Originally Posted By: Spooled
I read this forum a lot as I think there is some very useful information. What does surprise me is that there are so many people that choose to just believe certain parts of a manufacturer's service recommendations, but not others. I am sure many of the members that think a manufacturer's oil change interval is too long are just as likely to disregard the brake fluid change recommendation as too short. Another thing I see is that a huge emphasis is put on used oil analysis, but that certain labs that perform these services are ridiculed often as being less than accurate. Many of the decisions made on oil choice are based on these findings, whether accurate or not. Same goes for interpretation of manufacturer's service recommendations. Just an observation I see often while reading posts here.
Not all dealers are bad although some certainly are. Sure they try an upsell things you don't necessarily need, but so does Starbucks. Just say no if you don't want them to do it. My suggestion at least when having your oil changed, is to ask for a senior tech to perform it. You may have to wait a little longer, but usually the least experienced people are the ones that perform the quick lube service at the dealership. They are a good in most cases, but also less experienced and mistakes can happen more frequently.
As for changing brake fluid at the recommended interval, one poster hit the nail on the head as to why it should be changed, it absorbs water over time. Water not only lowers the boiling point of the fluid, which can lead to the pedal going to the floor if it happens, but water also rusts the caliper pistons if it is allowed to stay in the system. 2% water is I believe the max allowed before a flush is recommended. There are electronic meters that you simply dip into you fluid reservoir that will give you an instant % reading. Have it done, you will be surprised in most cases.
Well said!
I'm surprised Toyota doesn't reccomend it, I know up until 2003 at least Honda did. Found that out helping a friend with servicing his and his girls Hondas. She just bought a new Fit, I'll have to get a look at the manual and see if it is still there.
Originally Posted By: researcher
They usually just want to hurry the job up to get the next one in so they can add onto their paycheck! You will do a much better job on your own since it's your car, more of a vested interest. I know that when I have finished work on mine I realize that the dealer would never get that exacting, and that's what gives me satisfaction, that it's done correctly and thoroughly.
hope that helps!
My reasons for DIY too. And maybe a bit that I'm cheap. But I figure why pay someone else to do what I can do myself? When I'm saving $100s of dollars on parts alone, there is no way anyone else is going to do it with more care for less $.
Also I think this is not just a dealer issue. I hear people talk about their "trusted" mechanic and sometimes it's the same at independants. I know not all are like this, we have some techs here that I would reccomend in a heart beat if they were local and I'm sure some dealerships are above this kind of thing too.
