2006 Honda Integra Pricing and Specs

It's not possible to say without actually seeing a detailed quote of what the dealer proposed to do, but you could do that if you had such a quote. It's hard to justify a difference of that amount, but I would guess he would charge you a substantially higher labour rate and a higher price for the parts. Even with all of that it's hard to justify the difference, and it further underlines the need to have a detailed written quote for work to be performed and it justifies the use of independent specialists who are often factory trained anyway.

CARMAKERS take a conservative view on things such as this. They are reluctant to say it can be used safely because they don't have the test results to prove it. If they recommend it and a problem develops, they can be liable for the repairs, so it's easier for them to advise against using it. I don't believe the new higher-octane Optimax with 5 per cent ethanol will cause a problem. I also believe you would be safe using a 10 per cent ethanol blend. Honda specialist Adam Kovarik reckons the best fuel is Mobil 8000, which is a 98-octane fuel. He says engines run smoother and perform better, and spark plugs seem to last longer on the Mobil fuel.

I WOULD ask the opinion of some auto trans specialists and compare their diagnoses. It would also be worth getting the opinion of a Honda specialist such as Adam Kovarik of In-N-Out Motors (9544 9986). Based on your report, Adam thinks the shaft probably is broken, and he recommends finding a low-mileage transmission to fit. The Honda auto is generally reliable if properly serviced. The broken hub could affect braking, probably by pulling to one side. I'd recommend you make the repairs before deciding whether to sell it or keep it. The Probe is a decent car, but I wouldn't recommend it for a young driver. It needs careful maintenance.