Mitsubishi Repair: 91 Mitshubiti mirage, hub assembly, lug nuts

Question
I recently took my car to a local parts store that also did repairs. I requested for them to replace the two front tires and align the front end, due to abnormal tire wear and a shimmy in the front end...  They called me about an hour later and told me the lug studs had been cross threaded and that they stripped out when they removed the lug nuts, they further informed me that it was going to be about $150 to replace the lugs on this car...  Could you tell me why it would be so expensive and is it something I could do myself.

Thanks in advance
Bob

Answer
Bob,
I believe the majority of the cost is labor related.  Most mechanics charge between $55-$80 per hour.  A wheel bolt only costs about $2-$3.  Ask if they intend on replacing just one lug, all 4 for the wheel, or even more on other wheels.

It's also possible they are trying to sell you the entire hub assembly, which is about $100.  The assembly contains the hub and all the lugs preset in it.  So you should really find out what is included in that $150 price they quoted.  If you have performed any kind of brake work or suspension repair on your vehicle before, then you should be able to handle replacing this yourself.  Else, let a regular mechanic do it.
Good luck!