I would definitely give 5 stars on communication regarding the diagnostic, communicating findings,…read moreand explaining it to the customer. This part was impeccable. I would give 2-3 stars on car being done in the timeframe promised, because it wasn't.
My beef is that the quote I received for the needed part had a price of ~$525. I called the dealership and an original part would cost me (non-mechanic) ~$350. I can buy the non-original part at O'Reilly's for ~$264, but most mechanic shops get parts cheaper than off-street customers. When I called and asked Ken's if the quoted part was a dealership original, I was told no. When I asked if the part price was in error, they said no, we have to make money somewhere, but we don't use an 80% markup. Clearly the guy I spoke to doesn't know how to calculate markup percentages. I expect a shop to add a percentage onto a part. That is certainly fair. But, ~200% gross mark-up is way outside of standard mechanic practices. And, that calculation is using the price I can buy it for, not a licensed mechanic's shop.
Our mechanic of 25 years used to charge 20-25% above his cost. I have heard of 50 - 100% markup. Ken's Garage is having the parts delivered and they rarely go pick up the parts. I think 200+% markup is way too expensive, but they have right to charge 500% markup, if they want. But, I will be going elsewhere. We are still shopping for a local mechanic that we feel comfortable with.
I got the impression, they have good, qualified mechanics. My husband questioned a few things on the invoice that was not approved. He is a non-conflict person, and at that point, he just paid them.
I am glad this shop works well for many in the community. I am glad this small-owned business is doing well. I am a small business owner and I want small business owners to be supported and thrive. But, I prefer ones that do it with reasonable prices (again, subjective).
Name above is our on-line pseudo name, due to vindictive, malicious people in this world. I do not want a response from the shop because it is what it is. My experience and perspective aren't the same as the owner's perspective and it isn't the same as other customers. This is my experience.
