conversation: User (Mondeezy): "Hi all,\n\nTook my 07 Civic EX to a local dealership just to get an inspection (free) as it seemed the shocks were shot and the brakes were starting to wear.\n\n* Rear shocks (Leaking): $690+tax\n\n* Brakes and rotor (rear): $580\n\n* Tires worn out- all 4 need to be replaced - ??\n\n* Side Mount worn out: $570\n\n* Power steering pump: $780\n\n* Spark Plugs: $200\n\n* Valve adjustment: $190\n\n* Drive belt: $180\n\nI'm not very knowledgeable when it comes to cars, but that seems like quite a bit of work and quite a bit of money. I know the dealer tends to rip people off, so I'm going to look around for other mechanics.. Does anyone have any advice on what I should do? Not sure I have $4,000 to throw into repairing a 9 year old, 130000 mile car right now, and if it may be worth it to trade it in and upgrade to a newer model?\n\nThank you in advance for your help!"
  Self: "Companies don't do free inspections out of the goodness of their hearts. It's a sales driver. They know that no one takes their perfectly-running car in to the dealership for a free inspection, so you're already open to your car not being perfect. They start instilling the wrath of god in you to convince you that you need all this nonsense stuff, and then they try to upsell the hell out of you. If you listen to every free inspection place, you'll be spending $4,000 every twice a month on your 2007 Civic. Which you hopefully realize is stupid. Go to yelp.com and find a repair shop with a good reputation.\n\nAnd go to the askamechanic sub before you go to a mechanic to get an idea. For example, why do YOU think your shocks are bad? Tell us what is wrong with your car, and we can come to the conclusion. For example, is it the clunk and squeaking brakes that bothers you? A brake shop should charge more like $100 for brakes."
  