Brake Booster Replacement Cost

A brake booster lies within the brake pedal and the master cylinder, using either hydraulic pressure or a vacuum to help aid the car operator as the brakes are being used.

While conventional systems used a vacuum booster, most modern-day vehicles use a hydraulic brake system, which is designed to use the hydraulic pressure that is generated by the vehicle’s power steering pump instead of the vacuum system.

“New Master Cylinder” (CC BY 2.0) by Ryan Frost

The average brake booster replacement costs

The costs of replacing a brake booster will depend on your vehicle make/model, the dealer/mechanic you choose and your geographical location in most circumstances.  From our research, the costs can greatly vary as parts for various makes/models can differ.  To budget when hiring a professional, be prepared to spend anywhere from $320 to $650.

The parts, depending on the make and model, can cost average $88 to $250, while labor, often taking up to two hours, can add another $200 to $300 to the total bill, bringing the grand total to the estimates mentioned — about $300 to $600ish range.

According to Oards.com, they mentioned the average cost to replace a bad brake booster is about $290 and $720, and as for the parts, you can be prepared to spend $160 to $550.

What is the brake booster?

The brake booster works when force is applied by the driver as he or she applies pressure on the brakes.  As pressure is applied to the brakes, a rod pushes itself into the brake booster, forcing it to instantaneously push into the master cylinder with vaster force, letting the driver push the brakes with no difficulty, eventually letting the car come to a stop depending on the amount of force that’s applied.

Symptoms of a bad master cylinder

If this part were to fail, the first thing a driver may notice is the pressure as the brakes are used.  If the brakes seem like they are not responding to your pressure and/or it is harder to push the pedal, then this could be a sign of a poor brake booster.  According to RepairPal.com, if a vacuum booster were to fail, it often creates a vacuum leak, causing the car to run rough, harder to start and/or misfire while the engine is idling.

Other signs to look out for include a “check engine” light illuminating on the dashboard, poorer-than-average gas mileage or power/brake steering fluid leaking in the case your vehicle uses a hydro-boost system.  In any case, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, do not drive the car as the brakes will not work as intended and could lead to unfortunate circumstances when wanting to come to a complete stop.

The repair process

To diagnose that the brake booster is the problem, the mechanic will first want to check the brakes while the engine is running to see how the pedals react to pressure.  If it’s displaying any of the symptoms above, then the brake booster will be tested on its own to see if the part is faulty.  If the car uses a vacuum boost system, then the mechanic will draw air from the part while observing the pressure drop, but if your car uses a hydraulic system, then, in this case, the hydraulic pressure will need to be measured.  In both cases, if these readings are normal, but the brake booster is not functioning as it should, then the problem relies on the part.

Once the part is confirmed as the culprit, the brake booster is detached from the car by taking out the master cylinder, brake booster vacuum or the hydraulic lines, and lastly, the brake booster part.  In the case of a hydraulic booster, the power steering is often flushed after the part is swapped.

The entire repair will take about 60 to 90 minutes to complete.

How to tell if brake booster or master cylinder is bad

Some people often confuse the master cylinder with the brake booster, and to tell the difference between the two, there are a few things you can do to confirm the problem.  First, if the booster is faulty, then the main culprit will always rely upon the braking system.  Your brakes will feel almost like they are seized up and do not want to react to your pressure.  They will feel spongy and hard in general.  A very hard to push pedal is almost always the sign of a bad brake booster.

On the other hand, if the master cylinder is considered to be the bad part, then it often leaks internally and no leaks are often noted from the outside, meaning the fluids will travel back into the reservoir, causing the braking system to show similar symptoms.

Tips to know

Normally, a brake booster will last the lifetime of the car, but as with any car parts, they can fail due to a malfunction or in some cases, a dry climate can cause the part to deteriorate, ultimately requiring replacement.

If your check engine light is on and the OBD code reads P050F, then this is a sign the brake assist vacuum pressure is too low.

Comments (0)

How Much Does Xeloda Cost?

Xeloda, a chemotherapy drug, slows down the growth of cancer cells and is commonly used to help treat breast, colon or rectal cancer.

The cost of Xeloda

The cost of Xeloda, as with any prescription-based medicine, will depend on the pharmacy you use, your health insurance plan, the dosage and the quantity.  Combining our averages in the table created below, a 150mg generic pill (capecitabine) averages $4.66 per pill, while a 400mg generic pill averages about $6.98 a pill without insurance.   For the actual brand name Xeloda capsule, the costs average about $12 per 400mg strength tablet.

For those with insurance, GoodRX.com notes that Medicare will not cover this drug, and the average co-pay range, according to the website, was $2,005.

Refer to our table below to see the costs we gathered online:

NOTE:  Be sure to compare at least three pharmacies in your area as the costs can vary by as much as $300 to $500 from the research we did when talking with local pharmacies.  As long as you have the prescription in hand, a pharmacy will be able to offer you a quote over the phone.

What is Xeloda?

Xeloda is used to help treat patients with Dukes’ C colon cancer, colorectal cancer or used together with docetaxel to help treat metastatic breast cancer with patients who didn’t respond to other medicine or for those who can not receive cancer-based medicines anymore.  Belonging to a group known as antineoplastics (cancer medicine), it will interfere with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed by the body.  As the growth of normal cells is also affected by this medicine, side effects may occur.  This medicine, as noted earlier, will only be available via prescription only.

