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I went on a semi-rant a few threads ago about how the majority of Techs today are simply parts-changers. There is no understanding of the engine or the systems that make the vehicle work.....they simply read a service manual and start swapping out parts until the problem goes away. There is no diagnosis past the troubleshooting chart, and if they can't find the problem, they "phone a friend."
Back in the day, a Tech would listen to the owner describe the problem and make a determination of the general area where the problem existed. Then, they actually tested things like voltages, spark timing, belt tightness, vacuum pressures, etc., to find the problem. Often, the problem itself was fixable without having to replace anything....sometimes it just took turning a screw to the proper adjustment. Nowadays, the first thing that comes out of the Service Manager's mouth when you walk in with a problem is..."Oh, OK...well we'll hook it up to the computer and see what it says." When you come back to get it, you hear, "The computer shows everything is OK." "REALLY?? Then why won't the car go into gear easily?" "Oh, that's probably just normal wear and tear. You'll just have to get used to it. But if it was me, I'd go ahead and replace that transmission and that will probably solve the problem. We can get that done, for an estimated charge of $9,978.69, but if you act fast, we can throw in free transmission fluid to go along with that."
A week later, while you're trying to figure out what to do about replacing that transmission, you clean the interior and find a penny lodged in behind the shifter stick.......
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