[A4] How much for a catalytic converter for my A4?

[Joyce Furono]

Hello all,

My mechanic just informed me that I need a new catalytic converter for my
car. I have a 2001 A4 1.8T Quattro. I've been going to this mechanic for
years and have never felt that he was ripping me off. He quoted me $950 for
the job. That seemed a little high to me since it looks like I can purchase
one for about $200-$300 online. (actually even cheaper than that). And it
doesn't seem as if it should take hours and hours to install the new one.
But I'm not sure.

So I was wondering what any of you feel a reasonable price for this kind of
job would be by a non-dealer mechanic? Maybe if he was buying the part
straight from an audi? I understand the cat converter can be expensive, but
$950 including labor just feels excessive.

Also would you suggest I change the oxygen sensor as well while I'm at it?
The car has about 105,000 miles on it and it has never been changed.

Please enlighten me!

Thanks for the help,
Joyce