Drug usage

As this medicine, like most cancer medicine, is very strong, a lot of side effects may occur, so it’s so important to talk with your doctor to know what you may experience and what you should do in case of an emergency.  It’s important to take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor and always be sure to read the label for directions.  Never take more of it, less of it or skip a dosage as it can greatly increase your chances of side effects.  When prescribed, the medicine bottle will come with an instruction book, so make sure you read it in its entirety.

Per the directions, it should be taken with food or within 30 minutes after eating.  Do not crush, break, chew or cut into the tablet unless done so by a pharmacist.  Always swallow whole with a glass of water.

Xeloda dosage

The dosage will be different for all patients, and your doctor, before he or she prescribes, will always let you know how much you will take during the day and how long the doses will last.  The amount of the dosage, in the end, will depend on the strength of the medicine, other medicine you’re taking, your body size and the problem you’re facing.  The recommended dosage, according to Drugs.com, is 1250 mg/m2 administered orally twice daily (morning and evening; equivalent to 2500 mg/m2 total daily dose) for 2 weeks followed by a 1-week rest period given as 3-week cycles.  Visit that link to view the official dosage chart for more information.

Xeloda side effects

As per Drugs.com, there are hundreds of unwanted side effects, with some requiring medical attention; however, the most common side effects related to the medication, as per the large list on the website, include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, the loss of fingerprints, numbness, pain, unusual tiredness, vomiting, pain/blistering/redness/swelling on the bottoms of the feet and/or pain/blistering/redness/swelling on your lips.  Refer to the large list to see the less common, rare and serious side effects which demand immediate medical attention.

Tips to know

Store in a closed container in a dry area away from any heat, moisture and the direct sunlight.  Keep out of reach from children, pets and dispose of any medicine past its best by date or if not needed anymore.  If you’re unsure of how to dispose of, talk with your local doctor or pharmacist for more information.

There are three patient assistance programs that may be able to help you with the costs of this medicine, including the Good Days Program, Patient Access Network Foundation and the HealthWell Foundation Copay Program.  Each of these programs do have eligibility requirements, but if you do meet them, they can help cover coinsurance, copays, healthcare premiums and/or deductibles.

Comments (0)

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

A root canal can help offset any pain, save your teeth and even get you back to eating and smiling naturally again.

An extensive treatment designed to help with a tooth that has either become too infected or decayed, a root canal may be your only course of action to restore your tooth to its natural state.

“Root canal x-ray” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by gillicious

How much does a root canal cost?

The actual cost of your root canal will depend on your geographical location, the dentist you’re working with, your dental insurance (if you have it), the circumstances and the tooth that needs to be repaired.  The average estimates, from the many quotes we found online, averaged about $725 for a front tooth and close to $1,250 for a molar.  Keep in mind this price will not include the filling of the tooth, which is required after the procedure has been completed.

With dental insurance, this can be a tricky subject as all insurance policies/companies greatly so much in regards to what they will cover and how much they will cover.  Your costs, if your policy will cover the root canal, will be much lower than someone who doesn’t have a policy.  From the people who did have their insurance cover it, they reported their insurance company covered 55% to 85% of the costs, meaning you may pay about $100 to $450 for just the root canal if your insurance did cover it.  Be sure to check with your insurance company ahead of time to know exactly what you will be responsible for.

Those who are willing to go overseas, MEDIGO notes a root canal can cost about $363 in the United Kingdom and about $119 in Mexico.  Of course, if you’re going to go overseas, do so at your own risk as all countries have their own regulations.

As other factors can affect the price, we created a table below based on the information we found online.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, the largest factor that affects the cost of a root canal will lie in the location of the tooth.  If you have a cavity in your front tooth, for instance, it can cost much less than your molars since your front teeth only have one root, while your molars can have up to three.  Working on more than one root often means more work for your dentist, meaning more time and of course, money.

FAIR Health, a nonprofit organization, in its study, noted the front tooth can cost an average of $762, while molars averaged about $1,111 per molar.

Another factor which can increase the price is how severe the cavity on the affected tooth is at the time of repair.  If you waited and dragged your feet, then the tooth may become infected, meaning once again, your dentist will have to spend more time on your tooth, whereas taking advantage of the repair right away can lead less time for your dentist.  Also, if you need a crown, it can add even more money to the estimates mentioned above.

The additional costs to consider

Before considered for a root canal, your dentist may charge for a routine exam/cleaning, which, on average, averages about $65 to $115.

X-rays, also required during this exam, can cost another $50 to $150+, depending on the number of x-rays required.

The crown, which is required after the root canal and as mentioned in the table above, can add another $500 to $1,500 to the exam.

If a root canal has already been performed on the affected tooth and work needs to be done once again, then the additional work involved could add yet another $400 to $800+ to the entire procedure.

The prescription medication needed for pain relief after the procedure can cost another $20 or so.

In rare circumstances, if the root canal did not go according to plan, the tooth may need to be removed and a new implant, if chosen, will need to be inserted.

