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  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,334
    Very cool, @Michaell
    2022 Tesla Model Y Performance, 2018 BMW M240i Convertible
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    the Acura dealer is in an auto mall, so I get to spend an hour wandering the lots and checking out stuff. Plus I have a very boring life, and it is nice to get out of the house into the world once in a while!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 7,466

    "Last time I changed my own oil it was $25 for the synthetic oil and maybe $8 for the filter vs about $60 at my “guy” or $75 at the dealer."

    Plus which it can be done in a half hour or less in your garage or driveway. No taking the car anywhere or waiting around. It just gets done.

    In addition, I can continue the illusion that I know how to do things to maintain my cars. This, along with filter replacements and brake pad work, is all I have left.

    Some people prefer to be helpless or clueless, or at least lazy. No names, of course.

    The dealership that does the oil changes for me is a block and a half from my work. Just drop it off, walk 10 minutes to work and after work walk 10 minutes back to pick up the car. Very convenient.
    Yeah, but you missed his point. There is the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Getting your hands dirty isn't going to hurt you, they make soap ya know.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • laurasdadalaurasdada Member Posts: 4,686
    I am unworthy:
    78 VW Scirocco: my first car, bought in 82 used
    85 Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo: arrest me red; new
    88 Acura Integra: Best screwed together car I've owned; new
    91-95 a series of basic appliance company cars, Dodge Intrepid probably the fave. And worst screwed together. Which I bought after being downsized in 96
    99 Chrysler 300M: Big, but reliable, handsome, kinda fun. Big panel gaps; new
    05 Acura TL: great car, new
    09 Jaguar XK: V8, gorgeous, midlife crisis car; used
    13 Jaguar XF: My favorite car, just well balanced and lovely; new

    Ex-wife, while we were married:
    92 Nissan Sentra SE-R: y'all know the story with that car
    95 Saab 900S: pre-emptive strike against the inevitable; fun, utilitarian, less quirky than my father's 71 & 76 Saab 99s
    02 Lexus RX300: the above mentione inevitable
    11 BMW 535xi: ex got a huge raise at work, decided it was German sedan time. Beat the Audi A7 as she decided she wanted 5 seats

    I'm not abacomike or breld. But, I've got well over $1700 in my 401k!

    '21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,290
    jmonroe1 said:

    "Last time I changed my own oil it was $25 for the synthetic oil and maybe $8 for the filter vs about $60 at my “guy” or $75 at the dealer."

    Plus which it can be done in a half hour or less in your garage or driveway. No taking the car anywhere or waiting around. It just gets done.

    In addition, I can continue the illusion that I know how to do things to maintain my cars. This, along with filter replacements and brake pad work, is all I have left.

    Some people prefer to be helpless or clueless, or at least lazy. No names, of course.

    The dealership that does the oil changes for me is a block and a half from my work. Just drop it off, walk 10 minutes to work and after work walk 10 minutes back to pick up the car. Very convenient.
    Yeah, but you missed his point. There is the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Getting your hands dirty isn't going to hurt you, they make soap ya know.

    jmonroe
    Seeing a point there at the end of the post I was responding to.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,255

    I am unworthy:
    78 VW Scirocco: my first car, bought in 82 used
    85 Mitsubishi Mirage Turbo: arrest me red; new
    88 Acura Integra: Best screwed together car I've owned; new
    91-95 a series of basic appliance company cars, Dodge Intrepid probably the fave. And worst screwed together. Which I bought after being downsized in 96
    99 Chrysler 300M: Big, but reliable, handsome, kinda fun. Big panel gaps; new
    05 Acura TL: great car, new
    09 Jaguar XK: V8, gorgeous, midlife crisis car; used
    13 Jaguar XF: My favorite car, just well balanced and lovely; new

    Ex-wife, while we were married:
    92 Nissan Sentra SE-R: y'all know the story with that car
    95 Saab 900S: pre-emptive strike against the inevitable; fun, utilitarian, less quirky than my father's 71 & 76 Saab 99s
    02 Lexus RX300: the above mentione inevitable
    11 BMW 535xi: ex got a huge raise at work, decided it was German sedan time. Beat the Audi A7 as she decided she wanted 5 seats

    I'm not abacomike or breld. But, I've got well over $1700 in my 401k!

