How our estimates work

Reference data and parts prices

Our reference data includes parts-cost ranges and typical labor-hour ranges for each repair, plus a national labor-rate band of $110–$185/hr. This is a starting point, not a local price promise. Only repairs that genuinely match work on your quote contribute to the fair range.

When appropriate, reasonable quoted parts prices inform the range. For three or more matched repairs, reference parts bands are weighted toward their midpoints: each end moves inward by 25% of the spread. For multi-repair quotes, the low end stays at least 50% of the high end so the range does not suggest unrealistic simultaneous low prices.

Using your shop's labor rate

When the quote makes the hourly rate clear and it falls within $110–$185/hr, and the quoted parts prices look reasonable, we apply that rate to typical labor hours. Otherwise, we use the reference national band. Your report identifies which basis was used. We do not currently adjust rates using your ZIP code.

Credit for overlapping labor

Some jobs share access or removal steps—for example, a timing belt and water pump. For repairs identified as commonly done together, we count the larger job's full typical hours plus a reduced share of the smaller job's hours, rather than adding both full jobs. The current share is 40%. This is an estimate of overlap, not proof of exactly how a shop will do the work.

Fees and tax

Shop supplies and similar fees are compared with labor cost: up to and including 10% is OK; above 10% through 15% is “Question it”; above 15% is “High.” If the labor amount is unclear, we cannot reliably apply the percentage check.

Tax is added to the fair range only if the quote shows tax, using the rate implied by the quoted tax and readable subtotal. A clearly readable, plausible tax amount—roughly 0–12% of the taxable subtotal—is marked OK; otherwise it is “Question it.” A missing tax rate does not make a clearly read amount uncertain.

What each verdict means

Looks fair: the readable quote appears broadly consistent with the available typical ranges.

Somewhat high: some prices, fees or labor deserve a closer look, even if the overall total is within the fair range.

Likely overpriced: the available evidence indicates pricing above the fair range, with specific items to discuss. A total inside the computed fair range cannot receive this verdict.

Can't tell: the document is mostly unreadable or the main repair is not in our reference data, unless a specific data-backed reason supports another verdict. We explain the limitation and provide best-effort questions without pretending to know a benchmark.

Unreadable or missing amounts stay blank and are marked “Not enough info.” We do not present a single quoted total when extracted amounts are uncertain. A quote more than 15% above the fair range's high end cannot be marked “Looks fair.” The code-computed fair range is the only fair price target in the report.

What an estimate cannot tell you

Regional prices vary. Dealers and independent shops may charge differently, and OEM versus aftermarket parts, vehicle condition and repair access affect cost. Reference data and AI interpretation may be wrong or incomplete.

We cannot inspect your car or confirm a repair is needed. No mechanic reviews your quote. Consult a qualified mechanic about diagnosis, necessity and safety before deciding.

24-hour money-back guarantee

Not satisfied for any reason? Request a full refund within 24 hours of purchase, no questions asked. See our Refund Policy. Payments and refunds are processed by Paddle, our Merchant of Record.

Common questions