Service Rip-off???

[Mike Murrell]

Originally Posted by TRD VVTi

It's hard to find someone to rely on.

Contrary to what is stated alot in this thread, there are many honest people in the automotive service business.

I would agree with this statement. Finding that honestly is another story. Dealership employees come and go with the wind. Everytime I stop in at one to buy parts for my DIYER work, there's always someone new behind the parts counter; new faces in the stalls and service reception area.

The automotive service industry has a problem retaining people. Continuity is a big problem from where I sit.

[marc780]

OMFG. I could have done all that including a plug change for around $50 - 100. And i'd bet my next paycheck, they did not even DO half the stuff she paid them to. Bad, bad rip-off, borderline theft if you ask me.

This is the exact reason why i spent so much time learning how to fix my own cars and only take it to the stealership or a shop when all other options are exhausted. sorry your sister got ripped off, but, she did.

[Urban-Warrior]

Man, almost looks like the dealership took your sister to the cleaners. I would be so pissed if i were a relative.

If she paid by credit card she can perhaps dispute it and put a hold on payment

[JMSinMD]

Caveat Emptor.

We recommend 30k engine coolant drain and fill and transmission fluid drain and fill. You do have some recourse, go and speak to the service manager (not advisor) and explain your grievences. Ask for an explaination and a demonstration of checking the engine setings and servicing the brakes. The front brake job is a little pricey. I'd also like to know what cleaning a spark plug involves, I've replaced them before but never cleaned them
I personally believe in flushes, even for my own vehicles. 30k is about 3 years for me and I figure I might as well get all new fluids and remove all of the old fluids. At 30k I flush coolant, brakes, transmission, power steering, etc, etc.

Originally Posted by mike0021

Hi all, first time post.

My sister took her 2002 Toyota Camery with only 30k miles (she used it in college and hardly drove) to the Toyota dealer. She went in looking for a little service and maybe taking a look at the breaks. 5 hours later she walked out after paying $1,200. This is an itinerary of what they did:

* 25 point inspection
* grease and lube steering shaft
* 7500 mile/6 month service (check engine settings, inspect filters, lube oil filters/rorate and balance tires, service brakes, add oil and gas additives) $ 169.95
* replace front brake pads and resurface rotors $ 389.95
* e.f.i. fuel injection service $ 295.95 * tune up service (replace air filter and pcv, clean spark plugs) $ 169.95
* power steering system service and flush $ 179.95
* flush and bleed brake fluid system $ 159.95
Sub-Total $ 1,365.70
Sub-Total w/discount $ 1,092.56
Total with Tax $ 1,179.96

Am I crazy in thinking she was completely ripped off on a car with 30k miles, even though its 5 years old? If so, is there anything I can do, i.e. complain to Toyota and try to get a partial refund?

Thanks all,
Mike