To dealership or not to dealership (Service)

You guys are awesome and I am a total doorknob for not coming back to see these responses sooner! I didn't even think about the plate and now I can't seem to take the photo down. Oh dear!

So it's been a few months later and we've still sat on this issue. Some info I now have that I didn't have then... They performed a brake fluid flush which was not part of the maintenance service I was due for. They claim they told us when I know for a fact they didn't. I have e-mailed the manager and had no response, but the clerk my hubby went to see said they would only give us $50 in "In good faith" service credit back because we couldn't prove it.

So anyhoo, I went back to the inspection report and noticed that all of the brake pads are in the green zone - front at 6mm and back at 5mm. But they have still recommended back pads in addition to the back rotors which are in the yellow zone for excessive ridging.

I am wondering if I just go back and tell them we just want the rotors and have them give us in writing down to the penny what we will be charged to avoid this nonsense again. But being a dealership they will charge $130 something an hour in Labour like they did the last time.

Or we can go to our other mechanic who's shop is actually an import shop specializing in VW and Audi. They have one of the best reps in town and we are happy with the work they do with our Ford. I guess the whole concept that Priya is a Hybrid has me nervous about taking her anywhere other than the dealership. I was doing some reading on the forum and saw there are some special things to know like disconnecting the battery before doing work on it.

 

I would like to be able to change my own air cabin filter! When I was younger I used to change the oil in my motorcycle but it was only a 200 twin star so it wasn't all that complicated. I am sure I could learn the simple things and am looking forward to learning from you all!

 

Also, can anyone tell me what a Brake Service entails? they break down a lot of the other services like maintenance and oil and filter but not Brake Service. What exactly are they doing with a brake service?