I've been taking my 2004 civic to a local dealer for all services, but am starting to get fed up with the prices. My next service is due at 75,000 miles and was thinking of taking it somewhere else that won't be too pricey. Should I continue to trust Honda's services or do they charge too much and what should I have serviced at 75,000?

 

They over charge you and sometimes make you pay for stuff that doesnt need done. Many garages do what you want, for instance, my mom has a 15k checkup she does at a garage and they just did it for 60$, her 75k one she got was a bit more but significantly less than the stealership

 

The owner's manual says what needs to be done at each mileage. Most of the stuff is rather simple and any garage can do it. Try to find someone who has worked on a Civic before though.

 

Honda keeps telling me I have a leaky oil pan gasket, but I have never once seen a drop of oil on the driveway, nor do I ever have to add any oil unless I go on long hard drives over the mountain passes. Also, I don't see any signs of residue or grease anywhere around the oil pan when I change the oil. [:-] Methinks they just want my money.

When I was living in California, I found an awesome shop that specialized in Honda/Acura. Never once did they try to screw me, and everything was always done right when I checked their work. Good prices too. I got my timing belt, water pump, thermostat, and all new drive belts done for $380. I wish I could find a place like that here in Vancouver.

 

On the one hand I value going to the dealership with my honda because they are familiar with the vehicle I am driving.
On the other hand, for a simple oil change/routine service I am fine with taking it somewhere else.
Honda takes the time to search the car over for anything that looks like it is, or could be, problematic.
But, like firehawk said, they can just tell you things cause theywant your money.

 

By a service manual for yourself and tools and do the stuff yourself! I do, and I did my own valve adjustment and saved $135 + the hassle of not using my car for a day!

 

I go to the dealer for minor things...example, oil change with complete car-wash included for only 24.95. I take it every now and then when I'm to Lazy.

On the other hand I go for major works to a person who I truly trust. It's a Honda/ Acura shop. He has never tried to screwed me. He is very Honest and reliable on prices. I say look for one of those shops