Toyota Camry driver in Riverside saves by comparing quotes for Mount and Steering Repair
A Toyota Camry owner in Riverside received an $800 quote for mount and steering repairs, including transmission and engine mounts plus rack and pinion replacement. Using Service Buddy, the driver analyzed labor and parts costs, confirming prices aligned with local rates but was advised to verify if full replacements were necessary. By comparing estimates, the driver identified potential savings on unnecessary upsells, ensuring a fair, transparent repair process without overpaying.
Potential DIY Savings
Recommend getting a second quote; question upsells like full mount replacements.
Detailed Analysis
Advice On Your Quote
1. Transmission & Engine Mounts
- Transmission Mount: $98.55
This price for a single transmission mount isn’t outrageous, especially for a decent aftermarket part. OEM parts can cost higher, but budget options could be a bit less. - Four Engine Mounts: $214.21
That’s about $53.50 per mount. For aftermarket parts, that’s fair; OEM mounts would usually cost more. - Labor for Transmission & Engine Mounts: $420.00
Labor is the wildcard here. Changing all engine and transmission mounts is a big job—expect 3-6 hours of labor, depending on shop rate ($70–$130/hr at most independents). So $420 is within reason if their rate is around $90–$100/hr.
Verdict:
The prices for the parts are on the fair side. Labor is reasonable for a shop, but if you or an independent mechanic is up for it, you might save—DIY mounts can be challenging without the right tools, though.
Upsell Alert:
Unless all your mounts are actually worn/damaged (which is possible on a 2005 Camry), replacing every single one might be overkill. Ask to see the mounts or request more details about which are actually failed. Mechanics sometimes push “full set” replacements instead of just the bad ones.
2. Steering Components Replacement
- Rack & Pinion Replacement: $450.00
That’s a fair price if it’s a new (not remanufactured) part. Remanufactured racks can range from $200–$350. - Outer Tie Rod Ends: $100.00
Tie rod ends are cheap ($20–$40 each), so this is a bit on the high side for parts. - Labor for Rack & Pinion & Tie Rod Ends: $336.00
This is a major job—typically 3–5 hours of work. At regular shop rates, this price is fair.
Verdict:
This is a tough job to DIY due to the need for an alignment after. The prices are average to slightly above average, but not outrageously so.
Upsell Alert:
It’s common to replace tie rods with a rack if there’s play or wear, but make sure the mechanic isn’t just replacing them “because they’re in there.” Ask if they’re actually worn.
3. Tires
- Four 205-65-15 Lionhart Tires: $413.00 (Out The Door)
Lionhart is an entry-level brand. Getting four tires installed for just over $400 is standard. Other brands (Michelin, Goodyear) would cost more.
Verdict:
Totally fair for a set of budget tires with mounting/balancing included.
Upsell Alert:
None here, unless they’re pushing you to get alignment, special “tire protection” plans, or additives like nitrogen fill, which usually aren’t needed.
4. Overall Total
- $2,031.00
Given the amount of work (mounts, rack, tie rods, tires), this isn’t outrageous for a professional shop, but you could likely do some of it yourself or at an independent/budget shop for less.
Comparison Quotes
The extremely low numbers you listed ($5, $15, $20, etc.) are likely just for small DIY parts (like a mount on eBay, or a single tire patch), not installed by a shop. They don’t match what a shop has to charge due to labor, warranty, and overhead.
Quote Summary
Transmission & Engine Mounts
• Transmission Mount: $98.55
• Four Engine Mounts: $214.21
• Labor for Transmission & Engine Mounts: $420.00
Steering Components Replacement
• Rack & Pinion Replacement: $450.00
• Outer Tie Rod Ends: $100.00
• Labor for Rack & Pinion & Tie Rod Ends: $336.00
Tires
• Four 205-65-15 Lionhart Tires: $413.00 (Out The Door)
Total Cost: $2,128.76
📋 Services Quoted
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