Car Repair Prices: Further Evidence that 98% of ALL Repair Shops Price-Gouge

According the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it is estimated that automotive service consumers are scammed tens of billions of dollars every year. Repair shops—dealerships, local shops, and franchises—are repeatedly at the top of consumer complaint lists every year. Multiple undercover investigations have caught repair centers red-handed ripping people off. Government agencies across the nation warn against service center repair scams. Consumer advocate groups constantly provide tips and suggestions to avoid getting ripped-off. Service industry insiders continually step forward to expose service industry abuses. Study after study reveals that service centers are manipulating industry guidelines. There’s a real problem! Yet, there are still skeptics.

The above comments are sweeping strikes against an industry so vital to the community. Yet even these known facts don’t take into account the unknown. Ripping people off in the automotive service industry is so ingrained in the business design and culture it’s considered normal. In other words, before one even begins to uncover excessive charges, this self-regulating industry hasn’t just stacked the deck, it has built and entire house of cards.

The bulk of auto repair scams go unnoticed (in spite of the tens of billions already recognized scammed from service clients yearly). Few understand the service industry’s pricing guidelines and accountability structures, much less its scams and tactics. Service customers have no idea if they were charged fairly or not. Most customers leave actually thanking their service representative when they should be questioning the bill!

Service centers are quick to protest, shouting, “We’re honest and fair.” Yet, when questioned on their billing practices they don’t know, follow, or even understand established guidelines.

If they don’t know the rules, then how are they playing the game? The answer is simple: they make the rules up based on loose interpretations of industry guidelines. Loose interpretations allow for a plethora of pricing abuses. Is it any wonder every state has warnings about car repair scams—including Alaska!

In the process of developing a solution to end price-gouging, RepairTrust has stated that 98% of ALL repair shops are ripping people off in one form or another. During these studies, estimations actually pointed to 100% of service centers price-gouging. However, we allowed for a margin of error and reduced this to 98%.

In light of the ever-increasing evidence of repair scams and pricing abuses, RepairTrust may reconsider the margin of error!

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance

Here are some Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance tips. Provided you follow factory Routine Auto Maintenance Schedules, Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance is simple…

Here’s what to do:

• Clean your car inside and out—windows too! Cleaning your car is a great way to get to know it. For example, you may notice worn tires or a broken lamp.

• Set tire pressures to factory specifications. Adjust tire pressures according to your owner’s manual, especially if you are hauling significant weight.

• Check the fluids, belts and hoses—with most of today’s cars, these can be checked quickly with a peek under the hood.

• Test all your wiper blades to ensure they’re cleaning well. Replace as needed.

• Check all your exterior lights, including fog lamps as applicable.

• If you’re close to your next scheduled vehicle maintenance, get it done.

Use FREE Auto Maintenance Software as your Vehicle Mileage & Maintenance Record Book.

Have it right on your desktop!

Important: your mechanic does not need to know you’re taking a trip. Sad as it is, "taking a trip" is often used to take advantage of service customers. Check out 10 Things You JUST NEVER SAY to Your Mechanic for more information.


-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

Snow Tires: Do I Need Snow Tires?

With all of today’s traction control and stability control systems, and front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive vehicles, it can be a bit confusing when trying to decide the value of snow tires. Following is a break down of the rules.

Rule 1: no matter what traction electronics a vehicle has, in the snow, it boils down to rubber-meets-the-road-traction

Rule 2: traction comes from your tires gripping the road. No grip, no traction. Traction is important not just for stability, but steering, braking, and propulsion

Rule 3: some all-season tires are adequate in the snow, many are not. Various tires that are “rated” all-season have sport tire attributes, and are inadequate in the snow—even dangerous. SUVs with sport tires (DUBS) run into this scenario quite often

Rule 4: the best all-season tire is not better in the snow than a premium snow tire

Rule 5: all season tires can stiffen in cold weather—stiff tires, less traction

Rule 6: snow tires really do make a noticeable difference

Rule 7: replace all four to maximize safety. Replacing only two encourages unequal traction, which leads to loss of control

Rule 8: snow tires will feel/ride differently, but nothing like the days of knobby, studded-snow tires. Tire technology has come a long way, and there are many snow tires on the market that ride beautifully

Rule 9: consider a rim and tire package. It makes swapping to your snows a breeze

Rule 10: you don’t have to use snow tires. In a safe area, try driving on your regular tires in the snow. If you’re all over the road, get some snows. If your car feels fine, great. Save your
money!

These comments are intended as a general guide. Refer to your owner’s manual for particular vehicle requirements.

Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

10 Things You JUST NEVER SAY to Your Mechanic

When speaking to your mechanic or service representative, there are many things one should never say. Sad as this is, certain questions and requests can trigger multiple price-gouging tactics from your service center. Following is a list of ten statements in random order. The term “mechanic” may be exchanged for “technician,” “service representative,” “service advisor,” “owner,” “service manager,” or anyone that you deal with when having your vehicle serviced.

1) Do I need a tune-up?
This innocent question seeks to ensure that your vehicle is up-to-speed with its maintenance. However, it reveals that you know nothing about your car’s maintenance and can therefore be “easily” taken advantage of.

What your mechanic is thinking: Puddy in my hands!

Instead: ask what services are due for your vehicle given its age and mileage according to your manufacturer guidelines. Also visit www.repairtrust.com/maintenance.html for an overview of today’s maintenance needs.

2) Do I need tires?
Essentially what you’re asking is whether or not your tires are safe, and if they are wearing normally given the current mileage.

What your mechanic is thinking: Cha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your tires be checked to ensure that they are “wearing normally given the current mileage.” You should be provided with tread-depth measurements, and any other notable conditions such as cupping, abnormal wear, sidewall damage, bubbles, dry-rot—cracks or splits in the rubber—and any other pertinent information.

3) I’m taking a trip.
This comment is a safety concern. It’s great that you’re taking a trip—have a nice time—but your mechanic doesn’t need to know this.

What your mechanic is thinking: This guy’s nervous about his car making the trip. I can sell him anything! You may even see a reflection of $$$$ signs flash in his eyes.

