So, I took it in today for a tune up and it ended up costing me 450 bucks. he did change the fuel filter (he only parts he supplied were the Motorcraft plugs 32's, some differential fluid for the front, 1 gallon of anti-freeze, and additive for the rear differential, and 2 bottles or transfer case oil)

He also did a diagnostic check. Did I get overcharged? that seemed like a whole lot. I got there at 8:40 this morning and he didn't get done till maybe 2 this afternoon.

 

What year and what engine? Regardless, with all that, does not sound overpriced to me, unless maybe it's a V-6.

 

Yea, he did allot more than a tune up. Sounds like he took good care of you pretty well. I like what you post on the drive-train. I can tell by what you said he did a thorough job. Hey, all that stuff could of been done by you and cost you "0". It's easy to do with sites like this at your disposal. The more your unable/unwilling to do the simple things yourself, the more its going to add up.

Goes without saying but, - the guys who go that extra and are thorough with what they do, usually give yuh more than you pay for.

From what you post, - The price is fair IMO. Not the greatest, but sounds perfectly fair.

I know Ford bills the plugs on this model 2.2 hrs labor. On top of that, changed the gear fluid in both axles and Tcase.

You got a good job, no worries.

 

I was quoted $1000 for just plugs from the dealer, and that was if only half broke or something like that lol. This was for my 98 F150 4.6 2wd. Needless to say I did not go through with it.

I think you got a good deal. IMO.

 

Its a 97 4X4 V-8 4.6 I watched him do it ~ and he didn't have to take the fuel stuff off we got all the plugs with no problem.

 

thanks guys ~ i appreciate it ~ I actually found him on craigslist and yes he is certified ~ That price above is with the parts so he basically charged me 322.50 for labor ~ I have started some advertising for him in trade for more repairs ~ and he said the net oil change is $40.00 for 10w ~ i think I found a great mechanic!! he looks like santa with no beard lol ~ Auto Dr's LLC,
Bill Low 414-403-0168
he charged as follows:
225.00 tune up which included the air filter and great job with getting the wires nice and organized
$37.50 for replacing the fuel filter, Which I got under there and held the light and pan and it was a rusty bitch!
$50.00 for a check over

68.00 for the spark plugs
14.75 for the anti freeze he topped off with a gallon
21.00 for 2 merc 5
12.25 for deferential fluid
12.00 for the additive for rear differential
20.00 for the plastic thingy that he used to get the fuel line off ~ rusty bitch broke it lol

 

one more thing ~ I did bring my own parts and he used them ~ all except the plugs ~ i got copper ones and he said he wont do the tune up with those ~ so, he allows you to bring in your own parts!!! I brought in the air filter, the wires and 1 bottle of gear oil for the front but it was so empty he needed another one

 

You got a deal.

 

Sounds good, - except 10w isn't recommended for THAT motor. Your engines recommended oil weight is 5w 20 synthetic blend. I wouldn't run the 10w in that engine. Anyone who can't get the oil right shouldn't be touching your vehicle.

 

the labor on those plugs is somewhere around 2.8-3.0 hrs which usually converts to around $300 on plug labor alone...it definitely sounds like you got a good deal.

Also agree with jbrew on the oil viscosity...pretty sure its 5w20

 

but the motor is at 249,000 miles? still stay at 5w?

 

I have 5w max syn in there now

 

Sure, if you want to keep everything lubricated. Thicker oil @ high mileage is the worst thing you can do. The old push rod engines were different. We use to run 30w in everything way back when lol.

As these age, the pathways get a little smaller/narrower. You want to keep the oil flowing. As much splash effect as possible.

 

I certainly would find a different dealer if they don't know the difference between 2v and 3v plugs/years.

 

Okay then, I will take your advice ~ I am not one to be stubborn and not listen. I just want whats best for my truck. I eventually want a new engine in there but not right now.