Monday was trip #1 to the service center to see what the error message was. It was an 02 sensor again, but not the same 02 sensor as last time. Apparently, there is a pre- and post-catalytic converter 02 sensor. When the 02 error lights up, they replace the pre- sensor, and when the same error lights up again, they replace the post-sensor. And as usual, they had to order the part, which meant grabbing a rental or coming back to the shop next day. I opted for coming back.
Tuesday’s appointment was supposed to be 45 minutes – the time it takes to cool down the engine so they can replace the sensor. They couldn’t get to the car for two hours, and so I waited. Once they got to the car, the work did indeed take 45 minutes, and then they offered to wash and vacuum my car. I had turned this offer down on all previous visits because it would take another 30 minutes or so to do, but my car did have dirt and pollen all over it, and my carpets still had baking soda imbedded in them from one of my many attempts to get the smoke smell out, so I said “sure!” and another 45 minutes later, my car was exceptionally clean.
I finished the book I had brought with me even before my car went into the shop, so I spent my time reading every piece of literature in the place, drinking their fine Starbuck’s coffee, and looking at every car in their entire inventory — twice. I knew I should have grabbed that second book! In looking around, I gather that everyone buys from the middle of the price range at this location – basically only 911s. At this dealership, there are very few Boxters, Panmeras, Cayennes & Caymans, and of the many 911s in the place, there are no Targas, Turbos or Speedsters. There is one GT3 on the showroom floor, but it seems like it’s a “trophy car,” completely out of line (price-wise) with the rest of the cars on the lot.
Well, I think I’m out of 02 sensors to replace now, so I hope I don’t see this place for a while.