I have a 2005 Toyota Camry that is coming up for the 15k service. I called up the Toyota dealers in the bay area and was asked to pay anywhere from $140 to $200. Basically, this service includes engine oil and filter change and a couple of inspections.
Walmart does the oil change anywhere from $16.44 to $39.97. Besides, they have the 15-point inspection. I was told that does not include checking brake fluid and coolant.
What do the dealers give over walmart? Does it make sense to pay the big bucks for the 15K service?
Thanks.
2006-08-31 04:59:03 · 4 answers · asked by underthecaliforniasun 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
what the dealer has on Wal Mart is trained ppl.and a shop labor rate of more than 75.00$$ per hr.
2006-08-31 05:19:24 · answer #1 · answered by me too 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i have worked for gm dealerships for six years as a service tech and probly shouldnt tell you this.a 15 thousand mile service is a rip off. basically when you have an oil change done at a dealership they will do the extra inspection for free because they want to find something else to sell you. the so called brake inspection is simply a walk by and look through the wheels to see if the pads are thin again they will do this anyway to try to find an upsell.the 30k service however is more in depth and is worth the money consisting of a tire rotation, fuel filter etc.
2006-08-31 05:12:11 · answer #2 · answered by motorman19780 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, I know what you mean. Seems the dealers charge more for services than other shops. I believe that if you have the work done according to the owners manual at a shop of your choice, the warranty is still in force. I have my Solara serviced by my local gas station, he has all the computer hook ups and diagnostics for every car on the road. Quite an investment for him but his fees are still less than the dealers.
2006-08-31 05:16:08 · answer #3 · answered by Papa 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the service is not performed at all, the Warranty can be voided by the manufacturer.
Read your warranty. It probably states this in some way, that recommended service intervals is required to maintain the warranty.
Most or all manufacturers require this.
However, they cannot require that it be done by a dealer. It can be done by another service, but must be recorded and receipts saved in order to verify the maintenance.
Same applies to regular oil changes. One can do that by ones self, but needs to be recorded, with date and mileage, and receipt saved for the purchase of the oil.
2006-08-31 05:15:33 · answer #4 · answered by ed 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