    What's even more embarrassing is that I didn't list the cars I bought my wife from 1972-1997 (passed in 1997). Probably 10 more - plus cars I bought for the kids.

    2021 Genesis G90

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964

    "Last time I changed my own oil it was $25 for the synthetic oil and maybe $8 for the filter vs about $60 at my “guy” or $75 at the dealer."

    Plus which it can be done in a half hour or less in your garage or driveway. No taking the car anywhere or waiting around. It just gets done.

    In addition, I can continue the illusion that I know how to do things to maintain my cars. This, along with filter replacements and brake pad work, is all I have left.

    Some people prefer to be helpless or clueless, or at least lazy. No names, of course.

    I say, why do it yourself when "The Guy" will do it....for about the same price, and then I can do other things that I prefer to do...play pickleball, tennis, walk the dog, etc., and I don't have equipment taking up space, and have oil I have to get rid of?

    Some of us don't need the illusion that we have to change our own oil.....we could be doing other things!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964

    Very cool, @Michaell

    +1 and good luck with the new adventure!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    jmonroe1 said:

    "Last time I changed my own oil it was $25 for the synthetic oil and maybe $8 for the filter vs about $60 at my “guy” or $75 at the dealer."

    Plus which it can be done in a half hour or less in your garage or driveway. No taking the car anywhere or waiting around. It just gets done.

    In addition, I can continue the illusion that I know how to do things to maintain my cars. This, along with filter replacements and brake pad work, is all I have left.

    Some people prefer to be helpless or clueless, or at least lazy. No names, of course.

    The dealership that does the oil changes for me is a block and a half from my work. Just drop it off, walk 10 minutes to work and after work walk 10 minutes back to pick up the car. Very convenient.
    Yeah, but you missed his point. There is the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Getting your hands dirty isn't going to hurt you, they make soap ya know.

    jmonroe
    Whatever turns you on!
    Getting my hands dirty....used to be fun when I was about 9!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    Today I go in for my oil change and brake fluid change. I have never changed brake fluid before. I have a friend who does his own repairs and he keeps his cars for a long time. I told him I was getting new brake fluid and this is what he said:
    Why the brake fluid? Have had cars for 16 years, and guess what? Brakes worked just fine for 270,000 km. If your brake pedal becomes spongy, well then a different story, and needs to be done.

    Just saying.........
    Although, from what I have been reading it does break down in a few years, and Florida may be harder on brake fluid than it would be back home. Also, the car is 6 years old now.....and who knows if it has been done?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • qbrozenqbrozen Member Posts: 32,891
    guess it has been a while since I updated my list around here. I don't think this is completely in order, but its close ...

    1978 Jeep CJ7
    1979 Mercury Zephyr
    1987 Toyota 4Runner
    1984 AMC Cherokee
    1985 AMC Cherokee
    1964 Land Rover SIIA
    1966 Ford Mustang
    1997 Dodge Dakota
    1986 Alfa Spider
    1999 Mazda 626
    1998 Volvo S70
    1998 Subaru Forester
    2003 Honda Pilot
    2004 Nissan 350Z
    1992 Mazda B2200
    2003 Lincoln LS
    2005 Chrysler Pacifica
    2006 Honda Accord
    2005 Volvo XC90
    2004 Inifiniti G35X
    2009 Mazda mazda5
    1992 Benz 190E
    2008 Chrysler T&C
    1987 BMW 325is
    1999 Saab 9-3SE
    1991 Benz 190E
    1986 Benz 300E
    2001 Volvo V70
    1985 Nissan 300Z
    1985 Toyota MR2
    2007 VW GTI
    2012 Nissan Leaf
    2008 BMW 135i
    2000 BMW 540i
    2014 Chrysler T&C
    2014 Ford Mustang
    2015 Honda Fit
    2014 Cadillac CTS
    1998 Volvo S70
    2009 Land Rover. LR2
    2012 VW TDI sportwagon
    2011 Infiniti EX35
    1967 Dodge Coronet
    2017 Ford F150
    2018 Alfa Stelvio
    2018 BMW X2
    2018 BMW 330xi
    2008 Dodge Charger
    2010 Chevy Equinox

    '11 GMC Sierra 1500; '08 Charger R/T Daytona; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '08 Maser QP; '11 Mini Cooper S

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562
    Now THAT’S what I’m talkin’ about! A true car addict.

