For some reason, my six year old son insists on riding in the third row of seats even when he's the only passenger. Thanks to seats that quickly and easily fold and slide I can accommodate his odd request. The rest of the car ride is spent with me saying "I can't hear you buddy, you've got to talk louder."
The Enclave was also due for an oil change so I took it to Cerritos Buick, GMC, Hummer in Cerritos, CA. Total cost for the oil and filter change plus an inspection - $65.41. We declined the dealer recommended service items which would have put the bill closer to $200. I don't like the "Dealer Recommended" service sales tactic, it bothers me.
Brian Moody, Road Test Editor @ 20,775 miles.
tmanz says:
02:56 PM, 07/ 8/08
The riding in the 3rd row must be going for the Limo effect :) Maybe they should add an intercom.
Gotta love the dealer recommended services. As the service writer stands there and says "oh yeah, the dealer also recommends that you buy me lunch today"
They are in such a perfect position to recommend things that people don't really need because people just don't know what they need. And some people think that Buick actually recommends that the items be done, not just their dealer. I guess some blame can go on the customer for not looking at their owners manual but some of those guides are really confusing. I love looking at mine and seeing what needs done and then realizing that I'm looking at what the car needs if it is in Chile and I only drive it on Tuesdays.
altimadude00 says:
05:04 PM, 07/ 8/08
I would be worried about the nonexistent rear crumple zone when someone is riding in the way-back seats. I know this design flaw is common among three-row SUVs. Do they crash test with fully loaded vehicles?
saxdogg says:
08:09 PM, 07/ 8/08
Sounds like you still got bent over out there in CA...here in TX an oil change and insp. is about $27.95 on average.
karjunkie says:
06:41 AM, 07/ 9/08
I'm with you on the "dealer reccommended" service scheme. It really bothers me as I know it is to scare people that don't know anything about cars into paying for useless and overpriced services. It ranks right up there with "dealer surcharges and fees" on highly sought after vehicles that they put on the sticker in hopes some poor clod doesn't notice. However, I most blame the manufacturers that permit their dealers to engage in these disreputable practices. As to your son, I suspect he is just practicing for his eventual role as a titan of industry...take me home jeeves!