Lightning fast response.......many thanks !
> Given the age of the vehicle and the belts, I would change just the pump if
> it was mine. A genuine pump is about 60 quid and a belt kit is over a
> hundred plus antifreeze about 15 quid , so you are way out on parts prices,
> garage labour should be about 120quid.
> I agree that the pump should have been changed with the belts, but I also
> know that most customers whinge and whine if you tell them you have changed
> a non faulty part because it may go in the near future.
Parts prices obtained from local factor, not genuine Ford. I know
there are risks involved in fitting non-genuine parts (perhaps
especially coolant pump/timing kit) but I have never been let down by
any parts obtained through "Cliffords" of Brighton.
"the pump should have been changed with the belts" ..........it
doesn't surprise me that the main dealer didn't ask and didn't do it.
They also neglected to replace a nearly perished CV boot when
replacing the outer joint. I took them to task over this but they
wormed their way out of it by saying it was airtight when refitted
(two months later it broke open throwing grease everywhere). Stern
words were exchanged but their mastery of "worming it" was just too
much for me. Needless to say, I have voted with my feet and will not
do business with them again.
> Given the age of the vehicle and the belts, I would change just the pump if
> it was mine. A genuine pump is about 60 quid and a belt kit is over a
> hundred plus antifreeze about 15 quid , so you are way out on parts prices,
> garage labour should be about 120quid.
> I agree that the pump should have been changed with the belts, but I also
> know that most customers whinge and whine if you tell them you have changed
> a non faulty part because it may go in the near future.
They should tell the customer what MUST be done, what SHOULD be done
and leave the decision to the customer. Could it be that this degree
of customer service is often left out because it makes for another job
and more money ? No doubt we all think that ALL mechanics should offer
such advice as part of 'the service' but especially main dealers - it
is the only reason I can see for anyone to use them - I guess we might
see things improve slightly when the new in-warranty rules for cars
come into force. I have to say that I've dealt with better main
dealers before, and better independents too.
Thanks for your input
All the Best
Larry