Demystifying the repair shop experience is the task of various laws, articles, and Reddit threads. Still, there’s always a little anxiety about taking a vehicle to a mechanic because it can be like going to the doctor: Go in with one problem, leave with three.
One Texas comic posted a bit to her TikTok that, though possibly exaggerated for comedic effect, gets to the heart of the repair shop and customer experience. Or, at least how it sometimes feels for the less mechanically inclined among us.
The viral video garnered over 11,000 views and many concerned comments.
Should Spark Plugs Be $700? And Should Oil Changes Be $80?
Speaking in a “Bridgerton”-adjacent voice, Tabithacomedy (@tabithacomedy) recounts spending an exorbitant amount of money that she thought was “reasonable.”
“Last time, I paid $700 to the mechanic for a new spark plug,” the comic explains. “That sounds like a very reasonable thing for a very dangerous-sounding, important thing for a vehicle,” she says.
But people in her life felt that she had been “ripped off,” so they stepped in with some rules to help her navigate the repair-shop world. Leaning into the camera, she says, “It has been decided by, uh, everyone that I am not allowed to go to the mechanic alone, by myself anymore.”
But as a “strong, independent woman,” she decided “in protest” to go by herself—with a caveat. She did have a male friend call, set up the appointment, pick out all the items, and tell her explicitly that she’s not allowed to discuss anything.
According to her friend, she is not to make eye contact with or talk to the mechanic under any circumstances. She’s also not allowed to make any “adjustments.” But she decided one upgrade sounded too good to pass up: “I have synthetic oil now,” she says, “handcrafted, actually.”
Commenters Are Stuck On Her Spark Plug
Despite her jokes, the internet stays focused on the spark plug problem (mostly).
Jenny from the Block (@mermaidsiren4) says, “$700 for a spark plug. Yeah you shouldn't be allowed to go alone. You need help girl.”
Then another user explains the combustion part of “combustion engine” to Tabitha: "A spark plug isn't like.... dangerous. It's called a spark plug because it sparks the gasoline in your engine which makes it combust (hence the term combustion engine) and it helps the car go vroomy-vroom. It's cheap and surprisingly easy to replace if you're willing to let one of your male friends change them for you. (or learn yourself, via YouTube University).”
One commenter joins with a price check: “Spark plug itself is maybe $10-30 and oil max $40.”
This estimate is backed up with expert pricing. AutoZone estimates the average price for a conventional oil change in America to be between $30 and $50 at a shop. A synthetic oil change is about double the price. But according to that same source, it might be worth it for the longevity and protection that synthetic oil offers a vehicle.
Fair Treatment At The Mechanic's Is A Right
Though Texas has no law that specifically covers auto repair shop costs, there are still ways consumers can protect themselves. These tactics can be used by anyone to get a clearer idea of what’s happening under the hood. Before repairs start, ask for an estimate listing the work required, all fees (labor, parts, disposal), and the date it will be completed.
An additional step to consider is taking a photo of your mileage. This can help if you suspect someone was “joyriding” your vehicle. Also, request a look at the old parts. This can help make certain you get new ones. Lastly, if you think you’ve been inaccurately charged, write on the invoice or check that you “paid under duress.” This gives you a little legal leverage, should you pursue that option.
Tabitha didn’t indicate that she’ll be contacting a lawyer over her $700 spark plugs, but she does think she’s found another hack.
“Did you know that changing your only oil costs $80?” she asks. She went in wearing her little black dress and thinks it’s possible she got an incredible discount because she flirted. "Or I've just been ripped off for years.”
Motor1 reached out to Tabitha via the contact form on her website and with a TikTok direct message. We will update this when she responds.
@tabithacomedy I went to the mechanic for an oil change by my self #oilchange #mechanic #funnystory #storytelling #cartrouble ♬ original sound - tabithacomedy
