What is done in a Volvo dealership tune up(parts changed, parts inspected, etc.)? Is it possible for a shade tree mechanic to due a tune up on a Volvo. I have a 2006 S-40 2.4i and I am thinking of doing my tune up myself or paying the dealer to do it.

 

u could do it yourself, anyone could b a mechanic if they follow the instruction. by it is what you miss and the tools that makes the different

 

The replies in Cyrillic alphabet have been deleted and the user has been banned (the 3rd time in the row). This user seems to keep posting illegible posts by changing the IP; may be bot or another form of automatic advertising program.


JPN

 

In general, a tune-up includes:

1. Ignition system works
- Replacement of spark plugs (15,000-30,000 miles for traditional copper-tip type plugs; 60,000+ miles for platinum/iridium-tip type)
- Replacement of distributor cap & rotor for a conventional distributor system (this does not apply to those that have direct, distrbutorless ignition system)
- Replacement of spark plug wires

2. Cooling system works (may not apply)
- Replacement of the coolant (30,000 miles for a conventional fluid; 60,000-100,000 miles for newer type fluid
- Replacement of the thermostat, only if necessary (overheating/overcooling)

3. Fuel system works
- Replacement of the fuel filter
- Adding a bottle of fuel system/injector cleaner into the fuel tank

4. Intake/Exhaust system works
- Replacement of the air filter
- Cleaning of the throttle body (may not apply to certain models)
- Inspection/cleaning of the EGR valve (may not apply)

5. Replacement/cleaning of the PCV system
Volvo does not use conventional PCV valve system (I could be wrong on some older models)

6. Compression test of all cylinders (may not apply)

7. Inspection works
- Generally, they do visual inspection of the undercarriage

8. Lubrication of door hinges & strikers (w/WD-40 of course)

A tune-up is basically those tasks that are related to engine jobs to restore fuel consumption performance. Check your bills to see what parts/materials have been used. Should you decide to do it yourself, NEVER cheap out on generic brands' parts; buy OEM parts from on-line vendors. Volvos are extremely choosy on the quality of parts, and additional costs are well worth it.

To experts: Please add whatever item I have missed.


JPN

 

There is precious little you can do at home with that new of a Volvo. Sure, you can change a belt, filters or spark plugs but so much is dependent upon proper communication between the various computer modules. While a hand held aftermarket code scanner may read generic codes, they can't read Volvo specific codes. More importantly, they can not reset codes that have been set. Only Volvo's proprietary scanning system can do the reset. Volvo, like all major manufacturers, are building cars that can only be serviced at the dealership. Sure, if you spend enough money, you can buy a retired or rebuilt VCT2000 or DICE scanner on eBay for $500-700 but short of that, only the most minimal of work can be done in the driveway. At my shop, we have $100k of scanners and updated software. Very little of it will do much with late model Volvos...because Volvo chose to make their product proprietorial. About like the differences between PC's and Mac's. Primary reason a lot of us have gone back to older rwd cars. There's nothing wrong with the build quality of new Volvos...the average guy just can't reset anything. These days, so much is dependent on scanner results as to what work is performed other than that dictated as periodic maintenance.

 

couldn't have said it better myself... they gotta eat too ...