DriverCH

hi,
I have a 2013 ES350 with approx 111k miles. I have taken the car for all services to the local Lexus dealership. Recently I had an oil change and they said the car needed several things they said the rear brakes were in the red at 2 and the front were at a 4 not red but orange color. I decided to have the brakes done the rears which cost me $800.

They suggested other work- front bakes- $800
Control Arm- lower both front arm bushings have torn 1/4 on back side of bushing- they are quoting me $2,657.99
Sway Bar Bushings- both rear have "play" $387
Drive belt shows wear $280.

What the dealership does is they send you a video with the tech pointing everything out. My biggest concern is the Control Arm work- that is a lot of money.
I dont know if that really needs to be done or are they taking me to the cleaners?
I live in New England.
Thank you

rmak

I do all of my own work and it is hard to answer without seeing the car. Lexus dealerships will bone you without lube. You can get the same work done at a small repair shop for half of those prices. Even a Toyota dealership will be less expensive. Our ES 350's are basically a Toyota Camry or Avalon depending on the year.

I would say the lower control arm is just the rubber boot and not the bushing with only 111k miles. I cannot confirm without seeing. I know mine has some rubber deterioration at 90k, but the bushing is solid. You can replace the LCA's with Lexus parts a lot cheaper than that if they really do need it. Lexus LCA's are around 300.00 each from the dealership.

I would get a second opinion from another shop to do the sway bar bushings, brakes and belt. I just changed my belt and it took me 30 minutes, but I have the tools.

jgscott

iTrader: (1)

Rear Brakes for $800 is really high. Take it Toyota or find someone you trust for better prices like the previous poster said. I have been using Toyota for years now, when it's something I don't feel like doing.