Audi drops parts prices? - test

["Dave C." <conner@cfm.ohio-state.edu>]

I tested my local Audi dealer (Byers) on the promise that they've dropped
parts prices.
I also checked The Parts Connection for their price as a comparison.  
These parts are for a 1989 100 w/NF engine and auto trans.
Here's what they quoted:

         Price            PN      Description
Audi   $152.79     035-919-561A   Oil Pressure Switch (Gauge Sender)
TPC    $ 69.00

Audi   $193.55     431 498 103C	   C.V. Joint Front Inner, 89 100 
TPC    $ 89.00
 
I asked the parts guy at Audi about the announcement that parts prices had
dropped.  He said the decrease was random...for example, a starter for one
model may have dropped, but not for another.
He also said the reason they dropped prices was because there "was a common
perception that the dealer charged more for parts than other places, but
now their prices are the same".
Maybe these Audi prices >are< actually lower, I hadn't checked with them
earlier.
Well, at least they are taking a step in the right direction, but it
appears they still have a ways to go.

And another thing...Of the five parts I asked them to quote prices on that
day, only one of them was in stock.  The other three items were dealer only
parts so that's why I didn't list a comparison for them.

Dave Conner