1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop)

On Wed, 11 Jul 2007 19:17:04 GMT, "JoeSpareBedroom"
<dishborealis DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote:

><tintincat1977 DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
>news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> I need some advice from you guys.
>> Car info:
>> 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
>> Mileage: 87000
>>
>> I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
>> quote was about $1300.
>>
>> (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
>> below)
>>
>> Here are the things covered in the servicing:
>> LABOR:
>> 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
>> 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
>> 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
>> 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
>> 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
>> includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
>> thermostat operation
>>
>> Parts:
>> qty
>> 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
>> 1 oil filter $12
>> 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
>> 1 fuel filter $43
>> 4 resistor spark plugs $53
>> 1 air filter, engine $21
>> 1 ignition wire set $45
>> 1 pcv valve $12
>> 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
>> timing belt kit, $140
>> water pumps kit $115
>>
>>
>>
>> Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>>
>> Parts: $500.00 (approx)
>> Labor: $800 (approx)
>>
>>
>>
>> Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
>> ------
>>
>> The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
>> I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>>
>> Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
>> of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>>
>> Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>>
>> --
>> Tian
>>
>
>
>Actually, it all sounds perfectly reasonable, with a few oddities here and
>there. Transmission drain & refill, but no filter? With filter usually costs
>me about $65.00, based on my 92 Taurus. Haven't had it done to my Tacoma
>yet. $35 to "check brakes"? My mechanic does that in 8 minutes, plus test
>drive and asking me a few questions.
>
>The parts are probably 30% more expensive than you can buy them for at an
>auto supply, but that's a moot point, since you're not going to do this work
>yourself anyway, so why compare?
>
>As far as the things being serviced, I see nothing wrong with the list. The
>timing belt is especially important, and it's due at that mileage anyway.
>

I'd wait for Ray or somebody that knows what they are talking about to
answer....

--
Scott in Florida

There ought to be one day-- just one--
when there is open season on senators.

Will Rogers (1879 - 1935)
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

tintincat1977.DeleteThis@yahoo.com wrote:
> Hi Folks,
>
> I need some advice from you guys.
> Car info:
> 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
> Mileage: 87000
>
> I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
> quote was about $1300.
>
> (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
> below)
>
> Here are the things covered in the servicing:
> LABOR:
> 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
> 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
> 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
> 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
> 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
> includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
> thermostat operation
>
> Parts:
> qty
> 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
> 1 oil filter $12
> 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
> 1 fuel filter $43
> 4 resistor spark plugs $53
> 1 air filter, engine $21
> 1 ignition wire set $45
> 1 pcv valve $12
> 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
> timing belt kit, $140
> water pumps kit $115
>
>
>
> Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>
> Parts: $500.00 (approx)
> Labor: $800 (approx)
>
>
>
> Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
> ------
>
> The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
> I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>
> Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
> of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>
> Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>
> --
> Tian
>
It seems a bit on the high side IMHO. Check the dealer and another
independent.
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

The only things from that list on the labor side that I have issue with are
the "brake inspection" for $32.00 and a "tune up" for $225. There isn't any
real tune up procedure for your car as everything is computer controlled,
and $225 for changing spark plugs and wires seems very steep.
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

"JoeSpareBedroom" <dishborealis DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:Q0ali.11891$ya1.847@news02.roc.ny...
> <tintincat1977 DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
> news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> I need some advice from you guys.
>> Car info:
>> 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
>> Mileage: 87000
>>
>> I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
>> quote was about $1300.
>>
>> (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
>> below)
>>
>> Here are the things covered in the servicing:
>> LABOR:
>> 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
>> 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
>> 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
>> 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
>> 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
>> includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
>> thermostat operation
>>
>> Parts:
>> qty
>> 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
>> 1 oil filter $12
>> 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
>> 1 fuel filter $43
>> 4 resistor spark plugs $53
>> 1 air filter, engine $21
>> 1 ignition wire set $45
>> 1 pcv valve $12
>> 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
>> timing belt kit, $140
>> water pumps kit $115
>>
>>
>>
>> Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>>
>> Parts: $500.00 (approx)
>> Labor: $800 (approx)
>>
>>
>>
>> Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
>> ------
>>
>> The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
>> I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>>
>> Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
>> of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>>
>> Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>>
>> --
>> Tian
>>
>
>
> Actually, it all sounds perfectly reasonable, with a few oddities here and
> there. Transmission drain & refill, but no filter? With filter usually
> costs me about $65.00, based on my 92 Taurus. Haven't had it done to my
> Tacoma yet. $35 to "check brakes"? My mechanic does that in 8 minutes,
> plus test drive and asking me a few questions.

