Mechanic question from a newbie

[tnkippen]

Hi All -- I recently purchased a 2006 T4R V8 Sport after a several month search. Almost all of my research into picking car out came from this forum, so thank you.

The air conditioner is touch and go, and though I'd like to fix it myself, it's starting to get hot enough outside that I need to expedite.

Do you typically stick with or avoid the service center of Toyota dealers? I have one in town, or I could go with an independent mechanic nearby. Do you insist on OEM parts when they replace anything? Just trying to see how most people approach general repairs on their own.

Dumb question, I know!

 

[Ron4RNevada]

From my past experience (I'm a really old guy) I find that Car dealers are way more honest than independent auto A/C shops.......

I'll probably get flamed by that response - but it's the truth.

 

[Tanker Yanker]

Car dealers are way more honest than independent auto A/C shops.......

I don't know if that logic holds true across the board, but I will tell you I had a local A/C shop in town quote me $4000 to fix the air on my '89 Volvo 240 last summer. Last week, a very well respected Volvo mechanic sent me to his A/C source....$160 and I have air. There's honest people out there, and there's total shitheads too. Good Luck!

 

[Blitzkrieg]

Have you tried recharging it yourself? You can get the kit with oil and leak sealer at Advance Auto for $33.