March 2014 by Tommy J.
Took my Dell Inspiron 1545 laptop to replace keyboard. I was told that it could take up to two weeks to repair, that the cost would be anywhere from $30 - $125, and that the parts could not be ordered unless I left the laptop there to remove the keyboard and get the part number. I was told that this could be a pain to do and there was no way to know how much time it would take. I was also offered express service for $75 per hour, but was still going to have to wait for the part to come in...up to two weeks. No idea how many hours to replace the keyboard. I indicated that I would go to Dell website and determine the part number, which would save some time. If I ordered the part, I could bring it in and let them install it at $75 per hour, but would have to leave it for at least 4 days. That was my best option, but still no idea what it was going to cost. I went to Dell, and discovered that this keyboard is used and many of their laptops, and was immediately available for $15.75, shipped for 2 day delivery. I was shocked, but was also pointed to a tutorial, which showed that it took less than 3 minutes to replace. So, instead of an open ended estimate that could have cost who knows what, I instead bought and received a keyboard in 2 days, installed it in less than 5 minutes, and paid less than $20.00. These people prey on our lack of knowledge, and I almost paid for it. Do your research first. DO NOT expect these people to offer you a fair service at a fair price....not happening.
