I had my 2004 Accord serviced (90,000) and the safety recall work done (update the software that controls the automatic transmission) at my local Honda Dealer. After 2 days, the Check Engine light came on, so I took it back to them. They tell me it's the O2 sensor and the cost will be $400!

My questions are:
Can the work they did (service, recall work, install new battery) cause the sensor to go bad? Also, is $400 for a sensor (parts and labor) too high?

Thanks,

 

dealer are always cost more than small garage shop.

 

nothing they did would cause that sensor to go bad. the software update was done via the DLC inside the car under your dashboard by plugging in a computer to update you transmission computers software. the service is a straight forward oil change, maybe air filters, brake service, ect..(depends on what has been done recently or needs done). And a battery is a battery. if they damaged the sensor or wiring the check engine light would have come on right away. so this is just an unfortunate coincidence.

Dealers are usually more expensive because they use OEM parts. if you still want the dealer to do the work you can request and aftermarket part or get it yourself to save a little money, but it may not have the same warranty as a new OEM part. Im sure if you ask your service adviser at the dealer he can explain to you why it is a little more expensive and what if anything you can do to save some money on the repair.

 

I had mine replaced a few months ago. Dealer is always WAY more than a small shop.

There's a small shop I go to near my house. They replaced it for around $100. I had an emissions test done after the work was complete & all is well.