Instead: tell your mechanic that you want to ensure that your vehicle is in sound condition. If you are following a factory maintenance schedule with a decent service center, they should be keeping you up-to-date with your vehicle’s condition and needs. If not, find another shop.

4) My son’s going off to college.
Congratulations, but your mechanic doesn’t need to know this either. You’re concern is with your vehicle’s integrity in order to protect your child.

What your mechanic is thinking: Daddy can foot the college bill…Cha-Ching!

Instead: ask that your vehicle be checked over to determine that it’s in sound operating condition, as you would like to keep it for a few years (hopefully four). Request a list of anything your vehicle may need in the order of priority—safety being the most important factor.

5) I know it’s probably something bad.
It’ll be bad alright. The service industry is extremely negative. Don’t add to it!

What your mechanic is thinking: Bad for you, anyway.

Instead: keep a positive attitude. If you’re frustrated or nervous about the expense, then say that. In truth, most repairs are simple. If not, find another shop, or get another car.

6) Take all the time you need. I just want it fixed right.
You’re clearly patient, and probably a perfectionist, which is fine. But…

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge all the money I need! Charge all the money I want! Got it!

Instead: try saying, “I am particular about my car, and would like it fixed correctly the first time. Please make your best effort to put my vehicle in the hands of the most qualified technician to address my concern(s). And please keep me up-to-date with its progress and any additional costs.”

7) Just do whatever.
You either really don’t care or money is not an issue.

What your mechanic is thinking: Charge whatever!

Instead: take a moment and say, “Please perform all services according to manufacturer guidelines only. If my vehicle needs any further repairs, please notify me in advance with the break down of the costs.”

8) I’m taking a trip to Europe; please drop my car off at the Ritz Carlton when you’re done.
Drop offs are a common request—although Europe and the Ritz aren’t so common.

What your mechanic is thinking: Actually, in this case, he’s probably singing…I’m in the money…I’m in the money…

Instead: request what services you would like while you’re away, but then provide a contact number to be notified of “any” additional services, recommendations, and costs.

9) Just fix it.
This request generally reflects one who lacks the time or patience to worry about the details, and wants his or her vehicle back as quickly as possible.

What your mechanic is thinking: No Problemo…Mucho Dinero!

Instead: remember that the devil’s in the details. Request to be notified of any additional costs to demonstrate that your wallet is not a free-for-all.

10) Do you want my credit card now?
The motive here may be expediency and efficiency.

What your mechanic is thinking: No problem paying! No problem charging!

Instead: request that you be advised of any costs above and beyond what you agree to at the time of your appointment. Pay after. Always pay after.

All the above comments, requests, and questions, while innocent, are taken advantage of daily in the automotive service industry. These statements “reveal your hand.” You may have a long and trusting relationship with your service center, but for God’s sake, keep your cards in!

There’s truth in humor.
The truth hurts.
The truth will set you free.

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

Car Warning Lights: Is My Car Going to Blow Up?

Today’s vehicles are equipped with an array of warning lights. Of course we’re all familiar will the seat belt warning and the door ajar indicator; however, with the automotive industry’s technological advancements there are a number of warning lights that can be quite alarming.

Following is a Question and Answer Guide on some of the more common Warning Light concerns. Note: due to the frequency of the Check Engine Warning Light, it has a section all its own. Visit www.repairtrust.com/check.html.

SRS Light (Supplemental Restraint System): the supplemental restraint system is your Airbag System. It may incorporate a variety of active, passive, and even pre-safe technology depending on the vehicle. Given that the SRS System is a safety system, it is well monitored with numerous sensors and automatic self-tests. The slightest malfunction in this system illuminates the SRS light.

• Can the vehicle be driven with an SRS Light on? Yes, at the owner’s risk. There are thousands of vehicles on the road without SRS technology.

• Is the airbag going to blow up? It’s unlikely. When the SRS Light is on the system is inoperative.

ABS Lights: The Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light is another common occurrence in today’s vehicles. The ABS system helps to keep you from skidding out of control during braking by limiting your wheels from locking up/skidding.

The ABS system is often integrated with traction control and stability systems, all of which are designed to keep you safe during panic stops, wheel slippage, and handling.

• Do I need brakes? You might, but that’s not why the ABS Light is on. The ABS Warning System does not monitor disc brake pad or disc brake rotor wear (see the Padlight Warning section below)

• Can the vehicle be driven? Like the SRS system, the vehicle can be driven at the owner’s risk as there are many vehicles still on the market without the enhanced safety features of ABS.

• Why is my ABS light on? How do I reset the ABS Light? These are simple questions with a multitude of answers depending on the vehicle in question. For a QUICK and FREE solution, follow the information and guidelines for Resetting Check Engine Light, and apply them to your ABS light.

Low Coolant Light: The Low Coolant Light will come on when the coolant drops below the coolant level sensor—generally one to two quarts. If this light is on, there are two primary possibilities. The most common is a coolant leak. The other is an electrical fault in the warning lamp circuit. Have them checked out.

• Can it be driven? If there are no major leaks, the vehicle is not overheating (and does not start to overheat), and there is still some evidence of coolant in the overflow bottle, it can be driven. If you can see coolant leaking on the ground—tow it. When in doubt, always tow it!
  

Red Oil Light On: Stop driving immediately and shut the engine off! If a Red Oil Warning Light comes on PAY ATTENTION.

The best case scenario is that your engine oil is a little low. The second best case scenario is that there is an electrical issue with the Oil Level Warning System circuit.

First, follow your owners’ manual’s instructions to check your oil. If low, add as recommended—make sure you don’t see it dripping or pouring out on the ground, which would indicate a “major” engine leak.

If the oil is not low and your engine is making ticking, knocking, or unusual noises, Tow it!

If everything appears ok, and you’re a bit of a gambler, it may just be an issue with the warning lamp circuit. In this case, get your vehicle checked out at your earliest convenience.

The worst case scenario is internal engine damage.

Note: many of today’s vehicles have very sensitive and sophisticated Oil Level Warning Systems. You may be alerted of oil level too high, or oil level too low. Again, refer to your owners’ manual’s instructions.

So whether it’s a 1993 Ford Aerostar Check Oil Light, or a question of “Why does oil light flash in Saab automobile,” PAY ATTENTION!

