How much should this cost?

[bishoptango]

Hi,

We bought a 2003 Avalon XLS recently. It's got 135K on it and seems to be in very good condition. We just took it in for the 5K check up. First, the fuel injector servicing that they list in the book (or the dealer suggested) is that just adding the conditioner to the tank, or are they actually doing something that I can't do myself?

They told me that the car is leaking power steering fluid and that the rack and pinion will need to be replaced for about $1300. With that description, what are they actually replacing and is that a fair price? Considering I just bought the car four months ago I'm less than pleased, but I know wear and tear happens. Is it something that I could take to my local Joe Schmo garage and they can fix it adequately or is this really something I should let the dealer do?

Thanks, all.
I appreciate the help. I'm not a car guy but I am a good listener.

[TedL]

I don't know what book lists fuel injector service. It's not in the factory schedule maint. book. Which you can find online at the manufacturer's website if you don't have the paper copy. I really think your question as to exactly what they propose doing would be better directed....to them.

The dealer is proposing to install a very expensive new part. Go to an independent shop that will install a reman unit that generally has a lifetime warranty, and is much less expensive. It's a routine job that doesn't require any special skills. A lift is real nice, though. I've done Camy racks in my driveway. Very similar layout. I'm just a DIY'r.

[TrailDust]

Depends on how reputable the dealer is when it comes to servicing. I religiously take my cars to a trusted private mechanic to have the work done, and in fact I just had my injectors cleaned by my mechanic about two months back who removed them to clean them. Like TedL mentioned, the only way to know for sure is to ask your dealer's service department directly.