Hello All,

During a recent visit to the local Volvo dealership I was given the following list of recommended repairs marked as "Critical". Here are few details about my XC90 and list of recommended repairs:

Model / YR: XC90 / 2017
mileage: 120K
Critical recommendations:
1. Front Lower control arms replace (bushing collapsed) - $2K
2. Front Upper control arms replace - $1K
3. Lower right Engine mount replace* - $689

My main concern is related to the crack that was found in the lower right enginer mount. For me, a crack in the engine mount appears to be the most critical and should be corrected.
I would like to get some feedback and input on these 3 recommendations to understand if any of these are truly critical for replacement. I do plan to keep the car for as long as I can. There aren't any unusual noise/vibrations from the car.

Thanks,
RD.

 

for things like suspension parts, I'd trust an indy shop provided they can do the post repair wheel alignment. You can shop parts online - FCP and IPD carry OEM replacements that are way cheaper than Genuine Volvo - typically come from the same vendor ie Febi, Lemforder etc. You can also source Genuine Volvo parts from dealer stores like Tasca Parts at about 35% off. I did a quick check and the parts alone for the lowers run about $800 and the uppers add another $300. The totals are then based on dealer part pricing plus "book" hours x the shop rate. So again, if your dealer lists $200 an hour for their labor rate, you may find an indy who's $150 an hour. Both will quote the job using a rate book for hours.

With all that said, worn control arm bushings will often feel like the car is out of alignment or goes in and out of alignment - which can lead to tire wear. Not sure if the uppers take the same beating as the lowers so you may opt to just do the lowers for now. As to the engine mount, its just a matter of time for the mount to completely separate so it should be done at your earliest convenient date provided you drive easy and pay attention to any noises or odd feels.

 

Thank you MT6127 for your prompt response and advice regarding my queries. I will surely take a look at the other vendors for the parts.
I appreciate the help.
RD

 

Perhaps this link from a Swedespeed thread might be of help to you. IMO, if at all possible, I'd go with an INDI shop for this work, IF you know of a good one. You can decide whether or not to use VOLVO OEM parts or some other brand. As for alignment after the install, I'd probably go to the dealer for this.

https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/f...5#post-7224835

 

Thank you Maggs !
I appreciate your feedback.

 

You can shop parts online - FCP and IPD carry OEM replacements that are way cheaper than Genuine Volvo - typically come from the same vendor ie Febi, Lemforder etc. You can also source Genuine Volvo parts from dealer stores like Tasca Parts at about 35% off.