Stealership ripoff

TX-TahoeLtd · April 6, 2004

I can't believe my dealership wants me to pay ~800 dollars to have an oil pan gasket changed, a serpentine belt changed, and a relay changed.

I've got a 3rd party extended warranty with a 100 dollar deductible. They're supposed to pay ASE rates, but there's a 25 / hour difference in what they said they'd pay and what the stealership charges. I was told that the stealership charged ASE rates, so what gives?

I feel like I'm getting taken for a ride. I think they said with parts and labor, to change the oil pan gasket, it's 450 dollars. So, for a 10 dollar gasket, they're going to charge me ~5 hours worth of labor to change this? I don't think so. I don't know how to change this thing myself and I'm pretty dang sure I can do this in under 5 hours.

gmcjoe · April 6, 2004

That does suck, I would expect them both to use the same GM time standards...

If it helps, the serpentine belt is a 10 minute job.

Do you have AC? There is a second belt for the AC belt on the NBS trucks.

Have you tried to ask another dealer?

TXDMAX · April 6, 2004

Where in TX are you located?

Who is the warranty co.?

This is the no. 2 problem w/ third party service plans (no. 1 being wil they be in business when you need them). Your two choices are to try another dealer or fight w/ your service policy.

TX-TahoeLtd · April 6, 2004

I'm in the Dallas Fort Worth area.

The serpentine belt is fine, I don't mind paying that. The oil pan gasket they don't pay for, the lower intake leak they're paying for. The relay they're paying for.

Even the dealer told me that standard published ASE rates are 79 an hour and they charge 85. I could live with a 6 dollar an hour difference. But 25? What's up with that?

Yes, it just dawned on me that I'm being taken for a ride by my warranty company. I looked them up and the first hit I got was a scam report.

I've got no choice now, even if I just tell them to pack up my stuff and give it back, I already owe 250 in parts and labor (warranty company doesn't pay to have the vehicle checked out either).

I'm thinking about just having them button it back up and try to do the work myself on the oil pan gasket, but I'd really love to have someone experienced in this around.

Is anyone in the Denton area (about 20 minutes north of Dallas)? I'd be willing to even drive to your place if you've got a better set of tools. I can pay a little, or buy you lunch, or a case of your fav. beer.

....this absolutely s*cks!

<edit> The warranty company is "Complete Automotive Repair Services" or CARS.

NEVER NEVER NEVER again will I get them to pay for anything. I'll do the work myself, even if I have to take vacation to do it.

TXDMAX · April 6, 2004

Where did you buy the policy from?

I am at Classic Chevrolet. Call Alan Garza, he is a service writer here and see if he can help you out. (800)259-1200

JamesB · April 7, 2004

I have bought both of the newer trucks in my sig from Classic Chevy in Grapevine. Top notch bunch of folks there. Never had a problem with the service department. Not affilliated, just a happy customer. Give them a shout!

James.