hey everyone, i have a 97 4runner with 79k that's needing a few things, the stealer just told me it needs a new waterpump and rear axle seals, the rear brakes also need to be cleaned due the the seals leaking, they were telling me it would cost around $700 for the rear axle/brakes, and about $550 for the water pump. how does this sound to you, also how difficult are these jobs to do yourself?
thanks, jason

 

Rear axle seals are pretty cheap and you could do them yourself. Also it's not advisable to reuse brake pads after they've had oil on them so you just need to replace the pads (which should be less than $100 for both sides and isn't hard). So it sounds like you're getting hosed on the rear axle costs.

For the waterpump I paid ~$250 to have my timing belt changed and all accessory belts and the water pump is right there at the same time (although I chose not to have it changed). You can buy the water pump online for ~$100 and then have them put it on at the same time as you change your timing belt. So I'd say you're getting ripped off on both.