Sanity check - 60k service and overheating issue

[brianboru]

Was hoping I could get a sanity check on these prices my dealer here in Denver is quoting me for service. His estimate is quite a bit higher than I had hoped.

I had scheduled a 60k checkup and service for this week, but also noticed a number of problems popping up with my 2000 XLT late last week. First I noticed that my transmission was becoming sluggish and starting to slip a bit between some of the lower gears. Then my A/C started to cut out and started blowing hot air. I noticed on the 2nd day that my temperature gague was also spiking within about 5 mins of driving over 30-40 miles an hour.

The dealer told me that basically my thermostat has disentegrated and has fallen inside of the water pump. Both need to be replaced and it's going to be $700.

He then told me they're recommending the following based on my 60k checkup. I didn't get a good feel whether or not these were required because of issues they had found, or whether these are just normal things recommended at this point. Can anybody help clarify? With a $700 bill, I'm not anxious to spend a lot more if it can wait. Although I could probably handle some of this myself, I don't have a lot of free time lately and would rather just get it taken care of if it's not a huge rip off.

60k service:
$29 oil change + replace fuel filter $60
$115 fuel injection
$119 cooling system
$98 power steering
$189 auto trans incl 16qt fluid
$66 transfer case
$129 rear diff
$66 front diff

Assuming I did everything he's recommending, I'm looking at about a $1500 bill. Ouch.

 

[ma96782]

I'm not a RICH guy....................so, I do my own work (when I can). For some folks making money (at their job) is time better spent............then, crawling around a car..................and then there is "family time."

Those prices are high (dealership prices).............mostly cause I can't see me payin' that much for "simple jobs."

But........an oil place could do some of the work you mentioned alot cheaper. Dealership prices are notorious for being high. You might wanna look around......ask friends......for a good/honest mechanic (they are priceless).

Aloha,Mark

PS..............If you want to DIY...........alot of those jobs are doable by a home mechanic (you).............get a Haynes book or just ask here on this site.

 

[shaker1]

Basically, they are changing out all the fluids for a cost of appx. $800. Their prices ARE a bit high. Much of that you could do yourself. Or shop aroung for better pricing.

A little perspective: The transfer case takes a few quarts of auto trans fluid ($10 DIY) and it is as simple as changing your oil. You will need a $5 fluid pump.

The front diff (on my 98) takes 3.5 pints of 80w90 and you need a $10 suction gun to pull out the old fluid ($20 total cost DIY). Rear diff 5.5 pints 80w90 and RTV gasket sealant ($15 DIY) Check your drivers side door jamb sticker for the axle code, look here for your gear ratio. Then check you owners manual for your vehicles capacity and lubricant variety.

Oil change with filter $15 DIY.

Fuel filter $15, removal tool $10. Gasoline smell up your arm: Priceless.

I pulled off the hose for my power steering at the cooler, put it back on and added 2/3 quart Mercon. Cost $2

My Ford Dealer did my auto trans fluid flush for $129. Independants do it for under $100.

Antifreeze is a moot point, since they will be draining yours when they do the waterpump. You should only have to pay for the new fluid, not labor.

If your fuel injectors aren't acting up, run a bottle of Gumout large vehicle injector cleaner though every 3 months as a preventative measure. I do that and at 123K miles, it runs like a clock.

But, as you pointed out it does take a little time. Do whatever you feel you can and shop the other services for a better price at a trustworthy independant.

 

[exploded99]

Check your owners manual for the services needed at 60k. Most independent shops have a 50k, 60k 75k 100k service that includes everything for say 400 or 500.

You really don't need a dealer to just change fluids - any shop can do that. I have had good luck with swis auto - you might call them, tell them what you need, and get a quote. DON'T tell them what the dealer quoted you.

Have the thermostat replaced and then see if the water pump is ok - that explanation sounds bogus to me. Remember, service writers at dealerships work on commission.

 

[brianboru]

Thanks guys for the feedback. I had them take care of the pump and thermostat but held off on the rest until I can do a little more looking into it.

Thanks for saving me a little cash.