Where can i find a labor time book of all makes of cars, so i know what to charge?

Question

I do alot of work on my friends cars, but sometimes i fell i over charge them, i know that I dont but i want to me sure that I dont charge them for hours that I should'nt have spent on there car. Im just looking fo a labor book at get an idea of what I should and shouldn't be charging.

Answer 1

Hit the local library. They usually have a labor guide, though it may not be current, but it will give you an idea.

NOTE------>
These labor guides are based on SHOP time, with all the necessary tools and EQUIPMENT at hand, and the mechanics are professionals. They are used to working against the clock.
It would be better for you and your customer to charge something between half and two-thirds of the local shop rate, and then charge for your actual time in repair, excluding the parts time and time spent researching specs etc.
You will still be quite a bit less expensive than the shop, but you won't be jambing your head against a clock that you can't compete with trying to do a job in professional time with less than professional equipment, tools and shop space.

Good Luck and Merry Christmas

Answer 2

You should set an hourly rate for your time, and charge accordingly. If you think it takes you longer then a certified mechanic would take o do repairs, then don't charge as much. I know around Tampa, Fl, the going rate is around $80-$90 for most nationally known shops.