10 Car Repair Scams to Watch Out For
Cars have become as complicated as computers. More than ever, many drivers know so little about their cars that they are spending hundreds and even thousands over the life of their vehicle on repairs they do not need. Be aware of the following tips to avoid costly repair scams you do not need. If in doubt – you can always get a second opinion!
1. Replacing Spark Plugs Prematurely
Spark Plugs today can last nearly 100,000 km. However many car repair places routinely replace them. Years ago, spark plugs had to be replaced regularly. Not so today. Make sure you ask to see the plug. A spark plug that needs to be replaced looks worn. Protect yourself.
2. Gas Saving Devices
You may get sold gas saving devices as an upsell. Do yourself a favour and skip this. These rarely give significant fuel saving gains. If you feel inclined to look to installing one, do your homework to ensure you are not getting swindled.
3. Synthetic Oil Upgrades
Some cars need synthetic oil, but for many regular performance cars, synthetic oil is a costly upgrade you simply don’t need.
4. Engine Treatments
Many oil change shops will try to sell you expensive products to improve the performance of your engine. Generally these additives do little over the long run to improve performance and just hurt your wallet. Skip them.
5. Cabin Air Filters
We all need to change these periodically as they can keep dirty air in your car. However, make sure you are getting enough wear and tear out of yours. Generally, if it looks dirty it needs to be replaced. Otherwise, it can wait a month or two.
6. Transmission Treatment
Ensure your transmission fluid and filters are replaced routinely. However avoid any additional transmission efficiency treatments. These are generally pointless and expensive.
7. Premature Cooling and System Flushes
System flushes do little to help your car, unless your cooling system is contaminated or the manufacturer recommends it. Many shops try to sell you these prematurely. Make sure you follow your manufacturer’s recommendations.
8. Air Conditioning Recharge
You are at the repair shop and the mechanic comes to you with a grim face “your AC unit needs recharging. It’s not blowing efficiently anymore”. Anxious not to be caught without AC on the hottest day of the year, you agree to the costly recharge. While this in itself is not a scam, if you have not felt a difference in your car’s AC unit, it is likely fine and this recharge is another unnecessary expense.
9. Fuel Injection Service
Your mechanic tells you that your car is not performing as well as it could be. You can uncover hidden horsepower by having a fuel injection service done. Gasoline from reputable gas stations usually contains enough additives to keep typical engines free of serious buildup under normal conditions. If you do want periodic help, skip the expensive service and add a bottle of name-brand treatment to your tank.
10. Premature Brakes and Shocks
Brakes are absolutely one of the most important parts of a car. However, many people replace these too often and too soon. Do yourself a favour and pay attention to your car as you stop. Do you feel a difference? Is it making noise? If not, you are likely fine for a bit longer.
By following these recommendations, you can avoid costly repairs and save money.
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