When we factor in all of these additional costs, you could be looking at a grand total of $1,500 to more than $3,250 per tooth.

The root canal procedure

Before the procedure is even considered, your dentist will first x-ray and examine your mouth thoroughly to make sure you’re a candidate for the procedure.

After x-rays and a visual exam, a local anesthesia will be administered to help ease the pain during the procedure.

Next, he or she will create an opening on the affected crown in your tooth and clear the entire center out from the infected pulp of the interior of the tooth.

Once cleared, the root canals will be filled with a biocompatible material and it’s sealed with a dental cement.  Typically, a temporary filling will protect the tooth.

After the procedure, you will be asked to come back in the future to remove the temporary filling and cover the tooth with a permanent crown.

The duration of the first visit will take about 90 minutes to complete.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), this procedure is performed to help repair any damage which occurred on the inside of your tooth, known as the pulp.  Whether it’s infected or inflamed, this could be caused due to a variety of factors, including, a poorly filled cavity, gum disease and/or damage to your tooth.  Patients can often tell if they need a root canal because you will either start to feel sensitivity to hot or cold items, and/or will experience pain.  In some cases, the tooth can even start to discolor, become swollen and/or sensitive when touched.  As everyone is different, it’s best to talk with your dentist to know if this procedure would work for your circumstances.  If your dentist does recommend the procedure, it’s so important to take advantage of it right as waiting can make the problem even worse, meaning more money out of your pocket in the future.

Dentist vs. Endodontist

Both professionals can perform the procedure, however, there will be a difference between the two.

An endodontist will receive at least two years of additional experience beyond that of what a dentist requires, and a large portion of this will go toward working on root canals.  Because of this, an endodontist, on average, can charge about 30 percent more than your dentist.  Don’t let this scare you, however, as most dentists will refer you to an endodontist if they feel that the work is outside their comfort soon.

For context, AuthorityDental.org, states the average dentist may perform about two root canals a week, while an endodontist may perform more than 25 during this same time frame.

How to save money on a root canal

A root canal, as you can see, can be quite expensive and not everyone can fork over thousands of dollars up front.  Talk with your dentist to see if they work with either a third-party finance company or can set you up on a payment plan.  If you’re lucky enough, they may be able to set up a 0% interest plan for the next few years.

Even if you do not have dental insurance, it doesn’t mean you cannot save.  Consider checking out DentalPlans.com, a website similar to that of a dental insurance policy.  If considering, find a plan that works with your local dentist to see how much you may be able to save.  Aside from saving money on your root canal, you could save on your x-rays and routine cleanings.

Even if you’re loyal to your dentist, it doesn’t hurt to receive a few quotes from other dentist offices in the area.  If you’re working with a good dentist, then he or she may be happy to match your other estimates to help you save even more.  If you do not want to research and trust your dentist, see if he or she is willing to work on the costs a pinch.

Some dentist offices may offer you a cash discount if you pay in full.

Consider checking out a local dental school to save a good amount of money.  Even though you will be working with dental students, they are still supervised by a professional dental instructor.

In some cases, you may be able to find a deal on a daily deal website such as Groupon.com.  Seeing this is a pretty common procedure, you may find some local dentist offices offering a discounted deal to first-time customers.

Learn about your geographical location as you could find yourself saving a few hundred dollars if you travel a few hours away.  A rural area with a low cost of living could cost a lot less than a specialist located in the heart of a high cost of living city.

See if there’s a local clinical trial coming up which may involve a root canal at ClinicalTrials.gov.

Check with your local state health department to see what kind of aid is available in your area.  This list at ASTDD, for example, can help connect you with local organizations that can help you with the costs of the procedure.

Lastly, get your root canal done as soon as possible, even if you cannot afford the costs.  You’re going to find that ignoring the issue is going to mae the problem even worse and will cause you a great deal of pain and more money out of your wallet in the future.

Comments (0)

Wheaten Terrier Cost

Bred to be an all-purpose farm dog, the Wheaten Terrier, known for its soft coat and hard work ethics, was initially used to herd livestock and hunt vermin over 200 years ago.  This breed is alert, confident and will thrive on a lot of physical activity, making it a wonderful choice for active families.

Almost extinct in the early 1930s, they were saved by the dog fancier, Patrick Blake.

“Two Wheaten Terriers stand guard outside” (CC BY 2.0) by David Hilowitz

Wheaten Terrier puppies cost

The cost of a Wheaten Terrier puppy, as with adopting any puppy, will depend on the breeder you’re working with, their reputation, geographical location, and the dog’s quality, age, health and the supply/demand.  From our research, the costs for a puppy around 8-10 weeks old can greatly range anywhere from $850 to $2,350.  A purebred, AKC registered puppy will often be in the $1,800 to $2,200 range, while a dog with the appropriate paperwork but no AKC registration can cost about $800 to $1,200.

On PuppyFind.com, for instance, a popular dogs-only classified ad website, had more than 100 listings, with prices ranging from $850 to $2,200.

The AKC Marketplace had more than 50+ breeders listed, with a fair majority offering puppies up for adoption.  According to the listings we looked at, the majority were selling their puppies for about $1,900 to $2,200.

At NextDayPets.com, another classified website similar to PuppyFind.com, had multiple listings ranging from $1,000 to $1,500.

