Question Oil Pan

[Ramblin]

Today I took my wifes 2004 Highlander to the dealer get an oil change with an appointment. 1 1/2 hours later, they tell me that the oil pan drain plug is stripped and I need to buy a new oil pan. I was told this is a normal wear item. The representative looked up the history and realized all the maitenance has been done by them, he offered a reduced price for the oil pan of $166.00. And no labor charges.

Has anyone ever heard of an oil pan being a maintenance item? the vehicle has 66,000 miles.

[alotawatts]

Did you buy it new from this dealer ? I would raise hell !
The only thing that could be a maintenance part would be a washer that goes with the drain bolt.
Stripped drain bolt holes are usually JIFFYLUBE handywork.

[shall36]

Agreed...Do NOT pay them anything to replace the pan! Sounds like they are the ones who did the damage! There are fix kits available for stripped threads.

I would talk with the service manager and if you don't get the repair for free, go to the GM. If still no luck, call Toyota. If still no luck, pay to have it fixed then sue them in small claims court.

The drain plug is in no way, shape, or form a wear item. They're full of it.

[JMSinMD]

Originally Posted by Ramblin

Today I took my wifes 2004 Highlander to the dealer get an oil change with an appointment. 1 1/2 hours later, they tell me that the oil pan drain plug is stripped and I need to buy a new oil pan. I was told this is a normal wear item. The representative looked up the history and realized all the maitenance has been done by them, he offered a reduced price for the oil pan of $166.00. And no labor charges.

Has anyone ever heard of an oil pan being a maintenance item? the vehicle has 66,000 miles.

That's the first time I've EVER heard of this happening. Sounds like their lube techs need some more experience. Their mistake, their repair. I wouldn't pay a penny. Call the Toyota Customer Experience and let the Service Manager/Customer Service Manager know that you will ding them hard in their CSI survey if not resolved.

[deadrx7conv]

Its not normal maintenance. Get an over sized drain plug. Find a new mechanic for your maintenance. File a complaint with AAA, BBB...or whatever consumer groups(attorney general) in your area. The dealer that stripped it should fix it for free.