Christine

Over three weeks ago I contacted the service department aboaut a "check engine light". They told me not to worry it would go out. It didn't. Called again, same thing. Again insisted on appointment. Three weeks to get one. Problem seems to have gotten worse. Stopped by today and insisted on them checking. Admitted there is a problem but "don't worry". Come in in 3 weeks. Cost to fix $100. I was near warranty date when I called now they tell me it's expired. What should I do, especially if I break down in the next three weekd????

TheA

I had a problem with a previous explorer and I know thats the case. Dont let them take advantage of you!

RKA

It costs $100 to fix it, but they haven't looked at it?

You were *near* the warranty date when you first called? Does that mean it was over the warranty when you first called (and now you're even farther outside the warranty period)?

Problem has gotten worse...how? Besides the light, what are the symptoms?

Christine

I was told warranty ended at 45,000. I was at 42,800. Now transmission not shifting well, (tach stays at #4 a long time before downshifting) clanging while at idle (stopped at light).
They put it on the computer for about 5 minutes and say 3 things can be wrong, filters, hoses, etc. But don't worry it shouldn't get worse. Today they tell me the warranty expired "last month" (I called them in June). Service advisor last time told me "one more service due at 45,000 miles then youre out of warranty. Should I fight the charge (or charges if it gets worse?)

RKA

Explain that you talked to them earlier, and they said you would be fine (they were probably looking at your mileage, because your warranty is good until 50,000 miles). Obviously, someone looked more carefully on a subsequent visit, and determined that you hit the 3 year limit on the warranty already. It's 3 years or 50K (whichever comes first). Since your service advisor made the initial mistake and led you to believe you would be okay, go back and request that they look into this immediately, AND under warranty. It was their mistake.

TheA

still covered it, no questions. I ha a friend who had a 300z that was way out of warranty like 20k, trans covered, no questions. Im not sure if there is a law, but you called and had the problem documented, there should be no problem. Call other dealers. I assume your a woman, and it sounds like they are taking advantage of you! Where are you located, what state?

RKA

Documenting the problem is bringing the car in, and having them write up the problem. Once it gets in the computer, and you have a paper copy of the visit, it's documented. With the phone call, you pretty much have to rely on the service writer's memory (typically terrible), and/or their goodwill (women do have a little leverage here).

If she can convince them that they made a mistake, they may be able to find a work-around, and get it serviced under warranty. Waiting longer to resolve this won't help any. It's best to discuss the issue as soon as possible. Be nice, and see what they have to say. If they refuse to own up to their mistake, then escalate the issue to AoA.

Christine

My answer didn't print. Dealership is in Watertown, Connecticut. Yes, I am a "younger woman". The word goodwill did get mentioned. If not, I'll fight them and end up "inside" the prison I work for! Thanks everyone!

Darren

I asked AOA about that late last month..

Koolgreen

I would definitely go to another dealer.
Even if it is not in the same general area.
Any service rep that would say it is ok when a check engine light is on, is inept!