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And how in the world did you see anything bursting out of transfer case, as deep as it's hidden underneath the vehicle? The only thing that can burst out of it is fluid, and if it's gone - it stopped bursting and you start looking at new transfer case soon. Very soon.
Newer cars can have as many as 80 different computers on 3 different local area networks. An upscale car can have all sorts of "wiz-bang" systems. 3rd party mechanics are not going to have the software tools, training, or access to factory technical advice that a factory dealer would.
I would be interested to hear from mechanics on what they think...
Took in a Lexus GX470 SUV to be repaired at a shop that specializes in Japanese cars. The check engine light, traction control, and one other had come on. The car still ran, but I wanted to get these taken care of. The shop called and said its $1500 and is a sensor. No problem, please repair. (Why is it always $1500 to repair a sensor?!)
Leaving the shop we notice that its riding incredibly bad. I turn around and take it back to leave with them again. The problem is that one of the air-ride shocks apparently now has holes in it. This was not an issue prior to us taking it in...at all.
About 2 weeks later I'm having issues with the car starting. The batter checks out so I'm onto the cables and then the starter.
My question is this: is this really just bad luck OR did the shop pull and poke on all kinds of wires when they were replacing the sensors caused the issue with the air-ride shock and now the vehicle starting?
I'm not a mechanic so it may just be coincidence, but it sure seems odd.
I have owned my repair shop for almost 35 years. If a shock or strut is fixing to fail, it is not unheard of for it to do so because the vehicle was put on a lift and full extension of the shock or strut triggered its failure. This makes the shop look bad, but it is not really their fault. For one example, twice we have put a Honda CRV on the lift for oil and filter or something entirely unrelated to suspension. Test drive the SUV afterwards and it is about undriveable due to a seized strut.
Not nearly enough information to comment comprehensively on the other issues. What "sensor?" $1500 is VERY high for most sensors -- maybe more than one? It is normal for the traction control lights to come on when there is a check engine light. This is by design. Starting problems? More information needed -- does it crank OK but no start? Or does it not crank properly?
Years have experiencing have taught me this: What appears to be cause and effect can be, but often is not. This could be shop's error or maybe not. I would not blame the shop at this time, and certainly not without letting them have another look at it. A good shop will want you to let them have another look at things and will be disappointed if you do not give them the opportunity for a recheck.
The gx470 shares many of it's parts with the Toyota 4runner, inculding it's engine, transfer case and air suspension. You could bring it to any Toyota dealer and they can diagnose and repair it for cheaper prices than the Lexus dealer.
Just a heads up in the case of the traction control things can get very expensive quick, $1500 for a sensor is outrageous. Run from that shop.
Wow. I would demand to see the old part that was replaced. Point out the new part and then show me the book rate for replacement of that part. Dealer should be able to give you a over the phone price on the replacement of the part if you know the part that was "replaced". You'll know if you got taken.. Remember by law you are allowed to ask for your old parts back. I go as far as telling them to show me the part. I have never had a mechanic refuse to do that. I know some sensors are expensive but 1500 seems excessive for one sensor
Sorry man.
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