My first visit to the dealer

[AlFischer]

Took my 2014 in for the RF HUB recall and asked if they could fix the TPMS. The said that their software would not allow it.

I told them about my TC leakdown problem (two hours sometimes). I gave them a copy of the post from transengineer that explained it. The 'Transmission Specialist' is ordering the filter and another check valve (he said there were 2 check valves inside) PLUS a new Torque Converter. Said that it was better to change all the parts and not just the spin on filter. Strange. me thinks! Take about a week to arrive.

While there they also flashed the Body Control Module. Don't understand why.

At least everything still works I THINK!

 

[Deleted member 995608]

Did the say what was different about the torque converter?

 

[AlFischer]

NOPE! only said ot was better to change EVERTHING! DUHHH...

 

[sag2]

Why in the world would you want the dealer to replace the converter for drain back when it has nothing to do with it??? All that tells me is the technician does not know what he is doing. You might want to rethink this total over repair. It's technicians like this that gives all of us a bad name.

 

[AlFischer]

Why in the world would you want the dealer to replace the converter for drain back when it has nothing to do with it??? All that tells me is the technician does not know what he is doing. You might want to rethink this total over repair. It's technicians like this that gives all of us a bad name.

I don't WANT him to replace the torque converter and I told the Service Manager that the TC wasn't going to fix it. Remember that I gave him a printout of the post about the spin on filter hving the check valve in it. I wouldn't change the TQ. I would change only the filter. How should I handle this? Pls advise.

 

[AlFischer]

I don't WANT him to replace the torque converter and I told the Service Manager that the TC wasn't going to fix it. Remember that I gave him a printout of the post about the spin on filter hving the check valve in it. I wouldn't change the TQ. I would change only the filter. How should I handle this? Pls advise.

Do I have the option of not letting him replace the TC? IMHO only the filter should be changed. Does the dealer make a profit on warrantee work?

 

[Deleted member 995608]

Wouldn't be a bad idea to consult with another mechanic from a separate dealer. Just might be able to offer some onsite on the torque converter.

You could try talking to the diesel mechanic (Jerry) from Porterville Dodge. He was an independent diesel mechanic for many years before selling and retiring. Several local and smaller shops around here still seek advice from Jerry as he's pretty sharp. Worth a try.

 

[Ram4Sam]

Why in the world would you want the dealer to replace the converter for drain back when it has nothing to do with it??? All that tells me is the technician does not know what he is doing. You might want to rethink this total over repair. It's technicians like this that gives all of us a bad name.

Sag, just curious.....Wouldn't something like this repair, given the costs involved and questionable diagnosis, have to be run by your STAR system for approval? It seems odd that star would approve this repair for a drainback issue..........

Sam

 

[sag2]

Just advise them you do not want the converter changed when you drop it off. Is it Fresno or Clovis dealer? I know some of the techs at both from class.

The dealer makes money on all warranty work. They get retail labor ($100+ per hour in CA) and 40% profit on all parts.

Star does not have to authorize many repairs. Their job is to assist in diagnosis and they have no repair authorization except on restricted repairs. Those would be the most often misdiagnosed repairs to try and slow down the throwing of parts at a car to fix it.

 

[Ram4Sam]

Just advise them you do not want the converter changed when you drop it off. Is it Fresno or Clovis dealer? I know some of the techs at both from class.

The dealer makes money on all warranty work. They get retail labor ($100+ per hour in CA) and 40% profit on all parts.

Star does not have to authorize many repairs. Their job is to assist in diagnosis and they have no repair authorization except on restricted repairs. Those would be the most often misdiagnosed repairs to try and slow down the throwing of parts at a car to fix it.

Thanks, always curious how the world works....

Sam

 

[AlFischer]

Just advise them you do not want the converter changed when you drop it off. Is it Fresno or Clovis dealer? I know some of the techs at both from class.

The dealer makes money on all warranty work. They get retail labor ($100+ per hour in CA) and 40% profit on all parts.

Star does not have to authorize many repairs. Their job is to assist in diagnosis and they have no repair authorization except on restricted repairs. Those would be the most often misdiagnosed repairs to try and slow down the throwing of parts at a car to fix it.

It was the Clovis dealer. The Service Manager had the 'transmission specialist' come out and talk with me. Didn't get his name. I believe he was Vietnamese. Seemed knowledgeable. I explained that while I am certainly NOT a pro mechanic that I had rebuilt and totally upgraded a 96 Ram 46re and had changed the Injector pump and complete fuel system on my 2001. I told the Service Manager and him that I didn't think the TC replacement was needed. Just the filter. This smells like profit management to me. Throw EVERY part at it will fix it for sure. My concern is the somehing might not get done right or the new TC could have a problem.

I don't want to appear to be a know-it-all a-hole to the Service dept. I may need their help one day. I COULD replace the filter myself but don't really want the body abuse!

 

[Too Tall]

Al,
I would recommend, contacting Chrysler and getting them involved. They are very accessible by phone and very responsive in my experience. They'll get involved with the dealer.

 

[Ozymandias]

If you don't have to pay for parts and labour then let them make, especially if you want/must use this workshop again in the future.

If you go for broke now, they won't help you in the future when you have to pay for their service.

 

[AlFischer]

If you don't have to pay for parts and labour then let them make, especially if you want/must use this workshop again in the future.

If you go for broke now, they won't help you in the future when you have to pay for their service.

That's my concern exactly. I will make one more attempt to convince the Service Mgr (nicely) that the TC shouldn't be replaced. This will NOT be easy for me 'cause I tend to be pretty 'assertive'!

 

[AlFischer]

2 QUESTIONS: Is there an additional check valves in the transmission beside the one in the spin on filter? Is there anything in the TC that could cause the drain back?

I would like to know this before I stop and see the Service zmgr.

Now, if *&R$$ DC would sell me a shop manual.... GRRRRR!!