My local Honda dealer wants $4,100 to repair a brake problem on my 2004 Civic SI. They claim someone put the wrong fluid in the brake system and now the master cylinder, hoses, and several other items need replacement. There really is a problem with the brakes (they drag sporatically and sometimes even lock up) but not sure if I am being ripped. Any advice?

look into an independent mechanic.

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Gimme some love, shuga'

no, you're getting raped at that price. like roto said, visit another mech.

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Raped? you are getting murdered at that price

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I am slowly learning about cars, but I am thinking you might want to try to bleed the brakes before those repairs. If that doesn't work, then go to a mechanic and don't tell them about the previous repair estimate. Sounds VERY pricey!

Thanks guys but I started at my long trusted independent mech and he said he could not get parts for the SI and suggested to go to the dealer. Is it possible that parts are not available? My independent mech has no reason to mislead on that.

it is possible, BUT you can buy the parts and bring them to your mech...first find out what needs to be replaced. And find out who placed DOT3 fluid in there (I assume that's what happened when it specifically asked for dot4 or better)...if it was a mech it's him who should pay.

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Gimme some love, shuga'

Is your car under warranty? Or just power train warranty? Get online and search for the parts. Have you gotten a second opinion?

I'll ask if he used DOT3 - what does that do to the system?

I'll check about the warranty but I doubt it. I'll try to get the original independent mech to go to the dealer for a second opinion but that seems a bit akward. BTW I think the dealer mentioned the calipers and a piston too. I'll get more details tomorrow.