    BTW, Scotty hates my van. I’m heartbroken.

    https://youtu.be/lNvEdzPSwUM

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 17,312
    driver100 said:

    Today I go in for my oil change and brake fluid change. I have never changed brake fluid before. I have a friend who does his own repairs and he keeps his cars for a long time. I told him I was getting new brake fluid and this is what he said:
    Why the brake fluid? Have had cars for 16 years, and guess what? Brakes worked just fine for 270,000 km. If your brake pedal becomes spongy, well then a different story, and needs to be done.

    Just saying.........
    Although, from what I have been reading it does break down in a few years, and Florida may be harder on brake fluid than it would be back home. Also, the car is 6 years old now.....and who knows if it has been done?

    Brake fluid is hygroscopic- it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere- which lowers the boiling point of the fluid. When the fluid boils the brakes quit working.

    Your friend is woefully ignorant; he reminds me of a comment that I once heard a European auto engineer make-
    “European drivers don’t care if the brakes squeal, just as long as they
    stop the car. American drivers don’t care if the brakes stop the car- just as long as they don’t squeal.”

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport; 2020 C43; 2021 Sahara 4xe 1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica Wife's: 2015 X1 xDrive28i Son's: 2009 328i; 2018 330i xDrive

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    Congrats. Probably a relief it’s over too!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,255
    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    Your son looks great in front of the Torah Scroll. He became a man - welcome to Edmunds man-cave! 😛😜🤪

    2021 Genesis G90

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 19,031
    Great picture!

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,132
    edited November 2019
    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    Congratulations!

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    Short hop from this to him wanting you to buy him a car and teach him to drive!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • dino001dino001 Member Posts: 6,163
    edited November 2019
    I'm a real loser in this bunch:

    1988 VW Fox (used, bought in 1998)
    1997 Ford Escort (used, bought in 1999)
    2003 Subaru Impreza WRX (new)
    2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI (new)
    2012 BMW 328i wagon (new, bought in Fall 2011)
    2018 BMW 430i GC (new, bought in Spring 2017)

    Mike's list is ridiculous. He needs professional help, not the salesman kind :wink:

    2018 430i Gran Coupe

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 15,854
    Great pic @nyccarguy ! Congrats. I am glad everything went well.

    2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Ram 1500 Bighorn, Built to Serve

  • dino001dino001 Member Posts: 6,163

    driver100 said:

    Today I go in for my oil change and brake fluid change. I have never changed brake fluid before. I have a friend who does his own repairs and he keeps his cars for a long time. I told him I was getting new brake fluid and this is what he said:
    Why the brake fluid? Have had cars for 16 years, and guess what? Brakes worked just fine for 270,000 km. If your brake pedal becomes spongy, well then a different story, and needs to be done.

    Just saying.........
    Although, from what I have been reading it does break down in a few years, and Florida may be harder on brake fluid than it would be back home. Also, the car is 6 years old now.....and who knows if it has been done?

    Brake fluid is hygroscopic- it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere- which lowers the boiling point of the fluid. When the fluid boils the brakes quit working.

    Your friend is woefully ignorant; he reminds me of a comment that I once heard a European auto engineer make-
    “European drivers don’t care if the brakes squeal, just as long as they
    stop the car. American drivers don’t care if the brakes stop the car- just as long as they don’t squeal.”
    IIRC BMW recommends brake fluid change every three or four years. I don't remember exactly, but my stingy service remainder lists that change specifically with some date in the future. I think it's probably mostly precautionary, as brake systems, if properly sealed should not absorb moisture from the atmosphere. However, there usually not such a thing as completely sealed moving system. I also know that some garages will abuse that by showing you supposed contamination of the brake system to make you pony up the money for service.

