Fellow Volvo drivers,

I've got a 2001 XC70 with a bum transmission. I can't afford to have the Volvo dealership in town remedy the problem ($5900 was the estimate, for an entirely new tranny I believe). After speaking with a few other independent shops, I'm looking at the following options: a used 2002 transmission (apparently fits in a 2001 but has a better track record than the 01s), or a remanufactured 02 one for a bit more $$$. Alternatively, a transmission shop is willing to take a crack at rebuilding it for $2,700, but based on what I've read, this doesn't seem like the best option based on how tricky/problematic/notorious 01 trannys are.

Another shop proposed just replacing the valve body on my current transmission for ~$2,300. The shop has a great reputation and says that they've repaired a bunch of 01s this way and have a great track record of success tackling the problem this way. (They said they initially tried rebuilding them but it was too hard and often didn't work and that this is a smarter way to go.) Anyone have that done successfully or otherwise have any other insight that might inform my decision making?

 

I got an 01 with a bad transmission also. My problem is no one in my town works on volvos or knows how to.

 

If you can afford to, go with the experience. Not sure of your location, but many mechanics do NOT like doing expensive repairs with old cars. They get stiffed a lot.

 

Wow I jumped the gun I guess. had a chance to pick up an 01 xc70 myself. It has 180k on it but runs & drives great. (well supposedly) I bought it online & am more than a little nervous about it after reading a few threads here. It's what I get for not doing my research first. For $1600 with it being in excellent shape I figured I couldn't go wrong. I guess time will tell

I wish you luck whichever route you decide to go. I'll be watching your thread to see how it turns out. I'll be keeping my fingers crossed mine will last at least a year

 

We could get together and make 1 good car. It has 75,000 miles