Red Brake Warning Lights: Generally, Red Warning Lights mean DANGER. In the case of a Red Brake Warning Light, there may be a hydraulic brake fluid leak. If the brake pedal feels abnormal or spongy—don’t drive—Tow It!

• Can I drive it? If the car is stopping ok, and you’re a gambler, go ahead. If the brake pedal feels different than usual, or if the vehicle is not stopping properly, don’t drive it!

Note: make sure that your emergency brake is not on or partially engaged, as this will illuminate a Red Brake Warning Light.

Yellow Brake Warning Light (Padlight): This is an early warning system for brake pad wear. Essentially, as your disc brake pads wear down, at a certain point a sensor is tripped to alert you that you will need brakes soon.

• Can I drive the vehicle, and for how long? Yes, you can continue to drive. How long depends on your driving style. City drivers (city driving is generally harder on brakes due to the constant stop and go) will likely need their brakes addressed before someone who does primarily highway driving.

• Will I do more damage to the brakes? Depending on how long you continue to drive you could conceivably wear your disc brake pads down to the metal backing plate, which could then damage your disc brake rotors and, in rare cases, the disc brake calipers. However, with many of today’s brake systems, the replacement of the disc brake rotors along with the disc brake pads is required or strongly recommended.

Important: It is better to have your brakes checked early to increase the possibility of saving money by not having to replace the rotors. However, many of today’s brake disc pads and rotors require replacement not due to wear, but due to rust and corrosion; thus rotor replacement is often necessary anyway. Brake calipers rarely need replacing during regular brake work.

Air Suspension Lights (Airmatic, Air Ride, Hydraulic Suspensions): Suspension Warning Lights illuminate when the suspension’s monitoring system has detected a fault. Often there is a leak—either air or hydraulic fluid.

• Can I Drive It? Sometimes. But if the suspension is lower than usual, and/or the vehicle just doesn’t feel right—Tow It! Extensive damage could result if the suspension drops too low while driving.

Note: air suspension system repairs are best left to the best, state-of-the-art service center you can find, preferably a dealership.

Tire Pressure Warning Light: This recent technological development causes quite a bit of confusion. Put simply, if your tire is getting low on air, your car lets you know via sensors mounted in various places depending on the model.

• What is the low tire pressure warning light reset procedure? Sometimes the reset procedure is as simple as pressing a button. Other times one has to set the tire pressures, recalibrate the on-board computer, genuflect and cross two fingers. Check your owners’ manual or call a specialist or dealer.

Note: Local shops and franchises (for the most part) lack familiarity with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems given that this is a fairly recent technological development. You can refer to How to Reset Check Engine Light, and follow the tips, and suggestions for getting it reset.

Emission Warning Light: This light is similar to the Check Engine Light. Many European models such as Volvos have this type of Warning System. It’s essentially letting you know that an emissions component has failed or detected a fault. Follow the Check Engine Light information and tips to address this particular warning light.

Note: make sure you take it to a shop equipped to handle emissions work.

Resetting Oil Lights (Oil Change Warning Lamps): Whether it’s a Toyota Oil Light Procedure, an Oil Change Warning Light Reset 2005 GMC Envoy, or the process to Reset 1999 M3 Oil Service Light, all require a specific course of action.

Most owners’ manuals have this information. You should find it under maintenance or oil service. You can also call your local mechanic, who resets oil service lights everyday on a variety of models. A dealership will certainly have the information; however, finding someone in a dealership who can translate it effectively may be difficult.

If the above fails, see the process for Resetting Check Engine Light.

Note: several European models require special tools to reset the oil service light, thus it’s best to call or visit a specialist or dealer.

Note: This information is not a substitute for your vehicle’s owners’ manual. It is meant to be a general guide. Always refer to manufacturer vehicle-specific guidelines.

Note: PAY ATTENTION to how you are billed for any of the above warning concerns. Because of their technical nature they can get “unnecessarily” very pricy, quickly.

Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com
Making Sense of Auto Repair Cost Estimates

Car Repair Prices: Who Charges More, Dealerships or Local Shops?

Many argue that dealership prices are 4 to 6 times higher than local shops. This is farfetched. That would mean that $100 at a local shop would be $400 to $600 at a dealership. Dealerships aren’t run by the sharpest businessmen, but this kind of pricing discrepancy would put dealers out of business, fast. The sources calculating such pricing gaps are never quoted, so I am not sure from where such data comes, but let’s look at what’s really going on.

First, 98 % of ALL service centers are overcharging. For supporting documentation of this claim, see excessive car repair prices. This includes dealerships, local shops and franchises. Stating that dealerships charge four to six times higher unfairly singles out this portion of the industry. We need to watch out for every type of service facility. While it’s always easier to focus on the big, faceless name of a dealership, it’s unwise. Your local mechanic who you pass in the grocery store is just as likely to rip you off.

Surprisingly, in many respects, a dealership is often less expensive. To be clear, I am not siding with dealerships. Again, no matter what type of facility one services a vehicle, some type of price-gouging will occur. Having said that, here are some common myths about dealership prices.

Myth One:
The parts are more money.
This is not true. Dealers, for the most part, stick to MSRP (manufacturer suggested retail price) guidelines. Guidelines, as abused as they are, are better than none. Local shops have no guidelines. They can charge whatever they want.

We've all been taught that aftermarket parts are less expensive than factory/MSRP parts—this is not true. A frequent “case in point” is air filter prices. Below is a sample from one of many actual invoices:

• Dealership/MSRP Price: $17.00 (factory fiber filter)
• Local Shop/Aftermarket Price: $32.00 (aftermarket paper filter)

Tip…always compare you’re aftermarket part price against MSRP, you’ll be surprised just how much your local garage is charging you for inferior parts.

Myth 2:
The labor “time” is higher.
Actually, many dealers follow manufacturer recommendations and industry standard multipliers. In other words, they’re not just shooting from the hip. The labor time (i.e., how long it takes to repair something—1, 2, 3 hours…etc.) may be lower than the resulting times from the labor price-gouging tricks practiced by your local garage.

This is not to say that dealers don’t practice labor tricks—they’re the masters! It is to say that they are more inclined to follow suggested guidelines.

