Tune-ups- Today,s tune-ups only include installation of spark plugs. So if you can establish this task your self you will be saving a ton of money for the life of your vehicle. So whenever you see a sign advertising TUNE-UPS, this is all your getting for your money!
Back in the 70,s and early 80,s you really got what you were paying for. What I mean is back then the Tune-up consisted of, hooking up your vehicle to an engine analyzer, replacing all of your spark plugs, installing your points and condenser and adjusting them, adjusting your basic timing, adjusting your idle speeds, then adjusting your air fuel ratios on your carbs. Some even included an air filter at no cost! And of course a full maintenance inspection. Now that,s what I call getting your money's worth!
Today's Tune-Up franchiser's need and expect their techs. to up sell other needed services. Most are even paid bonuses and commissions on what they can sell to you. I have seen consumer's coming in wanting only a $59.90 Tune-up and walk away paying close to a thousand dollars. Don't get me wrong here. Now some are needed and recommended items but most of it means a bigger paycheck to the service writer or manager of that shop! My advice would be to check your service manual for the real replacement requirements. I will later on go into more details on this content.
Brakes- I really like this one! I have never seen a tech. work so hard and fast to get your vehicle in the air, pull your tires off, and start their so called free brake inspection. Brakes can be quite expensive! Franchise shops know this and expect to make alot of money from this service. The $59.90 brake job advertised only includes replacing your $10 pads. Thats it! On most cars that can be done after the approval is complete, in only 5 minutes or less. Then they have to kill time to make it look like you got your monies worth. I have to be bias here too. Brakes are Very important to your safety. I would recommend getting a couple brake estimates from a well known shop and go with the lowest estimate. Brakes like Tune-ups can also run as high as $1,000 per vehicle. Expect more on this content also.
Quicky Oil Change Places- These franchises also make alot of money! Watch out for the $9.99 oil change advertisement! They love to sell filters and extended services like, radiator, air conditioner, transmission, and related lubrication services. Once again check your owners manual before you jump into a big money making decision. I have witnessed scare tactics such as showing you a few drops of your fluids and tell you this is a bad sign! They might even compare your fluids to a new sample just to up sell their services to ya. Please expect more on this content also.
