I brought my GMC 2500 HD diesel into Dragonfly Automotive for a simple fuel filter swap — a ~15-minute job that doesn’t even need a lift. I’d done my homework and had the OEM ACDelco filter in hand (bought from NAPA that morning for $60), so I just needed the labor.
Everyone in the lounge was friendly, and I don’t doubt they do good work. But after waiting 20–30 minutes for a quote, I was told ~$350: they wouldn’t install my filter and required me to buy the identical part from them for ~$150 (2.5x what I’d just paid), plus a full billable hour at over $200/hr for a 15-minute procedure.
I get that many shops won’t install customer-supplied parts and have a one-hour minimum — fair enough. My issue is that none of it was mentioned until I’d already invested half an hour waiting, at which point the clear expectation was that I’d just green-light it. A quick heads-up at the counter would have saved us both the time.
I passed, and that afternoon an ASE-certified mechanic in Kearny Mesa did the same job for $80. Friendly people and likely solid work — but expect dealer-level pricing on even the most basic jobs, and get the full breakdown before you’re 30 minutes in.
Peyton, We appreciate your feedback and apologize for any miscommunication. We strive to provide transparent pricing. While we understand your frustration, our policy regarding customer-supplied parts and the hourly minimum is in place for quality control and to ensure customer satisfaction. Nonetheless, we will take your feedback into consideration and work towards improving our customer experience. Thank you for choosing Dragonfly Automotive.
- Dragonfly - PCH