I have to bring my '02 WRX in for the 30k tune-up, and they want to charge $480. Does that seem reasonable/normal? I reviewed the list of things the check/replace, and I'm sure what I'm paying $480 for.

Thanks!

 

Correction: I'm NOT sure what I'm paying $480 for.

 

I think those checks are bogus for the amount of money. Granted, they check everything and make sure you don't have any problems, but basically you are paying them $500 for a license to find things wrong with your car and charge you more to fix the problems. It's like paying $500+ for a diagnostic.

When my father spoke with his Audi dealership about the 60,000-mile checkup on his 98 A4 this past summer, he kept asking the guy, "What am I getting for $620?"

"Well, you know we check the hoses, belts, greasable joints/locations, etc."

"So what do I actually GET for $620?"

"Yadda yadda yadda."

Yeah it's great that you check that stuff, but what do I GET for my money?

For some people, like me and my father, the price should include some tangibles, instead of just giving the dealership $500 and a ticket to find problems that (may or may not) need repairing.

If they actually replaced more than the routine stuff as part of the price, that'd be one thing. But my understanding is that they just do a lot of "checking."

 

this is what I do for my 30k (1.8L protege)
engine oil - $2-$5/qt x 3
oil filter - $5
fuel filter - $20
air filter - $15
spark plugs - $1.25/ea
tranny fluid - $2-$4 /qt x 3 (I have AT and I drain/fill/drive around/drain/fill)
diff fluid - $2-$4 /qt (I don't have rear diff, but you do)
brake fluid $5 (I just do the brake resevor)

Total: ~$85 high side for me

and 'check' everything else (hose, belts, light, etc.)

I have a check list that I use in excel. If you want it, send me your email address..

Leo

 

with that said... I would NEVER go to a dealership and have them do any of the 'tune-up' services due to money. Now, if I make sht load of money, that is a different story. The only thing I don't feel very comfortable with is timing belt. On subie is pretty easy, but my protege is a PITA to do. Even fuel filter is a pain to do on my protege. Damn, I miss my subie...