Needed a water outlet housing repair for a 2012 Ford Focus. They charged me $490 prior to the service. I can see the part costs about $40. My friend is insisting they’re fleecing me, but I can’t claim to know a damn thing, honestly.
And if they have overcharged me, what can I do about it?
You paid for coolant, labour, and mark up on the part.
No mechanic cares that you can find the part online for 40 bucks. The parts store has it on the shelf and it’s a quick warranty process if it fails. We buy it from them and resell it to you for profit.