We’ve all been there: you drop your car off for a simple oil change, and by the time you’re done, you’re staring at a list of upsells that make you question if you accidentally walked into a used car lot instead of a repair shop. Some upsells are genuinely helpful, but others? They’re like that friend who always seems to need a little extra cash. Spoiler alert: they’re not really looking out for you. Here are five auto repair upsells that are basically a scam, and how you can spot them before they empty your wallet.

1. Fuel System Cleaning

You’ve probably seen this one pop up on your service invoice. The mechanic tells you your fuel system is “clogged” and needs a good clean. Sure, a clean fuel system sounds nice, but unless you’ve been using low-quality gas since the dawn of time, it’s likely just a ploy to get you to fork over extra cash. Regular maintenance—like changing your fuel filter—can keep your system running smoothly without the need for an expensive “cleaning.”

Besides, if your car was running like a dream, why would you suddenly need a full-on fuel system spa day? Your mechanic might throw around terms like “injector cleaning” or “carbon buildup,” but don’t let the jargon intimidate you. If you’re not experiencing any performance issues, you can probably skip this upsell.

2. Brake Fluid Flush

Ah, the classic brake fluid flush. It sounds super technical, and who wouldn’t want their brakes to be in tip-top shape? But let’s be real: many manufacturers recommend changing brake fluid every two years or so, and most of us aren’t driving our cars that hard to warrant this service annually. If your brake fluid looks clear and your brakes are working fine, you might not need to shell out for this service just yet.

Mechanics will often push this upsell by claiming that old brake fluid can lead to brake failure. While it’s true that old fluid can absorb moisture and potentially cause issues, if you’re not having any problems, you can confidently say, “Thanks, but no thanks!”

3. Transmission Fluid Change

Here’s another one that can send shivers down your spine. You roll in for an oil change, and suddenly someone’s suggesting a transmission fluid change that costs more than your last date night. While it’s important to keep your transmission healthy, many cars can go 50,000 miles or more before needing this service. If your car isn’t showing any signs of transmission trouble—like slipping gears or strange noises—then you can probably hold off on this expensive upsell.

Just remember, if it’s not broken, don’t fix it. And if you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual—it’s got all the info you need to keep your car happy without breaking the bank.

4. Engine Air Filter Replacement

Okay, let’s talk about the engine air filter. If you’ve ever had a mechanic hold up a dirty filter and claim it’s the reason your car is stalling, you know what I mean. Sure, a dirty filter can affect engine performance, but most filters can last up to 30,000 miles or more. Unless you’re driving in particularly dusty conditions, you might be able to wait a bit longer before making this change.

When you’re in the shop, it’s easy to feel pressure to replace it right then and there, especially with them waving around that filthy filter like it’s a crime scene. Just remember: a little dirt never hurt anyone, and you can often change this yourself if you’re feeling handy.

5. Tire Rotation Every Time

Now, let’s address the tire rotation. It’s a good practice—no doubt about it. But do you really need to rotate your tires every single time you get an oil change? That depends. If you’re driving a luxury vehicle or have performance tires, yes, it’s a good idea to do it often. But for most everyday vehicles, you might only need to rotate those tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, not every couple of months.

It’s all about common sense. If you’re mainly driving around town, your tires aren’t wearing unevenly enough to warrant constant rotations. Be sure to check your tread wear and consult your owner’s manual to find the right interval for your car.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the world of auto repair, especially when you’re confronted with a laundry list of upsells that all seem to scream “urgent.” The key is to be informed and trust your gut. If something feels off, or if a service seems unnecessary, don’t hesitate to ask questions or even seek a second opinion.