    2018 430i Gran Coupe

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 15,854
    My 04 Grand Marquis in 2016 was still rocking the original fluid. I'm not saying that it was the right thing to do, but that it certainly can go longer than 3/4 years.

    Brake system in that car was never opened up except for front and rear pads.

    2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Ram 1500 Bighorn, Built to Serve

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    ab348 said:

    Great picture!

    +1 Great picture....and Mazal Tov.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 7,466
    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    To be honest I don't think anyone wants to look like @driver100. That is a good looking son you have and a pretty wife. Not sure how you managed that. But you're right...the guy on the right needs some work. ;)

    Congrats on the BIG day. I'm sure your son is glad it's over.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562
    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    Congratulations. You look like the proud papa but mom looks worried that she’s lost her baby.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    stickguy said:

    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    I tend to agree. Most service work is overstated. I had the cabin filter changed one year ago.....and I have gone 6000 miles, they put on my bill recommend I do it again in 2020 - next year, that will be after 12000 miles! They also want me to do an oil change after 5000 miles or in 6 months.....even Mercedes doesn't recommend that. Brake lines flushed in 2021......after 12000 miles.

    I am using my own schedule, try to be on the safe side but not be obsessive. The battery seems fine, but, it could be 6 years old, and it is in Florida heat, and by then the car will have 36000 miles on it, so I'll have it checked and probably replaced. At least when you buy new you know what you have done....unless you get all the records with the car. I like the indie Euro mechanic, they only do what I ask....not try to get me to do a lot of extra stuff.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    edited November 2019
    jmonroe1 said:

    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    To be honest I don't think anyone wants to look like @driver100. That is a good looking son you have and a pretty wife. Not sure how you managed that. But you're right...the guy on the right needs some work. ;)

    Congrats on the BIG day. I'm sure your son is glad it's over.

    jmonroe
    Says the guy who claims to look like Dean Martin and doesn't offer any evidence. :@

    Hey JMonroe, ever tried to do an impersonation......Everybody Loves Somebody Zzzzzzzomtome, everybody falls in love zometime........la de dah.........

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562
    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.
    I usually only change the brake fluid on cars that are fast enough to need all their braking power.

    Now how about this dilemma. Should I spend $1000 to change the timing belt on my convertible? The car has 84,000 on the clock as it went into the barn for winter. Previous owner had no idea if it had ever been changed. On that motor it’s “recommended” to change it at 60k but if you don’t, definitely change it at 100k.

    At the rate I drive it, it’ll take 8 years to hit 100k. If it blows up before then I’m out the 2 grand I paid for it.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,290
    nyccarguy said:


    While I don't look as good as @driver100 did in his striped shirt, I do clean up rather nicely. Everything went amazingly well this past Saturday!

    Congrats on his big day. Good looking kid you got there, good thing he gets his looks from his mother. ;)

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,290
    Got something in the mail today, it was a card from a Hyundai dealership with a loyalty gift card in it. It's a $50 card in their sales or service department. The only problem is that it's a dealership I've never heard of before and it's almost an hour and a half away. Also according to Hyundai's website there are two dozen dealers closer than this place. Doesn't anyone check these things?

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,290

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.
    I usually only change the brake fluid on cars that are fast enough to need all their braking power.

    Now how about this dilemma. Should I spend $1000 to change the timing belt on my convertible? The car has 84,000 on the clock as it went into the barn for winter. Previous owner had no idea if it had ever been changed. On that motor it’s “recommended” to change it at 60k but if you don’t, definitely change it at 100k.

    At the rate I drive it, it’ll take 8 years to hit 100k. If it blows up before then I’m out the 2 grand I paid for it.
    As far as the brakes are concerned you could always open the door and drag your feet.

    As for your car $1,000 is likely getting close to its value so if you're only doing a few thousand miles a year on it yearly I would take the chance.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 15,854
    @oldfarmer50

    I wouldn’t change the belt in your case.

    2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Ram 1500 Bighorn, Built to Serve

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,132
    edited November 2019
    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    I tend to agree. Most service work is overstated. I had the cabin filter changed one year ago.....and I have gone 6000 miles, they put on my bill recommend I do it again in 2020 - next year, that will be after 12000 miles! They also want me to do an oil change after 5000 miles or in 6 months.....even Mercedes doesn't recommend that. Brake lines flushed in 2021......after 12000 miles.

