops include this free with coolant service.
• No upsell here.

3. R&R Radiator

• Total: $1,284.80
• Parts: Radiator $418.99, hoses $81.99 & $66.99, coolant hose w/tee $150, heater valve $82.99

How does this compare?

• Radiator labor: $280–$450
• Parts: $255–$455
• DIY prices: Radiator $150–$300, Hoses $30–$80, Heater valve $40–$80

Assessment:

• Parts are charged at the very top or above typical range.
• Labor alone is about $483, which is high for a 2-3 hour job (should be $300-$450).
• Hoses and heater valve might be necessary if leaking or brittle, but otherwise could be unnecessary upsells.
• Recommendation: Request proof of hose/valve condition. If okay, skip those and save roughly $300. Utilize the $25 coolant service coupon at Crain Ford if staying with this shop.

4. Coolant Fluid Exchange

• Total: $175.97
• Parts: Coolant $21.99, Flush kit $2.49, Coolant recycling $2.49, 10 quarts base coolant $75, Additional coolant $1.50

How does this compare?

• Labor: $70–$150
• Parts: $15–$25

Assessment:

• Labor and total price are high; typical cost is under $120.
• They’re charging for 10+ quarts, but the Ranger usually takes 6-7 quarts total.
• Flush kits and conditioners may be unnecessary add-ons.
• Recommendation: Use the $25-off coupon if possible. If replacing the radiator, a separate flush should be either included or cheaper.

5. Shocks

• Total: $447.28
• Parts: Two twintube shocks: $299.98 ($150 each)

How does this compare?

• Labor (2 shocks): $140–$225
• Parts each: $50–$120

Assessment:

• Parts price is on the high side unless premium brand.
• Labor around $150 is reasonable; overall cost is on the high end but borderline acceptable.
• Recommendation: Shop around for better pricing. Expect $300–$375 total elsewhere. Replace only if shocks show wear or leaks.

6. Spark Plug Replacement w/ Fuel System Cleaning

• Total: $484.05
• Parts: 4 Motorcraft Double Platinum Plugs: $195.96 ($49 each), Decarb Kit: $73.99, PCV Valve: $60.99

How does this compare?

• Spark Plugs (4): $64–$160
• Labor: $140–$300
• PCV Valve: $10–$20

Assessment:

• Plugs at $49 each are very high (often $40 for set).
• Decarb kit is a common upsell and not always needed if truck runs fine.
• PCV Valve priced way too high; typically $10-$20 and quick to replace.
• Labor is reasonable.
• Recommendation: Bring your own plugs or ask for cheaper options. Skip fuel system cleaning unless there's a specific issue. DIY PCV valve replacement to save money.

7. Remove and Replace Valve Cover Gasket

• Total: $553.40
• Parts: Gasket: $82.99

How does this compare?

• Labor (1.5–2.5 hrs): $210–$375
• Parts: $25–$60

Assessment:

• Parts price is excessive.
• Labor is significantly above normal, about $470.
• Recommendation: Reasonable if there is a leak, but about $150–$200 too high overall. Seek a second opinion if leaks aren’t obvious.