I just had my local Mazda dealer quote on swapping my OEM springs for a set of Tein S springs. They quoted me $500 just for the labour. I know I've seen elsewhere on this site where others had it done for $200-$300. What have some of you out there paid for labour. They said they expected it to take 7 hours. That seems excessive to me.

 

$70 / hr ($500 / 7 hours) sounds like the going labor rate at most dealers. If they have never done a spring swap before it just might take them 7 hours to do it. I would see if anyone on this board has done the change themselves and lives near you. A case of beer and renting a spring compressor might buy you more experienced & cheaper help than going to the dealer.

 

I live in northern Indiana (Elkhart). If someone can help, I buy 'em two cases of beer. BTW I'm voting for Spongebob in '08

 

That seems high for just springs. I've been quoted less than that for installing full coilcovers and an EDFC.

Hell, I'll go three cases of beer for help installing TEIN flex units and the EDFC to someone that has done TEIN's in the Chattanooga/Atlanta area. References to someone in those areas would be nice also! Thanks.

 

That seems high to me also. I would have estimated $200 tops. Give your local NTB a call. Keep us posted. I may be in the sam boat as you soon.

- Irish

 

I paid 100 for Mazdaspeed shocks and springs installation. One of my friends owns the shop so I got a good discount. I think he usually charges 150 for this kind of jobs.

 

The first time I put my JICs on by myself and it took me around 4 hours. The last time was only 3 hours. That included height adjustments. I couldn't imagine it taking more then 3 hours with a lift and air tools. Unless you are paying for their lunch and breaks....

 

i paid $100 for the springs install at a performane shop in miami by the name of wheel outlet and i dont know enybody that works there.

 

wow...if you lived near me, it'll take me a little over an hour. a case of beer would be all that i'd charge. maybe lunch too...

 

I once had shocks + springs installed in another car, WITH an alignment, and paid $220.

 

Shouldn't take longer than 3 hours tops. Good luck. I love my TEIN-S .. i'm sure you will too...

 

Thanks for all the feedback! I thought seven hours seemed excessive. I contacted the guy I bought my 8 from. He no longer works at the Mazda dealership but he still
has good contacts. There's a shop up the road from the dealership that he has a good relationship with and they "help out" his better customers. I'll keep everyone posted. I'll post pictures once my springs and new wheels are installed.