    I am using my own schedule, try to be on the safe side but not be obsessive. The battery seems fine, but, it could be 6 years old, and it is in Florida heat, and by then the car will have 36000 miles on it, so I'll have it checked and probably replaced. At least when you buy new you know what you have done....unless you get all the records with the car. I like the indie Euro mechanic, they only do what I ask....not try to get me to do a lot of extra stuff.
    If you can see your battery, you can check if it's mercedes brand or another brand. The other brand would indicate it's been replaced. Batteries can be tested quickly for deterioration status. I wouldn't be surprised if your lasted longer in Florida if it's not abused.

    If you're not driving in an area with lots of dust from construction on roads or buildings, your cabin filter last a nominal 3 years.

    BTW Fram has been big in the cabin filters with all kinds of lipstick on pig features such as carbon treatment supposedly to remove aromas. I feel the same about those as I do about their oil filters.

    I always get the OEM AC Delco filters for my 3 vehicles.

    The oil filters used to be made in nearby Greenville decades ago. More of the jobs that were sent overseas by the big corps but still tried to sell them based on a US name.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.
    I usually only change the brake fluid on cars that are fast enough to need all their braking power.

    Now how about this dilemma. Should I spend $1000 to change the timing belt on my convertible? The car has 84,000 on the clock as it went into the barn for winter. Previous owner had no idea if it had ever been changed. On that motor it’s “recommended” to change it at 60k but if you don’t, definitely change it at 100k.

    At the rate I drive it, it’ll take 8 years to hit 100k. If it blows up before then I’m out the 2 grand I paid for it.
    usually belts have a time or mileage requirement. I can guarantee you are over on time! But, it's like buying an insurance policy. with a hefty premium. At the miles you drive, odds are you will get a couple more years out of it. If not, oops. And do you want to keep it another 10+ years? If so, might want to do it.

    also, is it an interference engine? If not, really no reason to do it now. if it breaks, you can tow it in and do it then.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.
    I usually only change the brake fluid on cars that are fast enough to need all their braking power.

    Now how about this dilemma. Should I spend $1000 to change the timing belt on my convertible? The car has 84,000 on the clock as it went into the barn for winter. Previous owner had no idea if it had ever been changed. On that motor it’s “recommended” to change it at 60k but if you don’t, definitely change it at 100k.

    At the rate I drive it, it’ll take 8 years to hit 100k. If it blows up before then I’m out the 2 grand I paid for it.
    My father always told me you can let most things go on a car....but NOT the brakes, they have to work. So, I don't mind having them brought up to date.
    About making a $1000 repair on a car worth about that....take your chances.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    I tend to agree. Most service work is overstated. I had the cabin filter changed one year ago.....and I have gone 6000 miles, they put on my bill recommend I do it again in 2020 - next year, that will be after 12000 miles! They also want me to do an oil change after 5000 miles or in 6 months.....even Mercedes doesn't recommend that. Brake lines flushed in 2021......after 12000 miles.

    I am using my own schedule, try to be on the safe side but not be obsessive. The battery seems fine, but, it could be 6 years old, and it is in Florida heat, and by then the car will have 36000 miles on it, so I'll have it checked and probably replaced. At least when you buy new you know what you have done....unless you get all the records with the car. I like the indie Euro mechanic, they only do what I ask....not try to get me to do a lot of extra stuff.
    If you can see your battery, you can check if it's mercedes brand or another brand. The other brand would indicate it's been replaced. Batteries can be tested quickly for deterioration status. I wouldn't be surprised if your lasted longer in Florida if it's not abused.

    If you're not driving in an area with lots of dust from construction on roads or buildings, your cabin filter last a nominal 3 years.

    BTW Fram has been big in the cabin filters with all kinds of lipstick on pig features such as carbon treatment supposedly to remove aromas. I feel the same about those as I do about their oil filters.

    I always get the OEM AC Delco filters for my 3 vehicles.