There is no transmission filter - only a screen.

--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

<tintincat1977.RemoveThis@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...
> Hi Folks,
>
> I need some advice from you guys.
> Car info:
> 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
> Mileage: 87000
>
> I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
> quote was about $1300.
>
> (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
> below)
>
Prices will vary with location. Labor rates in metropolitan areas tend to
be higher than rural areas.

> Here are the things covered in the servicing:
> LABOR:
> 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)

Sounds high to me - our local Toyota dealer in the Chicago suburbs charges
$24, including the oil and filter.

> 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)

Sounds high to me - most Toyota dealers do not charge to check brakes since
front brakes can be checked by removing the front wheels, and rear disc
brakes are checked the same way. If they are drum brakes, then it will take
an additional minute per side to remove the drums. If "check brakes"
includes adjusting rear drum brakes, then the price is reasonable.

> 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)

Sounds reasonable if the ATF is included.

> 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)

Sounds about right to replace 4 spark plugs, ignition wire set, PCV valve,
accessory drive belts, and air filter, if the parts are included in the
price. The fuel filter is supposedly good for the life of the car and does
not need to be replaced, and you list did not include accessory drive belts,
which should also be replaced.

> 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
> includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
> thermostat operation
>

Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for a little less
but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.

> Parts:
> qty
> 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
> 1 oil filter $12
> 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
> 1 fuel filter $43
> 4 resistor spark plugs $53
> 1 air filter, engine $21
> 1 ignition wire set $45
> 1 pcv valve $12
> 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
> timing belt kit, $140
> water pumps kit $115
>
>
>
> Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>
> Parts: $500.00 (approx)
> Labor: $800 (approx)
>
>
>
> Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
> ------

Those prices for labor alone should have included parts.
>
> The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
> I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>
> Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
> of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>
> Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>
> --
> Tian
>

Everything except for the fuel filter should be serviced, and add accessory
drive belts. You can change the PCV valve, ignition wires, and spark plugs
yourself to save a little money. The water pump probably does not need
immediate replacement, but its life is probably somewhere around 120,000 ~
150,000 miles so it probably will not last to the next timing belt
replacement, in which case you would be paying for a lot of the labor to
replace the water pump again. How long do you plan on keeping the car?
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

On Jul 11, 9:38 pm, "Ray O" <rokigawaATtristarassociatesDOTcom> wrote:
> <tintincat1... DeleteThis @yahoo.com> wrote in message
>
> news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...> Hi Folks,
>
> > I need some advice from you guys.
> > Car info:
> > 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
> > Mileage: 87000
>
> > I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
> > quote was about $1300.
>
> > (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
> > below)
>
> Prices will vary with location. Labor rates in metropolitan areas tend to
> be higher than rural areas.
>
> > Here are the things covered in the servicing:
> > LABOR:
> > 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
>
> Sounds high to me - our local Toyota dealer in the Chicago suburbs charges
> $24, including the oil and filter.
>
> > 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
>
> Sounds high to me - most Toyota dealers do not charge to check brakes since
> front brakes can be checked by removing the front wheels, and rear disc
> brakes are checked the same way. If they are drum brakes, then it will take
> an additional minute per side to remove the drums. If "check brakes"
> includes adjusting rear drum brakes, then the price is reasonable.
>
> > 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
>
> Sounds reasonable if the ATF is included.
>
> > 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
>
> Sounds about right to replace 4 spark plugs, ignition wire set, PCV valve,
> accessory drive belts, and air filter, if the parts are included in the
> price. The fuel filter is supposedly good for the life of the car and does
> not need to be replaced, and you list did not include accessory drive belts,
> which should also be replaced.
>
> > 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
> > includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
> > thermostat operation
>
> Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for a little less
> but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.
>
>
>
>
>
> > Parts:
> > qty
> > 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
> > 1 oil filter $12
> > 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
> > 1 fuel filter $43
> > 4 resistor spark plugs $53
> > 1 air filter, engine $21
> > 1 ignition wire set $45
> > 1 pcv valve $12
> > 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
> > timing belt kit, $140
> > water pumps kit $115
>
> > Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>
> > Parts: $500.00 (approx)
> > Labor: $800 (approx)
>
> > Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
> > ------
>
> Those prices for labor alone should have included parts.
>
>
>
> > The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
> > I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>
> > Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
> > of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>
> > Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>
> > --
> > Tian
>
> Everything except for the fuel filter should be serviced, and add accessory
> drive belts. You can change the PCV valve, ignition wires, and spark plugs
> yourself to save a little money. The water pump probably does not need
> immediate replacement, but its life is probably somewhere around 120,000 ~
> 150,000 miles so it probably will not last to the next timing belt
> replacement, in which case you would be paying for a lot of the labor to
> replace the water pump again. How long do you plan on keeping the car?
> --
>
> Ray O
> (correct punctuation to reply)- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -

Ray O>> How long do you plan on keeping the car?
Hmm, good question. I like this car as it runs very well (and it's
paid for fully). How long do you folks think I can use this car
without major tuneups, if I get this 90K servicing items done
(including the timing belt and water pumps)? It seems like Toyotas
can go upto 150K or so given proper care.

Ray O>> Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for
a little less
>> but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.
Regarding your comment (above) regarding the cost for timing belt /
water pump , the $415 is only for labor and there is another timing
belt kit, $140 + water pumps kit $115 for parts. So it's really,
around 670 of the total of 1300. So your comment that it's reasonable
still valid? Just want to confirm.

On the other hand, is it even worth it to sell or trade-in the car
now? How much you think I may get (it's in good condition - never had
any accidents, I have all the servicing receipts etc.)


Thanks,
Tian
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

On Thu, 12 Jul 2007 00:17:37 -0700, tintincat1977 wrote:

> On Jul 11, 9:38 pm, "Ray O" <rokigawaATtristarassociatesDOTcom> wrote:
>> <tintincat1....RemoveThis@yahoo.com> wrote in message
>>
>> news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...> Hi Folks,
>>
>> > I need some advice from you guys.
>> > Car info:
>> > 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC Mileage: 87000
>>
>> > I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
>> > quote was about $1300.
>>
>> > (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
>> > below)
>>
>> Prices will vary with location. Labor rates in metropolitan areas tend
>> to be higher than rural areas.
>>
>> > Here are the things covered in the servicing: LABOR:
>> > 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
>>
>> Sounds high to me - our local Toyota dealer in the Chicago suburbs
>> charges $24, including the oil and filter.
>>
>> > 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
>>
>> Sounds high to me - most Toyota dealers do not charge to check brakes
>> since front brakes can be checked by removing the front wheels, and rear
>> disc brakes are checked the same way. If they are drum brakes, then it
>> will take an additional minute per side to remove the drums. If
>> "check brakes" includes adjusting rear drum brakes, then the price is
>> reasonable.
>>
>> > 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
>>
>> Sounds reasonable if the ATF is included.
>>
>> > 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
>>
>> Sounds about right to replace 4 spark plugs, ignition wire set, PCV
>> valve, accessory drive belts, and air filter, if the parts are included
>> in the price. The fuel filter is supposedly good for the life of the
>> car and does not need to be replaced, and you list did not include
>> accessory drive belts, which should also be replaced.
>>
>> > 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
>> > includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
>> > thermostat operation
>>
>> Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for a little
>> less but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> > Parts:
>> > qty
>> > 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00 1 oil filter $12
>> > 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
>> > 1 fuel filter $43
>> > 4 resistor spark plugs $53
>> > 1 air filter, engine $21
>> > 1 ignition wire set $45
>> > 1 pcv valve $12
>> > 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
>> > timing belt kit, $140
>> > water pumps kit $115
>>
>> > Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>>
>> > Parts: $500.00 (approx)
>> > Labor: $800 (approx)
>>
>> > Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less. ------
>>
>> Those prices for labor alone should have included parts.
>>
>>
>>
>> > The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
>> > I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>>
>> > Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
>> > of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>>
>> > Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>>
>> > --
>> > Tian
>>
>> Everything except for the fuel filter should be serviced, and add
>> accessory drive belts. You can change the PCV valve, ignition wires,
>> and spark plugs yourself to save a little money. The water pump
>> probably does not need immediate replacement, but its life is probably
>> somewhere around 120,000 ~ 150,000 miles so it probably will not last to
>> the next timing belt replacement, in which case you would be paying for
>> a lot of the labor to replace the water pump again. How long do you
>> plan on keeping the car? --
>>
>> Ray O
>> (correct punctuation to reply)- Hide quoted text -
>>
>> - Show quoted text -
>
> Ray O>> How long do you plan on keeping the car? Hmm, good question. I
> like this car as it runs very well (and it's paid for fully). How long do
> you folks think I can use this car without major tuneups, if I get this
> 90K servicing items done (including the timing belt and water pumps)? It
> seems like Toyotas can go upto 150K or so given proper care.

