by Honda HR-V Owner Reports Inflated Service Prices
Car dealers often make significantly more profit from servicing than from selling cars. However, some service centers cross the line by abusing customer trust. A striking example of such behavior was provided by a Honda HR-V owner who accused his dealership of inflating service costs.
Repeated Filter Replacement Practice
The owner of a 2023 model year car stated that during each visit for an oil change, the dealer billed $130 for replacing the cabin air filter. This practice began after the car’s mileage exceeded 30,000 miles. According to the provided receipts, the filter was changed approximately every 10,000 miles, and by the time the car reached 51,809 miles, it had already been replaced four times.
Recommended Intervals and Actual Cost
Different manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter every 12,000–15,000 miles or in case of heavy contamination. The official Honda manual advises replacement every 24 months. However, the main issue lies not in the frequency, but in the price. A genuine Honda filter (part #80291-TF3-E01) can be found online for just $11–$25. A premium version with activated carbon costs about $45.
The genius of it is that this filter is used in many Honda and Acura models, from the Accord and Civic to the CR-V and even the future Prelude. It’s a common, easily accessible part.
Ease of Replacement and Comparison with Other Cases
Some might assume the high price is due to complex labor. However, in the HR-V model, access to the filter is gained by simply lowering the glove box—it takes a few minutes. For comparison, the editor-in-chief of an automotive publication received an offer from a dealer to replace the cabin and engine air filters for $189. Instead, he bought the parts for $30 and tasked his 9-year-old daughter with the replacement, which she managed with minimal supervision.
This story highlights the importance of car owners being informed and the possibility of DIY maintenance. While service centers offer convenience, it’s always worth clarifying the necessity of procedures and comparing prices. Replacing elementary parts like filters often doesn’t require professional skills and can save significant money. Customers have the right to pricing transparency, and such cases can undermine trust in official dealers for a long time.
