Hello everyone....Well its that dreaded time...time to spend big $$$$$ on the 30K service...and need your expert advice:

1. How much on average should this service cost from a dealer? ( I was quoted 530.00..whooaaa...Too much I think?)

2. Take it to an independent volvo mechanic BUT...the car is still under factory warranty...So the dealer can look and repair any needed parts covered under factory warranty?...which the independent guy cant do...hmmmm

So what are your thoughts on this ...dealer vs regular independent volvo mechanic?

I live in Florida...Tampa area...and do not want to get ripped of...have 28k on it now...its my baby and treat it well...

Thanks all...you guys are a big help...Lance

2000 S70 SE
Mystic Silver/Graphite Leather

That's the trick. You have to look at what the manual requires vs. what the service department is trying to sell you. If you just ask for a 30K service, I have yet to visit a dealership that didn't give you a price for THEIR 30K service instead of just what is required. They call it "suggested maintenance" but will suggest it to you without you even knowing it. So you have to look in your book and figure out what it needs and call for a quote for JUST THOSE THINGS.

Hi Lance, nice to read that there are fellow volvo lovers in the Tampa Bay area. I am down in Bradenton, an hour south of Tampa.

Anyhow, just because it's under warranty does not mean you have to take it to the dealer. For the warranty to be valid, you have to do the recommended service at 30K miles, but this could be done by an indie mechanic as long as you keep records that what recommends at 30k miles, was indeed done. This was the case with my jeep while under warranty.

Look at the manual for the 30k service:
-oil and filter change
-new spark plugs
-brake fluid change
-replace air filter
-replace cabin filter
-transmission flush.

This should cost much less than $530.
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'88 240, '92 740, '98 v70 GLT John in Tampa Bay