I purchased a 2000 XC wagon. A few weeks later the check engine light came on. A Volvo dealer did a check and said it had to be the oxygen sensors, at over $600.00. Is this something that can be replaced and reset without a dealer, or am I asking for trouble? Thanks for your help. Bill

 

Welcome to the forum! This belongs in a more relevant section. If its only a faulty sensor, I'm sure that you can drive with no problem. I had the same thing a while ago and got it inspected by a mechanic who said that, unless there's a gas leak, it's safe to drive. These O2 sensors are always very expensive.

 

Did the code say front or rear is bad? For $600 they are doing both of them. When mine went bad it said the front one and most mechanics (including Tech) said they always do both. I did just the front and have had no problems. The OEM ones (highly recommended) cost about $230. I joined VCOA and now get a 15% discount for all parts at the local dealer. So I paid about $200. It's not that hard to change yourself. We can get you directions if you decide to DIY. I did buy a special socket to remove the sensor and install the new one. I also bought and OBD II scanner so I can read the code myself. I got the code three times before I actually changed the sensor. Had not problems driving when it said it needed a new one, but my mpg has gone up about 2 mpg since replacing. Of course I was hoping for more, but that's all I got out of it.

One more thing, if the dealer didn't say which one is bad, take the car to AutoZone and have them pull the code. They do it free and will tell you what's wrong. Tell them you want it reset so you can see if you get the same code again, and if you get it again you will buy the replacement O2 sensor. Then buy it from the dealer.