Car Service - How to Decide Who to Take It to?

pjbargain15 on 04/01/2022 - 01:27
Last edited 04/01/2022 - 10:26 by 1 other user

Hello, I have a 10yo Toyota Camry, in perfect working condition. No major issues at all. I do get it serviced twice a year at minimum (even with less usage due to WFH).

However, when it is time for next service, I always find it difficult to decide, as I haven't really had any "wow" experience for any of the services so far. Car doesn't have any issues, so usually the mechanic suggests to change oil, sometimes air filters etc and that's probably it. And usually comes to around $120-$150 per service.

I understand there would be many local mechanics and would be difficult to suggest which one may be best, but if comparing big chains (Rapid Tune, Ultra Tune, Midas etc), is there any one that comes on top?

With local mechanics, my experience hasn't been consistent even at the same shop.

Are there any questions that I should be asking the mechanics that may help me decide the quality of their service? I am a noob when it comes to automobiles.

PS: I live 20km west of Melbourne CBD.

Automotive Car Toyota

Comments

  • UnknownUser74 on 04/01/2022 - 01:44
    +4

    A Toyota Camry isn't the most advanced car out there on the market. Oil change, air filter, cabin filter are items you could probably do yourself. If you are not confident, check Youtube there are plenty of videos showing how to do basic service.

    If it has anything to do with a Water Pump, Timing Belt, anything major perhaps finding a good mechanic is the way to go.

  • El cheepo on 04/01/2022 - 01:44
    +29

    Who ever is charging you $120-150 per service, keep going there!

  • kenzstar on 04/01/2022 - 01:53
    +2

    It's due for a coolant flush, spark plug change and change the transmission fluid.

  • USER DC on 04/01/2022 - 02:28

    Generally speaking a mechanic who is overcharging for service, is better than a mechanic who is ripping customers by stating a long list of repairs that car needs (when it doesn't) and definitely way way better than an inexperienced mechanic who ends up Fuc*ing the car up and doesn't pay for damages costed by his work.

    Finding a good mechanic is not easy,(Its a lot easier to do minor tasks DIY). it's like finding a doctor who doesn't want people to get sick (ofcourse if no one got sick, doctors wont exists similar case with cars, if no problems exists mechanics don't get money)

    $120 twice a year isn't too bad of service (considering if you are getting these at least once a year - engine oil change, fuel filter, air filters, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid changed)
    Dealers are straight up rippers too btw

    • SBOB on 04/01/2022 - 07:39
      +4

      Spark plugs once a year?

  • mmd on 04/01/2022 - 03:04

    How many kms do u drive each year?

    I posed a similar question last year here https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/612323

  • JIMB0 on 04/01/2022 - 07:29
    +6

    6 monthly servicing is just a money making scheme for the dealers. You can easily stretch it out to 1 year.

  • SBOB on 04/01/2022 - 07:38
    +1

    10yo car with minimal usage…
    You could easily just reduce that service interval to yearly and save yourself some time and $

    • Stopback on 04/01/2022 - 08:20
      -1

      You want to over service an older car.

      As the cost of replacement is higher.

      And it's at the stage where parts will need to be replaced. A dealer specific mechanic will have more experience with the brand.

      Use OEM parts and it will last longer.

      • Muzeeb on 04/01/2022 - 08:26

        A dealer specific mechanic

        So are you suggesting op services at the dealership?

  • Hybroid on 04/01/2022 - 09:03

    Check your logbook. Some cars have major services required at 5 and 10 year periods that are more than regular oil change and filters. Could be things like transmission fluid, gasket changes (depends on how much driven), fuel filter, checking for structural rust or damage over time, battery/alternative health, safety checks etc.

  • CheapSticks on 04/01/2022 - 10:16

    For a 10yr old camry - i wud probably service every year or if u hit the reqd Ks…they are strong and sturdy well oiled machines !

  • brendanm on 04/01/2022 - 11:24
    +2

    You are complaining about $120-150 a service? Most people would be jumping for joy. What sort of "wow" are you expecting when someone changes your oil and filter, a ticker tape parade?

    Service it once a year, replace brake fluid every other year, replace trans fluid every 4 years or so, replace coolant as needed, verified by a refractometer.

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