Dealer Scam

[GreenBlackFFH]

I just got an e-mail from the dealership notifying me of a "recommended minor service" at 15,000 miles, which includes oil and filter change, tire rotation, numerous "inspections", etc. I was surprised, and checked the owner's manual. As I had thought, service is every 10,000 miles except for one at 5,000 miles, so my next service should be at 20,000 miles. Of course, if a dealer can con someone into coming in twice as often as necessary, then they can make double the money. Watch out for these guys!!

[mirak]

This is quite common. I get service soliciations all the time from local dealers, even though I bought the car out of town. Parts and service is where dealers make most of their money. Unethical? Not really, especially compared to other tricks dealers use. Lots of people recommend servicing your car more frequently than the schedule in the owner's manual. I change my oil every 5k no matter what the scheduke says. I just don't go to the dealer for maintenance. What a rip off.

[Grey]

I use the coupons from mailers or on the dealers' web sites and always have a Ford dealership do my maintenance. Oil changes at 7-8,000 miles. I won't keep the vehicle beyond 3/36 and I want the highest trade in I can get. Known recorded maintenance always helps.