BlackStorm

Need an honest tech in Baltimore, MD - here's the joke of an estimate I got on my 2002 A4 3.0 quattro:

Cat Convertor: $3,000
Airbag Sensor: $1,000
Timing Belt: $1,600

The car has 90k on it, and is probably only worth around $8k. While it's been meticulously maintained by me, the 1st owner - I can't justify throwing $5k+ at a car that's worth around $8k.

Looking for other options, or a more value oriented tech.

Advice/comments are welcome.

Rattler

$1600 for the timing belt is in line with the list price I got from my dealer about three months ago. I didn't end up paying that because I combined labor from several issues.

ct_esq

For the 3.0, 1,600 for the TB job is ok, so long as they are doing everything, WP, tensioner, acces. tensioner, etc. Quotes in my area are 1800 to 2500. If they are doing it all, 1600 is a good deal.

For the cat, 3,000 is way out of line for one. I hope that is for two. But you can't really get it done cheaper using OEM parts. The cats from some place like genuineaudiparts.com are about 700 each, (dealer charges 1,000) plus new 02 sensors (2 for each cat, total 4 at 90 bucks each) You are already at almost 1800 in parts. Direct fit cats are 250 to 350 each, but you can't scrimp on the o2 sensors. You are not saving much.

On the airbag sensor, I have no idea.