Houston, We Have A Misfire

I work in an auto shop. One of our more experienced veteran mechanics is looking at an engine that’s been giving its customer problems and has been unable to be fixed using more passive troubleshooting. Our guy has finally identified the problem.

Mechanic: “So here’s the problem. Your fuel injectors aren’t delivering a consistent mist, so the combustion isn’t clean. That’s why you’re getting those misfires and the drop in mileage. Basically, the chemistry’s off; the ratio of fuel to oxygen isn’t balanced, and it’s throwing everything out of sync.”

Customer: *Not really paying attention.* “Uh-huh. And how much is this gonna cost me?”

Mechanic: “Between the parts and labor, about $800.”

Customer: “$800?! For what? Spraying some gas? Come on. That’s ridiculous!”

Mechanic: “It’s not just spraying gas. It’s precision calibration. A few milliliters too much or too little and your engine won’t run right.”

Customer: “Forget it, I’m not paying that. I want to talk to your manager.”

After the manager has been brought up to speed:

Manager: “Sir, the price reflects both the technical nature of the work and the skill of the mechanic.”

Customer: “Why? It’s not like it’s rocket science!”

Manager: “Sir, it’s combustion chemistry. It’s exactly like rocket science.”

The customer goes quiet, quietly agrees, and the mechanic goes back to work.