Maintaining higher mileage trucks
2011 F150 5.0, 90,000 miles. I'm happy with the truck and at 70, not too many more years of towing. I'd like to ride it out with this vehicle. I've been OK with dealer service and they are convenient...
Forum Discussion
I am NOT a fan of dealer service departments. Likely the most expensive. Yes, they have access to all of the parts and the latest diagnostic equipment but that does NOT mean they have the best mechanics.
While I do most of my own maintenance, the older I get, the less I do, especially on my 20 year old truck. I have been fortunate enough to find a few good auto repair shops either by word of mouth or be observing how busy the shop is.
One thing to ask an independent shop when they are replacing parts, is what brand parts do they recommend/use. There are many low cost/low quality parts available especially on popular vehicles like F150. Even if an independent shop uses "factory" brand parts, their labor rate will likely be less and could save you a lot of money.
While I do most of my own maintenance, the older I get, the less I do, especially on my 20 year old truck. I have been fortunate enough to find a few good auto repair shops either by word of mouth or be observing how busy the shop is.
One thing to ask an independent shop when they are replacing parts, is what brand parts do they recommend/use. There are many low cost/low quality parts available especially on popular vehicles like F150. Even if an independent shop uses "factory" brand parts, their labor rate will likely be less and could save you a lot of money.