Myth 3:
Dealers always rip people off.
In the automotive service industry, every type of service center rips you off, dealers are no exception.

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

Car Repair Prices: The Dim Underworld of Automotive Service

Most know the most glaring auto repair pricing abuses: Service centers overcharging $100’s even $1000’s for repairs, or charging for service that was never done at all. To be sure, this still happens every day. However, there are many other techniques which involve flying just low enough to avoid detection. The savvy service centers increase the price so as not to set off any alarms. It’s become so common that it’s not just an accepted industry practice, but even service customers have accepted paying higher prices.

Knowing how ingrained price-gouging is within the automotive service industry, it’s shocking (although understandable) that even service customers have succumbed to excessive car repair prices. I frequently hear service customers’ state: “Yeah, I know I was ripped off, but my car’s fixed now.” Or, “I know they charge too much, but they’re convenient.”

This is insane! To accept auto repair price-gouging is to allow its continuation. The difficult part, of course, is how to stop it. Given that the automotive service industry is so big and powerful (and so frightfully necessary) how does one battle such a force?

Perhaps the first thing to understand is the degree to which this type of stealth-like price-gouging occurs. A two-decade undercover investigation has revealed that 98% of all repair shops (dealerships, local shops, and franchises) are price-gouging their customers in one form or another.

The following exchange, between a service manager and service advisor, provides an idea of the “scope of scamming” below the radar.

A service advisor asked his manager how to bill more hours per month, which is another way of asking how the advisor can make more money. The service manager casually stated: “Simply add an additional two tenths to every ticket you write.”

In other words, every customer the service advisor “helps,” he was instructed by a superior to add a “little” extra. So if the labor rate is $100 per hour that would equal $20. Rather than pay $100 per hour, the service customer would actuually pay $120.

$20 doesn’t sound like much compared to the gross injustices we’ve all heard about. However, whether it’s an overcharge of two cents or $20, it’s too much. If you visit a shop practicing this strategy alone (there are hundreds of strategies, many applied simultaneously), you may end up paying over a $100 or more by year’s end.

What’s really shocking is that being ripped off $100 over a year’s time is actually minor!

Try $500-$5000

-Theodore P. Olson
Auto Repair Fair Prices

Check Engine Lights: Myths and Facts

You’re driving along and suddenly your Check Engine Light comes on. What does it mean? Check Engine Light, Check Engine Soon Light, Service Engine Soon Light, Engine Light, Engine Management Light, whatever you want to call it, simply means that your vehicle’s computer system has detected a problem.

Depending on the year, make, and model, it may be related to the engine, the transmission, even the brakes and suspension. There are literally hundreds of reasons a Check Engine Light may appear. The following questions and answers discussion will clarify the truth about Check Engine Lights…

Service Engine Soon Light FAQ:

Can the car be driven? The general rule is: if the Service Engine Soon Light is on, and the car seems to be running ok, you can drive it. However, you should have it checked at your earliest convenience.

If your vehicle is running poorly—bucking, stalling, hesitating, or you just don’t feel safe, tow it. When in doubt always tow it!

The check engine light went out by itself. Is it ok now? Probably not. Check Engine Lights often come and go. Even if the light is out, your vehicle’s computer system will retain information that will allow the problem to be diagnosed. To avoid potential long term issues, get it checked out.

My check engine light stays on. What should I do?
If your check engine light stays on constantly, follow the instructions above, under “Can the car be driven?” Don’t panic.

Can I disconnect the battery, or pull a fuse to reset the service engine soon light? Maybe, but I wouldn’t. Removing the battery cable or an ECM or PCM fuse may clear the code, but it is not universally recommended in the industry. Most manufacturers advise against it. See the Best Way to Reset Check Engine Light Codes below.

What is the Check Engine Light?
The Check Engine Light is a warning light for multiple systems operating in your vehicle. In simplest terms, it’s like an engine management warning light to alert you of a problem. Just like your computer pops up with an “error message window” saying that something’s wrong, your service engine soon light pops up to warn you that it has detected a malfunction: mechanical, technical, software, or otherwise.

How to Reset Check Engine Light?
This is a great question! I get it all the time. See the guide below.

Resetting Check Engine Light:
First, if your Check Engine Light is on, it’s on for a reason. The Check Engine Light indicates that your vehicle’s on-board computers have stored a fault code. There are hundreds of fault codes, any one or more could be stored in the computers memory.

Fault codes are critical for accurate diagnoses of the problem.

Sometimes the fault code points directly to a faulty component, allowing for a quick diagnoses and repair. Other times, the code may only indicate a problem circuit and thus extensive diagnostic procedures may be required.

By resetting the Service Engine Soon Light, it erases important fault code data that turned the check engine light on in the first place. Without this critical information, the root problem can not be discerned.

Unfortunately, there is no universally accepted way to safely turn off a check engine light. Even if there was, if the root problem is not addressed, it will come back on.

So whether it’s a Chevrolet Service Engine Soon Light, Camry Check Engine Light, Mighty Max Check Engine Light, or a 1993 Thunderbird Check Engine Light, they require individual procedures to diagnose, repair, and reset the check engine light code.

Following is a Safe and FREE way for resetting check engine light codes.

Best Way to Reset Check Engine Light Codes:
If you’re not interested in diagnosing your truck, SUV or car Check Engine Light, or it’s already fixed, and you just want the engine light out, visit any local repair shop. Most shops will have a universal Check Engine Light Code Reader that can quickly and safely reset, and check engine light trouble codes. It should take about 30 seconds.

Note: European models are better off with a specialist, and some older vehicles may require more time.

Here’s what to do:
Politely ask your local service center (ask a technician if you see one) if they could reset the check engine light with their Check Engine Light Code Reader. They may protest, arguing that the problem must first be diagnosed.

Tell the service representative that you understand fully, and that you appreciate his professionalism. But that you would just like to try resetting the Service Engine Soon Light, and if it comes on again, you’ll come back for a full diagnosis.

Be genuine. Service representatives respond positively to sincerity. If the service center wants to charge you just to reset your Service Engine Light, try another facility.

