60K maintenance

[Outshine2]

Well I just got back from the local Ford dealership, I asked how much it would be to do most of the 60K maintenance (I have already changed the engine oil and air filter) and they said it would be $380

It's also idling poorly when it's cold, and I know there are some TSB's/recalls posted for the '99 SOHC, so I asked if they could check into that and check into what has been done on my vehicle. She looked confused for a while and quoted me $90 for that. ??

I argued that they should be able to get some indication on the TSB/recall for free... she wouldn't budge.

Now, this is the first time I've had to take my vehicle in for major maintenance... so I didn't know what to expect... Is it just me, or does it sound like they are trying to bend me over on this one?

Also... if I'm reading this correctly, I don't have to change the tranny fluid at 60K, just inspect the level of it ('99 Sport SOHC 4x4).

Sorry for the rant...

 

[Alec]

I would change your tranny fluid every 18 months or 15000 miles if you're worried about a rebuild in the future. 2 years, 24000 is a more conservative approach; while I think Ford recommends 30000-40000.

60k should mainly consist of plugs, wires, fuel filter, and coolant; besides other routine maintenance. That estimate isn't too bad for that parts and labor, though you can probably do a bit better.

As for the fee for recall and TSB checks, that's illegal; it should definately be free.

 

[MattStarr]

Thats what I paid bud. They are SUPPOSED to change the tranny fluid, cooling fluid, and other "big" stuff. I think my dealer actually charged me $362 for the service, but they do alot (well atleast they are supposed to). That price is correct though. I love driving an SUV, I just dont like paying for it. BTW~ I have 92K miles on mine, I just got this serivce done about 3 weeks ago. If you want details of what I got done, just ask. Good luck.

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

$380 is about right. When I had my '95, we did the 60K maintenance on it. Everything thing it said in the book. The tranny fluid and spark plugs were changed then too. I think we were charged $480 for everything. I'd rather pay to have them spend all day changing and inspecting everything then doing it myself.

 

[Outshine2]

Thanks for the replies guys, I have a few more Q's:

To change the tranny fluid you either would have to drop the pan, or suck it out through the filler tube, right?

I punched my VIN in on Ford's website and there were only 2 recalls, neither of them pertaining to the engine (rough idle and shaking betwee 2-3k rpm's)... I swear they had issued a recall on the SOHC's of that year for this problem???

 

[EliteConcept]

changing the tranny fluid you should drop the pan, and change the filter while your at it. more trouble for then again more effective.

 

[TPLYNCH]

There is no recall, but there are Owner Notification Programs that extend the warranty on certain parts. Two programs that probably apply to you are 00M12 and 01M01. Ask about those. If you are having rough idle on cold start, sounds like your Intake Manifold O-Rings are bad. They are covered under 00M12. Use the search button above and search for the 2 numbers and you should find lots of threads with better details.