This is my first post in these forums. Great resource and I wish I knew about this earlier!

Anyway, I have an '03 XC90 with 64K Mi. The car recently overheated and the lower coolant line connected to the radiator blew off draining all coolant. After having the car towed into the local dealer (Volvo of Charleston, SC), I was told that the car needed a new engine due to a blown head gasket. I was told I had 2 options. 1) used engine for approx $4500 (this was later revised to about $7K) or 2) new engine for approx $9K!

I have had all service performed at Volvo dealerships (Volvo of Dallas by Aldo S. who was great) I recently have moved to SC when this problem happened. I was astonished that a "new" XC90 would need a new engine and called Volvo cust support too see if financial assistance was availible. I followed up with the local dealership and was told the first step is to pay for a $2400 diagnosis and assistance "may or may not be availible". They have recently lowered the diagnosis fee to $1500.

In summary:
1) Has anyone heard of a problem like this?
2) Is it worth the $1500 diagnosis fee to attempt to get assistance?
3) Any other info or strategies / ideas for dealing with this would be VERY appreciated! Should I ask them to do anything specific in the diagnosis?

I appreciate any help you guys could offer! Thanks again!

Justin[/align]

 

Well first off.. Why did it overheat? Theres a reason. it probably overheated due to the hose blowing.. HAve your dealer check this TNN and see if it applies to your vehicle. and see if it has been done. TNN 26-04 it applies to XC90's for model year 2003 For the replacement of the lower cooling hose. It only applies to the T-6 tho..

a new design is inplace so the hose doesnt chaf against the ground bolt.

 

if you send me your Email addy, i will download a copy of this TNN and send it to you VIA email and you can take it to your dealer. They'll freak LOL