What should be included in the adoption?

Any reputable breeder, at a minimum, should include the registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a vet examination, health certificate, a health guarantee and a travel crate if being shipped.  Some breeders, especially those selling an AKC registered puppy, will often include a microchip, dew claw removal, deworming and the recommended health tests, including a hip evaluation, eye exam, bloodwork, CBC and a UPC/Microalbumin (MA) test.

Description

Temperament

The Wheaten Terrier is known to be caring, friendly, active, bright, cheerful, animated and makes for a wonderful companion at home, for both adults and older children.  As it was bred to be working dog, it still instills that hardworking trait, always wanting to please its owner.  Due to the effort it requires, it’s recommended for experienced dog owners with basic training knowledge.

The coat

The coat, being the most distinguishing featuring, is medium in length, soft, silky and sort of wavy.  Even though it is a single coat breed, the hair will continue to grow, providing it with insulation and protection.  While the puppies will be born with a black coat, it will slowly transform into a gold to reddish-gold or silver.

Tips to know

Even though the dog is known not to shed, they will still need a frequent brushing to keep its coat in tip-top shape.

Though the dog is billed as being “hypoallergenic,” you have to remember that there’s no such thing as this term as all dogs will naturally produce some sort of dander.  While this dog will not shed heavily in comparison to other breeds, some people can find themselves being allergic to more than just the dander and hair.  If you or even a family member are allergic to dogs, then it’s recommended you spend time with a dog you’re thinking about adopting for some time to see if your allergies act up.

They were recognized by the AKC in 1973, and the AKC will only recognize the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America as the official Parent Club for the Soft Coated breed.

Recommended health tests by the official breed club include a hip evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation, blood chemistry panel, CBC, urinalysis and a UPC/Microalbumin (MA) test.  The SCWTCA did note veterinarians have identified three possible conditions which occur at a much higher rate for this breed:  protein-losing nephropathy, protein-losing enteropathy and renal dysplasia.

This breed can do quite well in small living spaces such as an apartment; however, as these dogs are moderately active, a daily walk is highly recommended.  If fenced in, they are clever and can find a way either over or under the fence, so you need to make sure this fence setup is as secure as possible.

Like most Terries, they are pretty quick to sound the alarm at any foreign sound they hear.

Needing a great amount of attention, if left alone for long periods of time, they can suffer from separation anxiety, which, unfortunately, leads to destruction and/or excessive barking.

They love to jump, especially on strangers.

Comments (0)

Tranexamic Acid Cost

Tranexamic acid, an antifibrinolytic agent, is designed to help slow down and/or stop blog clots from breaking down to help prevent or treat bleeding.

Commonly used to help treat heavy menstrual bleeding, it’s often prescribed to teenagers.

The cost of tranexamic acid

The cost of tranexamic acid, as with any prescription, will depend on the pharmacy you choose, your health insurance and the quantity.  Available in 500mg and 650mg strength, vials are available but can only be administered by your doctor.  From our research, 30 capsules at Walmart and Walgreens, without insurance, will cost about $60, averaging about $2 per tablet, but as you purchase more, this average does decrease.

For those who do have insurance, most insurance providers, including Medicare, from what we saw via plan details, would cover this drug.  As most insurance companies greatly vary with their coverage, the average cost of the drug would greatly depend on your co-pay, with most people reporting a $150 to $249 co-pay.

Refer to our table below for the average costs at most pharmacies.  This price will not include the doctor’s visit and/or additional tests to confirm your prescription.

GoodRX.com, with their comparisons, noted Walmart being the cheapest option at the time of this publishing, with 30 capsules costing about $52, while Kroger and Costco were the highest, averaging about $85 for the same 30 capsules.

As for a 100 mg/mL IV, the costs can cost close to $131 for 100 milliliters or about $1.31 to $6.16 per unit, according to Drugs.com.

A single cost of a full course, according to AAFP.org, can be $170.

The medicine

As with any prescription medicine, always take via doctor’s orders.  Do not take more, less or even off schedule as it can greatly increase your chances of side effects.  According to the medicine label, you should not take this medicine when you do not have your period and must wait until the period has started in order to begin.  The medicine does come with an information insert for more information.

You can take this medicine with or without food and is designed to be swallowed whole with a liquid.  It should not be crushed, chewed or broken into pieces.

Doses will vary as each patient will be different, and the amount will depend on the medicine strength and the medical problem it’s being prescribed for.  The average adult will take two tablets three times a day during each meal, about 1,300 mg, while a child’s dosage will be determined by doctor’s orders, according to Drugs.com. As mentioned, all dosages will be different and will be determined by your doctor’s instructions.

Tranexamic acid side effects

Side effects should be reported to your health professional immediately and can include the following:

• allergic reactions such as itching, hives, swelling and/or rashes
• back pain
• breathing issues
• changes in vision
• headaches
• pain on varying parts of the body such as the chest, head, legs and/or groin
• sinus problems
• stomach pains
• feeling tired or weak

Source:  CVS

Facts to know

The brand names for this drug include Cyklokapron and Lysteda.

