Stewart DIBBS

<news@clanlogan.info> wrote in message
news:1163817168.980892.87790@b28g2000cwb.googlegro ups.com...
> Another problem is the non-commital attitude i.e. I offer to replace
> the clutch (it really bugs me) but at $2000

$2000 to replace a clutch? As an expat Aussie, my response to that would the
F***ING Bullshit! Let's say 4 hours labour to replace the clutch = $200 or
so. If the clutch plate is obviously faulty (ie loose or broken torsion
springs, or failed release bearing), no charge, but lets say $600 for the
complete kit at Honda prices. That makes about $800 total.

I'd ask the dealer to show you the parts cost of a complete clutch kit
(friction plate, pressure plate and release bearing) along with the Honda
listing that shows the standard labour time and cost. Better yet, have him
write you up a quotation detailing everything. For a 2006 car, there simply
WON'T be any "unexpected extras" like is often found on older cars.

I'd be pretty surprised, nay, amazed, if the written quote came up to
anywhere near $2000. If it does, check with your local auto club (NRMA, RAC
or what ever) on the accuracy of this quote. I'd say that the dealer
"quoted" you $2000 to shut you up and get rid of you. Either way, you may
need to change dealers, and pass the $2000 quote on to Honda Australia.
Incidently, the NRMA are often helpful to apply pressure on to dealers and
manufacturers. Bad publicity in the NRMA Magasine is never a good thing.

SD

Stewart DIBBS

<news@clanlogan.info> wrote in message
news:1163817168.980892.87790@b28g2000cwb.googlegro ups.com...
> Another problem is the non-commital attitude i.e. I offer to replace
> the clutch (it really bugs me) but at $2000

$2000 to replace a clutch? As an expat Aussie, my response to that would the
F***ING Bullshit! Let's say 4 hours labour to replace the clutch = $200 or
so. If the clutch plate is obviously faulty (ie loose or broken torsion
springs, or failed release bearing), no charge, but lets say $600 for the
complete kit at Honda prices. That makes about $800 total.

I'd ask the dealer to show you the parts cost of a complete clutch kit
(friction plate, pressure plate and release bearing) along with the Honda
listing that shows the standard labour time and cost. Better yet, have him
write you up a quotation detailing everything. For a 2006 car, there simply
WON'T be any "unexpected extras" like is often found on older cars.

I'd be pretty surprised, nay, amazed, if the written quote came up to
anywhere near $2000. If it does, check with your local auto club (NRMA, RAC
or what ever) on the accuracy of this quote. I'd say that the dealer
"quoted" you $2000 to shut you up and get rid of you. Either way, you may
need to change dealers, and pass the $2000 quote on to Honda Australia.
Incidently, the NRMA are often helpful to apply pressure on to dealers and
manufacturers. Bad publicity in the NRMA Magasine is never a good thing.

SD