Q:
I have a 1997 Toyota Avalon with a little more than 70,000 miles
on it. I was sent a flyer from my dealer saying I may need 'timing
belt replacement' for $299.95. Is it due and is the price they
want to high??
A:
Most the dealers have so much overhead it drives their
prices well above the market price. I think most people get
their work done at dealerships out of two false assumptions:
1)
The warranty will be voided,
2) The work will be substandard.
I would get some estimates from several shops in the area. Then
choose the cleanest most professional of those. Sometimes dealerships
will set the price on some work much lower than their standard
rate. I can recall a friend who showed me his invoice and after
all the hoopla of coupons and early bird discounts and everything
was added up he paid about double what I would have charged
and what I think most other shops would have charged. And, I
would say it is time to change the belt and I also think the
price is to high.
Again
thanks for your time, Jon
Grenon
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