Ontario · Free · Private
Compare a car repair invoice with the written estimate
Enter the two comparable totals. This calculator shows the difference and the amount that is 10% above the estimate, then helps you ask the repair shop for a written explanation.
The amounts stay in this browser tab.
Nothing is uploaded or saved. Enter totals only. Never enter a name, VIN, licence plate, phone number, or other personal information.
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Optional invoice math
Calculate the implied hourly labour rate
If the invoice shows both figures, divide the labour charge by the billed labour hours. Leave this blank when labour and parts are bundled together.
Labour only. Exclude parts, tax, and shop supplies.
Use the hours printed on the invoice.
Enter both figures to see the calculation.
Common questions
Before you rely on the comparison
Can an Ontario car-repair invoice be more than the written estimate?
Ontario's consumer guidance says the final cost cannot be more than 10% above a written estimate. Additional or different work, and whether and how you authorized it, can matter, so compare your records and ask the repair shop for a written explanation.
What if I declined a written estimate?
Ontario's guidance says a repair shop may proceed when you decline an estimate and authorize a maximum amount. The final cost should not exceed that authorized maximum amount. Check the current official guidance and your records for the facts that apply.
What should I do if the invoice is more than 10% above the estimate?
Compare the written estimate, final invoice, and any record of later authorization. Ontario recommends contacting the repair shop in writing so you have a record of the complaint. If the issue is not resolved, the official guidance explains complaint and court options. This is general information, not legal advice.
Should I include tax when comparing the totals?
Compare like with like: enter totals that both include tax or totals that both exclude tax. This calculator does not decide which figures a law or agreement applies to.
Does a result above 10% automatically prove the invoice is unlawful?
No. This tool only calculates the numerical difference. The estimate, later authorizations, the work performed, and the rules that apply all matter. For a dispute, review the official guidance and consider qualified legal or consumer-protection help.
How do I calculate the hourly labour rate on a repair invoice?
Divide the labour charge by the billed labour hours. The result is the invoice's implied hourly rate. It is not a mechanic's wage and does not by itself show whether a charge is fair; shop overhead, specialization, job complexity, billing method, and the work performed can matter.
What Ontario’s official guidance says
Official source reviewed August 21, 2026
Ontario says a repair shop generally must provide a written estimate unless you decline it and authorize a maximum amount. Its current consumer page says the final cost cannot be more than 10% above the estimate, and a shop cannot charge for work you did not authorize.
Read Ontario’s current car-repair guidanceThis calculator provides general information, not legal advice. Rules can change, facts and authorizations matter, and different rules may apply outside Ontario.