I went into the dealership for the 40k mile service which involved some fluid changes, tire rotation and brake wear test. I walked out of there $1300 poorer, after they nickel and dimed me for a bunch of other things that came up during the inspection. I even turned down some of the “suggested services.” I won’t be going back there again. Anyone else get this treatment?
The problem is that when it comes to dealerships, there is a massive power imbalance. When you go into a Best Buy to buy a computer, chances are you know what you want, all the prices are clearly labeled in the store, it’s easy to compare prices with other retailers, you know how much computers should cost, etc. Best Buy has very little opportunity to swindle you. But that’s why they swindle old people, upsell them, and load them up with geek squad warranties. Computers are to old people as cars are to most people.
Most people going into a dealership for car trouble don’t know what’s wrong with their car, none of the prices are transparent, there’s no way to compare prices, people don’t know how much stuff should cost, the technical details are confusing to them, etc. This gives dealerships open opportunity to capitalize on their conflict of interest and prey on you.
It’s why I’d encourage everyone to at least learn a little bit about cars and basic parts & maintenance.
Um all that information is online. Google it. But I love cars so I’m always reading and watching car shit