30k mile service question

[kep427]

Hey alll you mechanical gurus. I'm coming up on the 30K mile service. Dealers around her have their "mini" and "maxi" plans. (I can't believe they are charging $100+ more than the Toyota dealer does for my 4-runner.)Both (mini and max) have things that are not in the manual and my question is whether you think it's overkill to do those extra things such as:1. Replacing auto transmission fluid/filter2. Replacing fuel filter3. Installing fuel treatment to the fuel tank.4. Replacing the PVC valve5. Lube brake caliper slides. 6. Lube rear brake backing plates.7. "Clean brakes to reduce noise".Your thoughts would be appreciated.

[kep427]

sorry, shoulda put this in the "maintenance and care" forum....Can't seem to move it over there.Maybe one of the moderators knows how to do this?

[joatmon]

1. Replacing auto transmission fluid/filter- Depends, but a number of people have reported early discoloration of the auto tranny fluid, so periodic changing is probably a good idea for prolonged tranny life, can't say if 30K miles is a good interval or not. 2. Replacing fuel filter- No. No need, unless there are problems. These cars' fuel filters are a pain to service, and are supposed to be designed for indefinite usage, The VIbe has no scheduled interval for fuel filter replacement, so don't bother.3. Installing fuel treatment to the fuel tank.- "Installing" sounds so technical for what I assume is pouring some goo in the tank. I am sure there are advocates of this, I have never done it to my Vibe.4. Replacing the PVC valve- Again, there are probably advocates of this, I probably should do it on mine, I'm over 100K miles, but haven't done it yet.5. Lube brake caliper slides. - Don't know about this. I have never done it.6. Lube rear brake backing plates.- I have never done this either7. "Clean brakes to reduce noise".- I suppose if you are having noise problems, this could be useful, but if not, then why bother?

[ToolGuy]

I say yes do all on your list except the fuel filter... Like Joat mentioned, the Vibe does not have one to change or easily like when the filter was put "in line" on some cars. The Vibes is in the fuel tank...The checking/lubing the brakes is great! You will catch issues before they become huge like leaking wheel cylinders...Use Chevron Techron Fuel system cleaner, nothing else here! Others will work but GM endorses Techron and believe me, it really does work! Your injectors will appreciate it and help clean out the system especially since there is no fuel filter to change anymore. I use it once a year in my cars... I am a huge maintenance guy and it pays, my cars never see tow trucks! And Joat, change your PCV for gods sake! 100,000 miles! Your Vibe is hurting and wants a new one!

[kep427]

thanks for the replies

[the1stacekiller]

Would you have a pic or maybe a how to on how to change a PCV Valve? on some cars its a no brainer on others its hidden.. so any help would be appreciated

[ToolGuy]

I do not have a pic and not by the car at the moment... However you need to remove the engine cover and then it is threaded into the engine. One hose connected like all others. There are tow different types, one base and one GT. I have the base and part number at home. I am in Ohio now but can post it next week if you need it.