No, don't worry, I haven't damaged my car again! (//www.diynot.com/forums/automotive-repairs/i-am-an-idiot.302426/) I'm just asking for some advice this time.
I've just taken my car in to be serviced at Halfords Autocentre. I was attracted by a £30-off voucher I had but I'm wondering whether that is a bit of a con.
They rang to say my car was mechanically sound but there were a few issues:
1. The cam belt is scheduled to be replaced. Apparently the recommended time is 5 years or 60k miles and it reached 5 years earlier this year. Estimated cost about £450.
2. Brake fluid is scheduled to be replaced. Estimated cost about £30-40.
3. Anti-freeze is a "bit weak" and should be replaced, "especially in case we have a bad winter". Estimated cost about £30-40.
4. They also want to add some Fuel System Cleaner to help my engine perform better and get better mileage etc. Estimated cost about £30-40.
I have declined all of these extras and just gone for the service. Mainly as I can't afford them, having just wasted £100 on getting my bodywork fixed . However, what I'd like to know, is whether all of this work is necessary? It seems like they are just going on the recommended replacement times rather than actual wear and tear.
The cam belt sounds pretty urgent but is that a good price for it? Would it be worth shopping around?
I've just taken my car in to be serviced at Halfords Autocentre. I was attracted by a £30-off voucher I had but I'm wondering whether that is a bit of a con.
They rang to say my car was mechanically sound but there were a few issues:
1. The cam belt is scheduled to be replaced. Apparently the recommended time is 5 years or 60k miles and it reached 5 years earlier this year. Estimated cost about £450.
2. Brake fluid is scheduled to be replaced. Estimated cost about £30-40.
3. Anti-freeze is a "bit weak" and should be replaced, "especially in case we have a bad winter". Estimated cost about £30-40.
4. They also want to add some Fuel System Cleaner to help my engine perform better and get better mileage etc. Estimated cost about £30-40.
I have declined all of these extras and just gone for the service. Mainly as I can't afford them, having just wasted £100 on getting my bodywork fixed . However, what I'd like to know, is whether all of this work is necessary? It seems like they are just going on the recommended replacement times rather than actual wear and tear.
The cam belt sounds pretty urgent but is that a good price for it? Would it be worth shopping around?