IMPORTANT, check engine light repairs can be quite costly given their technical nature. Service centers can easily hide behind complex technical language to inflate the difficulty of your Check Engine Light concern.

Theodore P. Olson

Service Engine Soon Light

Tune-Ups Are Dead: The Truth About Today’s Routine

Auto Maintenance Schedules

Automobile maintenance is nothing like it used to be. Thank God! In the past, your vehicle required regular replacement of a variety of parts: spark plugs, ignition wires, PCV valves, distributor caps, ignition rotors, and more.

With the exception of spark plugs, technology has replaced most of these with advanced, integrated ignition systems. Nevertheless, vehicle maintenance is still vital. So what does your vehicle really need in order to maintain it? Put another way: “What am I paying $300, $400, $500 for anyway?”

Given the abundance of car maintenance questions, let’s put the general requirements of today’s vehicle maintenance management into two categories:

• Tune-Ups
• Regular Vehicle Maintenance

IMPORTANT: always refer to your manufacturer’s guidelines for your car or truck maintenance information.

Tune-Ups, Car Maintenance and Problems

Let’s start with tune ups. Tune-ups are a thing of the past. As mentioned above, most of today’s vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, which has replaced many wearable parts. While there are still many vehicles on the road with the above parts, they are fading fast.

Today’s tune-ups are incorporated into regular vehicle maintenance. In the past, they were often considered separate auto maintenance.

This is helpful. If you're wondering when you need a tune-up, just follow your manufacturer's maintenance interval. More importantly, find a shop that will actually follow your manufacturer's maintenance interval.

What makes up today’s tune-up? There are generally only four primary tune-up components, many of which have extended replacement time intervals (auto extended maintenance). For example, some fuel filters last the life of the vehicle, others last 60,000-miles. Today’s platinum spark plugs easily last 100,000-miles.

This reduces primary tune-up components down to only two:

Air Filters: Some air filters can last 60,000 miles. Although most last between 15,000 to 30,000 miles. There are lifetime performance air filters, but these require maintenance.

Cabin Filters: Cabin filters filter the incoming air of dust and debris, helping to keep your interior clean and dust free. They require replacement starting around 10,000 miles. Not every vehicle is equipped with cabin filters.

Following is a break-down of today’s most common tune up parts:

Tune Ups:

1. Air Filters

2. Fuel Filters

3. Cabin Filters (also called dust filters, or HVAC filters)

4. Spark Plugs

Now, if we add tire maintenance—rotation, balance, replacement, and alignments, that about covers the extent of vehicle maintenance services for today’s vehicles. Then there are various maintenance inspections: brakes, front end, under-carriage, belts, hoses, and battery. Lastly, we can’t forget wiper blades and miscellaneous lubrication services.

But generally, that’s it!

Important Note on Tire Rotation: many manufacturer maintenance sheet guidelines neglect the importance of tire rotations, which creates confusion. To keep it simple: rotate your tires approximately every 5,000 miles, as applicable.

Finally: Car Maintenance Online Help & Car Maintenance Schedule

Vehicle Maintenance Management procedures are variable, pending the year, make and model. Again, I have separated vehicle maintenance from the Tune-Up section above for clarity. Today, tune-ups and maintenance procedures are performed together during service intervals.

Follow your factory maintenance interval and you're set!

Below is a general break-down to five vehicle maintenance services:

General Vehicle Maintenance:

1. Oil and Oil Filter Service

2. Coolant/Antifreeze Flush

3. Brake System Flush

4. Transmission Fluid Service

5. Differential/Gear Box/Transfer Case Services

And that’s about it!

So if auto maintenance has been drastically reduced by technological advancements, why are the prices still so high? The answer: You’re getting ripped off! 98% of ALL repair facilities are price-gouging you, the service customer.

It’s considered normal.

Theodore P. Olson

Routine Auto Maintenance Schedules

www.repairtrust.com

Car Repair Prices: Fuel Injection Services, Are They Worth It?

Fuel injection services are growing in popularity for the following reasons in the order of motive.

1. Increases service center's profit
2. It's an easy sell with today’s gas prices
3. Offsets manufacturers' maintenance reductions, and extended life systems
4. Poor gas quality
5. Poor adherence to vehicle maintenance

Notice that "It's required" did not make the list. That's because fuel injection services are not required the majority of the time. In short, if your fuel efficiency is fine don’t bother with a fuel injection service—Save Your Money!

However, injector services are at times beneficial, even necessary. See the following frequently asked question and answers…

What do they do?

Depending on the product, injection services clean naturally forming carbon deposits from the fuel injectors and fuel rails—some will even clean the fuel tank, and valve carbon deposits.

Do they work?

In short, yes. Provided it’s a premium product (such as BG), and the service is performed correctly. Fuel injection services can do amazing things. They can improve fuel efficiency, increase horse power, and repair some performance concerns, although this last benefit is rare.

Whether or not fuel injection services will do all the above "every time" is another story.

I have even seen fuel injection services quiet horrendous carbon knocks--a knocking noise from the engine due to excessive carbon build-up coming in contact with internal engine components.

Are they worth it?

Maybe. It really depends on the condition of the vehicle. If the service achieves any of the advertised claims, it may be worth it. In truth, most cars don’t need it. The consistent use of quality fuel, and proper vehicle maintenance should be all that is necessary to keep a car running properly.

However, consistent use of cheap gas and poor adherence to an auto maintenance schedule, as well as certain driving styles can significantly increase the accumulation of carbon deposits. Thus the possibility of poor fuel efficiency, decreased horsepower, and performance issues increases--all of which could be helped by injector maintenance.

The other factor to consider is the expense. How much fuel savings justifies the cost of the fuel injection service, and how long is the pay off. BG claims that their product will pay for itself in a year's time. However, remember that the condition of the vehicle is a big variable!

How often should it be done?

It depends on the product, but generally between 15,000 to 30,000-miles is the average.

Are they necessary?

It depends: See the discussion under Are they worth it?

Can a fuel injection service do any damage to my engine or car?

Not if done correctly. Done incorrectly, anything goes. A technician could conceivably hydro-lock your engine, or blow a hole in the piston—although both scenarios are rare.