EMS1.com notes that TXA is used off-label, without approval from the FDA, most often for a variety of reasons, including reducing blood loss during surgeries as well as cesarean sections and trauma.

Store at room temperature in a dry place away from children and pets.  Always throw away the drugs when done and never flush down the toilet.  If you have questions in regards to disposing it, check with your local pharmacist or see if your local city has a take-back program.

Comments (0)

Headlight Alignment Cost

If you’re noticing your lights tend to illuminate everything but the road, it may be time to have your headlights readjusted to ensure proper safety.

As properly aligned headlights will not only help light up the road, allowing you to see at night, they can also help you notice any street signs or animals on the road with ease.

Failing to fix this issue is not only a safety concern and is a danger, you could be putting other people at risk as well.

“Audi A4 – 2.0 TDI Automatic” (CC BY 2.0) by Mic V.

Average cost of headlight alignment

The costs of a simple headlight alignment often depends on the dealer/mechanic you choose and your geographical location.  From our research, it appears the costs to adjust your headlights, when using a professional, can range anywhere from $25 to $60; however, in a lot of scenarios, the headlights often do not need to be adjusted and it will be another problem causing your headlights to aim incorrectly.  In most cases, as long as the headlight alignment is the only problem, it will only take a mechanic less than one hour, meaning you will be charged the local shop minimum.

At Pep Boys, for instance, they claim that a headlight adjustment can cost $20 at their local stores.

According to one member on this YellowBullet.com forum thread, he asked if $56 was a fair price for a headlight adjustment as his local mechanic, and according to the responses, most said it was fair, seeing it would be at least a 30-minute job for an experienced mechanic.

The repair process

First, the mechanic will want to determine if the headlight adjustment is the only repair that needs to be performed.  In some cases, as we explained above, it could be due to faulty shocks and/or weight issues.  If this were the case, then additional repairs will be recommended since adjusting the headlights will not solve the problem.

If an adjustment does need to be made, the first thing he or she will do is find the adjustment screws to remove the light housing.  As all vehicles are different, in most cases, these screws will be clearly marked, but with some makes and models, the trim ring or battery may need to be removed in order to access the lights behind the housing unit.

Next, once the adjustment screws are removed, the mechanic will now have access to the headlight bulbs, where he or she can make the necessary adjustments by adjusting the “vertical field” located at the top.  By turning the screw clockwise, it will raise the lights, while turning counterclockwise can lower the light.  The screw will be continued to turn until the adjustments match the measurements made on a nearby wall the lights are projected on.  After the vertical field is adjusted, the horizontal field will then be adjusted, and this is done by adjusting the screw on the far left side of the housing.

Finally, when the adjustments are complete, the mechanic will confirm the exact measurements via your guidelines and will test the results to make sure everything is correct.

The entire process will take less than one hour to complete.

Reasons why headlights need to be adjusted

Reason #1: Weight — One common reason your headlights often need to be realigned is due to the excessive weight found in the cargo space or trunk area.  This excess weight, as you can imagine, can pull down the rear portion of your vehicle, essentially pushing the headlights upward, making it seems as if your headlights need to be readjusted.  In this case, your headlights will not need to be realigned; instead, you will need to either think about purchasing load-leveling air shocks if you frequently carry heavy loads or consider lightening the load.

Reason #2: Worn-out shocks — Just like traveling with a weighted load, as your shock wear away, it can cause your headlights to aim too high, away from the road.  As this part wears away, they will start to sag, and in the case of the back shocks, the front of the vehicle will point higher than it should, again, making it seem as if your headlights need to be readjusted.  In this case, adjusting the headlights may fix the problem; however, your shocks will need to be replaced as this can cause more problems in the future.

Reason #3: Accident — An accident can cause quite some damage, and even with the slightest tap, your headlights can become misaligned.  In this case, the headlights may have been knocked out of alignment and will need to be readjusted to work again.

How to adjust headlights

How to check the alignment of your headlights

To ensure your headlights need to be aligned, there’s a simple test you can perform, according to YourMechanic.  To do so, you need a flat surface, a wall to project your lights on, such as a garage door, a measuring tape, level, screwdriver and masking tape.  Also, it’s best to do it at night to help see the lights in a natural setting.

To test, park your car about 15 to 20 feet away from the wall with your lights on, not your fog lights or high beams.  Next, while the lights are projected on the wall, you will want to mark the horizontal and the vertical centerlines of the light beams.  Once marked, you will then want to measure the centerlines and make sure they are no higher than 3.5 feet above the ground, and to confirm, you can use a level to check the centerline to make sure each headlight is even.  Lastly, after marking these centerlines, you will then want to precisely back up 25 feet exactly and make sure the lights still end up with your markings on the wall.

Comments (0)

Walmart Tire Installation Cost

Walmart’s Auto Center can do more than just sell you tires and automotive accessories — they can install the tires you bought, either inside the store, on Walmart.com or via a third party for an additional fee.

Walmart offers a large variety of tires of nearly every brand, and even if you cannot find your particular tire in store, they can offer free shipping to your home or to the store you want the tires installed at.

“New Tires” (CC BY 2.0) by danxoneil

How much does Walmart charge to install tires?

