Was recently told by a friend that my front two wheel bearings needed replaced (actually, that the wiring for them was pulled right out of them - which in an 99 Alero requires replacing the entire system) after an ABS light had been on for quite awhile in my car. Furthermore, he suggested that I also needed to replace a pigtail in my car - though I do not know what that is (anyone know?). He quoted me a $750 price tag on the deal and being our friend, we assume that we are getting some sort of labor deal as well - but checking it out we found some sort of pigtail online but it was only $10. With $190 for each wheel bearing that should add up to only $390 + tax so we were a little confused. Can anyone explain what/how much a pigtail is actually worth and what would be a right price on this fix with without labor? I realize prices are slightly different all over the world - so if it helps, this is in Ohio in the States. Much appreciative!!!
Check with at least two other reputable auto centers in your area. The labor for wheel bearings can be high because the parts have to pressed by a big machine. Lots of bolts to pull and maybe you are getting new brake rotors too because bad bearings can ruin the brakes as well. good luck....
A pig tail is a connection to something. I reccommend if you can get it there, a dealer. Get an estimate first. They have to keep the car drivable if you can't afford it. They also have the special tools needed , and the know how. They should be able to tell you whats what so you can understand it too.
There is actually several things that could cause a vibration. If the vibration was there prior to the new tires and brakes it is possible that it may be the CV shaft. If an alignment was done when you purchased tires, they should have checked your suspension, ie. ball joints, tie rods(inner and outer) shocks and/or struts. If the vibration came after the tires were put on suspect balace is off... If the vehicle has aluminum rims it is reccomended that you re-torqe the lugnuts after 50 miles...
sounds high to me, I have a grand am which is basically the same car and I got 2 wheel bearings( front ) for $136 and I put them in myself, The pigtail, I have no idea what they are talking about unless it is the connection end that goes on the abs sensor on the front which they are probably talking about, I would go to the junkyard and get one, only involves snipping 2 wires off and you have it, probably a .50 cent item in the junkyard.
your best bet is to call your local auto dealer (such as Pep Boys) and ask them for a price on parts and labour make sure you give them vehicle details - such as - the make model - year - engine size - transmission type (auto or manual) - if your vehicle is front wheel drive or rear wheel drive - ask for prices on parts and labour to repair - wheel bearings for both front wheels - the bearings may be encased in the - hub - (some come separately - if this is the case - you're looking at labour costs to remove and install the new bearings IF they go into a Hub) - also grease seals as well - and (if the bearing is sold separate from the hub - you will need wheel grease) as for the pigtail - it could be any one of the connectors on your vehicle's electrical system - for most part - it's usually what the side marker lights plug into BUT - it may be a connector used in ABS wiring - and it may be the pigtail that plugs into the ABS in behind the wheel - that needs replacing (it's difficult to know exactly which pigtail your friend is talking about) parts can be pricey check around and compare prices at a few of the auto stores in your area
