Toyota- epensive service?

Just had my first standard trans fluid change in my '04 Tacoma. Cost $114, which seems a bit expensive for an fluid change. Comments?

Reply to
Joe
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By way of comparison, I just checked my service records for my 1992 Taurus. Last tranny fluid change was in 2002, by independent mechanic: $88.00, in upstate NY. $114.00 isn't terribly out of line. Dealers are usually a little more expensive because you're not just paying for service. Part of your bill covers the cost of the bibs for the drooling service writers.

Reply to
Doug Kanter

Being that the fluid itself costs about 8 to 10 bucks and that it can be done in less than 10 minutes with the right tools, I would say it is very pricey.

----------------- The SnoMan

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Reply to
SnoMan

The average price in the Los Angeles area is $ 85.

Reply to
W.T. MC GLYNN

How difficult is it to change trans fluid?

The dealership calls after ever service to ask for comments- this time I flat out told them that I considered the price to be excessive. She called back later and said that most of the cost goes to the fluid makers- as if the dealer was paying full price.

Oh well, at least this dealer seems to do good work- next time for something this basic, I'll shop around.

I presume that the trans fluid really needed replacing at 36,000? On my old Ford F150, I never changed it and put about 200,000 miles on it- never had a problem with the trans- uh, other than near the end, the Jiffy Lube guys would top it off as they said it was leaking, but it worked fine.

Reply to
Joe

You presume? What does the service schedule say? It's over there - in your glove box.

Reply to
Doug Kanter

Well..... uh, and I should believe it?

Isn't it in the interest of dealers to do servicing more frequently than is really needed?

Reply to
Joe

I suspect it's also in the best interest of the car maker to provide a schedule which makes their cars run well so they don't end up with pissed off customers like me, who will NEVER forget two hideous experiences with Fords.

I'd recommend that you ask everyone you know where they take their cars for service. With any luck, you'll find someone who's got an independent mechanic they rave about. If you're still under warranty, keep meticulous records of all service done, in case you have to go back to Toyota with any issues.

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has a link to help people find local mechanics, by the way.

Reply to
Doug Kanter

Cartalk- now there's a show- I actually have little interest in cars other than getting somewhere- when that show first came on I quickly turned it off- but it grows on you over the years- more radio and TV shows should have such spontaneity and wit.

************* Joe

Reply to
Joe

Not only that, but they also know what they're talking about.

Reply to
Doug Kanter

Doug Kanter posted for all of us... I don't top post - see either inline or at bottom.

When?

Reply to
Tekkie®

You asked. So, tell me "when not?"

Reply to
Doug Kanter

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