FlushPower Steering Fluid; Clean Injectors (at 30K)

[AviBen]

We just had the AC in for the standard 30,000-mile service. The service writer told us (1) the power steering fluid had "some discoloration" and so they recommended flushing it and changing it; and (2) the fuel injectors should be flushed and cleaned. Both of these items would cost $169+, for a grand total of $339 and change. If you are knowledgeable about these things, your guidance and advice would be welcome, please. Also, if I have things like this done by an independent shop, will that void my warranty? Thanks!

[sndtgr08]

I would like to know what the take is on cleaning the injectors too. @ 32k miles now. Does nissan remove them and hook them up to a machine to clean and test them proper? or do they just pawn off a quart of "Fuel Injecter Cleaner" in your tank and charge you $169?

[Oilsink]

Sears Auto does power steering fluid exchanges for $55. Should be the same thing, generally they just suck it out with a machine and then they will fill it with more PS fluid. 170 bucks seems alittle steep for that. The fuel injector cleaning is generally just a preventative maintenance thing, most places suggest to do that around every 15,000 miles. I think its a waste of money imo. Im currently at 48000 miles and never had it done and the car is running fine.

[AviBen]

Thanks for the input -- much appreciated!

[stevewaclo]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe Techron is the Gold Standard for keeping fuels systems clean as you drive. I spring for Chevron every other tank and a $6 can of Techron, when I think about it or it's on sale.

As Oilsink observed, don't believe it's warranted unless symptoms dictate and all other low hanging fruit has been ruled out.

Also, strongly suspect dealer cleaning will involve accessing a common point in the injector feed and running a solvent through. Or maybe "injector clean" in a can via the fuel filler. Sounds about right for what you may expect from a dealer @$169. OK,OK, dealers have to eat too, and besides used cars, service is a major source of profits.

As an aside, just had 4 injectors cleaned on my 110k Alfa Spider (no joy, symptoms prevail) and at $120 with shipping, I obviously had to pull them out myself. OKInjector said two were flowing at 80% and the cold start injector was dripping. They also replaced the tiny internal filters. This all came as a bit of a surprise, since before my crappy idle began , the Alfa ran fine.

Bottom line-Ixnay on the injector cleaning.

Best wishes