LOL! I have an '85 Corolla GTS sitting in my back yard with 260,000 miles
on it, and 'proper care' meant changing the oil every 3-3,500 miles,
replacing the plugs and wires every 120,000 miles, and fixing everything
else when it broke!

With 'proper maintenance', you should get 300,000 or more easily.

I also have a Supra with >200,000 miles, and had a Tercel AWD wagon with
>210,000 miles...


>
> Ray O>> Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for a
> little less
>>> but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.
> Regarding your comment (above) regarding the cost for timing belt / water
> pump , the $415 is only for labor and there is another timing belt kit,
> $140 + water pumps kit $115 for parts. So it's really, around 670 of the
> total of 1300. So your comment that it's reasonable still valid? Just want
> to confirm.

I had a timing belt done on another Tercel, $32 for the belt and $185 for
labor. The Supra cost $325, $28 for the belt, $19 for other belts, $28 for
hoses and the rest labor.

Do you trust these guys? And what kind of a boat is parked along side the
shop?



>
> On the other hand, is it even worth it to sell or trade-in the car now?
> How much you think I may get (it's in good condition - never had any
> accidents, I have all the servicing receipts etc.)
>
>
> Thanks,
> Tian
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

This group can help you do it yourself, if your ready witht the parts
and time just fire away with the questions. Though, I consider
replacing the timing belt and water pump as advanced repair and should
be handled by certified techs and not by a rookie.

But sparkplugs, air filter, ignition wires you can easily DIY.
Changing the fluids would require proper disposal and should also be
considered if you want to DIY. Toyota normally has the expresslube
package that will change oil, inspect brakes, plus rotate and check
tires not included in your list. Be carefull though, toyota charged
with a windshield cleaner fillup since I brought my car there with low
level washer, but I had a gallon in my apartment, so there goes
another $2.

Also, check that they use distilled water for the radiator. Anyway
what I did on my previously owned 98 RAV4, all fluids were changed at
80k, ATF, engine oil, radiator, brakefluid, differential oil. replaced
timing belt and plugs at 100K and never replaced the ignition wires,
PCV and water pump ever. sold the car with 150K on it.
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

