I purchased a 2006 Honda Civic in January. I drive for work and the car now has 30,000 miles on it. I took the car in for service and an oil change today and was told that my car needed the 30,000 mile checkup to the tune of $489. When I asked what the service included some of the highlights: flushing the transmission fluid, changing the air filter, balancing and rotating the tires and making sure no "gunk" has built up anywhere or that any parts need to be re-greased. I am incredibly skeptical of this service department because in the 11 months I have been taking my car there, I have been told that I need $2500 worth or "good maintenance" repairs to ensure that my car makes it to the 200-300k mark. One of the reasons I purchased a Honda is because they're supposed to be very reliable and last a long time. I don't want to skip any service that is necessary, but if I'm paying $2500 a year to make sure my car lasts for 200-300k miles, I will have spent more than a new car preserving the old car. I know that you suggest reading the manual for guidance, but the manual suggests the 15, 30k, etc. mile checkups. I can't imagine that $2500 of preventative care a year on a $16,000 is necessary. So...beyond oil changes, which services will truly make my car last longer and which services are unnecessary?

You might want to change where you are going for service. A Honda 2006 with 30,000 miles on it, it should not cost $2500.00 a year for all required maintenance based on the manufactures recommendations. They are recommending services that are not recommended by the manufacture, this is what is driving the cost up so high. Go here to find out what service is required for your Honda: http://www.edmunds.com/maintenance/MaintenanceServlet?year=2006&make=Honda&model=Civic&zip=&mileage=0&synpartner=edmunds We suggest chosing an ASE Blue Seal service organization or an authorized Honda dealership. Go here to locate one: http://www.ase.com/bluesealsearch/locator.php