    The oil filters used to be made in nearby Greenville decades ago. More of the jobs that were sent overseas by the big corps but still tried to sell them based on a US name.
    Good idea checking the battery to see if it is the original. If I can't tell I will have them test it next year, get the mechanics...or is it technicians opinion? I had the cabin filter done last year, since we only use the car for half a year I suppose it should last for 6 years....thanks for mentioning they have a 3 year lifespan.
    I am trying to make notes about what has been done when, and what the schedule will be for getting things done...I don't want to pay for a A Service and have them oil all the locks and turn everything on and off to see if it is working.
    The indie garage seems very fair, but one thing they listed under labor was "and put a sticker on the window for the next servicing"! Do they actually charge me to do that? Checking fluid levels I like...the power steering feels better, wonder if they added some P.S. fluid?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,439
    batteries have dates on them. replacements certainly do. I assume the OEM one does also. But not a bad idea to have them load test it. just a machine they hook up and run a quick test.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    Good to know....I will see if I can find a date. The battery is under a cover that lifts off.....not the easiest thing to try and remove probably...but, I will give it a try.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 7,466
    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    I tend to agree. Most service work is overstated. I had the cabin filter changed one year ago.....and I have gone 6000 miles, they put on my bill recommend I do it again in 2020 - next year, that will be after 12000 miles! They also want me to do an oil change after 5000 miles or in 6 months.....even Mercedes doesn't recommend that. Brake lines flushed in 2021......after 12000 miles.

    I am using my own schedule, try to be on the safe side but not be obsessive. The battery seems fine, but, it could be 6 years old, and it is in Florida heat, and by then the car will have 36000 miles on it, so I'll have it checked and probably replaced. At least when you buy new you know what you have done....unless you get all the records with the car. I like the indie Euro mechanic, they only do what I ask....not try to get me to do a lot of extra stuff.
    If you can see your battery, you can check if it's mercedes brand or another brand. The other brand would indicate it's been replaced. Batteries can be tested quickly for deterioration status. I wouldn't be surprised if your lasted longer in Florida if it's not abused.

    If you're not driving in an area with lots of dust from construction on roads or buildings, your cabin filter last a nominal 3 years.

    BTW Fram has been big in the cabin filters with all kinds of lipstick on pig features such as carbon treatment supposedly to remove aromas. I feel the same about those as I do about their oil filters.

    I always get the OEM AC Delco filters for my 3 vehicles.

    The oil filters used to be made in nearby Greenville decades ago. More of the jobs that were sent overseas by the big corps but still tried to sell them based on a US name.
    Good idea checking the battery to see if it is the original. If I can't tell I will have them test it next year, get the mechanics...or is it technicians opinion? I had the cabin filter done last year, since we only use the car for half a year I suppose it should last for 6 years....thanks for mentioning they have a 3 year lifespan.
    I am trying to make notes about what has been done when, and what the schedule will be for getting things done...I don't want to pay for a A Service and have them oil all the locks and turn everything on and off to see if it is working.
    The indie garage seems very fair, but one thing they listed under labor was "and put a sticker on the window for the next servicing"! Do they actually charge me to do that? Checking fluid levels I like...the power steering feels better, wonder if they added some P.S. fluid?
    Hint: If they added power steering fluid and your "power steering feels better", you either have a good imagination or your reservoir was way down and you have a leak that needs servicing. So your car may have a steering problem and a brake system that needs flushing. Maybe you should have bit on the extended warranty the dealer surely offered you when you bought it.

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • jmonroe1jmonroe1 Member Posts: 7,466
    driver100 said:

    Good to know....I will see if I can find a date. The battery is under a cover that lifts off.....not the easiest thing to try and remove probably...but, I will give it a try.

    If I were you, I'd take it to "The Guy".

    jmonroe
    '15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562

    Got something in the mail today, it was a card from a Hyundai dealership with a loyalty gift card in it. It's a $50 card in their sales or service department. The only problem is that it's a dealership I've never heard of before and it's almost an hour and a half away. Also according to Hyundai's website there are two dozen dealers closer than this place. Doesn't anyone check these things?

