Am I getting ripped off? (Mechanic Tips Thread)

[Sponger.]

Threads like these make me so happy I can trust the mechanic that everyone in my family has been going to for 15 years.

[Sooga]

[ QUOTE ]
I'm definitely going to scope out the BBB to see if they have info on this.

[/ QUOTE ]

Instead of the BBB, you might want to try one letter up. The AAA auto company maintains a list of reputable auto mechanics, and I've tried a few of those, and they've always seemed pretty good. I'm not sure if you can search the database without a membership, but if not, PM me (or just find someone with an AAA acct) and I'll give you some names/numbers.

[kurosh]

I went to get my oil changed today. He brings me to the car and says the alternator belt or some such is cracking and should be replaced. He showed it to me and it looked like it was cracking. He charged me $100. Did I get ripped off?

[mattw]

[ QUOTE ]
I went to get my oil changed today. He brings me to the car and says the alternator belt or some such is cracking and should be replaced. He showed it to me and it looked like it was cracking. He charged me $100. Did I get ripped off?

[/ QUOTE ]

yes

[nikeelevet]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDosA...search=rip-off

jiffy lube video where they put cameras into the car, they charge you but don't actually fix it pretty scary

[Hopey]

[ QUOTE ]
I worked at an amusement park that had batting cages.

[/ QUOTE ]

Ah. So you're a carny. That explains a lot.

[suzzer99]

Jiffy Lube is completely whacked. Find a local mechanic you can trust. Here's a tip: if they give you an oil change and don't try to upsell you, probably a good sign.

[kyleb]

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People who pay for batting cage sessions are any of the following: kids, skanks, old fat guys who think they still "have it," or mentally handicapped people

[/ QUOTE ]

You forgot everyone in the MLB and people who play competitive baseball. But hey, you know, that's about right.

[Thremp]

I have to ask... Why don't you change your oil yourself?

Unless you can't then take it to the dealer and it's probably invluded in your warranty.