valeka's Blog

Excuse me for preaching here, but I suddenly feel a need to add to Fox's already impressive stories about car rip off places.  Every time your investigative team does one of these, my man and I cheer.

I went to get my oil changed at a place that offered a coupon for the service.  I explained in VERY clear terms that this was all I wanted.  My husband is a mechanic but if the price is right, we can actually save money by utilizing a discounted oil change.  While I was waiting I listened to the service rep come in and tell an older lady that her car needed a complete radiator flush because the fluid in the radiator was the wrong color...she said, "But I've been bringing it to you."  He didn't bat an eye.  He claimed that the auto makers put in the wrong coolant and she needed to change it immediately before it ate holes in her radiator.  Her car appeared to be about 5 years old with no leaking underneath. Even I know that coolant comes in several colors and the reddish one is just fine. I did my best to try and assure her that she might want to consult with the folks at her nearest auto supply store (FOR FREE!) but she made the appointment for the radiator flush because she didn't believe he would be telling her something that wasn't absolutely true.

The same rep also told me that I needed to replace a tire because he could tell it had a slow leak.  There was and is nothing--and I mean NOTHING--wrong with that tire. We check our tires regularly and this one has never even gone low on me. These folks are supposed to sell-up and it's up to us as drivers and consumers to get second opinions.

If you aren't aware, you can do this for free.  You can go and talk to the people at your local auto supply place and it won't cost a thing.  At some of them they'll even come out to your car and hook up a device that will help them and you determine exactly what is wrong with your car.  It's a neat little meter and again, the service is free.  They will also install the windshield wipers you purchase from them at no charge.  In my experience, they want to help you do as much yourself or with their assistance so you will be riding in a safe and cost-effective vehicle. 

In this case, it's true, some of the best things (services) in life are free!