Hi all, our 2003 XC90 (120k miles) is having an issue with very sluggish acceleration. Check engine light came on recently. I was pretty sure it was going to be a shot transmission and this would be the end of the car, but the dealer has diagnosed it as a failed CVVT hub. With all the labor the dealer is quoting ~$2600 to replace it. Does this sound reasonable? I am considering a second opinion from a local shop. Any advice/help would be appreciated.

 

Sounds high, but it might include both hubs, solenoid, cam seals and timing belt. Might want to verify so you can compare apples to apples

 

I assume this is a 2.5T engine.

- TB kit (TB + mech tensioner and idler pulley): $120
- CVVT Hub: $250/each
- Depending on mileage (I assume you have more than 150K): then new Aisin WP is $65.
- Maybe a good idea to replace the cam seals while there (Cam seal is made by Corteco).

- About 6h of labor at home doing it slowly.

The thread below has some info...

https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-...-needed-81251/

 

Could also need a breather box if the failure is due to sludge.

Timing belt kit is $200
Hubs are about $330 each.
Seals will be about $80.
Labor is only about 4 hours. So that wouldn't be close to $2600.

Add the solenoids at $145 each including gaskets and minor labor and you would still be well short (around $1750).

PCV and labor would bring it to right about $2600.

 

I believe the prices you quoted are Volvo dealer's inflated price.

- The prices I mentioned are closer to the truth.

- The PCV: there is extensive DIY in matthews Volvo forum.
I agree that the Oil Trap needs to be removed and cleaned. In my experience that part rarely goes wrong, just clean it (solvent) and put it back in. No need to spend $45 on oil trap.
* The hose from oil trap to the top is troublesome (plastic), Volvo has gone back to the same rubber hose as in Volvo 850.
* For PCV, search for ny username (cn90) in matthews volvo forum.

O.P., where do you live?

 

I'm in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Price quote is from Wynne in Hampton.

 

Those are approximate list prices. They vary. His quote was from a dealership so using prices for parts in the internet isn't very accurate.