The mechanic has giving me a $1004 estimate to replace my leaking water pump, thermostat, and timing chain. Is this reasonable? Could I replace the water pump and timing chain myself? From my research the parts are no more than $125 total. So, $875 in labour? Really?
Where is the thermostat on 1998 chevy malibu
Yes, you can change it yourself and yes that is a reasonable estimate on the labor.
That being said, let me explain. The timing chain is a very important part. It controls the timing of the intake and exhaust valves opening and closing at the right time in relation to the pistons moving up and down in the cylinders. If you make a very small mistake in changing the timing chain, you will cause major engine damage. On top of that, it is not very easy to get to in the first place.
I would recommend getting a second opinion from another dealership, but if you are asking this question then I would recommend having a professional do the work. It is likely to be less expensive in the long run.
Water pump is no big deal ,thermostat that a bigger job there not mush room to work but why the timming chain were i work the owner got a taxi fleet all maliby from 200 to 2003 i never say in my mechanical career or needed to change a timing chain on a malibe those years some of malibu has close to 600,000km change a lot of intake gasket but timing chain never please tell why the shop whant to change the timing chain do you now the shop good thanks pierre
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I brought my 2000 Malibu (66,000 miles) to my mechanic a few weeks ago to replace the unibelt, which he did for about $150. A rattling noise and non-functioning heater was undiagnosed until I brought it back yesterday. My guys decided there was a problem with the water pump and then they diagnosed a losse tension thing that was causing the noise. The water pump and thermostat cost about $350 to replace at this gas station/service station in New York City. Another local mechanic confirmed the estimate.
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