How much will the labor cost on my 2000 Lincoln navigator
Rachel, I don't live in California so I wouldn't be able to refer you to any reputable repair shops; however contact your local better business bureau (BBB) for auto repair shops in good standing.
Then call your state's motor vehicle department- dealer's and repairs division (or whatever name they give it) and compare the list of repair stations you obtained from the BBB to see if there are any major complaints or violations past or active against them; you could also contact your states' consumer protection division (or whatever name they give it) and make inquiries there too.
Once you are satisfied with your choices, call around to these repair shops; ask them what their hourly labor rates are; explain to them that you have the part and you need to have it installed. Don't forget, their fees will have to include the time spent in removing the old part.
This will at least get you a ball park figure
However, when the time comes to get the actual work done, get a written estimates for the removal and installation of the part; how long it will take; and request the return of the old part.
Sometimes, even the best of shops try to sell you add on repairs or services; be specific that any other work beyond the scope of what you brought your car in for, must be authorized by you- in writing and with your signature approval. That includes articulating all the parts they will be replacing and their costs- as well as the labor fees involved in the additional repair(s).
If you want to go the extra mile, you can discretely mark the part you want to replace- as long as it does not affect its operation; so you can verify that it was installed.
And last but not least, inspect the car before leaving the shop for any inadvertent damage to any area of the car where the repair was made or elsewhere. If there is a problem report it to the manager or owner immediately- and get written documentation (and smart phone photo) of the damage done while in their care; because once you leave the premises, you own it.
I had bought a brand new car from a Ford dealership that I had been doing business with, for nearly 3 decades. On one particular repair order involving a factory defect, the mechanic broke a door handle and door panel while in the course of repairing the factory defect- which he freely admitted to doing. The service manager vowed that he would order the parts; they would get them in within 3 days; and of course fix it no expense to me.
Luckily for me, I had everything in writing- two weeks had gone by, no parts, no repair, and the service manager had the audacity to deny that his service technician damaged the car.
Because I had the written document of damage, I complained directly to the owner of the dealership who made good on the repair.
No one will advocate any better for you, then yourself. Be firm and stand your ground when doing business- and certainly be informed; the more you know, the less likely someone will try to pull the wool over your eyes!
