I've been quoted between $380 - $550 for a 210k logbook service for my TJ.

Considering I had the timing belt and platinum spark plugs done for $670, the 210k price seems OTT.

Looking at the manual it appears to be a pretty minor service, ie it doesn't seem too onerous or heavy on the replacements.

Feels like I'm being gouged.

Looking at the manual it appears to be a pretty minor service, ie it doesn't seem too onerous or heavy on the replacements.


So consider DIY?

Does it include a transmission flush? Better find out what this price covers.

most of the cost would be associated with the labour involved. there are likely many mechanics out and about who will over-quote on labour just in case anything happens that puts them off their 'ideal' time spent on your car. as madmax said you could consider the DIY route. some things seem stupidly hard when you think about them, but once you do them you'll be kicking yourself at how easy they can be. the more specialised stuff that requires removal of belts, pulleys, etc. might not be something you'd do on your own but there should be some basic stuff that you can perform to bring down the overall cost.

$380 to $550 I'd ask why the margin?

I think the $670 for the belt and plugs service was cheap and if those two items are all you had done last time then you'll be needing filters, all fluid changes ect ect now. So $550 I would think is not so harsh.

Because according to fixedpricecarservice.com.au , which your mechanic will be likely be utilising a similar program if they don't specialise in any particular make, what is needed to be replaced is:

Oil filter
Oil
Coolant
Brake fluid flush
Transmission fluid flush
3x spark plugs (could possibly be rear bank)
Fuel filter

The bulk of the cost will be labour and marerials in the transmission flush, and the labour involved in the plugs if they're rear bank.

Best off, before complaining of price to find out what is included for the price, exactly what is included then people can make comment as to cost otherwise is just the blind leading the blind

Best off, before complaining of price to find out what is included for the price, exactly what is included then people can make comment as to cost otherwise is just the blind leading the blind

Many thanks for the replies. I would think/hope that "what's included in the price" is what's written in the service logbook as I asked for a 210k logboog service. I've asked three places (hence the price range) and each time they've gone to some computer program while on the phone before giving me a quote. I was not expecting over $250 - based on receipts from previous services. Must be the auto transmission fluid flush that's costly.

Im so not a DIY dude when it comes to these things unfortunately.

Please ask them what is included as when anyone asks me I tell them what is included and also ask if they know if any of the items have been done recently and then can adjust from there

The 210 is service, trans flush, fuel filter

If you have had trans done recently you would take that off the list but if other things need doing can cost more such as air filter, oil leaks etc

Thanks MM. I rang back to the 3 mechs and did just that. Happily, I've booked it in. But it's interesting to note the different lingo (one said they'd "replace the gearbox set" when discussing the transmission oil/filter??) and they said generic things things like "change filters" and "do the oils". Getting specific clarification was like pulling teeth, made me feel like a pillock and made comparing apples w/. apples a challenge.

Perhaps I should invite them to tender for the job, clearly listing their scope of work/fees/exclusions/inclusions/experience/indemnity insurance etc - like I have to when I quote for work :D

Or perhaps you should get it done by a Mitsubishi specialist who knows what a Mitsubishi is

Or perhaps you should get it done by a Mitsubishi specialist who knows what a Mitsubishi is

Indeed. I shall call back the Mitsi dealearship service dept and ask if they can recommend one.

Indeed. I shall call back the Mitsi dealearship service dept and ask if they can recommend one.

They'll likely recommend their own, because they're just that.

Give Paul at Grace Automotive at Oxley a call. He services all vehicles, but a few members have had their Magnas worked on by him (myself included) and can vouch for his workmanship.
Also give Chris at Bellbowrie Mechanical at 17 Mile Rocks a call of you're in the western suburbs. His family-owned workshop does most of the work I can't/don't want to/won't do on mine (timing belt, heater core, brakes, etc) and I can vouch for their workmanship also.