Volvo Dealer Service vs Independent Repair Shops

[xcool]

Hi,

I have a 2004 XC70 with very low mileage (less than 62,000 miles). Recently I went to my local Volvo dealership for a 60,000 miles service. The dealer had identified a bunch of "critical" repairs that I need. Among them are the Timing Belt and Water Pump. The dealer quoted me $1821 and $314 respectively for the replacements.

Does that price sound high to you guys? I live in NYC so I accept there might be a location based adjustment. My question is should I shop around for an independent repair shop? and do you think I should stick with Volvo since they are trained to service Volvo car specifically. How many people here have used independent repair shops and have good results?

Thanks very much.

[A.Lucas]

Hi,

I have a 2004 XC70 with very low mileage (less than 62,000 miles). Recently I went to my local Volvo dealership for a 60,000 miles service. The dealer had identified a bunch of "critical" repairs that I need. Among them are the Timing Belt and Water Pump. The dealer quoted me $1821 and $314 respectively for the replacements.

Does that price sound high to you guys? I live in NYC so I accept there might be a location based adjustment. My question is should I shop around for an independent repair shop? and do you think I should stick with Volvo since they are trained to service Volvo car specifically. How many people here have used independent repair shops and have good results?

Thanks very much.

Although the timing belt is usually due at 110K miles, I do think there is an age factor so replacing it at 60K after 17 years is probably correct. As we all know, failure of that belt means you will need a new engine. My last timing belt in 2019 (at 220K) with water pump, radiator hoses (you have to drain the radiator fluid so why get those done) was less than $700 total, at a reputable independent (a no-nonsense Russian) in LA. I bought and supplied some of the parts as FCP has a lifetime guarantee and you get OEM rather than what the local mechanic may order. Dealer rates have gone up so much in my area ($465 just for an inspection) that I would not consider going to a dealer unless I need to urgently buy a part or for a recall. Find a reputable local shop and do it there -- with all the other maintenance and repairs that these cars need its better to find a good mechanic for those things you cannot or do not want to do yourself, as there will be more repairs down the line. But you did get a list of the repairs needed from the dealer, so that was well worth your visit.

[Astro14]

Timing belt should run about $500. To add the water pump should be another $200. At an independent. Using aftermarket (but good quality, like Aisin, Continental, etc.) parts.

Volvo OEM parts prices are high. Anything over $1200 for both (the water pump sits under the timing belt) however, is crazy.

[Astro14]

Bring it by my shop. Timing belt and water pump will take us about 4 hours. And that’s just because I’ll be going slow to show you how to do it…