    Years ago I owned two Chryslers, one bought locally, the other some distance away. Over time I disposed of the one bought at the distant dealer.

    One day I get an offer from the local dealer for a free oil change. Goody for me, I thought. I bring my remaining Chrysler into the local dealer where I bought it only to be told the offer was only good for the car I no longer owned. :@

    Sometimes dealers buy other dealers mailing lists and just Hail Mary it.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562
    stickguy said:

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Brake fluid change is cheap insurance. You change it because it absorbs water. Which can boil if gets too hot, leading to braking performance degradation. And can rust expensive parts in your brake system.

    Hey, you could just add oil and never change it too and might get away with it!

    Thanks for the info Stick and RR, I have driven cars up to about 80 or 90k...and have never had the brake fluid changed. But, Mercedes says to do it every 20000 miles or every 2 years. The general rule is:
    Some manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every 45,000 miles, and some say every three years regardless of how many miles you have driven, but typically a brake fluid flush every 20,000 miles or every two years is recommend.
    We got the C250 3 years ago, it has 30000 miles on it (12k when we got it), the car is 6 years old, so I have no idea if the brakes have ever been flushed.......seems like cheap insurance to make the car last as long as possible. It looks great and it drives beautifully....I would like to try and keep it in top condition.
    I usually only change the brake fluid on cars that are fast enough to need all their braking power.

    Now how about this dilemma. Should I spend $1000 to change the timing belt on my convertible? The car has 84,000 on the clock as it went into the barn for winter. Previous owner had no idea if it had ever been changed. On that motor it’s “recommended” to change it at 60k but if you don’t, definitely change it at 100k.

    At the rate I drive it, it’ll take 8 years to hit 100k. If it blows up before then I’m out the 2 grand I paid for it.
    usually belts have a time or mileage requirement. I can guarantee you are over on time! But, it's like buying an insurance policy. with a hefty premium. At the miles you drive, odds are you will get a couple more years out of it. If not, oops. And do you want to keep it another 10+ years? If so, might want to do it.

    also, is it an interference engine? If not, really no reason to do it now. if it breaks, you can tow it in and do it then.
    Unfortunately, it’s an interference engine or I’d just run it until it snapped.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,290

    Got something in the mail today, it was a card from a Hyundai dealership with a loyalty gift card in it. It's a $50 card in their sales or service department. The only problem is that it's a dealership I've never heard of before and it's almost an hour and a half away. Also according to Hyundai's website there are two dozen dealers closer than this place. Doesn't anyone check these things?

    Years ago I owned two Chryslers, one bought locally, the other some distance away. Over time I disposed of the one bought at the distant dealer.

    One day I get an offer from the local dealer for a free oil change. Goody for me, I thought. I bring my remaining Chrysler into the local dealer where I bought it only to be told the offer was only good for the car I no longer owned. :@

    Sometimes dealers buy other dealers mailing lists and just Hail Mary it.
    Yeah but I would think that someone would sort the list by zip code for better targeting. Zip Codes are grouped based on the fist number, then grouped by the first two then further by the first three. So it should be an easy task to eliminate addresses with Zip Codes way to far away and maybe save thousands of dollars.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 22,562

    Got something in the mail today, it was a card from a Hyundai dealership with a loyalty gift card in it. It's a $50 card in their sales or service department. The only problem is that it's a dealership I've never heard of before and it's almost an hour and a half away. Also according to Hyundai's website there are two dozen dealers closer than this place. Doesn't anyone check these things?

    Years ago I owned two Chryslers, one bought locally, the other some distance away. Over time I disposed of the one bought at the distant dealer.

    One day I get an offer from the local dealer for a free oil change. Goody for me, I thought. I bring my remaining Chrysler into the local dealer where I bought it only to be told the offer was only good for the car I no longer owned. :@

    Sometimes dealers buy other dealers mailing lists and just Hail Mary it.
    Yeah but I would think that someone would sort the list by zip code for better targeting. Zip Codes are grouped based on the fist number, then grouped by the first two then further by the first three. So it should be an easy task to eliminate addresses with Zip Codes way to far away and maybe save thousands of dollars.
    I bet the mailers are sent out by some marketing firm in a foreign land who gets paid on quantity not quality.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964

    Got something in the mail today, it was a card from a Hyundai dealership with a loyalty gift card in it. It's a $50 card in their sales or service department. The only problem is that it's a dealership I've never heard of before and it's almost an hour and a half away. Also according to Hyundai's website there are two dozen dealers closer than this place. Doesn't anyone check these things?

