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Stella,
I will tell you a couple stories. My ex-wife stalled her Honda Civic CVCC in an intersection near a garage. Before I left on my trip, I thoroughly went through her car (12 years before she was my ex), to include valve adjustment, tune-up, timing, oil and oil filter change, air filter change, new spark plugs, etc. I never wanted her to be stuck while I was away on my numerous trip(s). When I got back, she told me where the car was. I went there and they told me the head gasket was blown or some ridiculous nonsense. IN FRONT OF customers, I called him a liar and I want the car. He said the car would barely start or run. He took me out to the shop to prove it. I reached into the engine compartment and all the spark plugs were barely screwed in. I asked for a tool. He refused. I pushed it out the shop door. I screwed them in by hand. I started the engine. It purred, like a kitten. I went back into the office raised some more hell, after he demanded to be paid for his time, left and drove off.
At Crevier BMW, Orange County, CA, the #1 dealership, I brought my treasured 633CSi in for an extreme makeover, on more than one occasion, when I had more money than brains. I took it back no less than 6 times to have the Transmission Range Light repaired. One occasion I asked and paid for a Brand New BMW Battery, amongst other servicing. The bastards did not install it and didn't think I would notice. I raised hell with Robert Crevier, and got $700 or $800 refunded to me. I repaired the Transmission Range Light, myself, ten years ago.
My cars never see a dealership nor an independent. From that point on I bought shop manuals for every car or truck I have owned and did the work myself.
I am willing to bet the best and most trusted dealership or independent has done some unethical things along the way.
I have worked as a Mechanic for two independents in Australia and all I can say is "What bastards!" The things they would do to make an extra 5 cents off of their best customers. Fact.
I have owned two older Volvo 244DL, a 1977 and a 1981. Great cars and as reliable as the Sun rising in the East. They are easy to work on, require simple tools. Just keep the oil and filters clean. Check the Oil every time you go to get gas (petrol or benzine, if you prefer). I have replaced a few engines in cars whose owners neglected to check and top up the Oil.
How is your tire wear, when the tires are properly inflated, when cold? If there is no unusual wear, keep your money in your pocket, until you can afford to address the alignments and tie rod end issue. Although, alignment will improve fuel economy, as keeping your tires properly inflated.
Have your engine steam cleaned. Check for leaks, after that. How much Oil is consumed per 100 miles, one week, one month. Go from there.
Keep it simple. Read the owners manual. Be suspicious of dealerships and independent garages. They take advantage of girls, inept guys, old folks, and anyone who is not mechanically inclined.
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