Repair/Service: check engine light diagnosis, change headlamps, change wiper blades

Hourly Rate: $98.50

Total Cost: $83

This was my first time at this auto shop. I had a check engine light problem. My usual Conoco mechanic on 8th and Downing charged around $80 just to check it even though I paid $500 for a tune-up on my VW. I found Cherry Creek Express Lube through AutoMD. I love that I could sort by cost.

CCELA advertises and offers a free check engine diagnosis. They found it to be a benign sensor issue that could be erased. (There is a chance the sensor will need replaced). In addition, I went there to have my headlamp changed. Luckily, I bought my own bulbs at an auto parts store for $25 (cost $25, list/mechanic $45). They also checked & replaced my wiper blades. They called to give me updates as I ran errands and to get my approval for work. The work took a bit longer than they initially quoted me over the phone but they honored that original cost.

Though this was good experience, I am still not sold on it being "my spot". I am still looking for a mechanic I truly trust. I would use them as one of three shops for cost comparisons and if they came out cheaper, I'd return.

by cathode on January 16, 2012