Automobile Enthusiasts

I have worked on vehicles my entire life. Rust aside, mechanics can cut off these parts with an air or battery powered grinder in a matter of minutes. So, the replacement of new parts should not be that big of a deal unless they have do some welding. Even welding should not run up the cost to this extent. Go look at Rockauto to see what ball joints cost for this vehicle (about $10.00 for better quality upper and lower ball joints). Leaf springs are maybe $300 per wheel in parts (including new bushings, brackets u-bolts, etc.). The alignment should be about $100.00 or so. Add a reasonable cost for labor and it does not come anywhere near $4000.00

Any reputable repair shop would not put $4000.00 into a 2002 vehicle of any kind without a serious conversation with the owner. This is not a reasonable charge given the vehicle's age.