Hi I have an S40 T5 2005. I was wondering what people recommend for getting the car serviced? My factory warranty/servicing ended a little while back.

Last time I just took my car to valvoline to get the oil changed. I just did it to save money because the dealership costs a lot more.

Now I was wondering if you think i should take my car to a Specialty volvo mechanic, valvoline, or the dealership from now on? or could i jsut take it to any mechanic?

I'm trying to save money but also have my car maintained

thanks so much

 

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Hey, I'm going through the same thing with my '05 T5 S40.. I still take it to the dealership where I bought it. It's not that I don't trust the other places, I just need this car to last a long time. I even have a nephew that works for oil can henrys and he's more expensive than the dealership, wierd?..lol In fact I took it in yesterday and paid 52.00 for factory volvo filter with castrol synthetic. I didn't think that was to bad.

 

that's very reasonable for synthetic oil change.

i was also worried about paying more for other repairs and for the larger maintenence things like when they drain oils, change break pads, replace major filters etc. don't they charge a lot more for that? i've heard dealerships do

 

Ya know I think it depends. I used to work for the dealership where I bought my car, so they know better than to "rip" me off because I know a little bit about what things cost and how they do there pricing. However, I don't get any discounts because I worked there. I know dealerships are known to charge more for services parts etc.. But if you come across a good reputable volvo mechanic go in to the shop and talk to them, look around and talk to them about pricing and stuff. Also ask what you can typically do your self.

 

Just a personal opinion.

- If you do not wish to pay extra at the dealer, find an independent shop that specialises in Swedish/Euro makes. Make sure the technician working on your Volvo is a ASE-certified Master Technician, and see if they can accept parts from customers. Volvos don't like to be treated with non-OEM parts with a very few exceptions.

- I would stay away from any of the franchise shops, as they are generally the place for starting technicians/technicians with expired knowledge.

- For complicated troubles, especially the electronic control diagnostic, give it up and pay extra at the dealer. Other shops either wouldn't be able to access the computers or mess it up further. Before visiting the dealer, however, do your homework and make sure to act like you know what you're talking about, or you're in the wrong hands.

- As for engine oil, if your engine is turbocharged (I assume it is), full-synthetic 10W-30 (5W-30 for places like Canada) + OEM filter would do. For non-turbo, generic oil + OEM filter would suffice. As for the rest of the fluids, make sure that the correct type of fluid is used, especially the transmission. A wrong type of tranny fluid can trash your transmission.

- As stated above, do not hesitate spending extra $ for OEM parts. This extra cost can save you in a long haul.

- Make sure to follow scheduled maintenance stated in the Owner's Manual.

I hope this is of some reference to you.


JPN

 

Here are my recommendations (from the horses mouth so to speak):
Do not use non synthetic oil. Volvo recommends Castrol 5w-40 syntec.
I use the Castrol from the shop, or some other full synthetic oil (royal purple, amsoil)
Change your oil every 5k, not the 7.5k that is recommended. I've seen lot's of oil leakage issues on cars and one common thread seems to be that they are pushing their oil change intervals, some also are not consistent in the oil used.
If you go to an outside shop, find one that specializes in Volvo.
Unfortunately, most of the problems you will have with that car outside of general maintenance will require VIDA (volvos diagnostic tool) to diagnose. Or some other specialized diagnostic tool.
If you have a sunroof, go ahead and get the drains modified/sealed now before you have a problem.
Mechanically those cars are pretty trouble free, but a lot of outside techs are afraid to work on them because they don't know anything about them.
Wherever you go, make a point to get to know the tech that works on your car. If you develop a relationship with you tech your car will get better treatment, try to use the same person every time and make a point to communicate your concerns to him directly.
If the service adviser tries to sell you something, talk to the tech about it, see what he thinks. It's likely he recommended it, but he may not have.
As stated before, do not skimp on parts, use O.E. or find parts from the O.E. supplier. A good aftermarket Volvo service center will have access to WorldPac, Ramac, and S.A.V.E., these companies sell the O.E. suppliers parts without the added cost of the Volvo branded box.
Don't leave your T5 in the hands of any teenagers tweaked out on RedBull. Especially right after they watched Fast and Furious.

 

I use mostly a trusted shop that specializes in foreign cars. For oil changes I use the guy who I buy my tires from, but I supply the oil and the filter.