Originally Posted by RogueGypsy

What he said.

Talk to your mechanic. Most places order parts at wholesale and then charge you retail. If you find a part on sale or have a coupon they will usually match the price if it's not below their cost. Most will accept customer provided parts if they are new and in the original packaging.

However, the draw back to this is if the part is defective or fails in the first 30 days. IF the part was provided by the mechanic, they will usually replace it at no charge. IF you provide the part, they will usually charge you the labor to replace it and it's up to you to get a new part under warranty from who ever you bought it from.

A third scenario is when the mechanic knows of a better deal on a part, but as a business can't purchase the part at the better price. In which case they may have you go purchase the part and bring it too them to install. Often they treat this as if they purchased the part.

Treat your mechanic like a friend and you'll be amazed how well you're treated in return. Also, a small shop with a good reputation is usually better to deal with than a large shop of any type. Mechanics like cookies, cold frosty beverages (not necessarily alcoholic) and hats. Tokens of appreciation are always welcome and make you more memorable.