The costs to have Walmart install tires will depend on the tire package you chose as the company does offering multiple packages at varying prices.  As per their official price list, the prices, as of 2018, are noted in the table below:

NOTE:  These prices are accurate as of 2018 and may include a tire disposal fee as well, which is an additional $1.50 per tire, but this can vary on your local store policy.

In some cases, the store will offer “free installation” deals when you purchase specific tires as mentioned on the official website.  These free installation packages will include the same inclusions as the basic package most of the time, but to confirm, talk with an auto specialist at the store for more information.  To capitalize, we recommend looking for special tire deals as well to be combined with the free installation.

According to Cheapism’s best tire installation via popular chains, Walmart came in fourth, losing to BJ’s, Costco and its other brand, Sam’s Club due to the fact the warehouse chain offered a free TPMS reset and a 24/7 roadside tire-change service for three years after the purchase date.

This ChristianPost.com article broke down the costs of installing tires at Walmart and Costco.  In the end, when the tires, mounting/balancing, tire disposal, valve stem, warranty and all miscellaneous fees were included, the final total, before tax was $541 at Costco and $642 at Walmart, making Costco the better choice for the same exact tire for the situation.

The extra costs to think about

Aside from the actual tire installation, do not forget to add in the price of the new tires and new rubber valve stems if needed (about $3 each).

As mentioned above, a tire disposal fee of about $1.50 per tire applies at all locations, but in some cases, it could be higher or lower.

If the package does not include the warranty, a road hazard warranty can be added for $10 per tire.  You can learn more about the optional road hazard warranty by viewing the official contract here.

If the tire pressure monitoring systems need to be reset, this can be another $5 per tire.

About the Walmart tire road hazard warranty

The optional Walmart tire road hazard warranty will cover the tires if they were to be found defective for the life of the tires, defined as the duration of the usable tread depth.  The usable tread depth, as per the PDF, is defined as the tread down to the final 2/32nds of an inch, and the last 2/32nds will not be considered as the usable thread.

The optional warranty will offer additional coverage to the tires purchased and installed at Walmart and can cover damage to nails, metal stones, glass and almost anything is able to damage a tire.  In the event the tire fails, the warranty will offer a free flat repair and a pro-rata installation if the technician cannot repair the tire.  Even though the repair is “free,” you will still be responsible for the taxes and government-mandated charges.

To be eligible for a free replacement, you must have purchased the warranty, be the original owner of the vehicle, have the original record/invoice and the tire is being replaced by a condition that is covered by the warranty.

The warranty will not cover damage due to improper repairs, abuse, racing, an accident, off-road usage, snow chains, rapid wear and/or worn mechanical components.

Comments (0)

Tire Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost

If your TMPS light is illuminated on the dashboard, then it often means one of your tires is low on pressure (about 25% less than what it should be) and it is time to check and refill the air as necessary.  However, if a warning such as “Service Tire Monitor System” appears, then it could be more than just filling your air with tires; it could mean your sensor is dying and will need to be replaced.

Since 2007, all vehicles have been required to come equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, a battery-powered sensor which is attached to the wheel, opposite of the valve stem.

“0329TL” (CC BY 2.0) by Pistols Drawn

How much does a tire pressure sensor cost?

The cost to have your tire pressure sensor replaced by either a private mechanic or a dealership will depend on the vehicle you’re driving, your geographical region and the mechanic/dealership you choose.  Seeing this is a job that often takes less than one hour to perform, most professionals will charge the shop minimum plus the parts.  The parts cost, often less than $25, when added to minimum labor shop costs, greatly depend on the geographical region, can bring the grand total to about $75 to $125 per wheel to have the sensor swapped out and replaced.

According to the multiple quotes visitors received on YourMechanic.com, the costs ranged anywhere from $74 to $138, with the luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz being the most expensive repair.

At Pep Boys, according to their official pricing list, the TPMS sensor replacement service starts at $17 per sensor, plus the cost of parts.  Reading the fine print, however, the costs would increase $15 if it’s a hybrid vehicle as servicing this type of vehicle often requires removing the trunk access in order to access the power supply.

Steve Jenkins noted that your local dealer will probably want to charge you $150 to $250 per wheel to have them replaced, meaning all four could cost more than $800.  In the end, he paid $27.29 for each tire pressure sensor and paid another $20 at his local Discount Tire.

On member on this BogleHeads.org forum thread noted his local Costco quoted him $65 per tire installed.  A rebuild, according to a few members, would be much less than this, often about $10 to $15 per tire.

What’s included in the estimates mentioned?

Inside this estimate, the mechanic should first test each of your vehicles TPMS sensor batteries to determine exactly which sensor needs to be replaced.  During this repair, the tire in question will be removed, followed by removing the old sensor and installing/programming the new part.  After the part is installed, the wheel is rebalanced and the tire pressure is set and checked to the vehicle’s exact specifications for safety.

How does the tire pressure sensor work?

As your tire rotates, the sensor will pass near a receiver inside the wheel well on every revolution, submitting the current tire pressure numbers to the vehicle’s computer.  If this sensor begins to fail, then it will no longer be able to send this data, hence the warning light.  In general, a tire pressure sensor should last up to seven years, but as with all car parts, the more you drive, the faster this part can fail.