If anything does go wrong, there is usually an underlying problem, which gets exacerbated by the fuel injector auto maintenance.

Why doesn’t my manufacturer recommend fuel injector cleaning auto maintenance?

No manufacturer recommends fuel injector cleaning auto maintenance under normal operating conditions. From a manufacturer’s viewpoint: take care of your car right (i.e., as the manufacturer dictates) and you’ll be fine.

However, depending on the problem, some manufacturers will recommend fuel injector cleaning auto maintenance as the cure—especially carbon knock. With the variety of fuel qualities available, manufacturers may reconsider fuel injector cleaning auto maintenance.

How much does fuel injector cleaning auto maintenance cost?

Prices vary depending on the service center and the actual procedure performed, and product used. The procedure you want should clean the entire fuel system including the tank and should not cost more than $150.

Also, make sure the service is actually performed as fuel injector maintenance is a common scam across the industry.

Lastly, fuel injection maintenance is also presented in such a way as if it is the magical cure for all your car's quirks--it not!

When in doubt, don't do it.

-Theodore P. Olson

www.repairtrust.com

Making sense of Car Repair Prices

Car Repair Prices: Jiving the Talk, Jacking the Price

The automotive industry is slowly expanding its vocabulary. For decades service customers were accustomed to such greetings as "Yeah, wudda ya want?" Or such in-depth diagnostic explanations as "It’s all set!" The industry is learning that it can’t get away with this "Joe’s Garage mentality" of service. What the industry has learned is to pack its vocabulary with value—real or fabricated.

Most service facilities get the repair description from the technician. A typical technician’s description of a repair is quite brief. He may write: "Changed oil." If one is lucky, he may add, "and filter" too. For an oil change this may be a good enough description to justify the $29.95.

However, what if there was a serious diagnostic problem such as a car not shifting gears properly? What if the technician determines the vehicle needs a new transmission for $3700. A description stating: "Replaced trans," for a whopping $3700 does not justify the expense—it doesn’t show the value.

To be sure, most shops still practice abbreviated descriptions; however, the sharper ones have discovered the value of jive talk. Jive talk is technical jargon used to embellish the repair or service description to inflate the price.

Some jive talk is justifiable, as today’s cars are very technical. Here’s a description that shows the value for transmission diagnostics and replacement:

Customers Complaint: Vehicle consistently hesitates when shifting between first and second gears.

Cause/Description: (Technician notes)

Step One: Road tested vehicle. Mileage documentation 5 miles: 37,455 to 37,460. Confirmed customer’s concern. Vehicle is not shifting properly between first and second gears. Performed basic and visual inspections: no signs of exterior damage, transmission fluid clean and full, external conditions normal.

Step Two: Set up diagnostic equipment and performed full diagnostic scan. Retrieved multiple transmission codes" 0032—shift solenoid malfunction, 0098—park indicator malfunction, 0098—torque converter error, 0987—transmission control module fault.

Step Three: Per manufacturer guidelines, began diagnostic tests to pinpoint error. Cleared all trouble codes, recalibrated transmission, shift points, and road tested vehicle. Mileage documentation 4 miles: 37460 to 37464. No change in shifting concern. Rescanned vehicle, all codes returned.

Step Four: Continued tests per factory guides: Removed all necessary parts and hardware in order lower transmission pan to inspect valve body. Valve body intact, but found particles of metal at the bottom of the transmission pan.

Step Five: Continuing diagnostic evaluation, removed valve body to inspect. Found damaged retaining pin on top off valve body. Suspect major internal transmission fault.

Step Six: Dismantled transmission and found multiple broken and/or fractured transmission components.

Technician Recommendation: Vehicle needs a new or rebuilt transmission. (Estimate with parts and labor break down attached)

I won’t continue with a complete parts and labor outline, but the idea here is that this description (which would continue with the actual step-by-step removal and replacement procedure of the transmission) shows the value. In other words, you’ll be leaving the service facility with documentation longer than a paragraph, which in many ways is comforting—you got what you paid for.

Here’s the twist, the detailed description above was a total fabrication. It was a "real-life" car repair scam. While the vehicle did have a transmission problem, it was fixed with the replacement of a new control module and recalibration. This particular repair costs about $876, parts, tax, labor, and diagnostics.

With the industry’s new vocabulary skills, a little bit a jive talk opens wide the door for price-gouging scams in the $1000’s.

This is not to say that every facility takes it to the extreme described above. However, by learning how to express itself, the industry has learned to charge significantly more for car repair prices without actually doing anymore work.

-Theodore P. Olson
Auto Estimate Repair Solutions

There Are No Honest Mechanics!

I enjoy reading the tips and suggestions on finding an honest or good mechanic. These can be found on various government and consumer websites. I think the same guy wrote all the suggestions for all 50 states.

You’ll be advised to check around by word of mouth (WOM), and make sure that you see ASE or AAA posted somewhere. Check out the facility—makes sure it’s clean. Check with the BBB. You’ll be acronymed and common sense suggested to death. None of it will really help.

I know AAA certified shops that can barely change oil. I have worked with ASE certified technicians that frightened me with their diagnostic theories. I know shops that are consider great that have serious BBB scars. And WOM is actually the worst method. I have heard clients rave about how wonderful a particular shop is when I KNOW it’s run by a thief!

Tips and suggestions only scratch at the surface of the automotive underworld. Sure, some tips might help. What’s really needed is experienced insider information. The consumer needs to know what really goes on, and how to identify what’s really going on in order to make sense of auto repair costs. With the right guidance, automotive customers can estimate car repair costs on their own.

Relying on tips and suggestions is like relying on a blind man to lead you across a major interstate. You might make it, but wouldn't you rather follow a traffic cop.

Yes, all of this is a shameless plug for my $29 eBook trilogy and software which exposes two decades of automotive pricing abuses, and empowers the service customer to NEVER GET RIPPED OFF AGAIN!

Yes, shame on me for exposing the truth!

-Theodore P. Olson
http://www.repairtrust.com

Why Your Oil Change is Never “Just an Oil Change”

For a repair shop, there is little profit in the $29.95 oil change. By the time a shop pays its technician, pays for the oil, the filter, and the hazardous waste disposal fees, there’s no money left. This low profit margin is worsened by the extremely competitive “Quick Lube” business, which forces local repair shops to refrain from raising prices, despite rising costs.

