> Is the dealer including the cost of an alignment? How about Sears?
> No point in doing this work without getting an alignment.

Alignment is a separate charge which I did not include in the
discussion. All the prices listed excluded the labour required for the
alignment. Yes, I agree, given that the strut is being replaced, an
alignment would be essential and I am planning on getting it done at
the same time.

> OEM struts/shocks are fine for most drivers. The "guarantee" on most
> aftermarket shocks is that they won't leak. Most shocks wear out long
> before they start to leak so a lifetime guarantee isn't worth much.

Good point.

v