I've got 91K miles on my S60 and contemplating what the next 20-30K miles will bring in the way of maintenance needs as I decide whether to keep driving, give to my young adult daughter, or sell. I took it to a local euro car specialist for a thorough inspection to get his assessment. From this Forum's Sticky thread about timing belts I already have that replacement on my list to do if I decide to keep the car.

mechanic said:
1. timing belt looks good for its age but definitely recommends changing in the next few K miles. His proposal was $1271 all-in
2. Vacuum Brake Pump needs to be replaced- $715
3. GDI Fuel injector cleaner
4. include ceratec at next oil change

He also pointed out that my Auto-zone replacement battery isn't properly registered with the vehicle which could lead to issues, said I should OEM in the future.

My questions for the group;
1. Do the belt change and vacuum pump costs seem about right? I'm in Central Florida FWIW
2. Thoughts on the value of Injector cleaners? Worth it? Any specific ones recommended?
3. Thoughts on ceratek treatment with oil change? I'd never heard the term, quick google search seems to indicate it may be a good addition
Lastly- any long term owners have words of wisdom about what else to watch out for?

Thanks in advance- you guys have been great with some of my prior questions- much appreciated!!!!

 

Volvo timing belt service intervals for your model is 120K miles or 10 years which ever comes first. Sounds like you can wait a year or two. Recommended service includes replacing the belt, tensioner and idler - so its not just the belt. Note only the 4 and 5 cylinder engines have timing belts.

As to replacing the vacuum pump, what's going on that you think you need a replacement pump? a hard brake pedal on start up? (could be a pump, could be a check valve ). What I'd do is go to an online dealer parts store to see what the going rate for the parts are.

Fuel injector cleaner and oil additives? Really?. If you want to clean your injectors, fill up with brand name premium for the next two tankfuls and your done. Oil additives? Change your oil on time and use a brand name oil that meets factory specs. I assume your car is already running synthetic.

Words of wisdom? Get a second opinion if you don't feel comfortable with what an indy tech is recommending. Don't be a dealer hater - take advantage of what they offer: Shop their web sites for specials (like the oil change plus inspection ones). Expect them to know how to properly diagnose an issue - after all, they see nothing but Volvos all day and have the proper diagnostic tools. You don't need a dealer for the basic maintenance stuff but if you're unsure of a diagnosis or a price quote, shop around.

 

Go somewhere else. The battery doesn't need to be "registered to the car". Fuel injector cleaner is not needed. Why is he recommending replacement of the vacuum pump? What all is included for that timing belt price?

 

Thanks guys, appreciate the perspective. The vacuum pump recommendation was due to visible leak on the underside, he showed me on the metal lines when the car was on the lift. As for the belt, I assumed form what I read on other threads in this forum that early failure was a decent probability and that I should proactively address early. I like he iea of hitting the dealership for an assessment. They're a PIA to get to and deal with in my market but probably worthwhile in this case. Thanks guys

 

Your owners manual has all the recomended services in it so you can project what is going to be needed. If you don't have your powners manual you can view them for free on Volvo's website.

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