muffler/exhaust question

[littleren]

Quick question. Had an exhaust system fabricated for my 240z over the weekend. They (Midas unfortunately) created an exhaust system from the exhaust flange back. No catalytic. They did install a factory muffler ($75). They said the pipe cost $38. The muffler was $75. A connector bracket from the pipe to the exhaust flange was $25. All said and done they charged me $420 for it which to me sounds extremely high. I'm going to pick it up today and wanted to get other people's feedback on the price and get an idea as to if I got taken or not. Anyone have any feelings as to if $420 is high for an exhaust system on basically the back half of the car?

[ZG240Z]

I don't have a ton of experience with having exhausts done, so my experience may be anecdotal......but I had a custom exhaust put on my 510 (2 1/4" tubing, DynoMax Super Turbo muffler) a couple of years ago and it only cost me $175. I am about to take my Z down to the muffler shop, but I'd probably fall over from shock if they asked me for $420 just to replace the rear part of the exhaust system.

[Arne]

Too much. But in my experience, that's normal for Midas, or any of the national chains. Unfortunately, if you've accepted their estimate and told them to do the work, there's probably nothing you can do at this time.

[kingdavid280]

Yeah I had the samething done cat cut off and an aftermarket exhaust, but I was only charged $110.

[littleren]

Would have gone anywhere else other than Midas if possible. Unfortunately that was the only option I had. I'm still going to rip the guy a new one just for fun. Not so much because of the exhorbinant price, but because they are now 2 days late in completing the job to begin with. I knew Midas sucked, just didn't have an option unfortunately.

[Zs-ondabrain]

I'm guessing that you have a stock manifold and are looking for a replica exhaust for your Z. Nothing fancy or over-sixed??

I have a ceramic coated header from MSA and just had a brand new exhaust system put on in March. They installed brand new 2 1/2" pipe with bend and new hangers and a chrome tip (for looks). They also installed a new Raptor Turbo Muffler that I purchaced for $20 on sale at (Schucks/Krager/Checker).

The whole kit and caboodle cost just over $330

I think they got ya on that one. Next time try the little independant shops. In my experience, they take better care of their customers and don't charge the Corporate prices.

JM2CW,

Dave.

[Carl Beck]

I guess it's time to get back into the muffler business!! Yea GAD!... you've got to be putting us on! $420.00... for a very simple pipe and muffler.

Twenty years ago - I charged $115.00 for that job.

You say it took them two days..... that is a 1/2 hour job.

Here in Florida you must be given a written estimate if you ask for one, and they can not exceed that by more than 10% without your written permission ... did you ask for a written estimate? If not, that is most likely one reason you good taken to the cleaners..

There is nothing you can do now - except pay the bill. Then go home a write the Midas Home Office and ask them if they condone that type of business practice. If you have a local TV Stattion with a Consumer Protection Program .. copy the letter that you write to Midas to them as well...

live an learn... When dealing shops you don't personally Know - always get a written estimate before work begins.. or go elsewhere..

FWIW,

Carl B.

[Ed]

Hey, do you have two tens for a five? IMO you've been taken to the cleaners. But what can you expect from Midas. I hope they throw in a lifetime guarantee.

In 2000 I took my Z with only the MSA header to a shop. They installed a 2 1/2 aluminized steel exhaust with a resonator and a flowmaster. For..you might want to sit down.... $125.00 U.S. dollars. And it still looks and sounds as good as the day they installed it. I am very proud of the work they did and would recommend them in a heartbeat. I would have paid $300 bucks for the work they did.

[symon]

Hi,

I also think you have been over charged or maybe Midas is really inept. Nearly always it is worth going to a Z specialist that would charge less and give you a better performance system.

Symon

[mars23z]

Sorry man http://www.thezstore.com/page/TZS/CTGY/PEC06

[Montezuma]

Don't feel so bad, it is what it is, what done is done. I paid about the same at place here in San Diego that is pretty famous locally for custom free flow exhaust systems. The place I used is the type you need an appointment to get your car in and the price is said up front: It is one standard price for free flow exhausts with Dyno Max mufflers for Z cars. Bottom line is live and learn and as long as you are happy with the work and the sound of the car just let it go and enjoy the ride.