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1984 Mercury Grand Marquis Base 2D Coupe

1984 Mercury Grand Marquis
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December 5, 2012, 10:41 am

Chris D
 

Question: Does this quote to replace my rear axle sound appropriate?

We have a 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis. It started making kind of a whirring/grinding noise in the back. The mechanic we took it to said it needed replaced wheel bearings for sure, and then after going that far said the rear axle was shot and needed to be replaced. He quoted us $2700 for the whole job, and said the price just to get the part was $1900. We hesitated at that, and asked if they were able to order a used part, or if they would put in a used part if we could find one. They said no, and we said we'd call back. A few minutes later, he called back and now said he could do the whole job for just over $1000, because only one side really needed to be replaced, the other side would be fine if we left it as is. That sounds like good news, but we're a little concerned about the sudden price drop and also whether replacing one side of the axle could potentially cause damage. Would it be worthwhile to shop around for a used part?


December 9, 2012, 10:10 am

Elizabeth K
Expert Mechanic

It sounds like originally they were going to replace the differential and axles, and now they are telling you that you only need one axle. What I don't like about this is that there are many options when it comes to replacing a differential (getting a used one or even better, rebuilding the one you have) and they were not open to either of those options.

My advice is to get a written estimate from them, so you know exactly what they think the problem is, and then call shops that specialize in rebuilding differentials and tell them what the estimate says. They should be able to tell you what they think is wrong and how much it should cost.

For the money you're considering paying for this job, you should take it somewhere else and get a second opinion--even if that means paying this shop to put your car back together and towing it somewhere else.


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