    Years ago I owned two Chryslers, one bought locally, the other some distance away. Over time I disposed of the one bought at the distant dealer.

    One day I get an offer from the local dealer for a free oil change. Goody for me, I thought. I bring my remaining Chrysler into the local dealer where I bought it only to be told the offer was only good for the car I no longer owned. :@

    Sometimes dealers buy other dealers mailing lists and just Hail Mary it.
    Yeah but I would think that someone would sort the list by zip code for better targeting. Zip Codes are grouped based on the fist number, then grouped by the first two then further by the first three. So it should be an easy task to eliminate addresses with Zip Codes way to far away and maybe save thousands of dollars.
    I bet the mailers are sent out by some marketing firm in a foreign land who gets paid on quantity not quality.
    This is true.....some are competent, some don't care....the more they send out, the more they make.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 31,964
    jmonroe1 said:

    driver100 said:

    driver100 said:

    stickguy said:

    Honda says every 3 years. Some makers treat it as lifetime. Same with trans fluid. Up to each owner what you are comfortable with. Even doing it once in an 8-10 year ownership term is probably enough, and better than nothing. Plus cheap when amortized!

    The other logical move is just do it when you have a rake job done. Usually cheaper then anyway.

    I tend to agree. Most service work is overstated. I had the cabin filter changed one year ago.....and I have gone 6000 miles, they put on my bill recommend I do it again in 2020 - next year, that will be after 12000 miles! They also want me to do an oil change after 5000 miles or in 6 months.....even Mercedes doesn't recommend that. Brake lines flushed in 2021......after 12000 miles.

    I am using my own schedule, try to be on the safe side but not be obsessive. The battery seems fine, but, it could be 6 years old, and it is in Florida heat, and by then the car will have 36000 miles on it, so I'll have it checked and probably replaced. At least when you buy new you know what you have done....unless you get all the records with the car. I like the indie Euro mechanic, they only do what I ask....not try to get me to do a lot of extra stuff.
    If you can see your battery, you can check if it's mercedes brand or another brand. The other brand would indicate it's been replaced. Batteries can be tested quickly for deterioration status. I wouldn't be surprised if your lasted longer in Florida if it's not abused.

    If you're not driving in an area with lots of dust from construction on roads or buildings, your cabin filter last a nominal 3 years.

    BTW Fram has been big in the cabin filters with all kinds of lipstick on pig features such as carbon treatment supposedly to remove aromas. I feel the same about those as I do about their oil filters.

    I always get the OEM AC Delco filters for my 3 vehicles.

    The oil filters used to be made in nearby Greenville decades ago. More of the jobs that were sent overseas by the big corps but still tried to sell them based on a US name.
    Good idea checking the battery to see if it is the original. If I can't tell I will have them test it next year, get the mechanics...or is it technicians opinion? I had the cabin filter done last year, since we only use the car for half a year I suppose it should last for 6 years....thanks for mentioning they have a 3 year lifespan.
    I am trying to make notes about what has been done when, and what the schedule will be for getting things done...I don't want to pay for a A Service and have them oil all the locks and turn everything on and off to see if it is working.
    The indie garage seems very fair, but one thing they listed under labor was "and put a sticker on the window for the next servicing"! Do they actually charge me to do that? Checking fluid levels I like...the power steering feels better, wonder if they added some P.S. fluid?
    Hint: If they added power steering fluid and your "power steering feels better", you either have a good imagination or your reservoir was way down and you have a leak that needs servicing. So your car may have a steering problem and a brake system that needs flushing. Maybe you should have bit on the extended warranty the dealer surely offered you when you bought it.

    jmonroe
    That went through my mind too. The whole car drives better after an oil change.....it even drives better when it has been washed! I was thinking......even a slight top up, could make a difference! Probably all in the head!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

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