Struts on a 2005

[Yardape52]

Good Morning All,

I have an aunt in Florida who brought her 2005 LE in to a mechanic for whom she had received a good recommendation. The first time she brought it in they charged her nothing. This time she was told that it needed about $3k worth of work. The 2 high cost items were struts that needed to be replaced and brakes that are rusted. Here's the catch. The car sits. Its got 10,000 miles on it.

Knowing that time and friction are the 2 causes of wear and tear, is it possible that a car with 10,000 miles on it and is 6 plus years old needs new struts? Second, if a car sits I could see the discs rusting but Boca Raton is a dry climate it think,... and that would only require turning the discs if that's the case.

The other work is minor,... oil change, antifreeze, etc....

Coincidentally everyone, including the mechanic, wants to buy the car from her. Its in great shape.

I've been around cars but am not down there to witness whats going on. I'd appreciate the input on her behalf.

Thanks

[89molavi]

The rust on the brakes would probably go away with a trip around the block and couple of brakes. The rest seems suspect too. Esp if they want to buy the car from her. I would say since you are not nearby just have her get a 2nd opinion from a reputable shop without mentioning the 1st shop's diagnosis.

[arabianobsession]

I agree on a 2nd opinion. It seems a bit fishy to me.