Ray O wrote:
> <tintincat1977.DeleteThis@yahoo.com> wrote in message
> news:1184180519.823764.291320@22g2000hsm.googlegroups.com...
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> I need some advice from you guys.
>> Car info:
>> 2000 Toyota Camry 2.2 L 2164 CC L4 5SFE DOHC
>> Mileage: 87000
>>
>> I went to an independent auto shop to get my 90K servicing and the
>> quote was about $1300.
>>
>> (I have rounded the price(s) and included only the non-minor costs
>> below)
>>
> Prices will vary with location. Labor rates in metropolitan areas tend to
> be higher than rural areas.
>
>> Here are the things covered in the servicing:
>> LABOR:
>> 1) Complete lube, oil and filter service ($42.00)
>
> Sounds high to me - our local Toyota dealer in the Chicago suburbs charges
> $24, including the oil and filter.
>
>> 2) Check Brakes ($32.00)
>
> Sounds high to me - most Toyota dealers do not charge to check brakes since
> front brakes can be checked by removing the front wheels, and rear disc
> brakes are checked the same way. If they are drum brakes, then it will take
> an additional minute per side to remove the drums. If "check brakes"
> includes adjusting rear drum brakes, then the price is reasonable.
>
>> 3) Drain & Fill auto transmission ($35.00)
>
> Sounds reasonable if the ATF is included.
>
>> 4) 4 cylinder tuneup ($225.00)
>
> Sounds about right to replace 4 spark plugs, ignition wire set, PCV valve,
> accessory drive belts, and air filter, if the parts are included in the
> price. The fuel filter is supposedly good for the life of the car and does
> not need to be replaced, and you list did not include accessory drive belts,
> which should also be replaced.
>
>> 5) Replace timing belt and water pump - $415
>> includes bleed cooling system, check fro leaks, verify fan &
>> thermostat operation
>>
>
> Toyota dealers often have timing belt replacement specials for a little less
> but the price seems reasonable if it includes the belt and coolant.
>
>> Parts:
>> qty
>> 5 Motor Oil, syn. blend (new) 16.00
>> 1 oil filter $12
>> 5 auto trans fluid (new) $27
>> 1 fuel filter $43
>> 4 resistor spark plugs $53
>> 1 air filter, engine $21
>> 1 ignition wire set $45
>> 1 pcv valve $12
>> 1 anti freeze, toyota type $27
>> timing belt kit, $140
>> water pumps kit $115
>>
>>
>>
>> Total (labor + parts): approximately $1300.00
>>
>> Parts: $500.00 (approx)
>> Labor: $800 (approx)
>>
>>
>>
>> Without timing belt replacement it costs about 750$ less.
>> ------
>
> Those prices for labor alone should have included parts.
>> The car has been maintained very well and had regular oil changes etc.
>> I am not sure if it's necessary to spend this much money,
>>
>> Can someone tell me what are the important things items to take care
>> of and what are not necessary to get during this 90K service?
>>
>> Your advice is greatly appreciated.
>>
>> --
>> Tian
>>
>
> Everything except for the fuel filter should be serviced, and add accessory
> drive belts. You can change the PCV valve, ignition wires, and spark plugs
> yourself to save a little money. The water pump probably does not need
> immediate replacement, but its life is probably somewhere around 120,000 ~
> 150,000 miles so it probably will not last to the next timing belt
> replacement, in which case you would be paying for a lot of the labor to
> replace the water pump again. How long do you plan on keeping the car?

It sounds like they are charging a little too much for some of the
services, and the parts should be included with the labor prices.

It sounds like doing some of it yourself (replace the spark plugs, PCV
valve and ignition wires) and taking it to a more reasonable mechanic or
dealer for the rest would save you about 1/2 the cost or a little more,
unless you want to help the shop owner with that second house.

I doubt it is worth doing the transmission, oil change, water
pump/timing belt or checking the brakes, unless you are set up do this
these things. I never do these on my car, because I don't have the
equipment.

Jeff
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

On Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:49:21 -0000, EdV <systmengr RemoveThis @hotmail.com> wrote:

>This group can help you do it yourself, if your ready witht the parts
>and time just fire away with the questions. Though, I consider
>replacing the timing belt and water pump as advanced repair and should
>be handled by certified techs and not by a rookie.
>
>But sparkplugs, air filter, ignition wires you can easily DIY.
>Changing the fluids would require proper disposal and should also be
>considered if you want to DIY. Toyota normally has the expresslube
>package that will change oil, inspect brakes, plus rotate and check
>tires not included in your list. Be carefull though, toyota charged
>with a windshield cleaner fillup since I brought my car there with low
>level washer, but I had a gallon in my apartment, so there goes
>another $2.
>
>Also, check that they use distilled water for the radiator. Anyway
>what I did on my previously owned 98 RAV4, all fluids were changed at
>80k, ATF, engine oil, radiator, brakefluid, differential oil. replaced
>timing belt and plugs at 100K and never replaced the ignition wires,
>PCV and water pump ever. sold the car with 150K on it.


Changing plugs on an aluminum head can cause giant problems if not
done correctly.

Even dealers can cross thread a plug.

It happened to me on the way to pick up my Air Force son at the
Philadelphia airport on his return from Korea. The '97 Corolla
suddenly started misfiring. Turned out to be a cross threaded plug
had backed out.

The dealer paid for the repair, because they made the mistake.

If you are not familiar with the proper way to replace plugs, I'd have
a dealer or competent technician do it.

