Are these maintenance charges for real?

[jhibino]

Originally Posted by Patrick Wong

At 65K miles it is possible that the serpentine drive belt may need changing. It will likely have some cracks in it.

He did say my engine drive belt was a little "glazed" and had some cracks, so I told him to change it. I held off on the fuel injector system service, though.

[Patrick Wong]

Originally Posted by jhibino

He did say my engine drive belt was a little "glazed" and had some cracks, so I told him to change it...

I think this is reasonable. The outside of the belt will get shiny because that side contacts the water pump pulley. Last year I had posted about how to replace this belt. The old belt on my 2004 was glazed on the outside and had many fine cracks on the inside.

[PriusSport]

Take it to another dealer. There is widespread variation in dealer integrity.It's the same in the heating/AC business--in my experience.

[andyprius]

Took my 05 for a tire rotation at 75K miles the other day. When I came back my car was still in stall with the hood up. I asked why the hood was up for a tire rotation and they said they performed a courtesy check. Then recommended, with a computer printout certain maintenance necessary. New air filter (engine) oil change, new set of tires, rearend alighnment. Total cost: $400.00 plus. Then charged me $25 for the rotation. I had to state that I have a lifetime free tire rotation, The clerk said Oh. I also reminded him that this is stated clearly on thier own computer display, again: mumbled " it is ". I told him I do most of my own maintenance and I would evaluate thier findings. Standard procedure at Firestone to drum up business. They were also very quick to state my tires were under DOT specs, they are quick to use Gov't specs when it may scare the potential customer into unneccesary purchases....so listen, politely decline, evaluate and use your own judgement. BUT remember: "If you don't take advantage of thier offer in 7 days they cannot guarantee those prices" ( another pressure tactic )

[richard schumacher]

Avoiding bother and annoyance like that episode is one more reason not to rotate tires. It's generally not necessary on a front wheel drive car.