Hi

I just came back from the volvo dealer today to have the check engine light checked out. They said that the PCV system needs to be replaced and that it would cost $650. Does that price sound right or has anyone gotten it done for cheaper. Also anyone gotton it done at a none volvo place. Would anyone reccommend it if it would save me some money.
I have a 99 S80 2.9 with 171k miles and the PCV has never been replaced.

 

You can replace the pcv system but its a pain in the ****. The parts alone cost around $250 at a minimum and the price sounds about right. You have to take off the intake manifold and remove and replace the oil trap and the hoses going underneath the intake. Since yours is not a turbo, it might be a little cheaper. I think.

Also, taking off and replacing the oil trap is a tough on the 99's. You have to cut a notch in the alternator bracket to remove the bolt and put back on or get a special volvo tool that is hard to find and use that or take off the alternator, power steering set up etc.

If you do get the pcv replaced you will notice a difference. Might as well have them clean the throttle body as well if you have 150k+ miles.

 

I have a 2000 with 178K, and serviced my pcv myself about 8k ago. I didn't replace, but cleaned instead. I'm not a mechanic but can handle most non-internal jobs. Taking the intake off isn't bad at all. Just make sure you get both oem gaskets. Cleaning the throttle body while you have it off is easy too. The hardest part was getting the oil trap off. I couldn't break the left bolt tab off because I wasn't replacing. As said above, it was a pain in the ars! next time I'll buy a new one and cut a slot in the tab to slide it under the old bolt instead. Sure runs smoother, idle and cruising speed now. Also, the oil stays cleaner much longer.