I have often been asked, "why are you more expensive than that other place?". Or, "why can I buy that cheaper somewhere else (online)?".

Here's a little explanation of why some specialty shops or vendors cost more than others. It's the little things. People today are more educated or informed because of the wonders of technology. Whether its television, internet, or some other form of communication such as online forums. People can attain the knowledge of how to do something. Or they can see what is possible with experience.

Lets chat "retail". You can most likely buy something online for cheaper than buying the same product in a brick and mortar store. You won't have to pay sales tax, if it's out of state. You can usually get it shipped to your door for free (Amazon). When you do this, you have probably done a lot of your own "research" online. You've learned about the product you're buying. You've gotten "reviews" from others about that product. Online retailers don't have to do anything with your order other than process it through a computer. There is very little overhead, if any, for customer service. Online retailers look to move quantity. Some don't even have to stock any inventory (Amazon).

This is where brick and mortar stores come in. They provide customer service. They have the experience with that product and can answer any of your questions intelligently. Or should be able to. Customer service goes beyond just answering questions. They provide a connection between you and the product. Whether it's after the sale with warranty concerns or during the sale if it involves installation. It's a service. And that deserves some recognition. We are assuming here that the representative is knowledgable, courteous, and friendly. If they don't have those qualities, walk of that store and buy it online. If they can't provide that customer service, they should not get paid for it.

Now let's chat about "service" or "installation". What makes a shop a specialty shop. Long story short, they should have better qualifications than your average repair facility. Do they have experience? Are they familiar with product installation? How do they treat your vehicle when it's in for service?

What comes to mind are alignments. In particular, lifted truck alignments. A shop has to have experience with doing them. You can not align a modified vehicle to factory specs. Well, you could, but it would not be in the best interest of the vehicle or tires. There are also ways to align a vehicle without "properly" aligning it. For those that are familiar, it's called "set toe, let it go". This is when caster/camber settings are "close" enough to factory specs.

I will not even begin to explain the differences of pricing when it comes to demographics. I believe my audience knows the difference between living in a highly populated metropolitan area and a farm town with more cows than people.

Here's a recent timing belt service done at our shop. It is a modified 4th gen with a Shrockworks bumper and a lift kit. Our tech has taken the time to mask the bumper so that our air hose and other tools do not damage any paint. You'll also see a foam piece protecting the A/C condenser and radiator from any potential damage from having to lean over the grill/brush guard. Some people may think that we're doing this to CYA. And it is. But it's also because we care. It is now more difficult to perform a standard timing belt/water pump replacement. So there is some slightly added labor to a standard timing belt repair. Nothing extreme, but a few bucks to protect your investment.


This isn't all just to "toot" our own horn. I just wanted to take the time to explain why everything isn't the same price everywhere you go.

Oh, and next time you want to go out to eat...find a mom and pop establisment. Not your typical "big box" restaurant. Chances are, you'll get better food, better service, and an overall better experience. Plus, you'll be supporting a local business.