This all begs the question: If oil change specials, which range from $15.95 to $29.95, clearly produce very low profits, then why do so many service facilities advertise oil change specials?

The answer is actually very simple: It gets you in the door. Service centers know that once they have your vehicle, they can sell you additional work.

Suggesting additional work is called upselling, and it’s a primary profit tactic of every service facility. Here’s a typical example. You drop your vehicle off for “just an oil change.” Upon completion your service representative smiles and proudly states, “We noticed that your air filter was dirty; so we popped in a new one.” You “may” think great; what wonderful service!”

What really occurred is that you were casually upsold an air filter. It probably wasn’t needed; it certainly wasn’t replaced according to any factory recommendation, and you were definitely overcharged for what was most likely a poorly-fitting, aftermarket, inferior air filter.

Here’s a real-life example that occurred recently. This particular vehicle had 54,000 miles on it, and was dropped off at a local shop for “just an oil change.” Upon paying the bill, the customer was handed an estimate for $199 to replace his air filter and top radiator hose. Shocked at the price, he called me.

After review, I found that the air filter suggestion was premature. It didn’t need replacement until the manufacturer’s recommended 60,000-mile service interval. The top hose was also premature. In fact, it did not need replacement at all, despite a very minor problem easily addressed during the factory maintenance schedule—at no extra cost.

Check out the aftermarket part prices quoted below (including the unnecessary radiator hose). Compare these to the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the factory OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer).

Local Shop Aftermarket Air Filter: $32
Manufacturer OEM Filter, MSRP: $17

Local Shop Aftermarket Top Hose: $36
Manufacturer OEM Top Hose, MSRP: $19

Notice that this local shop was doubling the price of the OEM parts with its inferior aftermarket parts.

Now, let’s look at the labor time my friend was quoted.

Local Shop Labor Time: 2.0 @ $60 per hour = $120
Manufacturer Labor Time: 0.9 @ $60 per hour = $81

Notice that the shop labor time estimate for the repairs was 2 hours. This is more than twice the manufacturer’s recommendations (even after calculating manufacturer times against the industry standard multiplier).

Had the local shop abided by the vehicle’s particular maintenance intervals instead of trying to make a quick buck, it should have recommended a 60,000-mile service at the next visit. This would have better served the client, saved him $199, and maintained the vehicle properly.

What needs to be made crystal clear is that this type of price-gouging occurs every day in every type of service facility in one form or another across the automotive service industry. This type of price-gouging is considered normal!

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com
Making sense of car repair prices; empowering the service customer!

30% Chance of Getting Your Car Fixed Right the First Time

While there are a number of factors why it’s difficult get your car fixed right the first time, let’s explore a primary reason: the qualifications of who’s actually fixing your car. According to studies, 70% of automotive technicians are not qualified to work on your car. This includes technicians from dealerships, local shops, and franchises.

Over a decade ago, automotive manufacturers were predicting widespread shortages in “qualified” technicians. Now, given that 80% of the functions of the average car are controlled by electronics, qualified technicians are in even greater demand. I frequently come across advertisements for master technicians which include $5000 sign-on bonuses.

Today’s mechanics must be “technicians” in the true sense of the word. Technicians need an in-depth understanding of the complex and advanced interactive theory of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems. Today’s cars are literally a network of computers on wheels.

The true technicians are the guys who can navigate multiple systems of theory to diagnose what’s causing your car to intermittently stall at highway speeds in cold weather, on Route 66 every other Thursday morning, when it rains.

Automotive technology has advanced far beyond local mechanics, most of whom are still struggling with basic electronics (see the “Acceleration of Price-Gouging” blog, September 2006). The service industry has responded somewhat with a focus on training, but it’s too little too late. Training alone will not make up for the years of lost time, coupled with the technological advancements to come.

The really bad news is that you, the service customer, will pay top dollar to have an amateur poke and prod your vehicle. No matter how you look at it, paying top dollar for an amateur is ripping you off!

There are a few good tips to ensure a qualified technician works on your car, but in terms of price, they will not make any difference. In fact, the more experienced the tech/shop, the more they will know how to rip you off without you ever knowing.

Today’s service customer needs to be empowered with information that has been kept well-hidden for many years. What’s really needed is an “insider’s” understanding of the automotive service industry—its pricing structures, hierarchy, and mentality. This, along with easy-to-use software, guides, and comprehensive, eye-opening reading material will revolutionize the service industry, allowing the service customer to take control of car repair prices.

Although true, this last part is a shameless plug for my eBooks…

$29 for all three!

-ARREST the Automotive Service Industry!
-Maintenance Myths: A Step-by-Step Guide to STOP Getting Ripped Off!
-Auto Repair: Who’s Ripping You Off and Why!

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com
Car Repair Help

The Truth About Automotive Service Managers

In any industry, an easy target is the leadership. If a business or industry has an issue, always look to its leadership. Automotive service managers are an especially interesting study. First, there are no licensing or training requirements for service managers. Anyone is eligible, regardless of ability, experience, or ethical practices. This is particularly remarkable given their power and influence. Also, there are no schools or college courses for automotive service management. Essentially, this leaves you at the mercy of service managers who lack even the fundamentals of management. A McDonald’s manager is likely to have significantly more management credentials than an automotive service manager!

Service managers don’t know how to set guidelines, protocols, and accountability structures to produce an honest, well-run service center. In fact, I’ve seen service managers stick their fingers in their ears and sing la, la, la, la, la because they didn’t want, or know how to respond to their customers being ripped off by their own employees—I am not kidding!

A point to remember when questioning whether or not your auto repair prices are trustworthy; service managers lack the critical business management skills to keep you, the service customer, from getting ripped off by their own employees.

-Theodore P. Olson
www.repairtrust.com

If you don't think you are being treated fairly with your auto repair prices,
discover the shocking and complete story, and the SOLUTION inside...
ARREST the Automotive Service Industry!

