2001 Camry Maintenance - Shop Frustration

[Muldoon]

Hi guys,

So, I own a 2001 Camry and have had it since Dec 2001. As of today I have around 71,400 miles.

I first purchased my car with approximately 23,000 miles on it. I have always done oil changes every 3K - 5K miles.

At 57,000 I did a Cooling System Flush and a Multi Transmission Flush.

Today, 71,400 miles, replaced spark plugs with Laser Platinum Premium plugs (NGK BKR6EKPB-11, Stock #3452).

71,400 - PCV Valve replaced
- Air Filter replaced
- Fuel Filter (I believe they said they replaced this, but now that I look at the form it just says 'checked', so I'm going to have to call now...ugh). The PCV and air filter say checked as well, although I know they replaced these.

Anyway, after stopping in at a shop to do a so called 'tune-up', all they really did was replace the plugs that I had provided, and replace the PCV value, air filter, and supposedly the fuel filter...and after taxes I dropped almost $140.

It was supposed to be full 60,000 mile inspection, as I never did a full inspection at that time (just the trans and coolant flush)... and you see what they did. I feel cheated and have now realized after 3 1/2 hours (since they had to wait on the PCV valve and the air filter), that I should have just done this myself. I have never done this stuff before, so I thought they would take care of me, take care of my car, and after this experience I feel that did not happen.

But my greatest concern is what do I do now and in the future?

Can I verify that my fuel filter was replaced (tell that it is new v. old?).

What have I missed in my maintenance that should have been done by now at 71,000 miles? I've realized it is time to take this serious and teach myself. I do have a Chilton's guide; I think I'd enjoy doing this stuff, it's just getting over the fear (not really fear,...just a little apprehension as I've never done this stuff before) that I can really do this without screwing things up.

Is there a standard set of tools that I should get? I'm sure I can search this forum and find out what I need...

Thanks for listening and I hope to learn from you guys.
Muldoon