I was aware that manufacturers charged high prices for replacement parts,
but I wasn't aware of just bad the problem was until recently. I was looking
for a replacement DVD laser pickup for Hitachi (see my earlier post) and
finally located one from a Hitachi parts distributor. The price? $205 Cdn. I
can't believe anyone would have the nerve to charge such ridiculous prices
for a replacement part, especially when an entire new unit can be purchased
for much less! Obviously, plain old greed is the motivation for this scam,
but I have to wonder about a couple of other things....
1. How do the mfrs actually make this kind of money from replacment parts?
They must be making it somehow, or they wouldn't bother to jack the prices
up so high.
2. Could enough techs band together to force some kind of legislation,
limiting the prices of replacement parts? (not likely, but I thought this
could make for some interesting discussion)
One thing about working in this industry; you certainly get to see the
greedy, money-loving side of society. Be it while buying replacement parts,
trying to make a sale, or just giving an estimate to a customer. Anyone
still working in the repair industry today is probably there for one of two
reasons; they enjoy the work, or they don't have any other options available
(both apply to me). Money obviously isn't the motivitation!
Just another $.02 of mine.