The Acceleration of Price-Gouging

The phenomenon of price-gouging has a fascinating history. In the 1970’s most service customers had at least a rudimentary understanding of automobile repairs, and thus there wasn’t as much for a service center to hide behind. In the 80’s, with the increase of advanced emission controls and enhanced electronics, confusion set in. The rapid pace of technology kept everyone—technicians and customers alike, bewildered and guessing. As the 90’s came to a close, cars were full-blown computers on wheels. In addition to complex mechanics and electronics, the industry now encompassed advanced computer technology. Suddenly, sophisticated technical information and a solid understanding of the interactive theory between mechanics, electronics, and computers was critical to fixing cars. The industry was not ready for this. It’s still not.

With all the technical confusion from the 80’s and 90’s, price-gouging took a firm hold. Mechanics could easily hide behind complex terminology, and wax nostalgic with the client: “They just don’t make em’ like they used to.” Suddenly your car needed $300, $400, $1400 computer sensors and gadgets. What was really happening is that your mechanic was learning—he was practicing on your car! Costly computer devices were often replaced unnecessarily due to misdiagnoses. Or, they were damaged by improper diagnostic techniques and obsolete testing equipment. Even though you didn’t need these parts when you dropped your vehicle off, you did by the time you left, AND you paid for them. This still happens today—every day.

Why $2,000?

With the Y2K scare of 2000, the reliance on computer technology was clear. Cars were no exception. Automobiles were no longer computers on wheels; they were now a “network of computers” on wheels. Today’s cars think and adapt to the environment. Highly advanced fiber optic and infra-red technology is commonly used. Ultra low emissions and flexible fuel systems are increasing faster than gas prices. Hybrids are common! It is in this advanced environment of integrated computer technology that you will be price-gouged today.

It will leave you asking: “Y $2000 K?”

$29 eBook and software reveals the automotive service industry's shocking pricing abuses, and walks you step-by-step through its dim underworld in order to NEVER GET RIPPED OFF AGAIN!

ARREST the Automotive Service Industry!

Auto Repair: Revealing Every Scam and Tactic of the Automotive Service Industry

-Theodore P. Olson

www.repairtrust.com

Empowering the Service Customer!

Working 24/7 to control the escalation of auto repair prices

98% of All Repair Shops Are Ripping You Off!

One of the hardest things for many to accept is the breadth and scope that the automotive service industry is ripping people off. They just don’t think it’s possible. It’s not just possible, it’s EASY! And you’ll never even know it’s happening.

To be clear: 98% of all repair shops: dealerships, local shops, and franchises are price-gouging you, the service customer!

What is price-gouging?

Price-gouging simply means that you are getting ripped off. You are paying too much for car repair prices. The automotive service industry has been price-gouging for decades, and it's getting worse.

Due to the unique nature of the industry, I have created a dictionary-style definition to clarify its abuses.

1) Price-gouging is the process by which a service center charges a service customer in excess of industry standards or manufacturer guidelines for repairs and/or services. This includes parts, labor, services, miscellaneous charges, or any combination of these. Industry standards are understood to mean the commonly accepted practices of using vehicle manufacturer guidelines to determine pricing.

2) Price-gouging is also defined as charging the customer for repairs or services which are unnecessary, done poorly, incorrectly, and/or cause damage—(immediately or at a future point) that would not otherwise have been the client’s responsibility.

In short, you are getting ripped off whenever you are being charged above the automotive service industry's guidelines.

How often does this happen?

Every day! Industry guidelines are ignored, abused, and manipulated on a daily basis by 98% of the service facilities nationwide.

Price-gouging is an accepted practice!

-Theodore P. Olson
Founder, www.repairtrust.com
Empowering the Service Customer
Visit us and check out our FREE Maintenance Time Saver Software

Introduction to Lying: The Truth About Lying

An elderly woman brought her car to a local dealership because her interior lights didn’t work. A few hours later, she got a call from her service advisor. He explained to her in detail that they had encountered a difficult electrical problem, and that it was going to require more time than expected. A large portion of her interior would need to be removed in order to access some wiring harnesses. She proceeded to authorize 4 hours of diagnostic time to investigate why her interior light didn’t work. Several hours later she got another call from her service advisor. Finally, they had discovered the root cause. A corroded wire at the connector of a control module was the culprit. Luckily, the control module did not need to be replaced, which would have exceeded $3000 including parts, tax and labor. However, in order to fix the wiring as well as remove and reassemble all the necessary interior components, it was going to cost $1500. She agreed to the charges, and was relieved that “that’s all it was.”

What Really Happened

The above story sounds perfectly plausible, doesn’t it? You’ll be shocked to learn what really happened… The interior light problem was examined by a technician. Here’s what he should have done:

First: ensure the interior light switch was turned on (it was).

Second: check to see if the interior light fuse had blown (it had).

The fuse was the cause of the problem: a 15 cent fuse that’s quick to check and easy to replace. Instead, the technician literally spent hours working on the problem. He reviewed wiring diagrams. He traced the wiring harnesses, consulted technical manuals, and removed multiple interior components looking for the source of the problem. After 15 hours, he finally thought to check the fuse and found the problem. 15 hours to find a blown fuse! This is an outrageous amount of time, and was a direct result of the technician’s incompetence. The repair should have taken 15 minutes, not 15 hours! Nevertheless, the technician expected his 15 hours of pay. The service advisor made up the detailed and elaborate electrical story you just read, as well as the “lucky” savings to cover the technician’s time; the service manager didn’t care about this deception. The elderly woman was billed $1500, not because she was elderly or because her car was older, but because scenarios such as this happen every day in every type of service center across the automotive service industry. It’s normal!

I use this "real-life" example (one of many) to illustrate that price-gouging (auto repair rip off scams) are extremely common, and can get quite elaborate.

The unfortunate truth is that these scams happen EVERY DAY, and that there is little "accurate" information to not only avoid getting ripped off, but to STOP getting ripped off!

I have compiled two decades of car repair price-gouging scams, and developed step-by-step guides and software to NEVER GET RIPPED OFF AGAIN. All of this can be found inside...

ARREST the Automotive Service Industry!

Auto Repair: Revealing Every Scam and Tactic of the Automotive Service Industry

-Theodore P. Olson

Founder, www.repairtrust.com

Making sense of car repair prices!