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Help, need some opinions


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deaddodge
New User

Feb 6, 2007, 8:06 AM

Post #1 of 3 (1339 views)
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We purchased a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT in August 2004. In Jan 2007 we took it to a Dodge dealer because there was a noise in the engine and because it was due for an oil change. The dealer said that the noise sounded like bearings and the engine would likely need replacing. He also said it would not be covered by warranty, unless we had receipts for every oil change since we got the car, because the engine looked dirty and the oil was dirty (even though it was about time for an oil change) and there were metal shavings in the oil. We have questions about his opinions.

1. This same dealer did the last oil change (about 6000 miles ago). If the engine was really not maintained would there have been evidence of problems the last time they changed the oil? If not, would that mean the failure occurred recently and the whole history of the car doesn’t really make a difference?

2. Should bearings or other fatal engine failure occur at only 32000 miles of normal driving?

3. Are the dealers arguments realistic or is he just trying to avoid a major warranty claim?

Of course, we are asking because we haven’t kept all the oil change receipts and are having trouble locating them (we do have the 15,000 mile service reciept which includes an oil change). We are now having to fight a $5,000 service bill.


are why
New User

Feb 8, 2007, 3:20 PM

Post #2 of 3 (1327 views)
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Just a short reply. I had the same problem only with a ford. To make a long story short, The mechanic told me the problem was from never changing the oil. After my lawyer showed the owner all the receipts they had charged me for the oil changes, The engine was replaced for free. Oh yeah, it was a bad oil pump. The mechanic who diagnosed the problem in front of me no longer works there. I don't think not changing the oil can cause a bad bearing. sounds like something else might have caused the problem. You may save money in the long run by getting a second opinion.


steve01832
Veteran
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Feb 8, 2007, 7:09 PM

Post #3 of 3 (1321 views)
Re: Help, need some opinions Sign In

Another avenue to go down is to talk to the Attorney General's Office. They usually look at the black and white of warranties. My guess is that if the original warranty is still in effect and the dealer won't honor it, the AG's office will get involved.
Best of luck and post back to let us know the outcome.

Steve






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