My check engine light came on and I went to the shop and he says that I have a crack/leak/broken vacuum hose. He quoted me around $230. Is this a fair price? Is this a DIY project?

 

It most certainly is a DIY project if you are somewhat handy. On the other hand the shop charge out labour is probably $120/hr and the parts maybe $100 (charge out). Now the part purchased by you is probably $30-$50 tops. So if you want to save yourself some money do it yourself but $230 does sound reasonable.

I recently had a power steering hose replaced at the dealership for $550. They charged me $120 for the hose and 3 hrs labour.