How to save money on tire pressure sensors

Highly avoid going to your local dealer and paying for the new sensors and the install.  Instead, call a few tire centers in your area to see if they will install the new sensors for you if you were to buy the part on your own.  Using the Amazon.com link above, you may be able to buy a full set of sensors for less than $50, depending on your vehicle make/model.  From our research, you will find that many of your big-name tire centers, such as Discount Tire, Big O Tires and Belle Tire, will often install them for a small fee — about $10 to $15 per tire — but it could be even less such as the blogger we mentioned earlier who only had to pay $20 total.  Going this route can almost always save you hundreds.

Only check with your dealership to see if your vehicle is still under warranty.  If so, you may find this part will be covered as long as you meet the warranty deductible.

Check out the aftermarket suppliers that work with more than 100+ OEM parts.  Like any third-party part, these universal sensors can be much less than an OEM sensor and can easily be programmed with any vehicle application.

Facts to know

According to CounterMan.com, the lithium-ion batteries found inside of a TPMS sensor can last anywhere from five to 10 years, but five to six years is more typical for an older sensor.  These sensors will only broadcast a signal when the vehicle wheels are in motion.

What causes it to fail?  In some cases, corrosion of the nut at the base of the metal valve stem has been an issue with the original part, while exposure to salt and moisture can eventually weaken the valve stem, eventually leading to a sensor failure.  Potholes, debris and extreme weather all play a role as well  Also, if you use any sort of tire sealer/inflator product, this product has been known to damage a sensor if the product doesn’t have a “TPMS safe” label.

As of yet, it is not the law to replace a sensor, but without a properly working sensor, you will not know when you have a low tire, putting yourself in great danger while on the road.

Many professionals will recommend changing these sensors whenever you need new tires or if you’re replacing the retaining nut, seal and the cap on the valve stem, according to Cars.com.

Comments (0)

Tibetan Terrier Cost

The Tibetan Terrier was originally bred by the Tibetan monks in China and were never sold on the market as they were only given by friends or dignitaries.

Often considered the “Holy Dog of Tibet,” these dogs are said to bring great luck to their owners.

“Daisy – Tibetan Terrier – at the Dog Bar” (CC BY 2.0) by Ian McFegan

How much does a Tibetan Terrier cost?

The cost of a Tibetan Terrier puppy will depend on the breeder you’re adopting from, their reputation, geographical location, and the dog’s quality/pedigree, age, health and gender.  From our research online, a puppy around eight weeks old can cost anywhere from $1,300 to $2,500 if adopting from a reputable breeder.

Considered one of the most expensive dog breeds on the market, the higher price is due to the rarity of this breed as they are very hard to find in the United States.  If you are even able to find a reputable breeder online, be prepared to be placed on a waiting list.

At the time of this publishing, for example, PuppyFind.com, an online dog-only classified website, had 20 active listings, with prices ranging from $1,800 to $2,600.

DogBreedsList.info notes the average price for a puppy can range from $1,200 to $2,000.

What should be included in the adoption?

Most reputable breeders, at a minimum, should include registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a veterinarian examination, a health certificate, a health guarantee and if shipped via an airline/car — a travel crate.  All breeders will vary with their inclusions, with some offers more than this, while some non-reputable breeders may offer much less.  Always know what you’re getting with your adoption before signing the contract and placing your deposit to secure your puppy.

Tibetan Terrier description

Character

Medium in size, their longer coat often resembles that of a sheepdog.  While they do carry the “Terrier” name, they are said to carry no Terrier traits as per NextDayPets.com.  This fit, furry, adaptable breed makes a great buddy for any loving family.  Aside from this, they are also known to be a great guard dog and even good at herding.

The Tibetan Terrier has double coat designed to protect it from the harsher climates.  The outer coat is known to be longer, while fine to the touch, either wavy or straight, while the undercoat is denser, softer and similar to a wool-like feel.  The coats can come in an array of colors, with white, silver, gold, black, red and cream being the most popular, either as a solid or bi-color mixture.

Temperament

Brainy, caring and devoted to its family, the Tibetan Terrier loves human companionship, thriving on it.  If left alone for hours throughout the day, it may lead to destructive behavior, especially if not trained early in their puppy years.  Known as a very delicate dog, they will respond to their owner’s emotions, feelings and mood.

The Tibetan Terrier can get along well with well-mannered children and can even be great with other pets as well; however, they are known to be leery of strangers and seeing they do make great guard dogs, they may be a bit hesitant to people they never met before, often barking and/or growling.  Even though they are not aggressive by nature, be prepared for a bark or two if a stranger approaches.

Size and weight

Males and females both measure anywhere from 15-17 inches, while weights vary from 17-31 pounds.

Facts to know

Due to the dog’s long coat, they will require frequent brushing/grooming sessions.  Twice to three times a week, the dog’s coat must be brushed to keep it from matting and/or tangling.  This can also help keep the coat looking shiny and healthy.   Also, because of this long coat, misting it with a dog conditioner before combing it can help prevent breaking away any hair strands.  Only bathe the dog when absolutely necessary as excessive baths can do more harm than good.  If you fail to acknowledge the dog’s coat, “shaggy dog syndrome” may occur, which means all sorts of debris, such as snow, mud and leaves, can get clung to its long hair, eventually finding its way on your floor.

