went to Ford for ABS check up on 98 Wind Star, etc....

[Marianna]

I went to the dealership for an ABS check on a 98 wind star that I recently purchased (as-is).... they found some additional work that needs to be done. I am far from car-savvy and I am wondering If anyone has any input, or knows what the pricing of some of the repair work they suggested. I'd appreciate anything you have to offer. I am taking the van back to the place where I bought it and they will perform some...but not all of the work, i'm sure.

The list is:

The left rear sensor is breaking apart. The right rear was not adjusted.

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Add'l items that may or may not pass inspection:

left front wheel bearing loose

left outer tie rod loose (does the tie rod have to be replaced or can this be fixed?)

left rear wheel cylinder ceased

parking break hanging up - not fully releasing

both rear wheel bearings noisy


Thanks for your help/suggestions!

Sincerely,
Marianna

[GraybeardAv]

You didn't say how many miles are on the car, and whether you know the dealer's track record. Service writers are paid commission for items not covered by warranty. Your list is all plausible, however.

left front wheel bearing loose
That could be a five minute job, but may as well re-pack and adjust both sides.

left outer tie rod loose (does the tie rod have to be replaced or can this be fixed?)
This is a remove and replace item. Seems like it would be under $100. If let go long enough, it could come apart, making real mischief.

left rear wheel cylinder ceased
Ceased what?? More likely it's seized, and must be replaced. It might give you only 3-wheel brakes, or a dragging brake, and will mess with the ABS. A full rear wheels brake jobs seems in order.

parking break hanging up - not fully releasing
Parking BRAKE, you mean? Could be related to seized cylinder. If you live in a rust zone, it could take a few hours labor to fix.

both rear wheel bearings noisy
That should be part of the rear brake job, above, and might cost you for new bearings and seals.

I can't give you good cost estimates, as I do all my own work..
GB

[Marianna]

Thanks for the info GB....and the spelling corrections....that's what I get for typing while at work! I work in the legal world, hence the "cease" error and of course I can use a "break" from the lawyers.

anyway, I have 113,000 miles on it. I didn't know they get paid from commission...that is good to keep in mind. I live in NH...is that a rust zone???? I guess it would be w/ all the snow, etc.

You were very informative and I appreciate it! Thank you....i'm taking your comments to the dealer!

[GraybeardAv]

Uh oh.

Letting them know you work for a law firm means they may be fair, or they may refuse to work on your car. I know some vindictive lawyers who I would never want to provide any service to.

There are service writers at Toyota dealers here in Socalif who earn $150K per year, I've been told by a man who trains them.

GB

[mark v]

Wheel Bearings on Windstar's can not be repacked, they are sealed bearings and are about $35.00 and guessing 1 hour labor at $75 an hour.

Rear Bearings are Hub Assembly's and are about $75.00 and are not part of the Brake job unless you ask. No repackable Bearings and no seals.

Tie-rod $150 including parts and Labor, I just had mine done.

Wheel Cylinder around $30.00 I am guessing 1/2 hour labor at $75 an hour.