My check engine light came on the other day and since we had recently moved I was in need of a new Volvo mechanic. Most of my previous service was done under warranty at the dealer but now that I'm out of warranty, I needed to find something a bit more affordable and closer. I found 2 volvo mechanics in close proximity to my new house and tried to find out as much as I could before choosing one. Not finding much, I figured I'd choose one for the diagnostics and lets see where it went.

I chose Franks Foreign Car Service in Wharton, NJ. I called ahead of time and spoke with Frank letting him know my situation and when to expect me. When I arrived he came out with the code reader and found that the fault code indicated a bad O2 sensor. He said more than likely it was a false code and reset the light. Told me to call him if it came on again and if was the O2 sensor, then we'd see about getting it replaced. I also told him I should probably get the timing belt looked at since I had 85k miles already on the original belt. He looked at my engine code and told me that I had the newer engine that required the change at 105k. I told him I'd be back then.

Finally I asked "how much?" The reply...Nothing.

I guess I made the right choice. I'm sure if I would have brought it to a dealer I would have been told I needed a new O2 sensor as well as a timing belt installed.

BTW, the other place I was going to try was Phil's Foreign car Service in Kenvil, NJ.

Any insight on either of these places is welcome.

Thanks,
Peeter