--
Scott in Florida

There ought to be one day-- just one--
when there is open season on senators.

Will Rogers (1879 - 1935)
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

Scott in Florida wrote:
> On Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:49:21 -0000, EdV <systmengr DeleteThis @hotmail.com> wrote:
>
>> This group can help you do it yourself, if your ready witht the parts
>> and time just fire away with the questions. Though, I consider
>> replacing the timing belt and water pump as advanced repair and should
>> be handled by certified techs and not by a rookie.
>>
>> But sparkplugs, air filter, ignition wires you can easily DIY.
>> Changing the fluids would require proper disposal and should also be
>> considered if you want to DIY. Toyota normally has the expresslube
>> package that will change oil, inspect brakes, plus rotate and check
>> tires not included in your list. Be carefull though, toyota charged
>> with a windshield cleaner fillup since I brought my car there with low
>> level washer, but I had a gallon in my apartment, so there goes
>> another $2.
>>
>> Also, check that they use distilled water for the radiator. Anyway
>> what I did on my previously owned 98 RAV4, all fluids were changed at
>> 80k, ATF, engine oil, radiator, brakefluid, differential oil. replaced
>> timing belt and plugs at 100K and never replaced the ignition wires,
>> PCV and water pump ever. sold the car with 150K on it.
>
>
> Changing plugs on an aluminum head can cause giant problems if not
> done correctly.
>
> Even dealers can cross thread a plug.
>
> It happened to me on the way to pick up my Air Force son at the
> Philadelphia airport on his return from Korea. The '97 Corolla
> suddenly started misfiring. Turned out to be a cross threaded plug
> had backed out.
>
> The dealer paid for the repair, because they made the mistake.
>
> If you are not familiar with the proper way to replace plugs, I'd have
> a dealer or competent technician do it.
>
The biggest reason for mistakes changing plugs in aluminum heads is
taking time. You MUST take the time to change the plugs out when the
head(s) is cold. Not hot, warm, luke warm, ect.,... COLD (ambient
temperature). Aluminum is easily galled when coming in contact with a
steel cutting surface (plug threads).

Anyone can have success using the following techniques.

1. Let engine cool to ambient temperature
2. Use compressed air to blow out any debris that is around plugs that
may drop into the combustion chamber.
3. Remove plugs using hand tools.
4. Correctly gap the electrode and apply anti-seize compound to threads
of new plugs being cautious not to coat the electrode.
5. By hand, thread the new plugs in the head. (If it is a difficult
location use a length of fuel line the inside diameter of it to fit
snugly over the porcelain of the spark plug using the hose as an
extension to thread them in to "hand tight".)
6. Tighten(torque)to specs. (Important)

A DYIer can save money by following those simple steps which in most
cases complete most of a "tune up" on modern engines. And if you use
iridium plugs, they will out last a platinum usually by about ten times,
so in most cases you should not have to change them out for the life of
the engine.

Dealership and independent mechanics don't usually have or take the time
to let the engine cool to ambient temperature. They have to make a
living at book rate at the jobs they are assigned, so they roll the dice.
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

Don't scare him away from replacing his own plugs : ) Buy the plugs
already gapped to specs so you dont have to DIY.

Anyway, begin by screwing the plug in by hand so you can have a feel
of it. This reduces risk of cross threading, When it stops, tighten
it a little more with the tools, do not over tighten it with a
scrunched face.
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop) 

On Thu, 12 Jul 2007 16:11:49 -0000, EdV <systmengr.TakeThisOut@hotmail.com> wrote:

>Don't scare him away from replacing his own plugs : ) Buy the plugs
>already gapped to specs so you dont have to DIY.
>
>Anyway, begin by screwing the plug in by hand so you can have a feel
>of it. This reduces risk of cross threading, When it stops, tighten
>it a little more with the tools, do not over tighten it with a
>scrunched face.

Not trying to scare him. Just a bit of a warning.

Techs with a 'feel' for the correct final torque do it your way. I
would suggest a torque wrench.

On the old cast iron engines, it was hard to mess up a plug, but with
aluminum it is relatively easy.

--
Scott in Florida

There ought to be one day-- just one--
when there is open season on senators.

Will Rogers (1879 - 1935)
 >> Stay informed about: 1300 for 90K service (independent auto shop)