Honda accord serviced

I took our 2013 Honda Accord LX sedan in for a simple oil change yesterday. Or so I thought...

Nothing is simple when it comes to cars anymore. I'm nervous every time I take one in. Especially when going to the dealership! You just know they're going to find 'something else.'

Well, I take the Honda to the dealership for oil changes because they're only $24.95 there instead of $70 anywhere else. So I do appreciate that. Yesterday I also had them replace the Micron cabin filter and air filter (these both should have been done the last time but I opted against). So it only cost me $162.66 ($57 was labor to replace the two filters!). I did at least get a free car wash.

There was also a long list of other items that need attention:

• Tires - both rear were fairly worn, and they suggest replacing all four
• Brake Pads - all four are either in the 'require future attention' or 'require immediate attention'
• Transmission Flush - also recommended last time
• Break Fluid Flush - also recommended last time
• Valve Cover Leak - this was a new one. $130 just to check it out... no thanks
• License Plate Bulb out - I can replace this by myself for 1/4 the cost
• Drivers Reverse Light out - I think I can replace this for 1/4 the cost too

The list seems to grow on every visit. I'm not concerned about the bulbs (as long as I get them replaced on my own), or really about the fluid flushes. The tires probably do need replaced, as I imagine they are original; and I'm not surprised by the brake pads. I'm a little concerned about the valve cover leak. It could be nothing.... or it could be a real downer, which I don't even want to think about.

I wish now we had never bought this car. Everyone said, "Oh, Accords are great cars!" Well, maybe all except this one. We've had starter problems, the axles replaced, it's uncomfortable as all get-out, and now maybe an engine problem. Ugh.

I'm sure these are "just the normal noises" of car ownership. In light of the mass murder of school children yesterday... this is nothing, and I feel fortunate to have two cars and the ability to pay someone to repair them.

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Matthew 18:1-5

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.