[MSCW list] Mazda Repair Shop Recommendations in NOVA?

[David Alvarez]

Hi all,

My 2001 Miata LS is getting long in the tooth and requires a bunch of
repairs. I just got quoted $6k from a local retail repair shop, e.g.
they're charging $1200 in OE (not sure if they're OEM) parts and $1100 in
labor just to replace the front upper and lower control arms and only half
the ball joints. The equivalent aftermarket parts are about $300 from
partsgeek.com with all the ball joints. Granted the retail shop has a 3
year warranty on parts and labor but partsgeek gives a 3-year warranty on
parts for only $28 more.

Anyone have suggestions on what to do? I'd like the car to last another 10
years or at least until electric Miatas are available, but paying an
equivalent of the car's value in repairs is very disheartening.

I'm willing to bring the car within an hour's driving distance of Arlington
if it will save me substantial cost for good quality work. Any and all
suggestions are appreciated, thank you!

David