The breed is prone to health conditions such as cataracts, hernias, hip dysplasia, lens luxations and progressive retinal atrophy.

As with most dogs, the Tibetan Terrier is no exception when it comes to activities and exercise.  At a minimum, be prepared to take your dog out for a walk at least 20-30 minutes a day, and while they can do okay in an apartment-like setting, they will only cope as long as they receive this necessary exercise.

The Tibetan Terrier is often noted as a “non-shedding” dog, making it a great candidate as a hypo-allergenic dog.  This claim is not true, however, according to YourPurebredPuppy.com.  These dogs, do, in fact, shed, meaning these hairs will find its way to the floor and/or even get caught in the longer tousled hair, making it a nightmare for those who do suffer from allergies.

The National Breed Club recommends testing for a hip evaluation, PLL DNA test, NCL DNA test and ophthalmologist evaluation when adopting.

Comments (0)

Radiofrequency Ablation Cost

Radiofrequency ablation, also referred to as lesioning or radiofrequency neurotomy, is a minimally invasive procedure which is used to help reduce joint pain, either felt in the neck or the back.  It can also help those who are suffering from arthritis and even those with varicose veins.

During the process, an electrical current created by a radio wave heats up the affected nerve tissue in a way so that the nerves decrease its pain signal transmission to your brain.

“Chronic Pain2” (CC BY 2.0) by Army Medicine

The reported costs of radiofrequency ablation for pain

The cost of radiofrequency ablation will greatly depend on the professional you choose and your geographical location.  From our research from those who provided the prices they paid online, health insurance almost always never covers the procedure, meaning you will either have to pay cash out of pocket or even setup up a payment plan with your provider or a third-party source.  With that being said, be prepared to pay anywhere from $2,200 to more than $5,100, with the results of the procedure lasting about one to two years.

According to the providers who listed their prices on MDSave.com, the MDSave national average was $2,476, in comparison to the estimated national average of $5,203.

How the radiofrequency ablation procedure works

Before the procedure day, your doctor will more than likely ask you to avoid eating for up to six hours, and in the case of diabetes, you may be asked to limit your medication as well.  In most cases, your doctor will ask for a medication list ahead of time and will let you know exactly what you will be able to take and when you can take it.  You will also be asked to bring a friend/family member along so they can drive you after as you will not be able to drive due to the sedative used during the procedure.

The entire procedure is done on an outpatient basis and should not take longer than 90 to complete, from start to finish.  It only requires a mild sedation and local anesthetic, meaning there are fewer risks when compared to the general anesthesia used during an open surgery process.

Prior to the procedure, your doctor will first want to inject a local anesthesia, such as lidocaine, to determine which nerves need to be ablated.  This is done by placing an IV line into your arm and depending on your situation, a mild sedative could be used to help reduce your discomfort.

Next, the physician will inject a fine needle into the area where you’re experiencing the pain.  As with most spinal injections, the entire procedure is performed alongside a live x-ray (fluoroscopy) to both help target and place the needle during the process.

Once the needle is inside the targeted area, a microelectrode is inserted to start the stimulation, and as this is happening, your physician will ask you if you’re feeling any sort of tingling sensation as this can help see if the electrode is in the best area for treatment.

When verified it is in place, a tiny radiofrequency current is directed through this electrode and is designed to cause the tissue to warm up, eventually limiting your pain.

To learn about the basics in general, PainDoctor.com created a nice guide talking about the basics of the procedure.

Radiofrequency ablation video

After the procedure – what to expect

When the procedure completes, you will then be sent to a recovery/waiting room, where an assistant will check your vitals such as your pulse and blood pressure.

Next, a gauze will be applied to the site and your doctor/nurse will go over the discharge instructions before they allow you to go home.  These instructions generally tell you to limit your driving and activities for the next 24 hours and avoid taking a shower/bath for the following 48 hours.

As long as your vitals are okay, you will usually be sent home in less than 30 minutes after the procedure was performed.

Radiofrequency Ablation side effects

The main side effects, as per WebMD, can include swelling and bruising at the site of treatment, discomfort, leg numbness, and/or bleeding and/or an infection at the injection site.  However, even if you were to experience these side effects, most will disappear days after the procedure was performed.  If you do feel any severe pain near the injection site and notice redness and/or swelling, call for help immediately to check for complications.

Facts to know

The procedure has been known to provide relief for those who are suffering from nerve-related pain, and clinical studies have shown that RFA can reduce pain for up to two years.  However, as the nerves generate over time, the pain can return in the future, making it feel as if you never had the procedure in the first place.  WebMD.com says the degree of pain relief will vary, depending on the cause, but relief from RFA, in most cases, can last six to 12 months, with more than 70% of patients who took advantage of it stated they did experience relief.

RFA is said to be safe and can be considered the most effective way to treat pain.  With few complications, it is well tolerated by most, and the risks are very low, with infection and bleeding at the injection site being the most common.  Always talk with your doctor in regards to the risk of the procedure.

Radiofrequency Ablation is not recommended for all patients, as with any medical procedure.  If you experience bleeding problems and/or have an active infection, then your doctor will not recommend it.

Comments (0)