A
shipping backlog that has ports on the West Coast working overtime is resulting
in souped-up prices for car repairs in Connecticut.
Mechanics
at Maier's Garage in Bridgeport say the supply chain delays are causing prices
to go up on certain supplies and parts, while other items are getting harder to
find.
“There's
not a lot you can do,” said owner Robert Maier. “You're kind of at your
supplier's mercy."
Maier
says a long relationship with a good supplier is important, but he believes
everyone will feel the pinch before the end of the year. He says while some
in-demand parts are taking longer to deliver, prices are skyrocketing on items
like windshield wiper fluid and batteries, which are up 30%.
Maier
says it's hard to predict which parts, items and supplies will be affected. His
best advice for customers waiting for a part is to just be patient.